The Striped Shirt

H&M boat neck, 3/4 sleeve

Striped shirts (or Breton shirts) are always in and they are my latest obsession!  The nautical striped shirt has been worn by fishermen for centuries but exploded into mainstream America during the 50's and 60's. Of course you serious fashionistas know that Coco Chanel was a huge fan of the striped shirt and paired it with men's trousers for years..............oh and pearls of course!  SOOO Everyone needs to own one because they will never go out of style and can be paired with just about anything.  Look for sturdy cotton with a little stretch to hold it's shape over time.  I prefer boat neck or scoop.  3/4 sleeves look great when paired with a longer T-shirt under it.........not a fan of a turtle neck layer on this look....too uptight!  Keep in mind that you are dealing with horizontal stripes so to avoid looking large, go for a more slim or tailored fit.  If you are having problems finding one that's more slim then take it in to your tailors and have them pinch the waist about a half inch on each side.  Very inexpensive.  Here are some pictures for style inspiration...........happy shopping.

Bridget Bardot, 1964. Image from quicksaidthebird.files.wordpress.com/2010/05

Image from: Tradecity.com

bdbphotos - Eva Mendes

Sunrainey.com Penelope Cruz

The Classic Button Down Oxford

For years (century) the oxford shirt has been a staple in men's closets that has come to define classic Ivy league style. With it's roots on the polo field in Britain, this button-down shirt has truly stood the test of time.  Both men and women alike have probably owned or wore one of these shirts at one time in their life.  The oxford is typically made with strong woven cotton and looks best when cleanly pressed.  Most oxfords have a button collar and close tailored construction.  The beauty of this shirt is that it is so versatile, it really can be styled up or styled down......it's up to you.  The picture above shows President JFK sporting a classic oxford which was very typically for him.  These words come to mind when I look at this picture: Classic, preppy, crisp, white, casual, university, Hampton's, sporty, handsome, timeless! 

For this fall and beyond you have to invest in one.......in whatever color you want (white and light blue most popular).  This shirt can be worn so many ways.  Does anyone remember when Carrie Bradshaw from Sex in the City wore a white oxford style shirt that just covered her bottom with a belt and stilettos walking a dog?  Well, iconic but I don't suggest styling it that way. Here are some ways that I would suggest:
1. keep it simple and classic-start with a great pair of jeans (your choice-skinny, trouser, boyfriend) add a brown leather belt and a bib necklace or pearls.  You can tuck or un-tuck your shirt...........whatever makes you comfortable.  Go with flats for a weekend on-the-go look or heels to add in a bit of sex appeal.  Riding boots are also an excellent choice.  Keep hair down and simple.  OH and roll up those sleeves!!!!!
2. Office chic-White or pastel blue shirt and pencil skirt.  Neck scarf or bib necklace.  Pair with heels or oxford shoe.......oh and skip the contact lens.............wear your glasses.........HOT!!!!!!
3. Layered-Layered  under or over.  Layer with long-sleeved cotton T under shirt.  Keep un-tucked and belt with a skinny belt. Wear this look, I would wear a more tailored pant.  A tailored cargo would look cute or a cigarette black pant.  Always finish with jewelry to add a feminine touch.  If you tailor over.......go with a cardigan that has a 3/4 sleeve and that will look best.  If you only have a full arm sleeve then roll it up. You can button or leave the cardigan un-buttoned...............your choice.  You can also wear a t-shirt over this shirt...........one with a print works well!
NOTES: Always un-button your shirt a couple buttons...........these shirts can be "stuffy" if you button up.  Also spend some money on this type of a shirt because they do last for years and do not go out of style. You don't have to get the "classic buttons on the collar" you can just go for a classic looking button down shirt instead.  Oh...pin-striped looks great to!!!!!