We love a compelling outfit-clearly, our site's completely devoted to them-but there's one thing we might adore even more: an e...
We love a compelling outfit-clearly, our site's completely devoted to them-but there's one thing we might adore even more: an ensemble that both inspires and teaches! That's why we're so fond of today's story, as we enjoy shining a spotlight on interesting looks that are also accessible. This month's installment is particularly wonderful because we've got loads of ideas for sartorial risk-takers and classic dressers alike. Edgier ladies will definitely appreciate Poppy Delevingne's bold blouse and Chloe Moretz's striking pants, while the subtly chic will certainly love Zanna Roberts Rassi's fuss-free outfit and Katie Holmes' simple-yet-sophisticated look. Whomever you choose to emulate, we hope you enjoy today's fresh batch of Styling Tips!Tip # 1: Pair a casual button-down with crisp trousers.
There is nothing we love more than a button-down shirt, especially when paired with crisp navy trousers
a la Zanna Roberts Rassi. Marie Claire's Senior Fashion Editor proved that a classic and clean look is very chic at the Kate Spade S/S 12 press event in NYC this fall, wearing Gap's Easy Perfect Shirt ($50) in Optic White tucked into Jason Wu navy trousers with fluorescent yellow piping. It's a sophisticated and preppy pairing, not to mention a foolproof office look. To create a likeminded outfit, we suggest picking up Volcom's Frochickie Matchstick Pants in Electric Blue ($31) and pairing them with either ASOS' Textured Bib Boyfriend Shirt ($54) or Mango's Mao Collar Shirt ($60) for a editor-worthy ensemble in no time.
Tip # 2: Punch up an all-noir outfit with a patterned scarf.
Scarves are a must for fall, and with so many amazing prints to choose from why not make it the focal point of your ensemble? Model/designer/muse Annabelle Dexter-Jones did just that at the Roger Vivier and Music Unites celebration in New York last month, when she added intrigue to her all-noir ensemble-a Agnes B dress from the '90s, Wolford polka-dot tights, and Roger Vivier shoes-via a Olympia Le Tan silk scarf with hand-drawn print. In addition to being the perfect accessory for fall, the light scarf brightened up the whole look and made for a stylish finish. For your next fete, follow in Dexter-Jones's footsteps and complete your ensemble with printed scarf, like Zara's Floral Scarf ($36), Ted Baker'sPrint Silk Scarf ($106), and Madewell'sPenpal Storyteller Scarf ($60), any of which will instantly add a quirky-cool twist to your look.
Tip # 3: Try a pair of textured pants this season.
We've already shown our love for textured dresses this season, but now we want to turn your attention to their equally stylish cousin: textured pants! Spotted at the premiere of A Journey Into the World of Cinema back in September, the always-stylish Chloe Moretz showed us how to wear this eye-catching piece in the right way, by pairing it with all-noir finishing touches. Moretz allowed her Stella McCartney Yellow and Black Lace Trousers ($1495, 212.255.1556) to stand out by teaming them with black separates, including a Burberry Brit jacket, Stella McCartney t-shirt, and Rupert Sanderson strappy sandals, resulting in one seriously cool and visually-intriguing ensemble. Dying to recreate her outfit for yourself? We think BCBG's Michael Lace Pants($198), Boudoir d'Huitres' Mafdet Lace Pants ($280), and 8000 Nerves' You're So Smarty Pants ($128) all fit the bill perfectly.
Tip # 4: Toughen up a sequin frock with leather accents.
While a shimmering frock is the perfect choice for any festive fete this season, we're always searching for fresh ways to wear this holiday staple. That said, we are particularly fond of the way British stunner Cara Delevingne styled her lustrous number at the Harper's Bazaar UK Women of the Year Awards earlier this month. For the fashion event, the model opted for a gold sequined custom-made Burberry Prorsum dress, which she toughed up with black leather accents, including Burberry Prorsum's Caiman Detail Belt ($1295) and clutch and lace-up Tory Burch boots from the F/W 09 collection. We immediately took notice of her edgy accessories, which added just the right amount of tough-girl chic to her glitzy evening look. If you want to inject a similar rough-and-tumble element into your party look, simply pick up Parker's Sequin Wrap Dress with Open Back in Gold ($115) and add leather accents, such as Topshop's Pyramid Flared Heel Boots($280), Deena & Ozzy Zipped Moto Pouch ($29), and Topshop's Black Croc Belt ($64).
