Updated Classics

Take your basics to the next level by mixing and matching them in a wild variety of colors, prints, and textures

There is something both fabulously luxurious and quintessentially down-to-earth about taking classic and preppy clothes and playfully piling them on in vibrant colors, playful prints, and unexpected textures. This new way of wearing basics and essentials takes the stereotypical preppy look to a refreshing new level that doesn’t take fashion too seriously. Classic doesn’t have to mean boring and plain; instead, take inspiration from the spring shows to find eclectic ways of throwing together an outfit with just a few simply shaped separates with a fashion-forward touch that will last you throughout the season and beyond. Now that’s called easy and smart dressing.

To make the preppy look new, wear essentials and basics that are timeless and simple in shape but updated in rich colors, prints, and textures. Mixing and matching these three dimensions is the key to increasing the volume of an outfit. Who says that you can’t throw on a multi-colored paisley top, a classic white blazer, and shiny lavender trousers, such as at Isaac Mizrahi’s Spring 2010 show? This season is all about experimentation. When you dissemble this look down to its individual pieces, you will find pieces that can be recycled in a multitude of new ways fit for any occasion.

Trade in that white blazer for a candy-colored cardigan for casual weekend wear. Slip out of those trousers into a pair of slouchy chino shorts for the work week. Those who prefer a more utilitarian or masculine look can replace that pretty cardigan with a unisex trench coat in a cropped length to tone down a pair of uniquely patterned pants like the ones at the Karen Walker show.

There are an endless amount of options to rework practical basics for a modern look that is functional, fun, and fashion-forward. Learn not to be bored by your preppy basics, but embrace them as a canvas upon which you can experiment and build your own personal style. Take a risk with your everyday essentials by choosing them in exciting colors, patterns, and textures that you’ve never tried or paired together before. Before you know it, your closet full of basics and classic essentials will never look bland ever again.

Published June 2, 2010 on LVCMag.com