MySpace Muses: August

In Aristotle’s Poetics, the Greek philosopher outlines proper and effective story structure: a journey should begin with an inciting incident, come to a climax, and then resolve itself in the end. Why the scintillating lesson on plotlines (and not hemlines) this morning? Well, dearest readers, we feel it’s an apt metaphor for this month’s MySpace Muses, as a great outfit is just like a well-told story! These stylish ladies have sparked a unique narrative with each of their chic choices and we are inspired by our Muses’ fashionable accounts. Utilizing a statement piece like a theatrical blouse or lace top, today’s standout dressers sparked an outfit idea until it develops into the perfect pairing of a few key items: a high-waisted pant with a lace-up shoe, a floral romper and a western-inspired belt, or a pair of boyfriend jeans and a shrunken blazer. Finally, all loose ends and laces are tied up, and we are presented with a final snapshot of an inspiring ensemble (we always love a stylish and happy ending!). So sit back, relax, and watch the style story unfold—who knows you may even be inspired to craft your own…



Unique accessories customize and elevate a casual summer look.
Our first muse, Allegra, 17, from Austria, tells a romantic summer tale with a touch of quirky charm. Her laid-back look of denim shorts and an oversized white tank is given a dose of personality with barely-there brown suspenders. She also added some easy glamour to her outfit through the simple contrast of a bohemian summer braid and a bold pair of earrings. You can create the same modern-day heroine look by pairing the deco-orange Smooth Teardrop Earrings ($5) from Forever 21 and WGACA’s Vintage Suspenders ($58) with a casual ensemble, or, to plug into the harness trend and add a little tough-girl chic, try Coming Soon’s Chain Suspenders ($205) in white. Lastly, in the event you still have yet to invest in the perfect pair of shorts, we recommend the Dylan Denim version ($167) by Citizens of Humanity.

A light-wash jean jacket makes polished black slacks a little cooler.
Our next muse, Caylee, 22, from Indiana, has a story with a decidedly city-girl beat. Her black, white and light denim palette looks ultra-chic, and we love how she’s balanced the shape of a cropped, harem-inspired pant by choosing a pair with a high-waist. Additionally, we appreciate how Caylee has expanded the character arc of the business pant, wearing it outside the workplace for an additional fifteen minutes (or more!) of fame. Recreate Caylee’s cool look by paring Roxy’s The One Denim Jacket ($64.50) with your own black slacks or try Organic’s Paper Bag Pants ($255). These cropped silk trousers are long on luxe and the self-belt tie has the same waist-cinching effect as Caylee’s pair.

Black booties and a bold belt are great additions to a floral romper.
Jaimee, 24, from New York captivated our interest by toughening up a girly romper with some silver hardware and black ankle boots. Her choice of a silver-tipped belt buckle contrasts nicely with the season’s summer florals and also gives shape to a boyish style. Plus, metal-accented belt details are a total trend for fall, as highlighted by Alexander Wang’s Hanne Three Buckle Booties ($690) and Jeffrey Campbell’s Potion Buckle Shoes ($152). For a lovely look like Jaimee’s, start with the Kimchi Blue Floral Jumper ($42) which has the added plus of an already narrowed waist. Next, to add some naughty to your nice and supplement a girly pattern with edge, try Forever 21’s Polished Round Stud Belt ($9). Finally, kick your whole look into gear with Alic’s Low Ruched Ankle Boot ($135), a great investment that you can pair with patterned tights come fall.

Cuffed slouchy trousers are the perfect way to show off bold shoes.
Stephanie, 28, from New Zealand, bridges the gap between the idea that all-the-world’s-a-stage…and the catwalk. At first glance, it may seem as though there are a lot of characters at play—an oversized blouse, a hardware belt, fuschia shoes—but she pairs all the pieces together in a way that highlights the personality of each without any conflict. Her bow-bedecked blouse has showstopping shape, but the neutral shade tones down the drama in a chic way, while her gold braided belt adds just a touch of shine to a black pant. For a similarly glamorous look try Re Collection’s Harem Pants ($77) and punctuate them with the perfect pop of color by stepping into Strictly's Multi Buckle Shoes ($135).

Bandeau bras and lace tops are a fashion-forward fall combo.
In our epic six-act story of the day, Dajana, 20, from Australia, would definitely be cast as the vixen, thanks to her transparent-top-and-short-skirt ensemble. Her lace top is very eighties-inspired and on-trend, and it looks perfect with a bra-top underneath, paying homage to Balenciaga’s Fall 2009 show where he sent girls in lace bandeau down the runway. To revel in the drama of fall dressing like Dajana, try pairing American Apparel’s Cotton Spandex Ruched Front Tube Bra ($11) with Hanky Panky’s Sexy Lace Top ($48). Finally, pick up a come-hither skirt like Larok’s Level High Waist Kitten Knit Mini Skirt ($198) or Topshop’s Petite Bodycon Mini Skirt ($44), both in a similar purple hue, to channel Dajana’s full look.

Boyfriend jeans look smart with a bright belt and a tailored blazer.
Our final chapter of today’s Musings comes courtesy of one of our favorite fashion bloggers. The Stylish Wanderer, 14, from Los Angeles, demonstrates how to look chicly put together in some of the season’s key pieces. Akin to a paparazzi shot (there she is, Coffee Bean in hand!), her outfit is casual but coolly constructed in case she is caught at any moment. While the inherent informality of slouchy denim makes boyfriend jeans a weekend staple, with the right additional items, a polished portrait can be achieved. Her shrunken white blazer contrasts nicely with her black tank and then again with her cuffed boyfriend jeans…letting all the pieces come together for a full and stylish effect. Try your own camera-ready look with Boutique’s Tailored Blazer ($190) and Citizens of Humanity Jeans Riley Boyfriend Selvage Jean ($238) in Digger. Tie on Topshop’s Round Fitting Skinny Belt ($44), just like the Stylish Wanderer’s thin red one and you’ll be ready to say iced latte!—Liza Kaplan

If you want even more inspiration, check out MySpace Fashion for style tidbits, insider info, and fantastic stories galore!

As always, our search for new muses is ongoing, so don't hesitate to recommend yourself or a friend. Just email us (myspacemuse@whowhatwear.com) your name, age, email address, and the best full-length shots* that convey your personal style!


*Photos must be full-length and will not be considered if blurry or poorly lit. Thank you!