Pretty Please, Ponte

I went on a little getaway this past weekend to Chicago, and being the ardent consumer I am, did more than my fair share to stimulate the economy. When traveling, especially by plane, I find it essential to master both comfort and style simultaneously. The solution? The ponte-knit legging/pant.

Kristin Stewart wearing the Juicy Couture Ponte Knit Straight Pant, on sale for $62.97

I lived in my PNL (literally) for days in Chicago. They are comfortable, flattering, and versatile, and can easily be worn with flats and a tunic on the plane, or riding boots and a knit wrap sweater walking around the city during the day. Thicker and a bit more structured than regular spandex/cotton blend leggings, ponte knit pants are more appropriate for nights out, and certainly more forgiving than your typical pair of go-to leggings.

These favie babies of mine are now on sale at Piperlime for $85.99 (down from $123)! Tested, tried & true.

Have you ever seen someone walking around with leggings or tights as pants? Yikes. It’s not pretty. Leggings and tights were NEVER meant to be worn alone – they’re designed as layering pieces to be worn under tunics, dresses, skirts, or with a longer top that hits well below your bottom. If your little bottom is uncovered in tights and leggings, you’re not allowed to leave the house. Period.

A PNL or pant, however, can be worn with regular-length tops and sweaters because of it’s jean-like design and thicker fabric. My favorite pair? The James Jean PNL (see above). Another pair I love:

Joe’s Jeans Chelsea Ponte Pant, $138

Yes, you can wear PNL’s if you’re over 40! A ponte knit pant is age-appropriate for women in their 50’s and 60’s – just remember they should be fitted, but not too tight. Pair yours with flats or pumps and a winter white or camel knit sweater or a classic white button-up / oxford.

Regardless of your age, remember that as a general rule of thumb, the thinner the material, the more coverage you’ll need. Tights & leggings don’t equal pants! Invest in a pair of PN pants, and you’ll see the difference. Comfort, check. Style, check. Versatility? Check, check.

Stay chic,

Annie

Shopping sidenote: a MUST-see store in Chicago is Akira. This “Chicago-based” store is replete with designer duds in mid-price levels. They had an incredible denim selection (Genetic Denin, Seven for All Mankind, Paige Premium, Hudson, etc.) and a to-die-for collection of cocktail dresses, belts, and scarves. Boutique-y and trendy, I’d take Akira’s personal attention and customer service any day over the crowds and mass-produced clothes of H&M. Brands include House of Harlow, TOMS, Chinese Laundry, and Akira’s own line. You’ll find some one-of-a-kind pieces at this windy city boutique! A big thanks to Chicago’s own stylist & shopper extraordinaire, Heather Kenny, for recommending it to me.

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One Response to “Pretty Please, Ponte”

  1. Sweater love: Fair Isle | A Chic Critique on November 19th, 2010 9:16 am

    [...] Pretty Please, Ponte [...]

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