2.20.2013

Still stealing from the boys

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Most of what you guys see here are special occasion outfits. Teas, cocktail parties, ladies lunches, that kind of thing. But for day to day, I go pretty casual. Lately I've been trying to strike a balance between vintage and classic, and over the past few years have been slowly investing in wardrobe pieces that will be in my closet for years to come. 

Which I have to say, is no easy task for a girl. 

Being female has it's perks fashion-wise. We certainly have more options available to us, more colors, textures, embellishments, details. But quality classic items are something that is severely lacking. At least it's not as easy to come by as quality mens clothing, and we have less options of quality clothing as they do.

We're not supposed to have an article of clothing for decades. We buy quantity, wear something for a season or two, and after that it's on to the next thing. 

And of course if you buy trendy fashions you probably don't want to keep your clothing for decades. There's vintage, and there's outdated. Right now it's a fine line. 

But classic? I'm into that. Items that existed in yesteryear, and are still obtainable today. Especially the things that cross between the mens and womens department. Straight leg jeans, leather loafers, cable knit pullovers. Finding all these classics has been a bit tedious though. But I guess as someone who has hunted, and worn vintage for years, the challenge is part of the fun. I hate that our options are few and far between, but I love when I find exactly what I'm looking for. 

Meanwhile I reach over the Vogue for the mens fashion magazines, and search for small button up shirts in the mens section. 

Because honestly boys, if you're not going to wear it, step aside. 

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Boots, 1950s Evan Picone skirt-Urban Eccentric Vintage

Shirt-Stole it from Sam

Cardigan-Handmade by me using this pattern (scroll to the last one)

Burberry trench-Brown Bag Vintage 

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30 comments:

Katie Aman said...

I've been trying to up my casual wardrobe with more classic pieces as well. As you say it can be a tricky task. I also have been adding more versatile collared blouses and vintage cardigans to wear day to day. I recently found a pair of vintage jeans that I'm so excited about! I adore your skirt so much, and I cannot believe you made your perfect cardigan. It's just gorgeous.

Jessie Lou said...

Very cute Solanah! Having several brothers I do get to steal their clothes from time to time ;) lets just face it, we look darn good in men's clothing! We put a nice shape into them. I love taking their clothes that they have outgrown and are planning on dumping or sending to the thrift store.

Adios,
Jessie Lou

Sabrina said...

I'm trying to do the same: out with the old (trends), in with the new (vintage)! It's a good feeling to replace the things in my closet with clothes I love, instead of just 'like.' But you're right, it can be tedious trying to find good day-to-day wear.
Also: insanely jealous of those boots. Have I mentioned that? ;)

Anonymous said...

That's so funny you mention the classic boy styles because yesterday as I was leaving the house I said out loud "...I'm dressed like a little orphan boy, aren't I." Haha! Baggy cords, A V-neck sweater with a collard shirt under it, a Pea coat, boots, and a wool beanie. But hey, I was super comfortable in my Oliver Twist get up! That's pretty much what I wear everyday. You make the mens wear inspiration look soooo much more chic than I do. and p.s., those boots are AMAZING. Seriously amazing!

Cassie said...

I'm all about the lovely casual and classic. I always love your style, but I have to say, this is my favorite!

Witchcrafted Life said...

A definite note of classicism is something that has been at the forefront of my wardrobe throughout my adult life, too, especially for the past about five years, as I've began filling in wardrobe gaps and investing (ok, investing on a shoestring budget) in certain splurge pieces that are meant to last for as long as possible.

Your looks (the one in this post very much included) always have a marvelous sense of timeless to them, and countless garments (and accessories) you've shared with over the years have struck me as being very, very classic. Inspiringly so, may I add.

♥ Jessica

Helen Le Caplain said...

So it's not just me who loves a classic man's shirt and nicks them from the other half from time to time?

Good to know! Love the contrast of the striped Oxford shirt with that mustard cardigan.

www.mancunianvintage.com

Unknown said...

love stealing clothes from my boyfriend, this outfit is really lovely, countryside-ish and comfy/ practical yet stylish.
so pretty
x

Incendiary Blonde said...

