STYLE GURU STYLE: Simplicity’s Complexity

Mid-July marked a special week for us Fashionistos, New York Fashion Week: Men’s. There was much to see and admire; on my end, there is still more seeing and admiring to be done. But I have sifted through a handful of designers, mostly those I am unfamiliar with such as Orley, Billy Reid, deTROIT, N. Hoolywood and Alexander Wang. Of those, I really enjoyed Billy Reid’s runway show. Initially, there was a clear translation from the runway to street style (I love seeing the unique, unconventional pieces and the expensive ensembles, but they are not the most sensible on a college budget). Looking closer, Reid used playful textiles and prints in combination with neutral colors. For example, look number six included a pair of floral shorts in tones of beige and tan. And runway look 24 had a great black and white jacquard-knit sweater with an interesting dark print. The runway show was special in its details; I appreciated that Reid kept the silhouettes simple, and that the separate pieces were made thoughtfully.

In translating it to my style, I took bits and pieces from different outfits in the show. Billy Reid experimented with neutrals. I, on the other hand, take an eye for cool colors. So, I put together a green and blue combo, which has come back for the spring/summer season. A few of the looks in Reid’s collection sported an open-buttoned shirt over a tucked in T-shirt. That to me was an easy translation, something that I do often in my everyday style. The shirt I used is made out of rayon material, which is thin but durable, and it drapes and flows nicely as you walk. With the tank top and skinny pants, I set a contrast between loose and fitted. Reid’s collection was loose throughout, and I wanted to emulate that in my style but not copy it.

Just remember that in styling yourself, always think about how you want it to stand out and which piece can do that for you.

Get My Look: 1. H&M for a looser shirt or ASOS if you want something fitted. 2. A simple tank top. 3. Comfortable, fitted pants.

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