Personal Style | WhyDid.com

Why Did You Wear That: White for Your Right To Party

By Kirsten|April 26th, 2011|Celebrity Style, Personal Style, Why Did You Wear That?|

If you’d described this outfit to me without seeing it, I probably would have thought you’d been hitting up ye olde crackpipe again and would have had to stage an intervention. However, when I saw Cameron Diaz sporting her light white ensemble a couple of weeks ago, I thought she looked incredibly chic, not like a drug induced fashion victim.

I know what you’re thinking: All white? Isn’t that a nod to the Michelin Man? In most cases, I’d say, “Yes.” In this instance, it comes off more angelic modern than just moronic.

The best part? These pieces are things that you most likely already have in your closet. I had everything minus the U-Boat watch which I ~~borrowed~~ stole from my fiance. Remember to break up the white with your accessories otherwise you’ll be walking around like a baker or tampon (whichever). I went ahead and nixed Cam’s suspenders (let’s not be completely ridiculous) and added a Mr. T gold chain instead.

1. American Apparel Unisex Sheer Jersey Short Sleeve Deep V-Neck, $24, 2. Stella & Jamie Black Leather Bomber, $352.99, 3. Toy Watch Oversize Plasteramic Watch, $225, 4. Seven For All Mankind Roxanne Skinny Flood in Clean White, $159, 5. Brian Atwood Closed Toe Platform Pump, $580, 6. Balenciaga Velo, $1,445

You gotta fight!

xx,

WhyDid

Photo via Just Jared

Why Did You Wear That: Mixed Signals

By Kirsten|April 19th, 2011|Personal Style, Why Did You Wear That?|

My favorite picture of my oldest niece is one of her wearing purple pants, a tutu, a sparkly pink shirt, a headband, and two different shoes. While you may be quick to assume that the tutu is what put me over the edge, it is actually her self assured expression in the photo. She is so very proud of herself, and for that reason, her discombobulation works.

I’ve always been a big fan of mixing and matching. I think when things are too carefully concocted, they seem a bit fussy and overdone (like matching your bag to your shoes- ick!). While it may seem silly to take inspiration from a child, it’s actually quite the contrary. See, children are somewhat uninhibited when it comes to fashion. They have not yet become slaves to trends and “rules” about what goes with what. They see it, they like it, they put it on.

I’m not suggesting that you throw on just any old thing, but what I am suggesting is loosening those chains of style and having a bit of fun. Who are these people making up the “rules” anyway?

When mixing patterns, I do suggest staying within the same color family. I also would try incorporating prints in different scale (one big print, one small print). The days of plaids and stripes being considered a faux pas are long gone.

1. American Apparel Stripe Mid-Length Pocket Tank, $29, 2. Miu Miu Stitched Sandal, $595, 3. Hazel Polka Dot Print Skirt, $79, 4. Ben-Amun Worldly Charm Rope Bracelet, $145

See? Mixing and matching is child’s play.

xx,

WhyDid

Why Did You Wear That: Sheer Genius

By Kirsten|April 12th, 2011|Personal Style, Why Did You Wear That?|

This spring it’s okay to let it all hang out. What I mean is that the amount of sheer fabrics on the runway was enough to make Madonna blush. Couple that with the whole “underwear as outerwear” trend and you’re in for a serious game of peek-a-boo –and I’m not talking the version you play with your niece.

While this trend may seem a bit risque and a little overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. Adding a little sheer fabric to your outfit is a great way to show skin in an unexpected manner. It’s sexy without being totally obvious. Just make sure to apply this trend in small doses. And NEVER wear a sheer bottom unless, of course, you’re frolicking on the beaches of St. Tropez. (I know that seems self explanatory, but one can never be too careful).

I’ve recreated one of my favorite outfits almost to a T (the shirt is a different color, multiply my A&A bangles by about 5 and add 1) for an easy and appropriate option – and so you can look just like me:

1. Patterson J. Kincaid Harlow Long Sleeve Blouse, $98, 2. Free People Lace Trim Bandeau, $28, 3. 7 For All Mankind Gwenevere Super Skinny in Double Knit, $169, 4. Alex and Ani Love Charm Bracelet Set, $78.50, 5. Jimmy Choo Madame Metallic Leather Sandals, $725

This outfit is also great for a “day to night” transition. Layer a scarf and either a waterfall cardigan or boyfriend blazer for day and then remove scarf and outerwear to party all night. Don’t forget to revisit my sheer “Do’s and Don’ts.”

Peek-a-boo!

xx,

WhyDid

Why Did You Wear That: You’ve Got Flare

By Kirsten|March 8th, 2011|Personal Style, Why Did You Wear That?|

We’ve been obsessed with skinnies for several seasons now, but flares are showing up again for spring. I am certainly partial to a sleek skinny jean, but I have to admit that flares are so much more flattering on almost every body type. The wide leg really balances out even the most pear shaped figures and can make short legs seem miles long.

Now, be warned: High waist flares are not meant for everyone (recall the Jessica Simpson incident?). To look good in high waisted jeans, you basically have to have the flattest (I’m talking practically inverted) tummy and a bubble butt. Not too many of those girls out there. High waisted denim also isn’t particularly flattering on you shorties or short waisted gals. Stick with a lower cut pair and always make sure that you don’t look like you’re drowning in your hem.

I love a wider leg 70’s inspired jean with a delicate floaty blouse and platform sandals. Channel your inner “Angel” and step out in these belled babies.

Top (L to R): Citizens of Humanity Angie Super Flare Jean, $229, Rebecca Taylor Front Zip Runway Denim Pant, $195, Pray For Mother Nature Devils Post Pile Bellbottoms, $176, MiH Marrakesh Flare Jeans, $186, J Brand Kiki High Rise Flare, $180 Bottom (L to R): J Brand Lovestory Flare Jeans, $178, Gap Vintage Flare Jeans, $69.50, 7 for All Mankin Kaylie Jeans, $168, TEXTILE Elizabeth & James Jimi Flare Jeans, $195, Red Valentino High Rise Flare Jeans, $310

(on me: H&M top, Earnest Sewn jeans, vintage Dooney & Bourke bag, Alex & Ani bracelets, Colin Stuart Sandals)

xx,

WhyDid

Why Did You Wear That: Peaches n’ Cream

By Kirsten|January 18th, 2011|Personal Style, Why Did You Wear That?|

I was so excited to see some of my favorite shades on the red carpet this past weekend. I especially loved the color of the Calvin Klein that Emma Stone wore (despite the fact that I was a bit turned off that her hair and skin matched -monochromatic much?). Anyway, any good reason to post pictures of amazingly lovely shades of nudes and peach and I’m in. I really do adore the mix of peach (or sherbert) and nude together especially in a simple sophisticated silhouette. The trick? Do not physically MATCH the color of your dress!

Top (L to R): Naven Bombshell Dress, $345, Alice and Olivia Tina Seamed Cutout Dress, $297, Delphine Murat Short Dress, $49, Alice and Olivia Cowl Neck Silk Blend Dress, $110.25