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June 03, 2010

BONNIE PARKER: BONNIE AND CLYDE

Being played by Faye Dunaway is an easy ticket to smart fashion and her portrayal of famous bank robber Bonnie Parker is no exception! She mixes and matches a few key pieces to get different looks, a skill valuable to any woman!

Bonnie's style in this film was incredibly influential in the fashion world at the time of its release in the late '60s, much like how the film itself was revolutionary to the film industry.

Here are some examples of looks typical for Bonnie:


Color Palette:
Matching neutrals with warm shades. For example light grey and butter yellow or ivory and blush pink.

Style Influences:
1930s styles primarily with some 1960s mod influence.

Key Features:
Sturdy skirts in fabrics like corduroy or tweeds, often to or slightly below the knee.
Light-weight jackets. Try different styles from masculine blazers to adorably mod trench coats.
Light, airy pieces when relaxing, like loose draped camis or pretty sundresses.

Accessories:
HATS. The berets adorned by Faye Dunaway in this film have become an iconic part of Bonnie's look.
Neck scarves. A fun and easy accessory.
High heels, but thick ones. Look for simple but feminine high heels in a low height.

Now lets look at some examples of Bonnie-Inspired outfits that you could put together!

OUTFIT #1


Inspired by the most famous photograph taken of Faye for the movie, this outfit is simple but also bold. This outfit is easy to transition between events.

  • A cable sweater in golden-yellow is very "Bonnie" and the light texture of this one is great for layering.

  • A black pleated skirt to the knee is pretty and makes the look appropriate for a wider variety of occasions.

  • A black beret. Classic and oh-so Bonnie Parker.

  • A floral neck-scarf in complementary shades adds personality to a simple top. A square scarf is versatile but Bonnie wears hers as a triangle tied around her neck.

  • A chunky high-heeled oxford-inspired shoe is comfortable and has an edge.
OUTFIT #2

This look is fun, stylish and unique: perfect for a casual nighttime occasion where you want to show off some flair!

  • A lightweight cropped blazer in classic black is a great staple. It works with many different styles and is an easy way to add punch to a look.

  • A silky lacy cami is sweet and perfect for layering under crisp jackets, the airiness contrasting the solid construction of the blazer and skirt.

  • A grey skirt is classic and a perfect piece for transitioning from work to night.

  • A straw fedora adds an edge and shows off Bonnie's affinity for hats.

  • A chunky wedge with bow detailing adds to the polished look but a cork base keeps it from being too fancy.
Here are a few stores to get Bonnie-like looks:

May 28, 2010

ALEX OWENS: FLASHDANCE

Alex Owens. Welder turn star dancer and also started some of the most iconic trends of the 80s that have carried through to modern times.

You know those leg warmers? What about that sweatshirt slumped off one shoulder? Or ripped jeans? Well, you have Flashdance to thank.

Alex is the perfect example of how to look good without trying too hard. Pay attention to her style to know how to dress comfortably and look cute and fun at the same time.

Here's some examples of looks typical for Alex:


Color Palette:
Neutrals like grey and black with dashes of bright color.

Style Influences:
Heavy influence from dance-wear, also some menswear styles.

Key Features:
Leotards. More than merely dance-wear but also a fun fashion piece.
Off-the-shoulder sweatshirts. The famous grey one Alex wears is classic but any shade is a great way to incorporate Alex's style into your own look.
Ripped, distressed jeans.Use these as an opportunity to balance your outfit . Tighter, more fitted top? You can let your jeans be worn a little looser like Alex does. For bigger sweatshirts or tops try a more fitted style of jean.

Accessories:
Bright or neon accents. 80s style was all about a big statement, so a pop of bright color stays true to the era and adds an element of interest.
Legwarmers. Dancer or not these remain a style staple of the 80s that has made a reappearance in modern fashion.
Bold and feminine jewelery. Tone down the ultra-casual effect of the style with pretty earrings, bracelets, hair pieces etc that are big enough to make an impact.

Now lets look at some examples of Alex-Inspired outfits that you could put together!

