What Would She Wear: Diane Kruger

As dedicated fashion journalists (and fans!), we make it our business to be well informed about the best-dressed ladies on the scene. We have been particularly taken with Diane Kruger's style of late, and, true to form, we decided to do a little research. During our investigation, we were pleased to learn a few interesting Kruger-related facts, all of which were previously unknown to us. For instance, she is tri-lingual (the model-turned-actress is fluent in English, French, and German), she was a classically trained ballerina (until an injury sidelined her dancing dreams at 18), and she shares a birthday with French philosopher Jacques Derrida and '90s heartthrob Brian Austin Green (random!). Of course, none of this has changed what we already knew about this German-born stunner: she is impossibly alluring (she was cast as Helen of Troy, the woman whose legendary beauty launched a thousand ships) and unimaginably chic (our daily photo searches reveal that the woman can do no wrong when it comes to clothing!) Naturally, when it was time to speculate on what pieces our current fashion muse would pick, we found some truly inspirational options which we are pleased to present in our latest installment of What Would She Wear.



As a fashion insider and industry pet, Kruger is often seen on red carpets, at swanky soirées, and seated in the front rows of countless fashion shows, dressed to the nines in gorgeous gowns and ensembles by the likes of Chanel (pictured above), Yves Saint Laurent, and Marchesa—just to name a few. And while the designer-favorite is clearly in possession of an enviable closet full of fancier fare, what we end up desiring are her more low-key selections. Thusly, we've pulled together some of the most Kruger-esque picks that we think would look perfectly in-character on the actress for a day running errands around town or a laid-back date night (Joshua Jackson, not included!)

1. Topshop Snake Fold Over Cross Body Bag ($50)
As the above picture proves, Kruger is partial to a cross-body purse with interesting texture or embellishments. Of course, Kaiser Karl (that's Chanel's Mr. Lagerfeld to you) is one of the many designers who regularly works with Kruger, a relationship that makes getting the brand's most covetable clutches less of a challenge (the two are also neighbors in Paris!) If you happen to be like us and don't have his eminence on speed-dial, try Topshop's Snake Fold Over Cross Body Bag ($50), which would look great draped over a flowy summer frock or with satin harem pants à la Kruger.

2. Levi's Red Tab Star Studded Limited Edition Vest ($150)
While she often opts for pretty and elegant ensembles, Kruger certainly knows how to wear edgy and grungier styles with aplomb. We can completely envision Kruger rocking a killer pair of motorcycle boots with a denim vest like this Star Studded Limited Edition Vest ($150) from Levi's Red Tab label. The boxier shape in a classic blue wash provides the perfect backdrop for the punky adornments and would up the attitude-ante of any outfit.

3. Alexander Wang Pocket Tank ($235)
Thanks to Alexander Wang, the standard racerback tank top is getting a sexy and sophisticated update. For spring, he's upgraded this classic style with the Pocket Tank ($235) by choosing a lavender shade and sensuous satin material for a look that is both effortless and on-trend—the sort of chic that Kruger constantly nails. While we can picture Kruger wearing this with a 3.1 Phillip Lim skirt to a summer concert in Central Park or layered under a Rag & Bone blazer for a casual screening, this piece would be a smart addition to any warm weather wardrobe. You can also try a similar style like bebe's Deep V Racerback Tank ($29) in Lavender Petal, which is a more budget-friendly version of our selection.

4. Nasty Gal Fringed Circle Scarf ($20)
As a denizen of New York City, Kruger surely knows the perils of properly dressing for these tricky in-between seasons; without the right layering accoutrements, one can be left chilly during an evening out or overheated on a daytime stroll. One fool-proof way to avoid this pitfall is to pick a tassled circle scarf, like this option from Nasty Gal Vintage. This piece will add a boho-chic element to your favorite transitional outfit at a price point that can't be beat! We are also fans of Topshop's Jersey Fringe Scarf ($36) and Suede Fringe Triangle Scarf ($50).

5. Giles & Brother Chaton Pyramid Drop Earrings ($113)
When it comes to accessories, Kruger knows how to make a bold statement. She can pull off killer cocktail rings, straw Panama toppers, and is rarely seen without her beloved Wayfarers. Another way she always ramps up the interest when wearing a formal or conservative ensemble is with oversized earrings. The Chaton Pyramid Drop Earrings ($113) by Giles & Brother create a perfect contrast of rough-and-tumble brass chains and delicate sparkly stones.

6. Chloé Ankle Cuff Wedge ($495)
Chloe consistently creates lust-worthy looks, and we have a real weakness for the shoes that accompany each quirky-chic collection. Kruger, also, seems to carry a flame for the fashion house's footwear, and is veritably spotted wearing the label's must-have shoe of the season. This spring, we fell head-over-heels in love with Chloé's Ankle Cuff Wedge ($495). The light tan ankle strap is the perfect way to elongate the line of your leg, while the black bottoms provide a slight wedge for a little extra height. Dolce Vita's Essex Ankle Tie Flat Sandals ($110) and Pierre Dumas' Viviana 3 Sandals ($40) are two other great options that won't break the bank!

7. Les Halles The Straw Ankle Jeans ($108)
For our final selection, we picked an outstanding pair of pale jeans from our new style crush, Les Halles. As someone who is always in-the-know about emerging brands, we are sure that Kruger and these tattered stovepipe skinnies would be a perfect fit. The Straw Ankle Jeans ($108) in white are ever-so-slightly cropped and would look great with a variety of top options. Though the price tag is very reasonable for such a stellar pair of pants, we also recommend checking out BDG's Cropped Skinny Jeans ($54) for a comparable style.—KM

Photo of Diane Kruger, from Splash.