the style observer is about putting it all together

observations on Theory

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

  • how to wear a bright colored bag

    March 30th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $$ $$$ Gustto Estiva Kooba MARC by Marc Jacobs Steven by Steve Madden Theory Vince looks

    You can’t help but feel the energy from the rainbow of bags that are in stores right now. It’s such a refreshing change from the blacks and browns, that we’re simply drawn to the brighter colors. Though, just as we contemplate which color to buy, a million questions come to mind. What will I wear it with? How often can I really use a bag of this color? Will it be out of fashion next season? Is it worth it? Well, we can’t answer all those questions for you, but we can help you with the first one. You would be amazed at how many ways you can wear a vividly colored bag. One way is to pair it with a print. A bright bag makes a great anchor for a floral or a pattern. Another way is to pair it with another bright color, like a yellow bag with a bright blue dress. The idea is not to be too matchy, a bright blue bag with a green dress is unexpected but looks fabulous. Also, a bright bag can punch up a neutral or a basic color. A bright green bag with navy, or a yellow bag with grey will make the outfit pop into the now. Of course, it always look great with jeans and a white t-shirt. Basically, have fun with this trend. Don’t over-think it. Pick a bag in a shade that you love, and ultimately you’ll be happy with your purchase.

    items in this observation (l to r):

  • Theory ‘Louni - Tangiers’ dress @ Nordstrom
  • MARC by Marc Jacobs turquoise airline captain bag @ START London

  • Vince printed stretch-silk dress @ Neiman Marcus
  • Kooba Callie @ Kooba

  • Theory sleeveless bubble dress @ Neiman Marcus
  • Kooba Nelli leather hobo @ Neiman Marcus

  • Theory racerback shift dress @ Neiman Marcus
  • Steven by Steve Madden Ruched purse @ Victoria’s Secret

  • Bop Basics cashmere relaxed v-neck sweater @ Shopbop
  • MARC by Marc Jacobs Faridah leather bag @ Net-a-Porter

  • Theory Laina Alibi combo dress @ Bloomindales
  • Gustto Estiva leather shopper @ Bloomindales
  • an investment theory

    February 6th, 2008 · posted by Jean Vouté Pratt in $$ Theory clothing dresses pants tops

    Theory Aniston topTheory Aniston top
    Theory Lydias pantTheory Lydias pant

    I think we’re all looking to make a good investment when buying clothing. When you’re buying a trendy piece, you go in knowing it will probably be out in a few months. So, you may choose not to spend the big bucks there. However, when you’re looking to buy a great pair of slacks, you want to make sure they can stand the test of time. What you need is a reliable designer who makes fashion forward, well made, classic clothing, what you need is Theory. Theory is one of the most reliable brands out there today. The clothing is sleek, modern, and on trend without ever going overboard. Their pieces are ones you will constantly go back to, they are dependable and effortless. They are famous for their pants and known for being the best fitting pants on the market. The prices certainly aren’t cheap, but they are really worth the investment.

    Theory Azuri-Acute dressTheory Azuri-Acute dress