How to Wear the Structured Trend for Summer 2009
From Full Skirts to Structured Jackets to Sculpted Dresses
May 25, 2009
Whilst jumpsuits, harem pants or peg-leg pants are trend-worthy must-haves for the fashionista this season, it's important not to overlook some of the other key power pieces which can revitalize your wardrobe. This spring and summer is all about fragile fabrics and powerful cuts.
Separates such as asymmetric tops with bold shoulder detail, dramatically-shaped skirts and dresses, and '80s-inspired structured jackets are just some of the pieces which are right on-trend.
The Structured Jacket
Whilst this season's popular boyfriend-style blazers are to be worn loose and baggy, in contrast, a body-conscious structured jacket in soft silky fabrics has a dramatic cut and is much more fitted. Bold shoulders are the order of the day, nipped in at the waist and lapels are defined. These are not jackets in search of a suit! Find them in eye popping colors this spring and summer, like daffodil yellow, tangerine and coral pink.
- Short-sleeved versions look great with a full, short skirt.
- Team structured jackets with high heels for a sleek, sophisticated look.
- Wear embellished jackets (such as gems and sequins) with skinny jeans and bejeweled sandals.
- A well fitted structured jacket can be belted and worn without a blouse underneath.
- If the jacket is plain then accessorize with an embellished belt or one of this season's trendy obi-styles, as seen on the runways of Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton.
The Structured Skirt
Dramatic structured skirts are a great wardrobe staple for the season and will really get you noticed. These feminine shapes are draped, ruffled, cocooned, tiered or pleated, and are all about texture and beautiful fabrics.
- For versatility and longevity, opt for a neutral colored skirt such as black, gray or cream, which will not tie you to a particular season.
- Remember tiers are forgive but pleats less so.
- Fifties-inspired costume jewelry will add sparkle and make a statement for evening wear. For daytime, keep it chic and simple. A full skirt makes enough of a statement on its own.
- Balance out a dramatic skirt with a simple fitted top or T-shirt.
- Toughen up your outfit with gladiator sandals or ankle boot stilettos for a more masculine look, forget flats and ballet pumps, this look needs attitude.
The Structured Dress
One of the best investments you can make this season is a sculpted little dress. This 2009 silhouette is all about clean lines but dramatic pieces, with origami draping, ruffles, peplum waists and bold shoulders. Black is failsafe, but if not an option for your skintone, then choose a sculpted dress in one of this season's bold bright colors.
- Avoid buying a dress that is too tight. This look is feminine and classy.
- Depending on your body shape, decide on what you need to accentuate, hips, waist or breasts. Avoid structured shapes around the hips if you are pear-shaped, and ruffles and embellishments on the bustline if you are well-endowed. Balance out a silhouette by keeping the detailing in the areas which you want to accentuate.
- Add a bold necklace or some stacked bracelets or cuffs for a strong evening look.
- Don't overdo the footwear, keep it simple and strappy.
- When wearing color rather than black, go for this season's on trend color-block look, with matching footwear and accessories. Blue is the new black in 2009.
The golden rule for any structured outfit is keep it clean and your accessories simple so as not to compete. You don't have to be blessed with a model figure as pieces should skim and not cling.
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