Tip # 5: Build a luxe look with a metallic top and silk trousers.
Katie Holmes has an incredible knack for compiling chic, always-in-style outfits, and her look at a Lanvin event in Los Angeles earlier this month was no exception. Holmes created an easygoing and chic after-hours ensemble by styling Lanvin's Metallic Top ($1350) with cream silky wide-leg trousers (also by Lanvin). While the loose fit gives her ensemble a relaxed vibe, the metallic-and-silk combo ensured that her look was party-ready. Craving a similarly laidback luxe outfit? Simply snag Zara's Textured T-Shirt ($70) or BCBGeneration's Metallic Hi-Low Crop Top ($58) and pair it with either 3.1 Phillip Lim's Dress Pants ($270) or Akris' Ivory Wide-Leg Pants ($400) for a winning Holmes-inspired combo.
Tip # 6: Wear a sequin blazer with everything.
You can't go wrong with a top and midi skirt combo, but this holiday season why not elevate the look by adding a sequined jacket? This glitzy overcoat will liven up your party outfit in no time, ensuring you're a standout in any crowd! To execute this look with ease, take a tip from Amanda Brooks, Fashion Director for Barneys New York, who just last month at the New York Academy's 20th annual art auction took her Thakoon skirt and Maje by Vanessa T camisole to a whole other level of cool by adding a blue sequined Chanel blazer. Whether you have a night out with the girls planned or are simply looking for some options for that upcoming New Year's Eve soirée, a sequined jacket is the perfect accent to top off any outfit. Get noticed this season by investing in a Zara's Short Sequined Jacket ($129), Topshop Knitted All Over Sequins Jacket($110), or Forever 21's Allover Sequin Blazer ($28) right away.
Tip # 7: Experiment with a see-through lace top.
Dying to take some sartorial risks this season? Then we suggest trying a peek-a-boo moment inspired by the lovely Poppy Delevingne! The blonde beauty was spotted front row at the Nina Ricci S/S 12 show back in September, and we did a double take at the sight of her Nina Ricci All Over Lace Top ($459). While the top half of her outfit is certainly sensual and noteworthy, we like that she kept the look balanced with a pair of slouchy wine-colored trousers (also by Nina Ricci) and Aldo's Sandidge Wedges ($120) for a spot-on outfit we'd love to recreate for ourselves. To do so, pick up Smythe's Corded Lace Blouse ($395), DKNY's Lace Top ($160), or Topshop's Lace Embellished ¾ Crop Top ($76) for an undeniably stylish, Delevingne-esque look.
Tip # 8: Team a knit sweater with bright leather pants.
If you have been looking for a way to work that comfy sweater into your winter wardrobe, we recommend taking a page from Olivia Palermo's lookbook and style your favorite chunky knit with a pair of bright leather pants for an unforgettable outfit. Palermo was snapped at a tea with Burberry's Christopher Bailey in New York this October sporting an oversized sweater from Pixie Market styled with raspberry Daryl K leather pants and Jimmy Choo booties. In true Palermo fashion, she finished off her look with a few luxe accessories-specifically, Mulberry's Polly Pushlock Bag ($1249, 212.835.4700) and a Carrara y Carrara ring. We love how the pink hue of her pants not only gives the edgy material a feminine look, but also brings a pop of color to her mostly neutral ensemble. Smitten with her outfit? Start by buying Zara's Waxed Trousers ($70) or J Brand's Red Coated Super Skinny Pants ($270) and then add Topshop's Knitted Slouchy V-Neck Jumper($80) or Club Monaco'sAmber Sweater ($120) to finish off your A+ ensemble!-Erin Fitzpatrick and Johnni Mack
Photos of Amanda Brooks, Zanna Roberts Rassi, Katie Holmes, Olivia Palermo, and Annabelle Dexter-Jones, courtesy of Billy Farrell Agency; Photo of Cara Delevingne, courtesy of INF; Photo of Poppy Delevingne, courtesy of Getty.
COMMENTS