the style observer is about putting it all together

observations on Hudson

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

  • denim for all women

    March 20th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $ 7 For All Mankind Hudson J Brand Notify clothing pants

    Denim has reached unbelievable heights in the last ten years. Currently it is one of the most versatile fabrics in the fashion world. Denim goes with everything. You can dress it down with a simple white tee, or go as far as to dress it up with a Chanel jacket. There are no limits. Designers have gone wild creating different cuts, colors, and textures. There is an excellent range of styles available to women. Now, everyone can find a pair that fits well. We’ve pulled some of our favorite styles to show you. First there is the boot cut, which is probably the most universally flattering style. It’s a well proportioned cut that works on most body types. Next, the straight leg. This style has a straight line from the hip down. It’s a narrow cut, and may prove to be too slender for some women. Then there is the wide leg. This jean fits lean through the thigh, and flares below the knee. It’s cut makes the leg appear longer and slimmer. Another style is the skinny jean. The fit is tight to the leg. It’s probably one of the more difficult styles to wear; it’s very unforgiving. Another style that has recently resurfaced is the high-waisted jean. It sits high on the waist, and accentuates a woman’s body beautifully. As you can see, there are plenty of styles to choose from. There are also a lot of washes and colors to choose from. First, every girl should have a pair of dark denim. They are easier to dress up, and look clean, classic, and smart. There is also the slightly worn wash. This works really well for everyday and casual events. Lighter denim washes have appeared for Spring. We’re leery of the very light wash denim; it’s not nearly as forgiving as the dark denim. If you want to grab on to the trend, you may need to go up a size. The sizing is the same for white denim, you may want to go up a size. We love white denim for summer, it’s crisp and clean. Hopefully this helps you in your search for the perfect pair of jeans. Remember, you should buy what you feel most comfortable and confident in. That will shine through, and you will radiate.