I've Seen 100+ Runway Collections In The Last Month; This Is What I’m Going To Start Wearing Immediately.
I've Seen 100+ Runway Collections In The Last Month; This Is What I’m Going To Start Wearing Immediately.
It’s not Prada or nada, but...kinda?
So Fashion Month for the Fall/Winter 2023 season has officially wrapped, and your attention is probably focused on other pressing topics, like the Oscars tonight and whatever chaotic new #scandoval details have broken in the last thirty seconds.
But mine is still on the shows. Or rather, mine is still also on the shows. (Because we contain multitudes and can follow multiple exciting topics, all at the same time, right? Right.) And the reason it’s still on the shows, the reason why I adore this time of year is because it’s full of fashion possibilities. Meaning: We’ve seen the ideas, we know where the trends are going, but nothing’s actually been produced, so it’s all just inspiration at this moment.
And for me, that’s when it’s the most delightful..
Because right now, you get to interpret whatever runway look you want—using pieces you either already have in your closet or similarly spirited things that are current season—however you want. It’s not a “look for less” (one of my least favorite phrases) because the “look” in question isn’t even available and it’s more of an homage than a photocopy.
In addition to giving us a low pressure way to tap into the inherent fun of fashion, this interpretation time also helps us be better shoppers. By the time next season’s key pieces actually hit stores, you’ll know if a specific look or trend actually works for you, because you’ve already test driven a version months in advance.
And that is why I think everyone needs to take a look at the Prada F/W 23 show, and consider buying a white skirt. Specifically, something with a mid-calf hemline and a full silhouette; bonus points for thoughtful texture or details, styled with a low-lift dark or neutral sweater. Easy, fun, done.
For example, you could try something like Sachin & Babi’s Leighton Faille Skirt, which is voluminous, yet simple. If that shape is too femme for you, consider Reformation’s Lucy Skirt, which is a little more streamlined, and comes in a cotton poplin with a smidge of stretch. Mango is also making an interesting version in ecru satin, while on the much higher end, there’s something about Cecilie Bahnsen’s recycled taffeta version that feels adjacent to this look. Maybe it’s the bows, as they signify a level of care that can be part of the Prada look?
If you like the textured and more ornate iterations from the runway, check out Ted Baker’s Louelaa Lace Midi Skirt, which you can take down a notch by pairing it with a simple navy or gray cashmere sweater, to take a page from the styling at the Prada show. (This will surprise none of you, but I still swear by J.Crew’s Cashmere Crewneck Sweaters for this look, though the cropped version is quickly becoming my new favorite favorite.)
Things I’m Thinking About
Vogue in the 2000s: Annie Leibovitz and Grace Coddington Down The Rabbit Hole.
Do you remember the Alice in Wonderland editorial in Vogue circa 2003? For me, and I suspect a certain number of fashion people of my generation, this was everything. It remains top of mind for me, always, so you can imagine my surprise and delight when Twitter told me that there was a podcast about this very spread?
This pod came out last fall, so it’s not new, but maybe you missed it too? The episode is narrated by legendary editor Hamish Bowles, and includes insights from all of the folks involved, from Natalia Vodianova to Grace Coddington to Olivier Theyskens. I loved all the backstories in this episode—delicious, delicious, delicious—but as each new detail was revealed, I just kept thinking about the expense involved in this incredible shoot, which took place over two days in France with Vodianova as Alice and 13 esteemed designers as the book’s characters. The mind reels, really.
Balconette Bras
Is it time to buy a bra again? I haven’t worn an actual bra—meaning: underwire, adjustable strap, hook-and-eye closures—in at least six years. That’s right. I have forsaken the trad bra for Top Secret’s Prop Top Bralette, which I purchase primarily in black, and in multiples.
(And I love it. It’s sleek, comfortable, supportive, and the price is right.)
But recently I’ve been wondering what’s new and notable in the wild world of bras, and took a gander at the market. Here’s the thing: I prefer a balconette style, preferably sans lining or padding, but I don’t love mesh, and while I like lace, I don’t want something too overwrought. Oh, and it needs to be somewhat realistic in terms of pricing.
Brands that keep coming up include, but are not limited to: Simone Perele, Dora Larsen, Skarlett Blue, and an almost-too-good-to-be-true option from Auden. I realize this is a very specific thing I’m looking for, and frankly not the trend in underpinnings, but if you know of any companies that make awesome products or a style that fits the above criteria, please do share. (Preferably in the comments below to share the wealth.)
Linen Pants You’ll Love
The other day I posted about a new pair of relaxed, pleated, wide-leg linen trousers that I purchased and adore, and just wanted to drop them here, as they’re honestly an excellent find for the price. They’re Abercrombie (wild, I know), and are available in five colors, three lengths, and sizes XXS to XXL. I think they’re pretty pleasing. I have both a medium and a small in the regular length, and they’re the perfect casually long length to wear with Birks or Converse.
One note: They relax even more over the course of a day’s wear, but fret not. I threw mine in the wash and accidentally dried them too, and not only did they not shrink, they just went back to normal. Also: I love the fact that they have a button and two hooks for the closure at the waist; I do not love the fact that the back half of the waistband is elasticized. I just think that detail looks cheap, but everything else is great, great, great, and I’m just going to ignore my inner snob.
New York City Hotels
I have an upcoming work trip to NYC, and asked for new hotel recommendations last week. I was delighted to get so many suggestions, and then many follow-up messages from folks who forgot to screenshot and wanted the ideas for their own trip planning purposes. So I figured I’d make a list here, for anyone who is interested. I prefer to be downtown—I use that word loosely, as I’m fine with Chelsea, Flatiron, Gramercy, and Nomad too—so if you’re looking for Central Park adjacent options, sorry? Also, my general go-to pick is The Bowery, which I will always feel a way about.
Heard about this from a number of fashion friends who stayed here during NYFW. It’s pretty far south, but that is not a problem for me. The unofficial word on the street? It’s the new Bowery.
Recommended by Shiona Turini and Kaelen Haworth.
Really stunning new property in Tribeca that is very french and femme in appearance. Also fancy; this one is quite expensive, but everyone who has stayed here loves it.
Recommended by: Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest and Steph Shep
This was the most divisive option; most folks adore it, but some have mixed feelings. On an exciting (for me) note, it’s owned and operated by the team behind The Bowery, which is great news, and I hear the martini bar situation is divine. I’m going to try it for sure, because the history is irresistible.
Okay friends, that’s it for now. If you want to follow me on @hillarykerr, I’d love it. And if you have anything to say or ask (preferably nothing terribly mean), please drop me a note either via DM or in the comments below.
As always, thank you for taking the time to read this post. I’m truly so glad you’re here. If you like what you’re reading, please consider sharing this newsletter. All products mentioned are independently chosen, and some may be affiliate links. Your support is appreciated.
Natori makes my favorite bras when I actually wear ones with wires (I, like you, have switched to bralettes). They are reasonably priced (I guess that's relative but under $100) and I can wear it for a long time. I've never tried them personally but I hear good things about Dita Von Teeses bras and she makes balconnet ones.
I too am revisiting real bras! I *just* bought the Natori heavenly balconette bra! Sooo comfy but sexy.