I heard from a reader who scored an awesome Anthropologie blazer but is stumped on how to style around it. Here’s a rundown of her needs:
- She’s 26 but looks significantly younger. She’d like tips on looking a bit more, shall we say, grown up.
- She’s a law student.
- She’s 5′4″, with a fairly large chest. She carries her weight around her stomach and dislikes form-fitting tops.
- Upon reading a recent post by Dodai on Jezebel, she’s worried that, because of her chest, she can’t pull off her new find (which was a steal at $55 marked down).
To begin, I love the blazer. So much that I wanted to buy it for myself. Unfortunately, it’s sold out. Secondly, you certainly can wear blazers even if you have substantial boobage, you just have to keep it open. I’ve found that when large-chested women wear most blazers closed, the top half will gap open and it looks odd. So, rule No. 1 – hands off the buttons!
As for looking young, I am sure many of us wish we had that problem! Aside from veering away from babydoll dresses, knee highs and pig-tails, there’s not too much you can do. I would avoid over-sized clothing, get a haircut (if your hair is super long) and act 10 times more confident than you actually are.
Back to the blazer. It’s reminiscent of the long menswear blazers we saw last spring. The trend has carried forward into the cooler months and I suspect it will stick around for at least another season. Being 5′4″, our reader needs to be very careful about allowing the blazer to overpower her frame. I would avoid pairing it with a full pant or any dress that hits below the thigh. The deep lapel means no crew/turtle/boat-neck tops. A scoop, v or cowl neck would work best with this style of blazer.
The first look I recommend is basic and comfortable. Good for lugging books and long nights at the library, but stylish enough to take a break and meet friends for lunch. A slim, black pant is an obvious choice for this blazer. Choose a skinny style that hits at the ankle or just above. A draped tee (or two) adds some layering without bulk, and ensures perfect belly coverage. I love this look styled with a flat brogue; it’s a nice alternative to a ballet flat and gives the look a more masculine feel. I’m loving these in a metallic, but black is also great (and more versatile). A long gold chain with a leaf pendant adds some interested above the waist while a tiny pop of turquoise in the ears gives the look a subtle element of color.
Given that it’s winter, I would also recommend a nice pair of opera-length wool gloves in black and a great over-sized shawl in a neutral, earthy color like cognac. I’m also really wanting to add these red readers.
I have a few other styling suggestions that I will share in a later post! Until then, happy shopping :-)
Option 1
- Forever 21 Double-Stitched Skinny Jean, $25
- Forever 21 Paint Spatter Tank, $13
- Aldo Lahaie Oxford, $90
- Forever 21 Leaf Charm Necklace, $5
- Anthology Stone Stud Earrings, $25
Option 2
- J Brand Lapis Zipper Skinny Jean, $100
- Topshop Snake Trim Swing Tank, $50
- Topshop Kazbar Lace Up Point Shoe, $100
- Max & Chloe Leaf Pendant Necklace, $110
- Turquoise Cluster Drop Earrings, $58
Option 3
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I would like to add; being someone with a huge rack and a belly, skinny is not always flattering, especially since they tend to be low riding, and can end up looking lumpy. A narrowish bootcut or straight leg would also work, and help balance out the top half without adding too much width on the bottom.
And I love the blazer, too! Teasing me with things I can’t have. Cruel, Penny, just plain cruel.
Is it wrong of me to say a high collared dress shirt and complimentary vest?
Yeah. I think it’s wrong, but in my mind it works so well. And never skimp on the hat.
have i told you lately….
how obsessed with your blog i am?? this is amazing. i want you in my closet, picking my outfits immediately. kthanks.