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Style Guide: Turtlenecks
I have clients ask me all the time, “What do you think about turtlenecks: a do or a don’t?” While I tend to encourage my clients towards silhouettes that open up the neckline, like round or U-shapes, it can’t be argued that a classic, streamlined turtleneck is a versatile wardrobe basic. It’s not about eliminating this style; it’s about knowing what fit and fabric will best flatter your specific body-type. Today, I’ll give you some directions on how to make a turtleneck work for you.
Turtleneck 101
1. Chunky/Thick & Oversized
Donna Karan Chunky Knit cashmere Sweater, $1,495
If you have a long neck and a small or medium size bust, or you have a slender build, this style will flatter. Avoid if you’re short-necked or petite; the extra, voluminous fabric will swallow you.
2. Classic
Joseph Silk Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater, $355
This style is universally flattering on a variety of neck lengths; just avoid if you’re heavy-chested.
3. Draped/Cowl-Neck
Demylee Shay Long-sleeved Cashmere Turtleneck, $239
A cowl or slouchy neckline really flatters a busty chest and/or a shorter neck. However, avoid this style if you have a very long neck (see above).
Shopping tips:
- It’s all about the fabric. Look for slim-fitting knits, which will slenderize your body without adding bulk. Be careful with heavier, chunky knits (see above for reminders).
- A monochromatic (one color) palette is universally flattering (dark turtleneck, dark pants), but if you’re extra tall, try a different color pant to break up the look.
- Thicker, chunky knits will easily add volume, so watch to make sure the proportions are correct.
Follow these tricks, and you’ll be able to wear this style confidently this fall and winter. I love nothing more than a classic turtleneck paired with a tweed skirt and opaque tights to the office, or with jeans and boots casually on the weekend. Channel your inner Ralph Lauren.
Stay chic,
Annie
Coat of Arms
One must-have in your fall and winter wardrobe is a classic, wool overcoat. Fortunately, there are a host of sophisticated options in a variety of price points from which to choose from this season. From tailored trenches to single-breasted, belted numbers to timeless double-breasted peacoats, a well-made, warm, and versatile winter coat is both a functional necessity and a stylish statement.
Tips to keep in mind when shopping for a coat:
- A slightly flared A-line or tiered skirt will add curves to a boyish or athletic figure (narrow-hipped).
- A double-breasted (two rows of buttons) coat will enhance a smaller bustline.
- Ruffles or a gathered collar will add shape to a straight figure.
- If you’re voluptuous or curvy, a “bathroom-robe” style coat will highlight your small waist and define your hourglass shape.
- If you’re pear-shaped, detailing at the neckline will help draw the eye away from your torso and bottom, as will an empire-waist seam.
- If you’re petite, stay away from floor or ankle lengths, as they will easily overwhelm your frame.
- A single-breasted, A-line coat with streamlined, narrow lapels and contoured seaming is universally flattering.
Need List
J. Crew doublecloth metro coat, $298 – This coat is a favorite for clients of mine. Affordable and well-made, it also comes in a variety of bright colors. I love the oasis green and royal purple for fall; a coat is a great place to inject some COLOR into your winter wardrobe palette.
Michael Michael Kors wool-blend peacoat, $250. Can’t go wrong with a classic navy peacoat.
J. Crew Wool blend townhouse trench coat, $350
Want-List
Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Wool & Cashmere blend coat, $800. This color is unusual and fun.
Vanessa Bruno Athe collarless wool-blend coat, $680. This coat would work with trouser pants and a blouse for work, and just as easily with jeans and flats. The seam at the waistline nips in your waist, and who doesn’t want that?
Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Wool & Cashmere Blend coat, $765
Lust-List
Ralph Lauren Collection “Alexandria” camel hair coat, $4,900. A camel hair coat to last a lifetime.
Valentino Belted Wool & Silk blend coat, $3,980. Winter white is a DO.
Gucci Wool & cashmere-blend military coat, $3,590
Charcoal, camel, heather gray, navy, black and winter white are timeless choices; they’ll each complement any color palette as well as every ensemble. However, nothing is more striking than a bold, beautiful pop of color near your face, so my suggestion this season is to experiment with a colored piece of outerwear – think sumptuous jewel tones!
Stay chic,
Annie
Python Panache
Chloe, 2011-2012 Fall & Winter runway – images via here
I’ve been inspired by this young woman from Stockholm Streetstyle. Notice how she pairs a tailored, streamlined python pencil skirt with basics: navy blue pumps, a simple leather handbag, and most importantly, an understated, neutral knit top. The neckline and the top don’t compete for attention with the print, and her statement necklace is the perfect accessory. The result? The python print isn’t overdone and manages to look very sleek and polished. I’d like to “copy and paste” this outfit onto a couple of clients.
