Bermuda shorts: a love/love story
Three ways to wear them + new styling features!
Happy one month anniversary!
Somehow a month has passed since this passion project started and to celebrate I went wayyyyy OTT and have so much vintage to share I’m going to have to send this in two emails (I’m insane!). The one today will have all styled looks and the bonus email tomorrow will have all my favorite things I’ve found the last week.
To kick things off, I’ve add two new features: ‘One piece, three ways’ (self-explanatory) and ‘Vintage copycat’ where I snag an inspiration image and recreate the look in vintage.
Below each image are links for each item so let’s get to it!
I’ve been getting a few Q’s about how to wear shorts, specifically the most confounding of them all: Bermuda shorts. They’re an awkward length so I totally get it, but we can make magic with them! Check the three looks + explanations and let’s see if we can’t make these tricksters make sense.
Even though they’re shorts, my favorite weather to wear them in is fall/winter. Playing with the proportions is so fun when you add a chunky cropped mock neck* and tall leather boots. I prefer my boots to have a little wiggle room in the calf, and I think these fit the bill! Then, when you add this long blazer that meets the length of the shorts, it gives a cool visual from behind or the side that adds a bit of sartorial intrigue.
*You’ll note this sweater is secondhand H&M and I have to say, I still have all my old H&M sweaters from when I shopped fast fashion and they hold up! The weight is great and they’re never too bulky - I always just make sure to buy them secondhand. You’re still keeping things out of landfills so I’m all for it.
This is my summer take on Bermudas. The main thing you want is to make sure the linen button down is oversized on you because you’re gonna tuck that thing in and then blouseblouseblouse. And don’t forget to roll the sleeves way up and unbutton wayyy down. You want that lariat necklace to be seen, people! And the shorts are so long that you’ll want to show some skin (if that’s your thing). Then add some chic raffia flats and the late 80s will welcome you with open arms.
This look uses the shorts as a foundation rather than a main stage piece. Toss on the long vest over the shorts so just a bit of navy is poking out. This proportion play is similar to the first look except we’re elongating the torso instead of truncating it. The plaid blazer is prep personified and a great pop of print for an otherwise solid look. Throw on some trusty monk strap shoes and you’re all set!
I shared the below image on Instagram and it really resonated with people! Which, how could it not?? The black separates with brown belt and lots of gold? Impactful in its simplicity.
So I figured this is a great first option to copycat a look in vintage. Shop it below and let me know in the comments what other outfits you’d like to see featured!
A few notes: I will never not love a shoulder pad. Added to a tee is such a simple way to elevate it. The belt above is actually brown and incredible but don’t be fooled by the coloration - it’s not black! I know the image doesn’t show her shoes, but don’t you think captoe mesh flats would have been her jam? That or some black ankle boots, I think. So good.
Back to a regular feature: styled looks! Only two below but I looooove them.
Calling 90s J.Crew! The Canadian tuxedo has never looked so cool (or so affordable?!). My love for collarless jackets is well-documented and my love persists for one reason: turtlenecks. I can’t be dissuaded that a turtleneck and a collarless jacket don’t look effortless together - it’s the best. Then you have some bootcut matching jeans? Get outta here. I went nautical/French with this look and added a striped turtleneck which is a closet staple for me. Then, these holy grail flats found their way to me, and now you! These aren’t actually from Belgium but are modeled after the originals and are much more affordable! And pristine!
Don’t be fooled by the coloration of these images either - these blacks all match and that sweater is a true charcoal! Regardless, this is maybe my favorite look this week? I’m just salivating over these pants. They’re crepe which means these will drape and move so gorgeously (like really really gorgeously) and those tab buttons at the waist? Will vintage ever cease to amaze? (No.) Anyhow, these pants just needed something simple so I added a charcoal cashmere tee - also a closet staple for me.
And if you get this envelope clutch we can be vintage twins!! I have this exact same one in brown and it’s so chic! It’s the perfect combo of rigid and slouchy so it’s one of those “Oh this old thing?” pieces even though that old thing is actually incredibly cool and special and you cherish it. Finally, I would add some gladiator sandals because spring has sprung and your toes deserve some freedom and comfort.
And that’s that! Keep your eyes peeled tomorrow for the follow-up email with my favorite vintage from the last week and let me know what your favs are, too!