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Why Did You Wear That: The Perfect Paradox

By |November 9th, 2013|Personal Style, Why Did You Wear That?|

kirsten smithIn sticking with this week’s theme of leather and lace, sugar and spice, sultry and sweet this outfit should provide some weekend outfit inspiration.  And wouldn’t you know, I’ve found yet another way to incorporate a crop top.  Sure it’s gotten quite a bit colder here in New York, but wearing a coat in transit makes showing a little skin entirely achievable.  Pairing a high waisted pencil skirt with a lacy top is a great way to show off your curves without having to pile yourself into some type of bandage contraption.  It’s classic, yet modern and most all body types can wear the look, crop top optional.

As I’ve mentioned, contradictions are my specialty.  Mixing something more tough with something seen as soft is the way to create drama (the only kind I’m into) without looking like you’re trying too hard or doing too much.  The skirt is actually something I’ve had for years- since I was a sophomore in highschool as a matter of fact.  Because a custom made leather dress seems totally normal for a 16 year old’s homecoming (photographic evidence here).  I held onto it knowing that while it may have been a bit ahead of my time as a teen, it would be a piece that would stand the test of time.  Worn with a cropped lace tee, black booties, and subtle accessories, it is the perfect paradox.

Kirsten Smith

kirsten smith

kirsten smith

kirsten smithtop: American Apparel (thanks, Mer), skirt: custom (similar here), bra: Cosabella, bag: Malini Murjani, bracelet: vintage necklace (similar here), booties: Steven, ring: Grandma’s (similar here), earrings: vintage (similar here)

xx,

WhyDid

photos by Michael Stiegler

Setting the Mood: Sugar and Spice

By |November 4th, 2013|Setting the Mood|

leather and laceOn more than one occasion I’ve been called a paradox; a walking contradiction.  At first glance you may think you could quickly delegate me to one box, but after a conversation and cocktail, you may be moving me to another.  And just when you think you’ve got me figured out, look out for that curve ball because it’s coming.

I don’t like predictability and following the herd makes me more than uncomfortable.  I think there’s much to be said for mixing things up and keeping people guessing, especially when getting dressed.  This is precisely why leather and lace are the perfect complement to one another.  While lace could be overly feminine or somewhat sexy, leather is tough enough to tip the scales from prissy to powerful.  A head to toe leather look would have you reminiscent of catwoman and all over lace could land you somewhere between a Victorian and 80’s Madonna.  However, when the two are combined, the look is lethal.

DKNY Leather Paneled Lace Top, Saint Laurent Leather Bra Top, Karl Lagerfeld Delphie Coated Leather Mini Skirt, Mason by Michelle Mason Leather Trimmed Lace Dress

xx,

WhyDid

Look for Less: Leather and Legs

By |December 11th, 2011|Look for Less, Why Did You Wear That?|

A way to bring a little edge to any outfit is by adding a bit of leather.  If a leather jacket feels too predictable and leather pants just really aren’t going to happen, a leather skirt may be a great way to incorporate this trend.  Whether you winterize your look with a cozy sweater and opaque tights or sport a bare leg and sky high heels, be sure to mix in a more modest top.  You don’t want to look like a lady who belongs on a corner of Hollywood Boulevard.  Check out these three leather looks worn by some fresh faced celebrities:

1. Juicy Couture Candy Pink Cotton Lace Top, $110, 2. Andrew Marc Tristina Leather Skirt, $350, 3. Emitations Flora’s Sterling Silver Heart Charm Bracelet, $75, 4. Report Stamos Patent Pumps, $56.99

1.  By Malene Birger Luvina Lace Blouse, $224, 2. Naven Biker Skirt, $154, 3. Urban Outfitters Sheer Tights, $12, 4. White House Black Market Rosette Clutch, $34, 5. TopShop Galleria Patent Mary Janes, $92

1. Qi Cashmere Long Time Ruched Turtleneck, $147, 2. Schumacher Faux Leather Skirt, $319, 3. Tarte LipSurgence in Charmed, $24, 4. Mod Cloth Tights for Every Occasion, $14.99, 5. Frye Harlow Oxford Bootie, $197.95

[Insert whistle noise here].

xx,

WhyDid

Why Did You Wear That: Skin in the Game

By |September 21st, 2010|Why Did You Wear That?|

sandyThere’s nothing like a little black leather to toughen up even the girliest of girls (Um, ever see Grease? Exhibit A, Sandra Dee). Anyway, if you’re sick of the typical (and oh so predictable) leather jacket and you aren’t feeling brazen enough for leather hot pants, here are a few alternatives for wearing this season’s hottest (second) skin.Well definitely these dress are awesome but when it comes to handling pimples,Whiteheads,Blackheads then you should try here some of the tips.

Screen shot 2010-09-21 at 2.32.41 PMDiane von Furstenberg Tiered Leather Skirt, $625

yfbaa2026812867_p1_v1_m56577569832029275_254x500Young Fabulous and Broke Dominique Leather Romper, $440

Screen shot 2010-09-21 at 2.26.00 PMJoie Paper Leather Shorts, $378

Screen shot 2010-09-21 at 2.47.31 PMVictoria’s Secret Leather Legging, $208 (you’re very welcome for that one)

mason2013112867_p1_v1_m56577569831987035_254x500Mason by Michelle Mason Asymmetrical Dress, $692

Now keep your filthy paws off my silky drawers.

xx,

WhyDid