Laynie Stephens – The Stanford Daily https://stanforddaily.com Breaking news from the Farm since 1892 Fri, 20 Oct 2017 17:18:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://stanforddaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/cropped-DailyIcon-CardinalRed.png?w=32 Laynie Stephens – The Stanford Daily https://stanforddaily.com 32 32 204779320 Fashion Spotlight: the trials and tribulations of trends https://stanforddaily.com/2014/01/24/fashion-spotlight-the-trials-and-tribulations-of-trends/ https://stanforddaily.com/2014/01/24/fashion-spotlight-the-trials-and-tribulations-of-trends/#respond Fri, 24 Jan 2014 09:38:11 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1081729 This week, fashion columnist Laynie Stephens provides her take on how to work even the most challenging trends into your own wardrobe.

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Trends: a very controversial topic. What is so appealing about them, anyway? Although they’re intended to be lighthearted and fun, they don’t always end up that way. To some, they may seem like little fashion challenges that one can play around with, but that’s not always the case. This week, I want to address common critiques of trends.

Trends, like camouflage print scarfs, are a fun way to revitalize your look. (RENJIE WONG/The Stanford Daily)
Trends, like camouflage print scarfs, are a fun way to revitalize your look. (RENJIE WONG/The Stanford Daily)

Trends inevitably convey a very strong message. When coming from elite fashion magazines, they can imply, “You have to be this thin, or this tall, or this skin tone to be able to pull off this look.” But how is that real if we all are different shapes and sizes? This is definitely something worth thinking about.

Some may say that this is not the case at all. Although trends are portrayed in a very specific manner in fashion magazines, part of the fun is taking that as an inspiration and, in turn, doing whatever you want from there. Let’s pretend that the biggest trend right now is the crop top. For example: although that crop top might not work on me the same way as the model, I can think about playing around with different waistlines and silhouettes created by my clothing. It’s true that it’s not exactly the same, but who said we all need to take those magazines so seriously anyway?

But there’s always the haute couture fashionista who will say that trends are <@WeideItal>very<@$p> particular. And that’s partly true: A crop top is a crop top, and there’s not really any other way to make something that’s not a crop top a crop top. And if I feel like I can’t pull off a crop top, I’m excluded from the latest and greatest fashion trend of the moment. It makes me not “fashionable” enough for haute couture that season.

This makes fashion sound really exclusive. But trust me, it’s not. Fashion is all about self-expression, and the way we view it really makes all the difference. There are no “rules” in fashion<\p><\_><\p>only opinions. You really can wear whatever you want, whenever you want. At least here in the United States, no one’s going to punish you for what’s on your body. So take a risk. The trends are there for your inspiration, but in reality the world is your oyster when it comes to deciding what style you want to adopt. If you don’t like the current trends, start your own trends! Even if they don’t become universally popular, you’ll look like the best version of yourself that you could imagine, and that’s something beautiful.

So even though I’ll be forecasting trends in the upcoming weeks, don’t feel tied down to them. They’re simply suggestions for how to change your image if you’re feeling festive or daring in the fashion world. Take them as a challenge and a one-of-a-kind way to express yourself.

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Top 10: Ways to Revamp Your Wardrobe https://stanforddaily.com/2014/01/17/top-10-ways-to-revamp-your-wardrobe/ https://stanforddaily.com/2014/01/17/top-10-ways-to-revamp-your-wardrobe/#respond Fri, 17 Jan 2014 10:09:24 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1081569 Fashion columnist Laynie Stephens gives us the lo-down on the best ways to revamp your winter wardrobe.

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1. Dig around in your closet: You never know what you’ll find buried under that pile of laundry you’ve been meaning to wash for a few months now.

2. Borrow from a friend: It’s the easiest and cheapest way to play dress up, since you’re no longer five years old and in your mother’s closet.

3. Speaking of mom’s closet: Why not try there? You never know if she happened to hold onto some clothes from when she was younger and about your size. Sentimental vintage, anyone?

4. Accessorize: It’s amazing how different a dress looks once you add a belt, some jewelry and a jacket.

5. Think of different ways to wear the same thingExample: A white v-neck with jeans looks very different than a white v-neck tucked into a high-waisted skirt, completed with a cardigan.

6.Alter: If you have something that is too big or too long, consider cutting it down or sewing it to a tighter fit. How about making that shirt that’s a little too small a crop top?

7. Sell: There are a lot of sites that will buy your old clothes that are in good condition, and you can spend that money on a few new items to complete your wardrobe!

