What, this old thing?
THE PIECE: THE WHITE SHIRT Putting her fearless spin on a perennial classic, the founder of All The Pretty Birds shares her style
the white shirt, a veritable style icon. One of the most versatile wardrobe essentials, it transcends all trends. It’s a piece that you can wear over and over again and it will always manage to look fresh, modern and relevant. It truly is an ‘old thing’ that never looks or feels dated.
I have many white button-down styles on rotation in my closet, but none as gorgeous as this one by French designer Simon Jacquemus. It is a mix of traditional shirting and feminine dress touches, like an off-theshoulder neckline, simple and elegant bodice and extended cuffs. A part of Jacquemus’ S/S ’17 Provence-inspired collection, its vibe is romantic. It’s from the generation of dramatic blouses that exploded on the scene around 2015. I’ve been wearing it every season since I first purchased it. I’ve styled it so many ways: with jeans, layered under slip dresses, for chic minimal looks with tailored trousers, and casual, like I’m wearing it here (right) with a slip skirt and booties.
If you are inspired by my Jacquemus top, or any of the stylish blouses that have been popular over the past few years, try recreating the mood by repurposing your favourite white blouses. Oversized shirts are the easiest to re-spin. Head to your closet, find your mirror, and play around with different styles – heads up, you may be at it for a while. Try the classic tie-front shirt for a sophisticated summer outfit. Drape your collar off your shoulders and cinch your waist with a broad belt à la Azzedine Alaïa. Want more? Flip your shirt back to front for a total switch up. The options are endless as your white shirt becomes the ultimate wardrobe hero. And who doesn’t love a classic evergreen that keeps giving every single season. What, this old thing? Turns out, it’s not so old after all!