Here are some python pieces for your perusal (try saying that three times fast):
Valentino Python bag, $3,845
Of Two Minds Sago Suede Trim skirt, $262
Chloe two-tone elaphe pumps, $695
Parker Batwing Dress, $253
This Parker dress is gorg! I’d pair it with a leather jacket, pumps, and black opaque tights for a date night. Substitute a blazer for the leather jacket and you’re office-chic in no time.
All Saints bleach Python scarf, $150
MICHAEL Michael Kors python printed skirt, $79.50
Mix it up a little with some python this fall and winter – I dare you.
Stay chic,
Annie
Giveaway Winner
Thank you to all who entered my Kendra Scott earrings giveaway – and for all of you that are new to A Chic Critique, welcome! I hope you’ll continue following my blog and seeing what is going on in the world of ACC. I’ll be hosting more giveaways from time to time in the future, so check back regularly.
Drumroll, please…I’m happy to announce that Charissa Stowers (@charissadot) has won the Kendra Scott earrings giveaway! Charissa, if you could email me with your mailing address, your beautiful, turquoise earrings will be shipped tomorrow.
Again, thank you to all who entered and followed ACC on Twitter, Facebook, etc. There will be more opportunities to win stylish accessories and goodies in the future, I can assure you!
Currently obsessing over:
Kendra Scott “Darby,” oval ring (from Nordstrom)
In the meantime, I just adore my new KS ‘Darby’ oval stone statement ring ($58). I got it in “chalcedony,” and have already received multiple “oohs,” “ahhs,” and compliments over this piece. It’s certainly not your average cocktail ring – it’s large and in charge, and insanely chic. If you want a killer ‘notice-me’ accessory, this piece is a great investment; it goes with almost anything, be it a cocktail dress, leather jacket or plain white knit.
Stay chic,
Annie
Chunky Monkey
With the 70’s bohemian trend dominating this fall, shoe collections are full of platform, wedge and chunky, wooden heels. While a classic low-heeled or flat riding boot is still a versatile and stylish everyday choice, I love the look of a chunky-heeled boot. Stacked and cone heels are much more comfortable than a stiletto heel; additionally, they still give you a boost of height as well as a coveted and lengthening lift to your leg.
Here are my picks:
Top row, from left: YSL New Chyc leather knee boots, $1295; Marc by Marc Jacobs Leather & Corduroy Knee Boots, $580; Woper by Steve Madden, $239
Bottom row, from left: Loeffler Randall Lidia, $525; Vince Camuto Braden, $149; Kamila by Ivanka Trump, $260
Flat boots and riding boots look fantastic with skinny jeans and leggings; however, if you’re short or voluptuous, a ‘flat’ heel doesn’t give you the illusion of height and elongation that a mid to high heeled boot will give you. These chunky heeled boots are sexy without being racy, and any of these would pair well with a skirt and opaque tights in the office, or jeans and a wrap sweater on the weekend. A neutral boot will complement any ensemble in your closet. My choice for clients is often to put them in a cognac, tan, or camel-leather colored boot with a medium heel: not too high, not too low, and entirely polished and sophisticated. A neutral color goes with everything, and a little bit of a heel is always flattering, regardless of your height or body shape!
Stay chic,
Annie
Update: The Kendra Scott giveway winner will be announced the morning of Thursday, Oct. 13th! Stay tuned.
Fall Must-Have: Printed Scarves
Every woman needs to have at least one bold, oversized, statement scarf in her closet this fall. This accessory wins first place in the versatility department, and defines the phrase “effortlessly chic.” Not only will a bright pop of color next to your face bring out your eyes and hair color, a whimsical scarf can add instantaneous polish and pizazz to a basic tee, sweater dress, or blazer and jeans. Tip: for extra warmth this season, look for scarves that are made out of a wool or cashmere blend.
Here are some of my favorites for fall:
A) Marc by Marc Jacobs Jungle Animal Print Wool Scarf, $180
B) Halogen Snake Challis Scarf, $58
C) Lulla Collection Chevron Striped Scarf, $29
D) Theodora & Callum Aztec Blanket Scarf, $175
E) YSL Leopard print wool & cashmere blend scarf, $995
F) Halogen Optic Scarf, $38
G) Stella McCartney cashmere/silk/wool blend Fern print scarf, $685
H) Theodora & Callum Paint Burst Scarf, $155
Printed scarves are on trend, but still remain a classic wardrobe staple. Throw one on as you head out the door for work; it will give any outfit a colorful and stylish edge, especially if you pair yours with simple basics (tee, neutral knits, jeans, etc.). The ways to style and tie a scarf are endless:
image via here
Rosie rockin’ a large and in-charge scarf.
image via here
Get your scarf on.
Stay chic,