 8. Rent: There are also a lot of sites where you can rent someone else’s clothes, such as Rent the Runway, if you’re looking for something different for a special occasion.

 9. Challenge yourself to try something different: May I suggest starting with: “Next week, I’m going to only wear sweatpants when I’m sleeping.”

10. And most of all, be inspired: Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn or Stacy London. Let fashion icons influence you, but don’t ever forget your own personal style. That’s what makes your fashion unique.

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Fashion Spotlight: Radiant Orchid https://stanforddaily.com/2014/01/10/fashion-spotlight-radiant-orchid/ https://stanforddaily.com/2014/01/10/fashion-spotlight-radiant-orchid/#respond Fri, 10 Jan 2014 10:23:35 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1081331 Fashion columnist Laynie Stephens debriefs us on the hue of the year -- Radiant Orchid -- and suggests wallet-friendly fashions to add this color to your wardrobe.

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Let’s talk about the it-color of the year: Radiant Orchid. This gorgeous purple hue is nothing less than everything for 2014, at least for Pantone, the nationwide authority on color. They’re so serious about this color that you can buy anything from a pillow to a flash drive in the perfected radiant orchid hue. But for the average fashionista, matching this color with a pretty similar hue will suffice. Look for a lighter, pinker purple and you’re there.

Finishing off an outfit can be as simple as a Radiant Orchid-colored coat! (CLIFF OWL/The Stanford Daily)
Finishing off an outfit can be as simple as a Radiant Orchid-colored coat! (CLIFF OWL/The Stanford Daily)

To help you start the New Year right in the fashion world, here’s some inspiration to keep you looking up-to-date (emerald green is so 2013, don’t you agree?):

1. I’ll start with the Stretch-jersey Mini Dress from Splendid. Simple, cute, and comfortable; this dress has it all. Wear it on its own, or add a belt or some jewelry. But no matter what you do, you’ll be sure to be the most fashionably up-to-date person on campus the second you slip this frock on. It’s available on Net-A-Porter.

2. Another great way to incorporate radiant orchid into your style (without being too flashy) is the Nars nail polish “Chinatown” available at Lord and Taylor. It not only looks like a perfect match to radiant orchid, but also is flattering on almost any skin tone. It’s a subtle way of saying, “Yes, I do know that it’s now 2014.”

3. Finally, pants. Now I know the prospect of purple pants may sound like too much for some of you, but let me present the “deep garnet” Sloans from Banana Republic. No, they’re not exactly radiant orchid, but they are a festive way to add some color to your wardrobe while staying in the same color family as this year’s top hue. And regardless of color, the Sloan pants are definitely a worthwhile investment. If you haven’t already heard of them, I recommend dropping everything and making your way over to Banana Republic immediately. They may just be the most comfortable and flattering pants in the world, and can very easily be dressed up or down. Get the deep garnet ones fast, as they’re already on sale.

If none of these strike your fancy, don’t fret —

there are thousands of purple fashion options out there, and there’s nothing a little shopping can’t fix. Just remember: what’s the easiest way to be fashionable this year? Add a little orchid into your wardrobe, and see how life changing it just might be.

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Fashion Spotlight: What to look forward to in 2014 https://stanforddaily.com/2013/12/04/fashion-spotlight-what-to-look-forward-to-in-2014/ https://stanforddaily.com/2013/12/04/fashion-spotlight-what-to-look-forward-to-in-2014/#comments Wed, 04 Dec 2013 11:36:09 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1080943 As the year comes to an end, I can think of hundreds of fashion highlights from 2013. It was a great year, but I’m even more excited to see what next year and next quarter will bring.

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As the year comes to an end, I can think of hundreds of fashion highlights from 2013. It was a great year, but I’m even more excited to see what next year and next quarter will bring. You’ll have plenty of time over break to update your wardrobe, so no excuses come winter quarter! I’m looking forward to seeing the following fashion updates around campus:

1. Play with texture. Texture is everything when it comes to differentiating between a good outfit and a fantastic outfit. Winter quarter will definitely get chilly, so now’s the time to get out all your bulky knit sweaters and scarves. Mix them together for something new and different. You don’t have to just mix knits though – what about lace, leather and metal detailing? How about adding in a little pattern? I’m not saying you need cosmic or psychedelic patterns every day, but completing a look with a unique print never hurt anyone.

