Classic With An Edge

Dries Van Noten Blazer (also seen here), Whistles sweater, Hermes Belt, Oak and Fort wool trousers (similar here), Rebecca Minkoff Loafers, Chanel sunglasses, Balenciaga handbag (similar for less here).

  Years ago, a sale's person once described my style as classic with an edge. At that time, I wore a lot of jeans and sweaters paired with very funky shoes. Over the years my look has evolved into a more sophisticated version of that while remaining true to its original description. Even this outfit, which is comprised of a cropped navy wool pant and sweater, topped with a timeless yet edgy Dries Van Noten blazer and these silver loafers, is in fact a version of edgy classic.

   I tend to shy away from a cropped pant because of the fear of shaving inches off my already short stature. Yet, maintaining a monochromatic color scheme, helps to negate that outcome. Hence the navy sweater, pant and belt. 

  I guess that certain traits remain constant, and that goes for style as well. 

Ebony and Ivory

Balenciaga Sweater, The Row Leather Legging, similar here, Manolo Blahnik Shoes, Gucci Handbag, Diane Cotton Lariat, John Hardy Earrings, Oliver Peoples Glasses.

 Like the songs says, “ebony and ivory live together in perfect harmony.” What’s not to love about this perfect duo? Opposites attract and yet compliment each other perfectly. I purposely did not add another color to this ensemble, because sometimes, less is more. Ebony and Ivory are chic and understated all on their own, right down to the shoes!

Basic Black

Skirt and Jacket by Elizabeth and James, Subtle Luxury Lace Camisole, Calinana Necklace (all from Yellow Dog, Los Angeles).  John Hardy Earrings. Manolo Blahnik Heels. Balenciaga Handbag. Chanel Shades. 

One thing that we are often told is that black is a basic. While this is true, black is anything but basic. It is classic, quiet, edgy and cool all at the same time. I happen to own a lot of black. I seem to accumulate a lot of black t-shirts, blouses, sweaters, skirts and jackets. Black is season-less, so it transitions just as perfectly from winter to spring as it does from summer to fall. It also goes with everything and acts as the perfect backdrop for any color or pattern. Black is the most packable color because its neutrality is perfect for any occasion, even a wedding. Black is a must for everyone.

This outfit, all by Elizabeth and James, has all the edgy cool of its designers, Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen. I have had the skirt for several years, and this jacket, with the blouse insert, caught my attention immediately. It has the illusion of being a jacket within a jacket, and I think that is what makes it so cool.  I choose to wear a lace camisole underneath in order to maintain the beauty of the sheer blouse. When glancing at these photos, I am keenly aware of the shortness of this skirt, and that I may have committed the over 50 fashion faux pas, so I apologize in advance! I just love the skirt and its little “flirty bounce.” Is that where the word flounce comes from?

As you have gathered by now, I have a love affair with shoes; I have for as long as I can remember. These spat like shoes, by Manolo Blahnik, seemed to elevate the spirit of this outfit. They bring a smile to my face every time I glance at them in my closet.