The Fashion Memo

Most Wanted

A curated roundup of the best new fashion arrivals, hand-picked by our editors

Fashion
Clockwise from bottom left: bag, Khaite; blouse, Reformation; vase, Completedworks; necklace, Alighieri; dress, Proenza Schouler; earrings, Mateo; pants, Isabel Marant; loafers, Porte & Paire

The term ‘party dressing’ – once synonymous with glitter, sequins and short hemlines – has taken on myriad meanings in 2020. After all, with large-scale celebrations and office parties being crossed off the agenda – in favor of more intimate gatherings and, in many cases, Zoom festivities – it would appear that, when it comes to what you wear, all bets are off. However, that’s no reason to deny yourself the joy of getting all dressed up. Whether you’ve been strict about putting together proper looks throughout the year or you’ve succumbed to a daily uniform of knits, sweats and athleisure, making an extra effort this holiday season will ensure that the events you do attend, IRL or online, feel extra special. Which is exactly why senior fashion market editor Libby Page snapped up Proenza Schouler’s updated take on the body-con dress when it landed on-site this week.

“In recent years, Proenza Schouler has become a quiet powerhouse on the New York fashion scene, with the label’s directional yet wearable designs grabbing the attention of editors, buyers and influencers alike. After months of living in sweats (yes, I have become that person), and with the holiday season drawing ever closer, I am really feeling the urge to dress up again – and to slip into something that strikes the balance between feminine and sexy. This form-fitting dress hits all the right notes. The long sleeves, high neck and demure midi length feel understated, while the body-sculpting ruching makes for an alluring design detail. I’ll be wearing this standout dress on New Year’s Eve – no matter how low-key the countdown is.”

Of course, if this year has taught us one sartorial lesson, it’s that it’s impossible to overstate the value of versatile pieces. Consider fashion’s eternal cool girl Isabel Marant – the go-to label for covetable clothes with Parisian insouciance that women all over the world are drawn to. Marant’s tapered silk pants promise to elevate everything they’re paired with, be it a white shirt and penny loafers or an ‘out out’ top and cult brand Khaite’s latest handbag. Better yet, they’ll also slot effortlessly into your existing closet. Style yours with oversized knits and tank tops for a fresh take on off-duty dressing.

The most important styling tip to consider when preparing for Zoom parties and festive FaceTimes is the fact that, because only a fraction of your look, and space, will be in the frame, accessories of all kinds are more important than ever. Strategically placing Completedworks’ crumpled vase on your sideboard will instantly add a contemporary feel to your interior. Meanwhile, a gold pendant by Alighieri or Mateo’s stunning pearl earrings provide the perfect finishing touch to any look – even if you do insist on wearing your slippers.

Discover more from this week’s What’s New.

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