2. Make business casual the new casual. Seriously, how often do I need to talk about dressing for the occasion? Next quarter, I’m challenging you to make “business casual” the new “casual,” but actually I’m just hoping that next quarter will bring fewer sweatpants out of your dorm rooms. Think about what you’re wearing and the image you portray. Who do you take more seriously: someone dressed professionally or someone in yoga pants and a freshman dorm t-shirt? (Hint: someone dressed professionally.) Remember this when you’re getting dressed in the morning next quarter! It really doesn’t take any longer to dress nicely, especially when you spend just two minutes planning your outfit the night before.

3. What’s the color? Every year and every season brings a new “it” color that can be spotted almost anywhere (cobalt blue this season, anyone?). I’m hoping that we, as Stanford, will have a color of the quarter (that’s not cardinal red from all your sweats and hoodies), and I’ll most definitely be looking out for it. Think about a new color that you think embodies the new you of 2014, and own that color. Make it yours. I don’t know what it’ll be yet, but I already have a few colors in mind that I’ll definitely be wearing. How about you? Who knows, simply sporting a particular color could make you the latest trendsetter at Stanford!

Here’s to a great past year of fashion at Stanford and even a better year to come in 2014. Challenge yourselves to embrace the new, and let your fashion spirits guide you.

 

Contact Laynie Stephens at laynies ‘at’ stanford.edu.

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Fashion Spotlight: Holiday Fashion Tips https://stanforddaily.com/2013/11/22/fashion-spotlight-holiday-fashion-tips/ https://stanforddaily.com/2013/11/22/fashion-spotlight-holiday-fashion-tips/#respond Fri, 22 Nov 2013 09:21:35 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1080720 As Thanksgiving approaches and many of us prepare to return home for family gatherings, some may fear that they have nothing to wear for holiday events. But don’t fret quite yet -- after this article you’ll know exactly how to trick your family into thinking that your style has improved since you last saw them.

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As Thanksgiving approaches and many of us prepare to return home for family gatherings, some may fear that they have nothing to wear for holiday events. But don’t fret quite yet — after this article you’ll know exactly how to trick your family into thinking that your style has improved since you last saw them.

1. For starters, let’s talk about fit — arguably the most important thing when it comes to planning your outfit. Honestly, I don’t care what you wear to your holiday events, so long as your clothes fit you properly. (Except I probably would mind if you showed up in sweatpants. Or a body suit.) Fit sounds like it should be pretty simple, right? Not too tight, not to baggy. Simple enough, yet I still see fit disasters on a daily basis. Think about it this way: If the clothes don’t make you feel absolutely fabulous, they probably aren’t the best fit. Good-fitting clothes are always flattering. Choose your best for the holidays!

2. Next item of business: appropriateness — another very important item to consider. There is (usually) a difference between family events and clubbing, right? So be sure to tailor your outfit appropriately. Now is not the time to wear that short new dress you just got, or that controversial T-shirt you wear for fun. Add some tights to that dress, and change your T-shirt! It is time to be classy, at least for a few hours.

3. Finally, be sure to create an outfit.  An outfit is what turns clothes into fashion. Add some jewelry, put on a scarf or have those cute, detailed knee-high socks peek out from your boots. Need some accessorizing inspiration?

I am absolutely loving Banana Republic’s Regalia Statement Necklace this season. It’s military-inspired, with just the right amount of sparkle and glam. It also features a ribbon tie behind your neck. Could it get any more perfect?

Not into necklaces? Try a watch! An eye-catching one not only helps you keep track of how much longer you’ll have to wait for pumpkin pie but also completes an outfit quite perfectly. I know it might seem hard to find a nice-looking watch that is not too expensive, but try Nordstrom’s BP Juniors’ department — a lot of their watches are surprisingly around $20, and there are plenty of different styles to choose from. My favorite is their rose-gold-colored Titanium Bracelet Watch.

Who said lip lacquer wasn’t an accessory? I’m currently obsessed with the Rimmel London Show Off Lip Lacquer (available at Walgreens) in the shade Aurora, a lighter and brighter red. I prefer wearing it as a lip stain, by dabbing the product off with a tissue after applying. Wear this lip with an all-black outfit and a few accessories, and you’ll be perfectly ready for the holidays.

Now that you have these tips, go home and impress your family with your new fashion knowledge! If you create a unique enough outfit, they might even start thinking you always dress that nicely…

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Fashion Spotlight: No Pants November? https://stanforddaily.com/2013/11/15/fashion-spotlight-no-pants-november/ https://stanforddaily.com/2013/11/15/fashion-spotlight-no-pants-november/#respond Fri, 15 Nov 2013 09:00:30 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1080494 Daily columnist Laynie Stephens realized that pants are uncomfortable, restricting and just plain boring. Her solution? Eliminate the pants!

