Good afternoon, Thursday. I'm sensing a major binge watch night of television tonight and some comfort food. This gloomy weather has me feeling all blah, but not in a bad way. Just a lazy one. I can't be asked today. Like, at all.
But besides my lethargy, I realize that of late I come off as quite the fashion minimalist, which I am, but more often than not, a need for something more fun sneaks in. Enter my enduring love of drants. Or dress over pants for the uninitiated or hater of fashion trend jargon.
I first remember seeing women wearing dresses over pants in the 90s in Amsterdam, where those lovely ladies wear such garb so they can freely bike around the city. So think of a feminine vibe, but practical. I like such things.
I also know a thing or two about what looks good on me, and for some reason, I tend to look good in trickier, riskier pieces. Not that the dress over pants is one of those, but it's definitely not a look embraced by girls who shop at Brooks Brothers. (Yes, people shop there). I've rocked this look for years and will continue to do so- from sheer long tunics with jeans to shorter babydoll dresses with skinny jeans. Been there. Worn that. And would happily go there again.
For me, I love how boho this look can feel, yet somehow very modern and utilitarian.You can do it in a super mod/modern way that feels sharp and well proportioned.
Or you can do it in a more summer/saunter vibe that feels more Sugar Mag than sharp and tailored. I love that too. The look at the top of the post is probably closest to my current state of mind. Slouchy, relaxed, effortless. Take me there oh dress over pants. That girl in the metallic belted dress and pants above? Not an easy look to pull off. But I love how well she's doing it. Fab.
This look is not exactly new, but runways from Chloe to Dries to Chanel have shown this well layered look, and I'm a loyal fan. The key to getting it right has much to do with proportions, as most fashion does in general. If you are going for the more structured route, I recommend a bell or flared bottom pant, on the longer side. You can do a skinny as well, but make sure your dress has some volume as in an a Line shape to make it all sing.
If you are going more with the flow and rocking something a bit more gypset, bells can still work but may be fun to try a skinnier pant, either cropped or to the ankle. And this look also works by layering another piece over the dress like a fitted blazer or motorcycle jacket to nip in the silhouette if you're feeling like the shape is a bit too fertile for you.
I just love the idea of wearing this for evening too, the way Emma Watson did with such great flair. It's modern and cool and a nice departure from a cocktail LBD. It's like an extended remix of the LBD, now with pants. Plus you don't have to worry about getting out of your whip and giving everyone a show. Pants are good like that.
And as Summer continues but Fall begins to creep into our style subconscious, think about ways to maximize that cute Summer shift or loose fitting slip dress. Just pair with some pants and you're doing transitional dressing the right way. Oh, I can't recommend your beau or husband will understand this look. It's not really for him. More for you. As it should be.
And there you have it. Drants 101. I hope you've enjoyed your lesson. Cause that's what's up this mixed message of a Thursday in the 212. Yours, in putting it all together. XO