{flash back} suit up

It is a rare thing that a suit comes along that is so chic, so perfectly cut that I deem it worth a purchase. After all, there are perhaps far fewer careers these days that do require an actual suit for work, than those that favor a more relaxed/casual attire. But a fabulous suit is a must for every woman’s closet, so when you find the one, save up for it, it will be a part of your wardrobe for years to come.

A suit should be tailored to fit flawlessly and it should never, ever be boxy. I prefer suiting with any sort of feminine detail–a puff of the sleeve, a cinch of the waist, a collection of buttons far too attractive to be practical . . .

1. J. Crew Telegraph Pencil Skirt and Jacket 2. Fendi Olive Colorblock ”Twins” Tote 3. Kenneth Jay Lane Gold Textured Ball Ring 4. Dolce & Gabbana Slingbacks

{flash back} edgy chic

While I was a tween, teen and almost twentysomething in the 90s, I would have told you that the 90s were a fashionable mess. A mash-up of grunge, Mary Janes, shiny blouses, layering and some hints of sophistication. For me, one of those first items of sophistication was a sheer black blouse.

At the time it was a layering gold mine. I paired it with a black cami and faux fur leopard skirt (I was pretty edgy for a New Orleans Catholic school girl), but these days I’d call the look pretty lame. It is so nearly cool, but needs modernizing. Enter latex leggins, edgy platform boots and just the right black bra and there you have one fabulous outfit!

1. Five Ways Convertible Bra by Forever21 2. Gucci Suede “Audrey” Cuffed Booties 3. Plan B Latex Leggins 4. Miu Miu Silk Chiffon Pleated Blouse

{flash back} true romance

One of my absolute favorite 90s movie characters is Alabama Whirley in True Romance. She’s a beautiful, butt-kicking, fashionable mess, but with a heart of pure gold. Here are some pieces I think that a more modern Alabama might wear today–or at least that my own inner Mrs. Clarence Whirley might!

1. Ray Ban Blue Frame Sunglasses 2. Via Spiga “Andrea” Faux Fur Jacket 3. Steve Madden “Whoa” Shoes

{flash back} racy red dress

Fashionable eras are done over and over, but the 90s not-so-much as they are far newer. So while they may be a mash-up of fashions before, they lately have my closet screaming for more!

How could I not pay homage to Clueless. The range of incredible fashions which helped transform grungy messes into polished perfection with little red dresses! Here’s my more modern take on Cher’s hot red look, isn’t this faux fur coat simply “off the hook?!”

1. Clueless 2. J. Crew Darlene Dress 3. Aldo Dress Sandal 4. Free People Simply Sherpa Coat