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Story time this week — I’ll tell you what my fashion has been up to. Based off the title, you might have guessed: I’m in the middle of a pants protest. Now, I do remember wearing pants about a week ago, so maybe it’s not entirely No Pants November, but wearing pants has definitely been a rarity lately.

For Daily columnist Laynie Stephens, pants were cramping her style. Her solution? No more pants. As shown here, pants-less outfits can be both fashionable and comfy. (CLIFF OWL/The Stanford Daily)
For Daily columnist Laynie Stephens, pants were cramping her style. Her solution? No more pants. As shown here, pants-less outfits can be both fashionable and comfy. (CLIFF OWL/The Stanford Daily)

Why, you might ask? Although I could go on about this for hours, I’ll keep it concise. They’re uncomfortable, restricting and frankly, just plain boring. I got to a point where I felt like every day I was wearing some style of black, slim-leg pants, with a different shirt and maybe different shoes. That is when I realized my style was becoming static. The solution? Eliminate the problem: pants!

I’ll make it clear that I have nothing against pants. However, there are so many more options out there, and we’re going to explore those now.

First, I’ll state the obvious: If you’re not wearing pants, you’re probably wearing shorts, a skirt or a dress. “But it’s almost winter! How can I wear those and survive the oh-so-cold California nights?” I’m only partially kidding here; I do think it gets cold in the mornings and nights, and the usual California attire isn’t warm enough. The single most important article of clothing you need to solve this problem: tights.

I currently couldn’t be more in love with tights. They’re comfortable and basically leg hugs for the entire day whenever you wear them. Could it get any better? Yes, it could. Besides the functionality of wearing them to stay warm, they have the added bonus of instantly making your outfit look more put together. They’re just that little extra something that shows you put a little effort into your look of the day.

The options are endless when it comes to tights — there are sheer ones, opaque ones, patterned ones and even colored ones. My current favorites are opaque black ones, but maybe that’s just because I’m in a black clothing phase. Regardless, I definitely recommend investing in colored tights as well, because they’re a fun way to accentuate any outfit. Not sure where to find your desired color of tights? Go to Target — I’ve seen almost any color imaginable there.

Complete your winter-styled outfit with a bulky cardigan and scarf — and talk about being fashionable. Just remember, ladies: The fact that you put on a scarf doesn’t magically make your outfit fashionable — in the same way that just putting on any one article of clothing doesn’t make an outfit. The act of putting together an outfit by combining different articles and elements of clothing is what makes you in the running for the most stylish of us all.

Let’s review: Pants are great, but they get old fast. Basically, it’s much harder to have a diverse style when you’re wearing some form of jeans with those same old sneakers and same old t-shirt every day (looking at you, stereotypical Stanford student). On the other hand, think about wearing a dress one day, shorts another and a skirt yet another — all with a different pair of tights, scarf and outerwear. The potential outfits hiding in your closet just quadrupled — thank me later once people stop calling you an outfit repeater, arguably the harshest insult of them all.

Weekly challenge: Does anyone want to join me in No Pants November? Alternatively, just take this as a challenge to think about what you’re wearing every day, and try to diversify your wardrobe!

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Fashion Spotlight: Interview attire https://stanforddaily.com/2013/11/07/fashion-spotlight-interview-attire/ https://stanforddaily.com/2013/11/07/fashion-spotlight-interview-attire/#respond Thu, 07 Nov 2013 12:38:48 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1080278 Have an important interview coming up but no idea what to wear? We’ve all been there before.

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Have an important interview coming up but no idea what to wear? We’ve all been there before. Interviews are all about making a good impression, and, whether you like it or not, you will be judged based on what you’re wearing. Don’t want to spend the hour before your interview agonizing over what to wear? Have no fear: Laynie is here!

1. The “I-swear-it’s-casual” interview: Although I’ll never understand the Silicon Valley start-up-culture style, apparently casual interviews are a thing for you people. If you insist that dressing formally is just not an option, please do something more than just jeans and a t-shirt: This is your future employer you’re meeting with.

Ladies, consider wearing dark-wash or black skinny or straight-fit denim, and make sure those jeans fit properly (a.k.a. not too tight, not too baggy). For tops, I would recommend a cardigan and a sleeveless top made from a material that’s not cotton. Add some flats or nice-looking boots, and you’re good to go.

