the style observer is about putting it all together

observations on 18th Amendment

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 embrace one of the season’s hottest shoes: the sandal bootie

    May 16th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ $$ $$$ $$$$ 18th Amendment Anna Sui Barbara Bui Express Stella McCartney Theory accessories clothing dresses pants shoes skirts tops trends

    In a matter of weeks, the sandal bootie shoe will be on everyone’s hot list. Sarah Jessica Parker wears a similar style throughout the movie Sex and the City. Initially it comes across as a hard, edgy shoe. However, when you pair it with softer pieces it is instantly elevated to high fashion status. To soften the look of this shoe, pair it with pretty prints or florals. It’s an unexpected combination, which will undoubtedly intrigue people. In the movie, Carrie wears them with a full green floral dress. The femininity of the dress shines new light on the shoe. That way, you trade the S&M look for a sophisticated look. If you want to wear them with skinny jeans, make sure the top is blousy to balance out the weight of the shoe. It looks great with dresses, skirts, as well as with black slacks and more urban pieces. If you think you can make the sandal bootie work, you should go grab a pair before the movie hits theatres. Good luck and happy hunting!

    items in this observation (clockwise):

  • Barbara Bui braided pump @ shop Jake
  • Theory ‘Simms - Crunch’ dress @ Nordstrom
  • Stella McCartney floral print blouse @ Net-a-Porter
  • 18th Amendment Lollobrigida high-waisted jeans @ Net-a-Porter
  • silk floral skirt ‘Green Meadows’ @ Express
  • tapered crop ‘Luxury Stretch’ pants @ Express
  • Anna Sui chevron stripe chiffon blouse @ Nordstrom

  • the modern day Chrissy Snow

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

    jeans by 18th Amendment

    For years we have heard women say how tired they are of the low-waisted jeans, and how they wished they would just go away. Well, I don’t think they are going away anytime soon, but room has been made on the shelf for their high-waisted sister. When I see these jeans, I am immediately reminded of my favorite TV show in the seventies, Three’s Company. The buxom blond, Chrissy Snow, rocked the high-waisters. Can we pull it off as well as she did? There was certainly no “mom” in her jeans, but what about the rest of us? Listen ladies, I assure you these new high-waisted jeans are nothing like the dreaded “mom” jeans. They ooze sex appeal while maintaining sophisticated elegance. Pair them with a sexy heel and a cashmere sweater, or a white tee and an espadrille. Your legs will look like they go on forever, so STRUT your stuff.