Friday, February 28, 2014

My Grandmother and Green Jeans

My Grandmother, Dorothy, on the right, looks fierce yet feminine in jodhpurs and a men's tie.  Her style inspires me.
Boots (Steven by Steve Madden, Burlington Coat Factory); Coat dress (INC, Macy's - old); Pants (Lerner New York - old); Scarf (Ralph Lauren); Bag (Vera by Vera Bradley, Kohl's); Pearl and rough cut emerald necklace (Ross-Simons); Wool Winter Coat (Trina Turk, Nordstrom Rack)
Like many of my wardrobe choices, this combination started with the navy leather riding boots I picked up earlier this Winter (see them styled another way here). The long navy wool jacket is actually a coat dress that I've had since the mid-90s.  It was a perfect match for the boots but, when I tried it on, I felt like the dress was a little too short for work, especially when I sat down in it.  Unwilling to give up on the navy dress/boot combo, I pulled on a pair of dark green jeans (also circa mid-90s) under the dress, threw on a matching belt, and a new outfit was born.  Before these boots, it would never have occurred to me to pair the dress with pants, but I really like the result and two items I haven't worn in forever feel brand new.

I rarely tuck my pants into tall boots, but this outfit wouldn't work otherwise.  The finished look also reminded me of this treasured photo of my Grandma Coy from the 1930s or 40s.  It's one of my favorite photos of her, looking fierce in jodhpurs, knee-high lace up boots, and a men's tie.  Like Diane Keaton in later years, Dorothy Coy could rock a menswear look but still look completely feminine at the same time.  Her ensemble seems particularly cutting edge for the time period.  Maybe she was inspired by Amelia Earheart (wearing a similar look here in 1928), in the same way that I am inspired by my Grandmother.  I wish I could have known her then!
Fashion is what you buy; Style is what you do with it!

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