Guys, consider dark-wash or black denim as well. For your shirt, I’d recommend a polo shirt or ironed, casual button-down. For shoes, loafers would be best, but at least make sure the shoes you ultimately decide to wear are not dirty.

2. The business casual interview: This is a common one, but it’s also the one people seem to struggle with the most. It may seem daunting, but it’s simpler than you think.

Ladies, if you insist on wearing black denim and a nice top, at least add a blazer and some statement jewelry or a scarf. Flats or heeled booties would complete this look best. However, I recommend throwing on a dress over pants. Wear a solid color dress that is not too short or too revealing with a blazer and some jewelry, and you’ll look great! Also consider lace –it’s feminine and unique. The best shoes are flats or wedges; just stay away from sandals.

Guys, I’d recommend khaki, navy or black chinos with a button down that is, once again, ironed. Tuck your shirt in, wear a belt and definitely wear loafers or casual dress shoes. Stay away from jeans.

3. The formal interview: This one seems pretty self-explanatory: dresses or suits for women, suits and ties for men. But the biggest problem seems to always be fit, especially for women.

Ladies, let’s take a minute to talk about dress pants. Your black dress pants should NOT look like lounge or yoga pants. This effect is often created when the pants are too loose or too tight. It may take trying on 20 pairs of dress pants before you find the right one, but trust me, they’re out there. Do not settle when it comes to dress pants – and if you just can’t seem to find the right pair, you should definitely get a pair custom altered. Make sure they fit in the thigh and are streamlined in a straight line down to the toe, with an ironed crease in the front. And please make sure the top with those pants is dressy as well – either a button-down blouse or a top made from a very nice material. You wouldn’t believe how many dress-pants-and-t-shirt outfits I’ve seen, and it just doesn’t work. I also recommend heels, but if they’re really not for you, flats will work. One last comment: Dresses are definitely my favorite option for formal wear. Just please make sure they’re not too short – try to keep it at two inches above the knee, maximum. If it’s slightly more than two inches above the knee, wear it with opaque tights, but if it’s over around two and a half inches, definitely do not wear it to the interview! Better to be safe than sorry.

Guys, this one’s pretty self-explanatory: Suit, tie and dress shoes. And now is not the time to show off that random crazy-patterned tie you’ve kept around.

 

Follow these steps for interview attire, and you’re on your way to getting the job! In summary, dressing too formal is always better than not dressing formally enough, and make sure that whatever you’re wearing is appropriate.

Weekly challenge: Go through your closet and think about what you’re going to wear for your next interview. If you can’t find anything, invest in some nice pieces now so you won’t have to scramble later!

 

Contact Laynie Stephens at laynies ‘at’ stanford.edu.

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Fashion Spotlight: color, texture and shine https://stanforddaily.com/2013/11/01/fashion-spotlight-color-texture-and-shine/ https://stanforddaily.com/2013/11/01/fashion-spotlight-color-texture-and-shine/#respond Fri, 01 Nov 2013 08:50:33 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1080041 According to Fashion Columnist Laynie Stephens, all a good outfit needs is a bit of color, texture and shine.

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It’s time to talk about what every single outfit needs. I’m talking every outfit you ever wear. Ever. Ready?

All it needs are three simple components: color, texture and shine. Are you at a point in your life where you find yourself agonizing over what to wear every morning? Or have you simply given up, deciding to look like a mess every day? Not to worry, I am here to help! Putting together a polished and fashionable outfit will now be as easy as one, two, three.

According to Fashion Columnist Laynie Stephens, all your outfit needs is a little bit of color, texture and shine to succeed. (RENJIE WONG/The Stanford Daily)
According to Fashion Columnist Laynie Stephens, all your outfit needs is a little bit of color, texture and shine to succeed. (RENJIE WONG/The Stanford Daily)

1. Color: Let me stress again: every outfit needs it. Now I know I just wrote an article last week about how I’d wear all black every day if I could, but even an all black outfit needs some color, such as those neon pink nails I mentioned. Add something catching to the eyes. What color should you wear, you may ask? Although cobalt blue is the it-color of the season, I’d argue it’s becoming overrated. Change things up with some soothing yet stylish colors — my favorites this season are rose and olive. They’re sophisticated, simple and classy. Pink and green? Never. But rose and olive are their perfected shades that add just the right amount of style to change up your daily look.

2. Texture: Another necessity. Please don’t wear outfits composed of all the same texture or materials (I’m talking sweatpants and a sweatshirt, denim and chambray, and those horrific velour track suits). Adding texture is a great accent to an outfit that makes it interesting — it makes people want to look at what you’re wearing, which in effect makes them look at you.

