I have been drooling over this outfit since last March, when The Sartorialist posted it from Paris. Sigh. This is an outfit that makes my heart beat fast. One of the reasons I love it so is the fact that it is a perfect blend of sophistication with a casual, irreverent vibe. The light, destroyed jeans, the sneaker/bowling inspired wedge are both paired with a serious bag and gorgeous cape. Perfection!
However, I will acknowledge, fabulous as it is...it's not exactly mom-friendly. Most of us, while going through the whole morning routine with kiddos (feeding/changing/wiping noses & hands, wrestling toddlers into pants, etc.) don't typically reach for our $800 Chloe wedge boots, or our stunning beige capes.
However, now that stores are finally stocking various versions of the trends pictured in the photo (capes, lace-up boots), this look can finally be translated into mom-friendly versions.
Yup - I said versions. There's more than one way to translate this look!
Let's get started:
The Most Literal (Yet Still Somewhat Mom-Friendly) Translation
If you love this outfit, will dream about this outfit, and vow to wear this outfit everyday...then this translation is for you. Please note that it does include high heels. (I'm noticing more & more moms are embracing a higher heel when running errands, going to the museum, etc. Are you one of these moms?)
The high heel is necessary for the literal translation. However, instead of an $800 Chloe wedge (sigh. so fabulous), I think a more mom-friendly version would be the tough-soled, high heeled hiker-inspired boot by Dolce Vita. At least this boot will be fairly sturdy on ice and snow, but still give you the higher height.
$50 - ae.com
American Eagle Outfitters tote bags »
Another Possible Translation
The key to understanding this translation is to keep in mind that we are going for a blend of sophistication with a bit of casual ease. Nothing too serious. This translation is perfect for moms who prefer to show off some waist.
It works because the Banana Republic coat has long, clean lines (just like the cape), and evokes the same feeling: total sophistication. Because the coat is shorter and less overwhelming, a heel isn't necessary. Some funky lace-up boots from Need Supply, an easy canvas bag from AE (trimmed in leather!), and some destroyed skinny jeans round out the look.
$30 - ae.com
American Eagle Outfitters tote bags »
The Most Mom-Friendly Translation
Did anyone pick up that Old Navy Cape we featured while talking about interesting sweaters? If you did, this is a perfect way to rock it. However, any cozy knit poncho or cape-style sweater would work. Pair the knit with bags that have a touch of sophistication (again - the leather and canvas drool-worthy bag below is from AE for only $40), and some cool lace-up boots. I actually love this look with fab snow boots. Just be sure to try cuffing them over top of the boot. Straight-leg jeans work really well with this look, or even your boot-cut jeans (but cuff them, people! CUFF them!).
xo,
S
