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 Tee ($52.50, Fenchurch), bracelet ($18, Le Chateau) and fedora ($35, Le Chateau). |
Blame it on Katie Holmes.
The growing trend toward boyfriend-inspired clothing started when the actress is said to have borrowed a pair of preppy-looking, relaxed-fit jeans from hubby Tom Cruise.
"The jeans took off and are still going strong -- with a few new additions," says Lee Yaroschak, vice president of merchandising for Bluenotes.
For fall, other man-closet pieces include boyfriend tees, boyfriend shirts, boyfriend cardigans and boyfriend jackets.
Destruction propels the jean trend forward, with the addition of deliberate rips, tears and variations on the "destroyed" denim look pushing the '80s-inspired jean along for at least one more season.
While the weather is still warm, wear them rolled at the hem, with a pair of moccasins or ballet flats. As the temperatures cool, switch to boots or patterned socks and wedge-heeled Mary Janes.
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"Jackets are a key tailoring statement this season and the boyfriend jacket remains one of the most important shapes," says Nadine Pouliot, a Montreal-based spokesperson for the Cassis retail chain.
Tuxedo styling and satin trim offer slightly dressier updates on the basic black boyfriend jacket. Jewel-tones in rich fall shades of emerald, sapphire, ruby and amethyst add layers of brightness to dark coloured tops and bottoms.
Herringbone jackets and those with prep school style pocket crests fall into boyfriend territory and edge towards the distinctly haberdash-inspired esthetic that also makes the fall fashion scene.
"The best way to wear the boyfrend blazer is with tight bottoms like leggings, or short skirts and fitted little dresses," says Daphne Nissani, a stylist and buyer for Boa Apparel, Inc. "This offsets any big, boxy feel on top."
Oversized boyfriend tees are easily paired with skinny jeans and short leather jackets and can be given more shape with wide and wrap around narrow belts.
"Although the boyfriend look is '80s-inspired, the shirts are more refined and not as voluminous as those of the past ... button-front shirts are long, with a relaxed fit, but feature details such as plackets as well as a more structured look," says Yaroschak.
Cardigans may be plain, checked or striped, while pullovers typically feature V-necklines and details like contrasting trim.
Play up the look with funky fedoras, ties and chunky chain necklaces.
HEATHER.TOSKAN@SUNMEDIA.CA