Vogue a Trois: Overall Chic

Posted on January 13, 2014, 8:00 am
5 mins

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Overall Chic Cover

Mention the word overalls, and you certainly get distinct reactions from people. Overalls conjure images of many things, including farming, the early 1990s, childhood and maternity wear. They have really not been considered chic attire, but a trimmer silhouette in leather, one of the past season’s hottest trends, is bound to change some minds. Wearing leather overalls appeals to the woman with a fierce attitude towards fashion, who wears the clothing and does not let the clothing wear her, and already they are being spotted on trendsetters and darlings of street style. Let me convince you that the phrase “chic leather overalls” is not an oxymoron with my Vogue a Trois for this week: faux leather overalls by Topshop, which have a slimmer cut and a cropped leg that I really like.

overall chic #1

I think it is important to remember when styling leather overalls that you must wear them as you would a pair of avant-garde trousers. Don’t think of the playground; think of street style. The mix of the dark floral Preen blouse with its rainbow stripe detail and contrast collar is a play of femininity against the more masculine pants. The nude studded Saint Laurent Paris Pumps continue the feminine vibe and bring sophistication to the look. A gold pendant and the cool style of this Chloe Marcie ring are understated. And we all should have a little Alexander McQueen in our life. (I for one am still not over the tragic loss of this talented designer.) The Albion patent-leather envelope clutch is a great find on The Outnet.

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Black and white is a trend that will continue into Spring. It is such a chic way of dressing that it might be considered a prevailing style rather than a trend. Nina Ricci’s Lace Trim Jersey T-shirt in black and white is a touch of whimsy beneath the J. Crew Cashmere Collection vertical stripe cardigan for a subtle bit of contrast, as is a pair of Ray-Ban Original Aviators in pink. These Marc Jacobs Silk Jacquard Camouflage Flats can be found at Yoox.com—one of my favorite places to search for unique pieces and deals on designer goods. The Givenchy Obsedia black and white bracelet is a little piece of luxury, as is the lovely simplicity of the Jennifer Meyer Wishbone Necklace. Being a handbag addict, I am in absolute love with Stella McCartney, and her Daisy Print Jacquard Oversized Clutch is a little slice of heaven. The daisies remind me of my beautiful sister, who loves these cheerful flowers.

Overall Chic #3

Keeping your silhouette trim underneath the overalls will make certain you are not overwhelmed by the fabric of the pants. The Jason Wu Stripe Knit Sweater is fitted and achieves a look. The trim, cropped leg helps show off your shoe choice, and for this look a pair of Hope Speaker Boots are nonchalant glamour. I am having a moment with both pendants and monogramming, and these charming Charlene K Initial Pendants from Fremont’s Show Pony are great layered. And is there anything more cozy or chic than a beanie? Perhaps a French beanie from the Paris-based stored Merci? My friend Monica Brown traveled to Paris after Christmas and brought back a little charm bracelet for me from there and the shop is on my list for a future visit. On my recent visit to Nordstrom’s New Beginnings, their latest Pop-In Shop concept store within the store, I spotted this gorgeous Kara Convertible Pebbled Leather Bucket Bag. It comes in two sizes and can be worn slung over your shoulder or worn as a crossbody. Love. Finally, wrap yourself in this menswear inspired oversized Houndstooth Jacket on blustery days. Designers including Elizabeth and James, Current Elliott and 3.1 Phillip Lim have each introduced their version of a leaner chicer overall and they have all but flown out of the stores this past year. It is amusing that such a simple clothing piece can command such an emotional response, but that is part of its appeal. Whether you decide to style them for the street or wear them as comfortable weekend wear, overalls are having a moment. As always, I say embrace the trends that make you the happiest, and above all, have fun with your fashion.

Lisa Cole is the fashion and style writer for Vanguard Seattle, and her work includes covering fashion news and events, runway shows and boutiques. She has her own fashion and lifestyle blog, www.westfultonstreet.com, and is a member of Independent Fashion Bloggers and Fashion Group International.