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Simply Chic: Classic Fashion Components

Erika Ostroff |
March 20, 2012 | 2:31 p.m. PDT

Staff Reporter

 

It seems like now, more than ever, each season has been full of bold trends. From floral patterns and animal prints to color-blocking robust hues or delicate pastels, it’s easy to get caught up by what seem like crucial fashion philosophies. But don’t turn a blind eye to more simplistic accessories. While bright materials and fun prints are highly fashionable, it’s easy to look like you pulled items from a grab bag if done wrong. Your fashion compass will not misguide you by going back to the basics with these tried and true classic fashion components.   

Audrey Hepburn in ballet flats
Audrey Hepburn in ballet flats
Ballet Flats
Although prima ballerinas use more advanced pointe shoes, the same elegance and grace also plays out in traditional ballet flats. Ballet flats are timeless through and through. Unlike heels or pumps, flats can be dressed up or down. This is where their beauty lies. For maximum comfort in a busy entrepreneurial setting, pair them with a polished blazer and pencil skirt. Or, if you’re sporting simple jeans and a t-shirt, they can turn this casual get-up into a stylish and sharpened one. Flats are subtle in their design, so feel free to purchase shoes with daring patterns or funky embellishments. Ballet flats are a basic accessory that even fashion icon Audrey Hepburn owned; proof that they are a truly timeless fashion must.

Leather Tote Bag
Who remembers Louis Vuitton’s cherry, flower and colorful monogram-printed collection? Kiss those busy designs good-bye because the days of that millennium phenomenon are long gone. Grabbing that outdated cherry-kissed tote to wear with your hip, new spring royal blue cords is like lighting a flame to gasoline – disastrous. Head back to the basics and make sure you have a plain leather tote within reach. It’s plain appearance and minimal design is ideal for any outfit. Designer Marc Jacobs makes a load of these beautiful and beneficial bags. Plain leather totes don’t take away from a trendy outfit. While neon bags are in this spring, you cannot go wrong with a simple, smart leather one. Legend Grace Kelley even sported an (extra)ordinary Hermes leather tote upon her becoming the Princess of Monaco. Again, another classic fashionista showing how basic pieces can stand the test of time.

Red Lipstick
Red lipstick – it can be sultry yet sweet, sophisticated or fun, classic and versatile. The vibrant color is in line with spring’s famously radiant color palette, but it is also a timeless touch to a less-than-ordinary outfit. M.A.C.’s Russian Red is just under $15. Music legend Madonna sported this deep red tone way back in the 1990s during her Blonde Ambition tour. More recently, Taylor Swift, Kristen Bell, Rihanna and Jennifer Hudson have all rocked the profound pigment.  Make-up gurus recommend wearing red lipstick with lighter face make-up. Think delicate nude hues. To avoid smudging, dab concealer along the edges of your lips. Rest assured, you won’t look like a blood-sucking vampire. Like they say, a little goes a long way to complete this striking look. Actress Gwyneth Paltrow couldn't have said it any better: "Beauty, to me, is about being comfortable in your own skin. That, or a kick-ass red lipstick."

Reach Erika Ostroff here.



 

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