For some reason, I’ve always had a predilection for striped dresses. Imagine my joy when the whimsical pattern made an appearance on more than one Spring 2011 runway.
Isabel Marant showed one of my favorite ways to wear it in her Grady Striped Cotton Jersey Dress. On the runway, it was worn by Anna Selezneva in a mini dress style with a strip of mesh hanging from the front as an underlayer, giving sporty a totally new and sexy definition. It was accessorized with Gava Cotton Raffia and Leather Pumps ($820) and bedhead hair. I will always have a love for classic preppy dressing and it gets no better than a rugby-inspired dress, but I love the subtle accents that make Marant’s different including the slightly off-center button placket, the back’s pleated detail and the canvas trim at the waist. I also love that she dressed it up on the runway, which prompted my thoughts on how to recreate the look.
Naturally, a dress of this persuasion lends itself to informal accessories like Converse perhaps and a messenger bag, but I think it will look just as great on a 65-degree summer night when you’re heading out. Here is how to accessorize it below.
There is something about a fedora that is so sexy, yet laidback and Eugenia Kim’s Max Straw Fedora ($315) will continue the relaxed nature of the dress. Having just bought a new black clutch this past Friday, I love discovering black handbags with cool detailing and Cynthia Rowley’s Charlotte Shoulder Clutch ($220) will add a bit of edge to the ensemble as well as being your new black clutch for the season. Christian Louboutin’s Zipito 120 Suede Ankle Boots ($995) are gorgeous and will elevate the whole look, as well as serving as your new go-to heel.
Isabel Marant’s Grady Striped Cotton Jersey Dress retails for $455. Visit www.net-a-porter.com to purchase and www.isabelmarant.tm.fr for more information.
*Image courtesy of GoRunway.com.
Urban Sybaris 