What is Classic Fashion?
How do you define a classic? And more importantly, what is classic fashion? Or even better, classic style? Personally, I have always been drawn to the classic style and I think that some iconic women from the past may have influenced me as I was growing up. Think Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”, with her Little Black Dress and pearls. Or Katherine Hepburn in her pleated trousers and button-downs. Grace Kelly. Jackie Kennedy in her sheath dress with a matching coat and a pillbox hat. Finally, and more recently, Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle.
“Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.”
Coco Chanel was a designer that inspired me when I was in design school. Not only are her styles iconic and easily recognizable, they have stood the test of an ever-changing fashion industry and her clothing is still in great demand. I have a red Chanel dress that my mom bought more than 30 years ago hanging in my closet. The style is so classic that I could wear it to an evening out tomorrow and be completely relevant. A good example of cost per wear, which to me is an important aspect of classic fashion.
What is Classic Style?
A classic style definition, straight out of the dictionary: Of a simple, elegant style, not subject to change.
Quality and timeless styling are the core of classic style. Silhouettes are clean and tailored, colors are neutral and work well together, with some stripes and subtle prints mixed in to expand the outfit rotation. Often the excellent tailoring is the detail that is consistent in classic style. Jewelry is minimal. Simplicity. Chic, structured pieces with exquisite quality. And perhaps a red shoe for a bit of pizazz. If you can relate to all this, keep reading…
If you are a classic woman, investing in key pieces is essential, as this type of clothing is intended to be kept for long periods of time. Classic style is investment dressing at its best – so spending money on a quality piece for your capsule wardrobe is a brilliant choice as most of these pieces will be in your outfit rotation for years to come. I bought a black cashmere blazer 20+ years ago and I had to swallow hard when I paid for it, but I would be lost without it now. It’s my favorite weekend travel jacket, dressed up or down all weekend long. And it is still flawless looking.
Classic style isn’t just about style, either. Women who prefer classic fashion exude a quiet confidence, they feel no need to overtly announce their arrival with flashy over-the-top fashion trends. Understated simplicity is their angle, and draws the attention they deserve and they will undoubtedly get.
It makes me think of the Giorgio Armani quote:
“Elegance is not about being noticed, it’s about being remembered”
What is NOT Considered Classic Style?
A woman who has a closet full of classic clothes usually doesn’t invest in many of the cutting-edge seasonal trends. Timeless styles, clean lines, and more subdued colors and patterns are predominant in her closet.
If you lean toward a classic style, you prefer investing in pieces you’ll wear for years and will be easy to rotate into your outfit rotation. Bold colors, styles and prints that are the latest trend will most likely not make it into your closet, unless it’s for a tropical vacation. Instead, details that are more subtle like covered buttons, a beautiful sleeve, pin tucking on the back of a coat or skirt, or even a fabulous sweetheart neckline on a dress. All of these understated details will make you get noticed in the quietest way.
Examples of Classic Fashion
We are all aware of a handful of style icons that were the epitome of classic style. Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Katherine Hepburn, and Jackie Kennedy are the first to come to mind. They were known for their elegant, understated style of dressing.
More contemporary examples of classic style would be Kate Middleton, Sandra Bullock, Charlize Theron, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jennifer Aniston. What they all have in common is effortless style. Here is an example of Jennifer Aniston’s wardrobe in “The Morning Show”.
Photos: Pinterest
Another beautiful example of an elegant,classic wardrobe would be Gwyneth Paltrow’s in “A Perfect Murder”. Everything she puts on is stunning and sophisticated. And the movie is fabulous if you haven’t seen it!
As I’ve mentioned, these women are great examples of how to look classic…
All of the images above may be familiar to you. All of the women are style icons that have graced the pages of magazines, books, and newspapers. What they all have in common is their style of clothing, tailored silhouettes, clean lines, and impeccable fit. They’re all fabulous examples of classic style. Minimal fuss, silhouettes that are close to the body, feminine and sophisticated.
Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle, and the handful of women I mentioned above are modern versions of the three other women pictured, but their essence is the same. All of these women are enhanced by what they’re wearing. They’re what you notice, not their clothing.
Classic Style Capsule Wardrobe
A few separates can make up a variety of outfits: sweaters, button-ups, skirts, cardigans, blazers, dresses. The essence of a classic style wardrobe is investment pieces that are timeless and of high quality.
Tops
A classic capsule wardrobe will always include a white button-down, a cashmere sweater, a silk blouse, a few great t-shirts ( I recommend, white, black and gray), and a hip-length cardigan. You may find some stripes and polka dots as well as leopard print
Pants
As far as pants go, the always classic jean, a tapered leg trouser, and a cropped ankle pant . Fabrics can be lightweight wool or a seasonal silk or linen.
Dresses
First on the list for a classic capsule wardrobe is of course a LBD (little black dress), but the style could be a sheath dress, a wrap dress, or a simple fit and flare silhouette.
Skirts
Pencil skirts have stood the test of time and work well in any season, the only thing that really changes is the length and that is dependent on personal preference as well as trending hemlines.
Shoes
When I think of a classic shoe wardrobe, the first shoe that comes to mind is a loafer, followed by ballet flats, pumps, slingbacks, sneakers and boots. All will serve the classic style wardrobe and work well with the pieces I’ve highlighted above.
Blazers
Personally, I think a blazer is the workhorse of a classic capsule wardrobe. Navy or black is the most practical choice, but other solids such as ivory or camel work well, too. On the other hand, a patterned blazer can also be extremely versatile, chic, and a pivotal wardrobe staple. A closer fit is preferable and you can decide if you prefer double-breasted or single-breasted.
Accessories
Colorful scarves, sunglasses, gold hoops, pearls, a chain necklace, an evening clutch, and the quintessential classic item, the trench coat. You will get so much mileage out of these basics and they will be the finishing touch on all that you wear.
What Are Some Go-To Classic Looks?
Classic Style Work Outfit
I love all of these pieces. They are all timeless with some seasonal updates that make the whole look modern and fresh. You can find all these items linked here.
Weekend Classic Style Outfit
I don’t know about you but black and white to me is the epitome of classic summer dressing. Not only does it look refined and chic, it makes you feel that way. The tinted moisturizer that I have in the mood board is a favorite. It gives your skin a natural glow you will love. Everything is linked here.
Classic Style for Evening
This is an example of a classic, understated evening look that will turn heads. The simple, well-cut dress is the canvas and the finishing touches are the elegant shoes, the refined look of pearl accessories, and a pop of color with the evening bag. All of the items can be found here.
In my opinion, the modern interpretation of a classic style is more about simple elegance, good tailoring, and delicate femininity.
If this speaks to you, I’d love to help you curate a classic style wardrobe you love! Check out my services to see how I can support you in your personal style journey.