Easiest textures for the season: knits or lace. Bonus points if you put them together in an outfit. Feeling bold and want to have a lot of texture in today’s look? I dare you to whip out that studded shirt you wore once and buried in your closet — we all know we have one, and if you don’t you better get on it. Pair it with a basic cardigan and colored scarf, and it will bring just the right amount of detail to your look.

3. Shine: We all get distracted by shiny objects, right? As long as you’re not walking around like a disco ball, adding a bit of shine to every outfit is a must if you want to get noticed. My favorite is a patent leather flat — a simple addition to any outfit that truly makes all the difference. Want to add a little something extra? Consider a killer gold statement necklace or some metallic bracelets. Too much for you? Even some shiny earrings will work!

Now that you have the necessary inspiration, go out and be fashionable, my people. I will be watching for that color, texture, and shine in your everyday looks, so don’t disappoint!

Weekly challenge: Spend more than 30 seconds getting dressed in the morning, and think about what you’re putting together! I’d recommend planning your outfit the night before — you’ll thank me the next morning you’re late to class and don’t have to spend the time searching for your shirt again in that pile of clothes.

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Fashion Spotlight: Back to Black https://stanforddaily.com/2013/10/25/fashion-spotlight-back-to-black/ https://stanforddaily.com/2013/10/25/fashion-spotlight-back-to-black/#respond Fri, 25 Oct 2013 08:48:22 +0000 https://stanforddaily.com/?p=1079806 Welcome to the Spotlight. I’m Laynie, here to give you inspiration for the best outfit you’ll wear next week. To start things off, we’re going to go with a classic: all black. Don’t tell me that black is boring, plain or Goth. It’s professional, classy and chic. Think about it. Every season there are fads and trends, but without a doubt you know you’re going to see at least some black on the runway. From Coco Chanel to Alexander McQueen, it seems as if all designers think alike: You have to balance out the fashion of the moment with some black. Yet there is so much style bursting from an all-black outfit, provided that you tailor it right. Not sure what to wear with this new knowledge? Let me help you out:

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Welcome to the Spotlight. I’m Laynie, here to give you inspiration for the best outfit you’ll wear next week. To start things off, we’re going to go with a classic: all black. Don’t tell me that black is boring, plain or Goth. It’s professional, classy and chic. Think about it. Every season there are fads and trends, but without a doubt you know you’re going to see at least some black on the runway. From Coco Chanel to Alexander McQueen, it seems as if all designers think alike: You have to balance out the fashion of the moment with some black. Yet there is so much style bursting from an all-black outfit, provided that you tailor it right. Not sure what to wear with this new knowledge? Let me help you out:

1. My first favorite is the new ponte knit bow top from Banana Republic. If you’ve been searching for an upgrade to your everyday black tank top, look no further. This simple black tank features a bow in the front that adds just the right amount of style. Even better, it also has a gold zipper detail in the back — just a little bit of edge to contrast the sweet bow look.

2. Now, do you really need another pair of black pants? If they’re J. Crew’s pixie pants, of course you do. They’re just the thing you exercise-gear and leggings-loving people need — consider this an important investment. They are essentially an upgraded pair of leggings. The material is thick, to get you through the chilly mornings and nights, and the pants are so incredibly flattering that you’ll be addicted from the minute you try them on. And based on the number of wears you’ll get out of them, I’d argue they’re worth the price. They are also available in the new leather-lined version, for those of you who are a little more edgy.

3. Lastly, let’s talk shoes. Although you can’t beat a little black, heeled bootie this season, I couldn’t resist including H&M’s adorable black loafers. The suede material is a perfect addition to any outfit, as well as the gold chain detailing. Slip them on to complete any outfit flawlessly.

Still worried that black will make you look too boring? Consider an accent color. For me, it used to always be neon pink nails. But since I’ve grown up in my style, I’ve been turning to my over-sized beige cardigan a lot this season — it’s a chic way to break having too much similarity in a mono-colored look.

Try it out for yourself. Send me pictures. Let me know what you think. Is black too traditional, without enough room to embrace trends in your style? In my opinion, absolutely not.

Weekly challenge: Try a monochromatic look one day this week. Just don’t go too overboard — if you’re going to try this look with a color that’s not black, I don’t want to see anyone looking like a Smurf!

Contact Laynie Stephens at laynies ‘at’ stanford.edu.

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