O, New York Fashion Week. A week that showcases some of the greatest minds in the fashion industry. A week where the style on the streets is as innovative as the style on the catwalks. A week when you should, according to model Selita Ebanks, go through at least three outfit changes a day.
You might be asking, what can I learn from this mother of all fashionista meetings?
I’m here to tell you.
1. There is no reason to wear painful shoes. If you’re sporting a bedazzled dress like this Marc Jacobs number to a party, go with sandals. You’ll be that girl who doesn’t need heels to be confident. When your dress is spot on, everything else will fall into place.
2. Don’t be afraid to wear white on white. As long as you mix up your textures, it’s an equation that works for summer or winter. But please, if you’re wearing a thin top like this Michael Kors sweater, wear a bra.
3. Texture, texture, texture. Texture is great. So is volume. The amount of texture and volume going on in this Oscar de la Renta ensemble works because the top and skirt have the same pattern.
4. Taking vintage trends to an extreme can pay off in a big way. These pants are reminiscent of bell bottoms, but they go so far beyond the typical 70s flare that they look modern. The take away? Go big or go home.
5. Gingham doesn’t have to look homely. In fact, with the right fit, it can look down right sexy. Diane von Furstenberg masters the combination of sugar and spice with this dress.
6. A tripped out graphic can go understated when in a mute color palate. Pair it with wedges and you’ve gone from hippie to glamazon. Pair it with wedges and sunglasses and you’ve got an Opening Ceremony outfit.
7. A floral that looks like camouflage from far away and slightly like a Hawaiian print closer up has something going for it. (If you’re Victoria Beckham, you’ve got other things going for you too.) If you have the guts to wear a pattern this punchy from head to toe, you’ll be on your way to mastering the Victoria Beckham swagger.
8. Oversize hoodies are a go. If Marc Jacobs does it, it’s cool. Lift your cozy sweatshirt out of the doldrums by accessorizing with sparkle. A necklace, a brooch, a headband. When the rest of your outfit is put together, you can afford to wear a hoodie.
9. Do you really need to learn anything from this Michael Kors model?
10. Business on top, party underneath. This Oscar de la Renta coat is perfect for Easter Sunday. When worn over this see-through lace dress, it begs for a more festive venue. A mix of siren and sophistication always looks good on a lady.
11. When your #modelstatus is this assured, you don’t need to smile for the camera. Also, camel, black, and white look great together.
12. Diane von Furstenberg says crop tops are still in.
Classy, fabulous, chic, stylish, hip, sophisticated, fashionable, smart. New York Fashion Week 2014.