Get the Skinny: New Silhouettes this Season
The fashion industry has been obsessed with ‘long and lean’ since its inception. Most interpret the phrase as an unattainable standard kept by models, editors and the fashion elite. However, the term ‘skinny’ connotes more than gangly girls and sample sizes. Words like ‘matchstick’ and ‘cigarette’ are now associated with the slender pants and long silhouettes of this season’s staple fashions. They may sound prone to bumps and bulges, but tailored pieces can actually streamline your figure and balance out this winter’s roomy menswear trends. Here’s the skinny on how to shop for this fresh, defining look:
Skinny pants: The fashion forward crowd has had its fill of denim. Your J Brands will always be acceptable, but skinnies are now popular in black and charcoal hues made of rayon and even satin. These slender pants often crop at the ankle or mimic a classic equestrian style. The Melvin pant by Elizabeth & James gives offers the best of both worlds in a young, flattering cut, while Michael Kors’ zip ankle pants add embellishment to the mix. Like a college student’s dream, these multi-taskers can be dressed up with heels or tucked into boots to avoid ever-present slushy puddles.
Pencil Skirts: You bought one from Ann Taylor for your first interview, right? Before reading more, do yourself a favor and throw out the matching blazer. These skirts have shed their boring reputation and are being paired with simple sheer tees, skinny belts and slouchy grandpa cardigans. The trick is to balance the skirts’ stiff frame with flowy, casual pieces. Pencil skirts are too simple to justify a splurge, so use one you already own or purchase a reasonable model like the J. Crew Vintage Cord.
Leggings: As an afterthought-turned-superpower, leggings have evolved from boring winter necessities to slimming, creative forms of self-expression. Spring boarding from the iconic Chanel two-tone tights, Romeo and Juliet Couture has incorporated sequins, lace, acid wash and other unconventional features into their Fall 2009 leggings collection. American Apparel leggings offer multiple colors and subtle sheens at a more reasonable price.
Long Necklaces: There is nothing more chic than a long, delicate chain to flatter a trendy urban ensemble. Lengthy chains narrow your figure and draw attention to your entire outfit rather than just your neckline. While I am the queen online shopping, buying this type of jewelry tends to work better in person. Make an afternoon of it by browsing Third Ward boutiques like Lela, Fred and Falcon. The longer the chain, the simpler its design should be. Stick to pieces like Tuleste’s Owl Pendant for a sleek last-minute touch and use elaborate necklaces like Anthropologie’s Autumn Bounty Bib as centerpieces, not as accents.
See? Being skinny is easy, gorgeous and entirely treadmill-free.
You’re Beautiful,
Alise
“Fashion is architecture. It’s a matter of proportions.”
- Coco Chanel
Tags: A's List, Alise Buehrer, fashion, jeans, jewelry, leggings, models, necklaces, skinny, skirts, style, Stylephile, tights, trends, winter
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