Very cute outfit. It definitely takes a long time to build up a lot of the classics. Its funny how so many 'classic' items that I know I would get lots of use out of, are so difficult to come by!

art deco dame said...

I wish I could steal shirts from my husband but I'd drown in them,he's over 6 foot and broad and I'm 5 foot and petite!Haha!I do love this classic casual look and agree how frustrating it can be to find these staple pieces in women's fashion.Like you said we're meant to only wear things a season or 2 according to the fashion industry.

Landkind said...

I love your outfit! You inspire me!!! ;-)
Xoxo,
Nine

Unknown said...

Loving the vintage boots, the shirt you stole from Sam is also very nice, do you know from where i can get it.

VintageDanielle said...

You're so darling, I love the casual look! It's funny how to some people, your outfit would be more than casual ;)

Michelle said...

Your hair looks amazing. I am seriously jealous, I just allowed mine to be cut so I could be on mad men, but I miss is so much!

Q's Daydream said...

Love this!

Martha said...

My! That top's a little risque compared to your usual fare, Solanah!

Unknown said...

LOVE that skirt. Classic will never, never go out of fashion.
www.AhkaVintage.com

Abbi Jane said...

So lovely! I adore long skirts with boots. And I love the length of your hair now, so elegant and pretty :)

Kristian said...

I've been really trying to invest in classic pieces too (oh, white cable sweater! You still allude me!), but it is crazy how hard they are to find!

Shelly said...

You're rocking one terrific outfit there. I love those boots, they're so cool. Even though I've always loved classics I really don't have that many in my closet at the moment. I've tended to go with the quantity way of thinking over the last few years and have come to the realization that I don't have that much that I like to wear and want to start building up my classic pieces again. I never should have disposed them in the first place but you know how it is when you get an urge to clean out what you don't wear any longer. Oh well, it'll be nice to have some new things to wear :)

Chrissy88 said...

I think it's getting really hard to invest in clothes that I will have long term. The main reason is that affordable clothes are so poorly made now. Even some of the expensive designer clothes are thin material and low quality. I like classics but I sometimes get really bored with what's in the closet and wish I had some more unusual items. It's also hard to come by vintage that is in good shape and not too expensive. I guess I'm just bummed out with my wardrobe right now!

Foxburrow Vintage said...

Casual or not, you look fabulous! Love those boots and secret argyle socks!

Brittany
Foxburrowvintage.com

Ms. Falcon said...

lovely everyday outfit! good to no, that you're wearing everyday looks as well. ;) you alsways look so perfectly styled!
lately i really feel bad with my everyday fashion posts. but sometimes in life you find yourself not going out as much as you did earlier in life ...

Sarah Dee said...

I adore that cardigan! You made it?? You are my hero :)

x missdottidee.blogspot.com

Harlow Darling said...

What a wonderful idea! I love how effortless and rustic this look is :)

Anonymous said...

I'm coveting those boots SO hard.

Manic Pop said...

I wanted to comment a while ago, but you do beautiful knitwork, lady!

Anonymous said...

I am absolutely in accordance with you and everyone above. I love dressing vintage head to toe, but my day to day style is more classic. Mostly that incorporates vintage because the style and quality never change. Trends now seem to be so disposable and based on a need to continue spending and spending on something that will be considered passe in a season or two. I prefer sleek lines, detailed pieces, and flattering cuts and shapes. Lovely post!

Jordan
http://jordansvintagekitchen.blogspot.com

Ana said...

I'm delighted to see more of your casual, everyday looks. There are some days and occasions where full vintage is difficult or not the best option. Its heartening to see even a vintage fashion icon such as yourself trying to find that balance.

When I have the time and energy, I love to find the perfect hat for grocery shopping but somedays at work, I'm better served in a classic ensemble with mild vintage leanings. You know what I mean?

Unknown said...

Hallo wunderschöne frau..dein foto gefällt mir..du bist echt süsse..hübsche.du siehst super sexy im Glockenrock aus...geiler weiter glockenrock gefällt mir wow geiler glockenrock....würde gerne das mal live sehen wollen wenn du den lederrock trags....l.g....ps wow du bist traum.......wunder schöne Lady