Sarah Screams (Fashion Advice) is The Michigan Daily’s biweekly fashion advice column. Submit your questions here!
The Kennedys are back.
Well, John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy are back. “Love Story” is definitely interesting, but lucky for you and me, I don’t give television advice. With that in mind, I know you all are expecting me to condemn the CBK aesthetic. But, honestly, from my heart of hearts, there’s not an aesthetic to condemn!
Carolyn Bessette pulls up in the J.Crew roll neck sweater, and the culture’s first thought is, “That’s a fully-formed outfit?” I genuinely cannot fix stupid — it’s not a fit, she’s just skinny. However, her headbands are important to me personally, so much so that I bought my own French headband — which will be the reason I’m digging quarters out of my purse to pay rent this month.
This question has been edited for clarity.
I continually struggle with gender-neutral formal wear. I usually default to a suit because it feels safer, but there must be a better option. Ideally, not a Billy Porter tuxedo dress, please. — E
What I love about gender ambiguity is that it encourages the inhabitance of a third space, and in the realm of formal wear, that means neither a ball gown nor a tuxedo. Often, spaces that require upscale dress reinforce the gender binary, forcing people to choose a gendered style and grin and bear it. Although Billy Porter, of course, stands alone.
E, you deserve to occupy those spaces. We will find a show-stopping look that feels perfect for you.
The classic white button-up is a classic for a reason. You can fit it to your needs by simply adjusting the fit. Traditionally, they are super tailored, but if you mix silhouettes like a baggier shirt or blazer with a more high-waisted, loose-fitting pant, you can achieve a tuxedo look while not abiding by tradition. A sweater vest makes the look more casual, but can create pops of color that can add your personal touch. Bolo ties, bow ties and neck scarves can do the trick as well. If you want to really spice things up, a pleated skirt paired with the baggy blazer and platform oxfords is a good alternative to the Billy Porter vibe.
You don’t have to choose, E; either way, you’ll be voted best dressed.
Daily Arts Writer Sarah Patterson can be reached at sarahpat@umich.edu.