Little black dress this, little black dress that. The iconic ‘must have’ gathers dust in the back of my closet as I find that, in reality, there really aren’t that many occasions to wear the LBD. As such, it makes sense when I say: move aside, little black dress; your more versatile counterpart has arrived.
The number of white button-down shirts that I have in my closet is bordering on ridiculous. I think the count now is up to something like 14 and don’t think I will be stopping anytime soon. The little white button-down is the most versatile item that can be found in your closet and is a classic staple that can add elegance or edge. They come in all different shapes and sizes: fitted, sleeveless, collarless or boxy, they have it all. White button-downs, to me, are like the base layer of a painting; sometimes overlooked, but an integral part of the overall cohesion of the final piece. A crisp white button-down is like a starting line, a piece which can adapt into many different styles.
While putting this look together I drew inspiration from many different designers who utilize simple cuts and colors, leaving the viewer wanting more. One designer in particular peaked my interest more than the others: Josh Goot. Goot exemplifies the epitome of minimalism in his resort 2016 collection which is filled with simple lines and color blocking. The simplistic lines which seem to be inspired by menswear collections exude a soft and subtle femininity which makes up for the limited color palette and simple cuts of the collection. Perfectly taken-in waists and gracefully exposed backs create a subtle grace which makes the collection simply intoxicating.
Drawing inspiration from this collection, I attempted to keep my look simple and clean. Color blocking was clearly on my mind with my thrifted Coach purse and with the saturation difference between my shirt and pants. The J.Crew pants which I am donning in this look are an aggressive shade of orange/red, and I call them my power pants. Power pants are pants that you put on in the mornings, and they make you feel like you can take the world by storm.
Tied together with some strappy, heeled sandals and a bold pair of summer sunnies, each discrete article of clothing comes together to form this almost Parisian summer look. And it all started with a Little White Button-Down.
Get My Look: 1. Your favorite white button-down. 2. A pair of power pants. 3. Strappy sandals.