OUTFIT #1
 

This outfit is inspired by Alex's most iconic look. Try wearing this when hanging out or going to a movie with friends.

  • This lightweight grey sweatshirt is already made with a wide neckline, which is more polished than one cut yourself making appropriate for a wider variety of occasions. Also try with skinny jeans to make it party appropriate.

  • A sheer lace tank top looks pretty and feminine peek out from underneath the sweatshirt while incorporating a modern trend.

  • Simple black leggings are a great staple to any girl's wardrobe, when wearing under a sweatshirt or long shirt look for a heavy pair or buy a size bigger to avoid possible transparency.

  • A fun, bright flat is pretty and brings a little punch.

  • Big silver hoop earrings bring a touch of glam to an ultra-casual look.
OUTFIT #2
  


This outfit shows how to incorporate dance-wear into your style in a fun and casual-cute way for a great daytime look.

  • A long-sleeved cotton leotard in black and white skinny stripes helps the piece transition from dance-wear to everyday fashion.

  • Have Alex's ripped work jeans look in mind with a pair of distressed denim shorts.

  • A trucker cap adds some sassy style.

  • Give another nod to dance-wear with a pair of jazz-flat oxfords. Look for cute detailing like these sequined toes.

  • A sweet pair of lacy bobby socks adds feminine appeal to counteract the simplicity of the other elements.
Here are a few stores to get Alex-like looks:

May 26, 2010

HOLLY GOLIGHTLY: BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S

One of history's most influential actresses and fashion figures, Audrey Hepburn rocked the world with her iconic role as the ever glamorous, New York socialite, Holly Golightly. Her styles adorned in this film have been considered classic and remained stylish since the films release. If you don't know this film, I highly recommend seeing it.

Holly has two distinct sides of her style but whether she is looking glamorous and dignified or casually soft and pretty she always looks stunning.

Here are some examples of looks typical for Holly

Color Palette:
Her wardrobe has pretty wide variety but black and grey seem to be her color staples. Muted shades as well like blush pink and camel.
Style Influences:
Mod 60s fashion of the times but also classic 1950s looks.
Also, the film itself in a way created entirely new trends, so more than being influenced it created influence.

Key Features:
Holly's most iconic piece, the little black dress, a staple to any womans closet.
Sparkle. Holly's party looks are all about the glam and looking fabulous.
Making basics beautiful. Holly is a master of taking simple pieces and fitting them and accessorizing just right.

Accessories:
Pearl necklaces, especially multi-stranded ones. Wear thick and short stranded necklaces to add interest to a basic dress and bring focus upward to the face.
Diamond rings, tiaras, bracelets, name it, pile on the sparkle!
Statement hats. Add drama with wide brims, big flowers or bold colors.
Wayfarer sunglasses, most recognized as "Ray Bans".

Now lets look at some examples of Holly-Inspired outfits that you could put together!

OUTFIT #1


This outfit takes inspiration from Holly's signature look and would be perfect for a cocktail party, fancy dinner or a night out to see a show.

  • A simple classic LBD (little black dress) in a mid length cut and high neckline is a great modern take on Holly's classic gown.

  • Black pumps are a must for Holly's style, look for a pointed toe!

  • A great pair of dark sunglasses add to any Holly-Inspired ensemble, cat-eye and wayfarer styles both look great.

  • Layer several necklaces for a unique and pretty look. Combine similar color palettes, like pearl and gold but play with varying thicknesses and lengths.

  • A sparkly and large cocktail ring is the perfect finishing touch.
OUTFIT #2


This look takes inspiration from Holly's casual house look and would be perfect for any casual daytime or downtime occasion.

  • A sweet beige cashmere sweater is comfortable and pretty with ribbon edging

  • A classic pair of skinny jeans balance the loose sweater and  in a flattering dark wash could transition between daytime to a casual nighttime setting.

  • A simple brown ballet flat is comfortable and feminine.

  • Instead of wrapping a towel around your head like Holly did, try a thick head-wrap for a fun nod to her look.
Here are a few stores to get Holly-like looks: