the style observer is about putting it all together

observations on pants

high-waisted skintight short shorts - who would wear this look?

July 10th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ 18th Amendment clothing pants

At first, I was speechless. Now, I’m wondering what designers were thinking when they designed the high-waisted skintight short shorts. There are very few woman who can wear them, and millions who really shouldn’t wear them. A basic rule of thumb is, if it looks bad on the model then it probably won’t make you look great either. I actually like a high-waist. I think it accentuates curves, and emphasizes one of the best parts of the female body. However, it doesn’t have the same appeal when it’s paired with a tight short. It goes from elegant to trashy in an instant. The proportion of a high-waist should be paired with a wide leg pant, because it makes the waist look even smaller. The shorts emphasize the widest part of a woman’s leg, and because they are so tight they cut into the skin making the leg appear fatter than they actually are. So, I’m back to my original question… what were designers thinking? Let me know what your thoughts are, and point out if I’m way off base with my assessment. How many of you would embrace this look?

if you must:

  • Cassette high-waisted short @ Revolve Clothing
  • Rock & Republic ‘Goldie’ leather corset shorts @ Revolve Clothing
  • 18th Amendment ‘Bacall’ high-waist short @ Shopbop

  • how to look good in your gym clothes all day long

    July 9th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ $$ Gucci Prada Tory Burch accessories clothing handbags lululemon pants shoes sunglasses tops

    We’ve all been there, too busy to get dolled up after we hit the gym. So, how do we do it without looking a mess? Easy… plan ahead. Pack a bag with a fresh pullover or wrap shirt, include some flip-flops, so you can get out of your sweaty sneaks, face wash, and your favorite make-up. Don’t go overboard with the make-up, you want to look sporty. Remember to choose pieces that dry easily and quickly. Wear sleek bottoms that work as well outside the gym as they do in. Or, you could always change into a pair after the workout. With all the new yoga clothing out there, you’re bound to find a perfect pair. Toss your hair back in a low pony-tail, throw on some shades, and you’re good to go - for a few hours anyway.

    gym clothes in this observation:

    Left:

  • Prada square sunglasses @ Neiman Marcus
  • ‘Around Town’ wrap @ lululemon
  • TechFit yoga knit pants at @ Adidas
  • 3T printed flip-flop @ Tory Burch


  • Center:

  • ‘Katherine’ Tank @ zobha
  • nylon duffel @ Gucci
  • Bliss ‘Tried & Blue’ travel kit @ Sephora
  • creamy concealer kit @ Bobbi Brown
  • Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks @ Saks
  • Bobbi Brown Mini Tube Tints Set @ Saks


  • Right:

  • Prada Shield sunglasses @ Neiman Marcus
  • Fluid pullover @ lululemon
  • Adilibria gym kickpants @ Adidas
  • Reef Stash flip-flops @ Piperlime

  • 7 keepers for Fall

    July 8th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ $$ $$$ Anya Hindmarch Ava Chelsea Flower Chloé J Brand Jimmy Choo Mike and Chris Stella McCartney Vince accessories clothing coats designers handbags pants shoes tops

    1. The Slouchy Boot
    This sexy style boot looks great going into fall. Tuck in a pair of jeans, and throw on a long cardigan and you’re understated gorgeous.

  • Gucci Ginevra high-heel boots @ Saks
  • Stella McCartney Suedette boots @ Net-a-Porter


  • 2. Patent Leather
    No need to put away your patent leather from spring, unless it’s in a spring color. Designers are shining up wool and cashmere with a pop of patent for fall.

  • Anya Hindmarch Naplak tote bag @ Saks
  • Jimmy Choo Peony leather boots @ Net-ap-Porter


  • 3. Leather Bomber Jacket
    The leather bomber jacket is also going strong into the fall. It will look great with a pair of jeans, a tee, wrapped with a scarf.

  • See by Chloe leather bomber jacket
  • Mike & Chris ‘Seth’ leather jacket @ Ron Herman


  • 4. Ruffles
    Ruffles remain! A ruffle top will look great under your leather bomber, or a long cardigan. Pair it with skinny jeans, some slouchy boots, and you’re on it!

  • Stella McCartney Ruffle trim dress @ Net-a-Porter
  • Chelsea Flower teal silk chiffon ruffle blouse @ Bluefly


  • 5. Skinny Jeans
    At times we all wish the skinny jean would go away, but you’ll be glad they’re around when it’s time to tuck them into your tall boots. So, don’t burn them yet!

  • Ava skinny jean @ Forever 21
  • J Brand 12″ pencil jean in ink @ Ron herman


  • 6. The Clutch
    Clutch it, because it’s clearly a trend that’s going to stick.

  • Stella McCartney textured patent clutch @ Intermix
  • tube patent cluctch w/ eyelets @ Jimmy Choo


  • 7. A Long Cardigan
    It’s an easy style that’s low key and can work over anything. We’re seeing it well into fall. It looks great over jeans, or belted over a dress.

  • Vince cashmere ‘Boyfriend’ cardigan @ Neiman Marcus
  • Vince cashmere ‘Ensign’ cardigan @ Bergdorf Goodman

  • support your stars and stripes

    July 4th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ Levi's Marc B accessories clothing handbags pants sunglasses tops

    Happy Fourth of July! Before you rush out to the BBQ, think about what you’re going to wear. Today is the day to whip out your red, white, and blue. As well as your stars and stripes, in favor of our country. Show flag colors on top, supported by some All-American Levi’s on bottom. Mix that with a celebratory star quilted bag, and classic Ray-Bans. While you’re certainly not looking like you’re at a costume party, you do look festive! Have fun today, enjoy the fireworks, and belt out “Born in the USA” with the Boss!!

    patriotic items in this observation:

  • RayBan aviators @ Asos
  • Gino Franco Men’s Aria Sport Chronograph Rubber Watch @ Amazon
  • Levi’s women’s jeans @ YOOX
  • “Millions of Smiles” stripe boatneck sweater @ Intermix
  • Marc B star quilted chain shoulder bag @ Asos

  • reinvent the 70’s jumper and be that mystery girl…

    July 2nd, 2008 · posted by Madeline Rhodes in $ $$ $$$$ BCBGirls D&G Dolce & Gabanna Emilio Pucci Franco Ferrari Mint Jodi Arnold accessories clothing designers handbags pants scarves shoes sunglasses tops

    Don’t let the placid, gray undertones of this outfit fool you, there is nothing quiet about this ensemble (although it is quite mysterious and intriguing!) Wear this type of outfit when you feel like being a mystery - when you wanna be that gal who looks like she just threw together the most perfect outfit in less than a minute - the woman that everyone would love to watch get ready in the morning. This season’s jumpsuit is a little intimidating, but if you compliment it with just the right pieces then you are looking at an outfit sent from heaven. Pop on some vintage inspired shades, that will add to your unique and mysterious presence. Fill up a soft, piglet-pink, feminine hobo, and slide your feet into a pair of darling shoes, topped off with a giant statement bow. Finish off the look with an “I just don’t care” toss of the scarf around your neck. These scarves look best when they’re messy and tangled.

    Voila! You are a mystery girl with an eye-catching, minute-made outfit, or at least they’ll think it only took a minute!

    mysterious items in this observation:

  • Mint Jodi Arnold collarless playsuit @ Net-a-Porter
  • Emilio Pucci vintage-inspired sunglasses @ eLuxury
  • D&G Dolce & Gabanna linda medium hobo @ eLuxury
  • BCBGirls ‘Mariyah’ Pump @ Nordstrom
  • Franco Ferrari nora scarf @ La Garconne

  • how to wear the universally unflattering capri

    June 23rd, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ Eight14 Hudson Tory Burch basics casual clothing pants

    We’ve all heard it a thousand times, capris are not flattering on most women. Yet, we can’t seem to get away from wearing them. For whatever the reason, capri’s seem to function for women. They function especially well for someone who is not comfortable in shorts, and it’s too hot out to wear full length pants. So, what’s a girl to do? Ok, we have found some variations that are flattering AND functional. The capri pant that looks the worst on women is the boxy cut that ends mid-calf. They don’t look very good because they make your legs look shorter and your body appear wider. Try going for a tapered capri - along the lines of a pedal pusher. It’s a more feminine cut and will narrow the leg. Another style that works as well as the capri is a longer short. This particular short will come to the knee or just below. Proportionally it works better on most than the capri does, and it’s more modern. We know you’re comfortable in your dependable capris, and they have become an easy “go to” piece. But check out a new style, and see if one of these cuts work for you. Who knows, you may like them better than the capris.

    “Yes” capris in this observation:

    Top Row:

  • The Kate Fit crop pant in stretch twill @ Victoria’s Secret
  • Hudson Stretch Denim Bermuda Shorts @ Nordstrom
  • cuffed seersucker shorts @ Newport News
  • The Marisa Fit wide leg crop pant in linen @ Victoria’s Secret


  • Bottom Row:

  • Foldover cargo crop pant in Tencel® @ Victoria’s Secret
  • Eight14 brushed twill trouser shorts @ Nordstrom
  • Tory Burch ‘Phillip’ crop pants @ Nordstrom
  • cuffed linen walk shorts @ Newport News

  • dress up your jeans

    June 20th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ $$ $$$ $$$$ Brian Atwood Chanel Gap Julie Haus Alice accessories clothing earrings handbags jewelry necklaces pants shoes tops

    Jeans are considered one of the most versatile pieces of clothing in your wardrobe. They go with everything and go everywhere. In Manhattan, it’s practically a uniform to wear jeans dressed up to dinner. There are a few things to keep in mind to pull off this look. First of all, jeans are dressier looking in dark denim. Dark denim is much more forgiving, you can get away with ultra skinnies as easily as boot cut. To get a cool dressed up look, the key is to accent with dressy accessories. Wear jewels that you might wear to cocktail party. Pair it with a silk blouson top, and a fitted jacket for a finished look. The shoes and bag should stand out. We like the shine added by a patent pair of high heels and clutch. It’s a style that looks great in black and white, or with bold color popped in. Have fun with it!

    Thanks to Trenny Lynn, one of our fav Twitter fashion friends for this great post idea. She’s at the DMA Showroom in New York. Find her online here

    items in this observation:

  • Julie Haus Alice everyday top @ basic boutique
  • Chanel Signature earrings @ bagborroworsteal
  • Chanel Long Glass pearls @ bagborroworsteal
  • Brian Atwood patent platform sandals @ Saks
  • Hollywood Hills ‘Midnight Shadow’ jeans @ Paige Premium Denim
  • Tube patent clutch @ Jimmy Choo
  • quilted cropped blazer @ The Gap

  • Summer style fix for your pants

    May 29th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ Christian Louboutin French Sole accessories clothing pants shoes

    You have just purchased the perfect pair of slingback heels that are going to bring you joy all Summer long. You’re thrilled you found a pair that will work with almost everything in your closet and bonus.. you love them! Tonight is the perfect night to whip them out; suddenly your excitement turns to panic. The shoes that you just spent hundreds of dollars on keep getting caught up in the hem of your pants. What are you going to do? Luckily, there is a solution. Kix by Katie has a product that attaches to the back of your hem. It provides enough weight to secure the pants, and they will stay put! You can breathe a huge sigh of relief. Your summer wardrobe woes are solved. Thanks to Katie.

    Another dilemma we gals sometimes face is wearing our favorite jeans with heels and flats. Do we always need to buy two different lengths? Not necessarily, you can try Zakkerz. This little device secures your hem with a magnet so you can temporarily make you pants any length you want. I think I’m in love!

    Our goal is to bring you all the style help that we can. So, when we come across products that can give you a quick fix we love to share it with you. We would love to hear if any of you know of any other style fixes.

    items in this observation:

  • Christian Louboutin Catenita platform pumps @ Net-a-Porter
  • Kix by Katie
  • Zakkerz
  • French Sole season flat @ Nordstrom

  • sail away in style

    May 28th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ $$ $$$ Banana Republic J.Crew Juicy Couture Louis Vuitton accessories bracelets clothing handbags jewelry necklaces pants scarves shoes skirts sporty sunglasses swimsuits tops

    It’s crisp, refreshing, and an All-American look. Nautical inspired pieces make an appearance every summer. It’s a consistent, classic style that women always seem to welcome. Jackie Kennedy pulled this look off brilliantly. She looked great in a blue and white striped shirt with white pedal pushers and her signature giant sunglasses. There are so many ways to wear this style, we’re going to show you four. The first look is perfect for cocktails on the boat. White linen pants with sailor buttons, a yellow and white stripe tank, a bag made from recycled sails, an anchor necklace for added detail… and, of course, yellow aviators. It’s a relaxed casual chic that doesn’t come across as trying too hard. The next look is perfect for a day of boating. You’ll need your suit to catch some rays, a wide blue and white stripe is a classic. You might get cold after water skiing, so throw on a cute pair of anchor sweats, and a pop of red with a hoodie. Don’t forget your boat shoes, and a navy tote to hold your towels and ipod. The third look is great for everyday running around. A sailor tunic, paired with leggings or denim shorts. A boat bag that makes a great tote, and a pair of flat espadrilles. Add some fun jewelry, like an anchor necklace and a rope bracelet. You’ll look good and feel comfortable all day. The last look is a bit dressier. A white skirt with sailor button detail, mixed with an ocean colored striped sweater. Pop in a denim luxury bag, and tie an anchor scarf around the handle for effect. It’s the perfect outfit for an evening poolside or party on the beach. Even if you’re not near the ocean, this is a great style to embrace. Trust us, this style will be around for a long time, so it’s a good place to invest in important pieces. All aboard!

    items in this observation (clockwise):

    Top:

  • sailing beach bag @ Rugby (offline)
  • metal aviators @ Topshop
  • ‘Et Vous’ sailor pants @ La Redoute
  • Juicy Couture anchor pendant necklace @ Net-a-Porter
  • nautical striped tank @ Forever21


  • Right:

  • Xhilaration® stripe swim halter top with Owl embroidery @ Target
  • zip through hoody @ Asos
  • canvas beach tote @ J.Crew
  • Sperry Top-Sider® vulcanized boat shoe @ Nordstrom
  • Primp crop sweat pants @ lisa kline


  • Bottom:

  • anchor pendant necklace @ Banana Republic
  • Organic Stereo sailor stripe smock top @ Asos
  • Tidepool boat and tote @ L.L.Bean
  • Nantucket rope bracelet @ J.Crew
  • Unisa Brunello espadrilles @ Zappos


  • Left:

  • Selima aviators @ J.Crew
  • sheer rugby sweater @ Forever21
  • Laura Clement Crepe sailor’s skirt @ La Redoute
  • silk anchor handkerchief @ Forever21
  • Louis Vuitton monogram denim Néo cabby @ eLuxury

  • how to enjoy the versatile ruffle trend

    May 27th, 2008 · posted by Madeline Rhodes in $ $$ $$$ $$$$ ALexander McQueen Alice and Olivia Anya Hindmarch Express Lipsy Loeffler Randall Morgan accessories clothing designers dresses handbags lingerie/sleepwear pants shoes tops trends

    Embrace your femininity this summer by stepping out in ruffles! This girly embellishment enhances the look of any outfit.

    Going to an event? Try a sexy, sophisticated puff dress with pleats, dramatic in color, texture and design. Pair a ruffled sensation like this with some basic, but edgy, pumps. The bag should compliment the edgy nature of the shoes.

    Meeting the girls for a poolside brunch? Choose a loose, comfortable ruffled dress in neutral colors. This dip dyed silky dress is smooth to the touch and balanced with ruffles from front to back. (Dip dye & ruffles! How fun!) With its lightweight and flowing nature, any woman will feel comfortable and fashionable in a sexy and feminine piece like this. It also makes a sophisticated cover-up!

    If you need to run some errands and pick up the kids, but you just can’t resist the urge to look really cute, then go for a basic but stylish look. (Don’t you always end up running into someone you know?) Pair some dark skinny shorts with a pastel colored, ruffled top, some ruffled sandals and your favorite leather tote. Pop on your favorite shades and you’ll be the talk of the town… Get going!

    Enjoy a summer picnic in a sexy, ruffled, sleeveless halter top, and some plain white sateen shorts. This is how the city girl does a picnic - toss some white with her standard black. The keyhole in the back of this halter permits a peep of what lies beneath in a very classy manner. Compliment the black and white theme with some black and white peep toe espidrilles and a striped hobo. This outfit works well from day into night.

    items in this observation (clockwise):

    going to an event:

  • Loeffler Randall ruffled calfskin clutch @ eLuxury
  • Alice + Olivia pleated puff dress @ Neiman Marcus
  • Alexander McQueen Crocodile pumps @ Net-a-Porter


  • meeting the girls for brunch:

  • Anna Corinna City Tote in pewter patent/canvas @ shoptwigs
  • Lipsy silk dip-dye ruffle empire @ Asos
  • Solid Ruffle Triangle @ dELiA’s
  • Solid Side-Tie Skirtini @ dELiA’s
  • Loeffler Randall Metallic Gathered T-Strap Sandal @ eLuxury


  • Running errands:

  • Olga coated canvas bowler @ Hayden-Harnett
  • Valerie Ruffle Top @ dELiA’s
  • Morgan low-rise skinny short @ dELiA’s
  • Hubiscus frill detal sandal @ Topshop


  • a Summer picnic:

  • sleeveless frill halter top @ Topshop
  • cotton sateen shorts w/ belt @ Express
  • Vegan peep-toe espadrille @ Vegetarian Shoes & Bags
  • Katheryn Hobo @ Shop Suey Boutique