As easy as it is to throw on a pair of leggings, a big sweatshirt and my black Converse, I have been dying to actually try something new. Over my mid-semester break (we are too cool to say “fall break” at Ohio Wesleyan University), I was able to visit a few of my friends in New York City! My oversized Patagonia and leggings were not going to cut it in the city, so I jumped at the opportunity to pull an actual outfit together.
Recently, I have been really interested in learning about androgynous models. After watching a few videos of Rain Dove, and obsessively searching for more street-style photos of her, the idea of embracing more menswear pieces became appealing. Also, more masculine pieces were spotted all over during New York Fashion Week. Back in spring, Calvin Klein’s ready-to-wear collection for fall/winter 2016–2017 proved that men’s footwear could be integrated into a very chic outfit. Naturally, I had to try it.
I started off with my new favorite Topshop button-down shirt and my favorite ripped Topshop jeans. I tied my button-down in a front knot because I wanted to try something different besides my favorite “slightly tucked” that I rock much too often. Plus, it gives an ode to the summer shirt-knotting trend. Next, for added warmth (and a little sass), I put on my new navy blue fur vest. This was actually a gift from my dad for my birthday! If you are reading this, I am still very, very impressed, Pops. Then, I did my usual gold and silver jewelry (peep the new bracelets that I got for my birthday!) with a simple black Kendra Scott Necklace.
Everything so far is super cute and fun, but not risky. I found this pair of penny loafers in the bottom of my closet back home, and I thought they were just too perfect. I actually purchased these men’s penny loafers during my sophomore year of high school when I thought it was going to be a huge trend. It didn’t work out that way. Luckily, I still wear the same size shoe, so I broke them out for New York! I thought these loafers went well with my outfit because they work with the rest of the color scheme but add a bit of masculine edge. Nothing says risky quite like a navy blue fur vest and brown penny loafers.
With my comfortable button-down, some ankle-grazing skinny jeans, and a pair of comfortable penny loafers (preferably found in my closet from a purchase five years prior), I worked it in New York City.
