StyleEyes

StyleEyes

Monday, 16 May 2011

Dressed down chic: How to nail the off-duty supermodel look.

Dressed down chic

Women often ask me about when it's ok to take a day off from being the super stylish creatures we all aspire to be. My answer is always the same. You can take a day off any time you like, but never give up on yourself and your own sense of style.
Even as a stylist, I struggle to wear heels on a daily basis, and would be lost without the option of dressed up jeans, but how do you pull off dressed down chic without looking scruffy? Here are my top tips on how to nail the off-duty supermodel look.

Invest in good basics
On lazy days or when you just don't have time to outfit plan, sharp tailored pieces or super crisp separates can seem like too much hassle. Instead, make sure you have an arsenal of easy to wear items in the cupboard. Leggings might seem like the ideal option here but, comfortable as they are, they are not going to win any awards for style and unless you have a model body they are never going to be the most flattering item. Coupled with recent research which shows leggings make your muscles lazy and can lead to weight gain and you'll see there are plenty of reasons to find a better alternative for slouching. Enter the Maxi. These versatile faves are everywhere this season and really are the lazy girl's friend. This maxi skirt in heather grey jersey is ultra wearable and is a great staple for any 'day off wardrobe'. Not only are maxis bang on trend but they hide a multitude of sins. If you're not quite beach ready yet, or still prepping for your next waxing appointment, no one need ever know what lies beneath.

Keep brights bright and whites white
Introducing some colour into your day off look is a great way to look fresh and vibrant without a lot of makeup or accessories. But remember, taking a day off from glamour is acceptable, but personal grooming never slacks so keep your 'play clothes' in mint condition to keep that effortless look. This striped vest is perfect, giving a nod to the perennial Breton look, while introducing this summer's brights trend. I like to think this is dressing down French-style.
You can look fab in flats
Ditch the heels for a day and you'll be surprised how much easier it is to do things. From board meetings to the school run, things hurt less in flats. But beware, shoes are the number one thing which can ruin another wise great outfit, so give your feet a rest without taking a style sabbatical.  If you want to keep a bit of glamour on your tootsies then say no to flip flops and opt instead for a classic leather sandal. Thongs can hurt, while slides can be tricky to keep on so go for something with an ankle strap or sling back. I love these McQueen numbers, stylish and classic with on-trend embellishment. These will do you proud peeping out from under your maxi!!!
Travel light
Want a day off from carrying your life around in your giant bag? Not quite ready to downsize to a clutch? Then the satchel is for you. These mid sized sacks are big enough to lug play day essentials but the long strap makes them easy to carry. The slouchy look means they go with almost anything. Perfect to pick up and go, fuss free!!

Learn from the best
No one is gorgeous and groomed all the time and not even supermodels have the time or energy for full make up everyday. But if you ask any model what she won't be seen out without, it's her sunglasses. If all else fails keep the shades on for those relaxed days. Not only will they cover panda eyes but they give you an air of mystery and style. Now who couldn't do with a bit more of THAT when popping out for milk.
And…relax!! x

Dressed down chic by StyleEyes featuring a denim jacket
Ruby Rocks denim jacket
42 GBP - fashion-conscience.com

James Perse maxi skirt
215 EUR - stylebop.com

Alexander McQueen high heels
420 EUR - montaignemarket.com

Miu Miu studded satchel
$1,450 - net-a-porter.com

Sunglass
opticsplanet.net

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