Style Inspiration: Fall Classics

Dependable as they are stylish, the nautical stripe, the khaki trench or a well constructed blazer all offer certainty that one's style is in tact and all that remains is a confident woman to wear them. Look for unique cuts or styles of each of these classics to mix up the classic essential especially if you are wanting a change this season. So long as the classic element is the foundational piece, you will be just fine.

 

 

 

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My Destination for Stripes – Chance

Part of my capsule wardrobe in the summer is the classic navy and white stripe long-sleeve top. And it was last year when Julia Leach launched her online clothing company Chance that I fell in love with her concept – focusing on simplicity, quality design, adventure and personal style. After purchasing the classic boat neck stripe top (seen above), I wore it out wearing it incessantly. Consequently I purchased three this year to make sure I always had one on hand.

While stripes are the foundation of her business (found on short-sleeve tees, camis, dresses, etc), she also offers many other summer essentials, but one can never go wrong with stripes. Shop here.

~This year’s acquisition~

Images via Chance and Simply Luxurious Instagram.

Stripes from London

The one item that is certain to be found in my closet is stripes. Whether for winter or summer, a top or a dress, stripes are my go-to classic choice paired with jeans, skirts and in this case, a simple denim jacket and sandals. So when I was invited to partner with London based clothing designer Reiss, who has clothed one of my style inspirations - the Duchess of Cambridge – as well as other celebrities with their modern, chic, sophisticated style, I gravitated toward their Gem Stripe Blue Shift dress immediately.

Having had the opportunity this last summer to stop into their Barrett Street boutique and do a bit of dreaming, and having purchased other items which I love and wear regularly, it is their clean-cut, classic, yet contemporary designs that I love and can easily integrate into my capsule wardrobe.

 

{Dress – Reiss (currently on sale), Shoes – Sam Edelman (similar), Tote – Banana Republic, Jacket – Levi’s, Watch – Michael Kors, Sunglasses – Cole Haan consignment find (similar)}

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Why Not . . . Wear Stripes?

Nautical or Breton stripes will always be one of my favorite options when it comes to coordinating my spring and summer wardrobe, and while they are a classic choice that is always on trend, they were seen ubiquitously on the Spring 2013 runways. With color, bright bold combinations and expanding beyond the classic Coco Chanel striped top, designers had fun with their interpretations of a very popular choice of women of all ages.

Today, I’ve gathered together a handful of ways to incorporate stripes into your spring and summer wardrobe, as well as did a bit of shopping for you as well. Have a look:

A Classic Choice

Paired with dark denim jeans, white cropped trousers or worn under a classic jacket or trench, choosing to wear a striped top (boatneck is my favorite neckline, but always choose the most flattering style for your body type) will always been in style. If traveling and not sure of what to wear, were stripes and you’ll always appear chic, timeless and sophisticated.

Dress Up or Down
For work, for day or even for a delightful date night, stripes can be dressed up or down. I just love how the image below reveals how simple stripes can be worn for an evening out – black and white stripes, a black knee length skirt paired with nude or statement heels and ooh la la indeed without breaking a sweat.

Mix Vertical and Horizontal
If wearing stripes on top and bottom, get creative and take a risk by playing with vertical and horizontal. Toss on a classic solid coat and simple accessories and the classic pattern makes a fabulous statement.



Choose Vertical to Elongate
Looking to add a few more inches to your frame? Wear vertical stripes from top to bottom, or at least on your legs. The illusion is quite powerful and so long as it is tailored to silhouette, not hug, your frame, you will radiate confidence and a touch of mystery.

Keep Horizontal Loose, not Tight
Stripes by nature can act as a bit of camouflage, but makes sure that horizontal stripes don’t become a second skin. Choose tops that are properly fitted and have a little give to move with your body otherwise the camouflaging won’t be able to work its magic.

The beauty of having a few striped items in your wardrobe arsenal is that they never go out of style. Go ahead and invest in quality fabrics and craftsmanship as they can be worn from year to year without the worry of ever appearing trendy.

If you are just beginning to stock your closet with stripes, start with a classic navy and white or black and white Breton long (or 3/4) sleeve top. Two online shops where many different styles and colors can be found for great prices and quality are The Original Breton Shirt Co. and Chance. Last year I purchased this top from Chance and wore it endlessly. I highly recommend.

Looking for more visual style inspiration? Many of Thursday’s Style Inspiration posts focused on just this style topic – click here, here, here, here or here for more stripe inspiration.

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Images:  (1) source (2) source (3) source (4) source  (5) source  (6) source  (7) source  (8) source  (9) source(10) source  (11) source

Style Inspiration: Stripes, Details & Warmth

While stripes may seem like a stylish season trend for spring and summer, don’t hesitate to wear them in winter as well. As Lauren Santo Domingo demonstrates above along with a few other Breton tops paired with blazers and skinny belts, this sartorial choice can be worn year round.

Along with the classic, dependable choice of stripes, the inclusion of texture, metallics and statement jewelry is always a fun addition to layers of wool, cashmere and silk.
 

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Michael Kors – Spring 2013 RTW

Michael Kors Spring 2013 RTW collection is one of my favorites this season and one of my favorites from him in a few years. Why? His use of primary colors, nautical stripes, slightly tweaking the classic trench by using color and leather, as well as using navy profusely throughout the entire line. First of all, I will admit I adore stripes, and secondly, I am always looking for classics with just a slight adjustment from previous seasons as I want to purchase items that will last more than one season.

This particular collection is one that contains pieces that will work as foundational wardrobe essentials that will most certainly carry over from season to season. One of his accessories that I think would be a lovely addition to any woman’s closet was his large, silver oval belt buckle. Contemporary, yet classic at the same time, as you will see throughout the collection, it can be wrapped around nearly every color and add just enough attention without being overwhelming. Have a look at the collection, and let me know what you think.

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Style Inspiration: Shorts, Stripes, Leopard & Blue

A little bit of everything has been captured this week as summer continues to inspire creativity when it comes to fashion. Stripes are always a classic choice worn with something more trendy or different, and blue being such a tranquil hue can be worn in so many different ways depending upon your skin tone. As for leopard, I personally never tire of leopard and it seems the fashion world thinks along the same lines as it serves as a classic staple, but also adds that extra pop of attention when worn. Last but not least, shorts. This summer has the been the first of many summers where I have thoroughly embraced this stylish addition to my wardrobe. Worn casually for day or at night with a fabulous pair of stiletto peep-toes, they really can be worn just about anywhere. Think about changing the texture to set the right tone and choose a length that flatters your leg the best. For me, mid-thigh seems to do the trick.

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Style Inspiration: Leopard, Stripes & Polka Dots

In the world of fashion, some classics and neutrals aren’t always what we would initially consider to be items that can be worn year after year without ever appearing out of style. Leopards and polka dots, however, fit the definition of classic prints that will always be in style. What should always be given attention is how we wear them. Leopard ballet flats – yes, polka dot slippers – no. Silk polka dot blouse – yes, leopard dress – not really.  As you can see, while all of these might be trending on the runway at one time or another, the leopard ballet flats and the polka dot blouse will always be able to be worn depending upon what we wear them with.

Below are some classic wardrobes involving stripes, leopard, polka and a few extra ideas to help inspire you as you pull together your next outfit. Happy shopping!
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