Model Off Duty: Caroline Trentini

As we traipsed around New York a fortnight ago, we couldn't help but remark to each other about the models in our midst. Not to be reductive, but as we dashed for post-show cabs, we kept clocking the free-range catwalkers all around us, cataloging their street style and mentally noting as many outfits as possible. Occasionally, one of these well-dressed marvels would knock our socks off with the way she wore the simplest things and we'd be reduced to semi-staring, like a couple of tourists on safari. With her newly trimmed fringe and fondness for feminine neutrals, today's subject—Caroline Trentini—really caught our attention, and accordingly we feel compelled to showcase her in our latest installment of Model Off Duty.



Surely you know Trentini's fabulous face, which regularly appears (along with the rest of her) in Vogue editorials and coveted campaigns for fashion houses like Dolce & Gabbana. The blonde Brazilian, who was discovered by the same person who plucked Gisele from obscurity, is also a key player come fashion week(s) and walks for the likes of Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Dior, and Oscar de la Renta. Though her ability to captivate the crowds at shows is indisputable, what captured our attention is the way Trentini puts herself together.

Like many of her peers, Trentini tends to shy away from the boldest and brightest colors. Instead, when dressing for herself, she invariably reaches for understated tones and lots of delicate neutrals. Generally speaking, if she's wearing something long, it has a voluminous shape; if it's short, she makes sure she's wearing sleeves. Essentially, her selections demonstrate a refined sensibility and a predilection for feminine shapes. In fact, we think she might be our most girly MOD yet!

Of course, Trentini also knows the way texture and details can elevate any outfit, which she demonstrates time and time again. For example, she showed off a fresh set of bangs (we like!) and her fabulous taste in LBDs during New York Fashion Week while attending a dinner hosted by Carlos Miele and Vogue (above, far left). Trentini selected a black cocktail dress and simple gladiator heels (both by Carlos Miele) for the occasion, and added a shrunken Proenza Schouler jacket with cuffed sleeves. The sober jacket and shoes perfectly balanced the woven frock and inspired us to create a similar outfit for our next outing. If you'd like to do the same, we suggest pairing a zippy frock, like the Boutique Drop Bead Dress ($250), with a sharp little jacket, such as Silence & Noise's Little Brother Blazer ($69).

While that night she selected something short, Trentini often goes to the opposite extreme when creating event outfits. For a party at New York's Christian Lacroix boutique, our MOD went for a ground-grazing Silk Maxi Dress ($1200, 212.219.8250) by Osklen, one of her favorite Brazilian brands (second from right). In fact, Trentini was head-to-toe in pieces from her homeland, as she topped her charcoal gown with a cropped leather jacket by Zoomp. The contrast of the refined silk with the rougher leather is definitely worth emulating; try something like Selected Femme's Silk Printed Maxi Dress ($310), or even the more casual Classic Mini Pocket Long Dress ($110) by T by Alexander Wang, with a little leather jacket to achieve her look. Regarding the latter, if you want to save, check out Forever 21's Slant Zipper Moto Jacket ($33) or if you're ready for more of a splurge, Doma's Cropped Washed-Leather Biker Jacket ($630) is just the ticket.

The tendency to favor extreme hemlines and relaxed silhouettes carries over into Trentini's day-to-day outfits too. Spotted backstage at a Carolina Herrera show, today's spotlighted star wore another long loose frock from Osklen, similar to the Cotton Dress ($450, 212.219.8250), which is currently in stock in the brand's New York flagship store. Trentini accessorized with a vintage Ralph Lauren belt and Miu Miu moccasins, both in chocolate brown suede. Though it's definitely different, we think Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent's Long Navajo Sweater Dress ($323) has a bit of the same vibe, especially if you wore it with a pair of Minnetonka Moccasin's Peace Mocs ($39) or Aerosoles' Mandolin Flats ($69).

We'll end today's story on a high note—high hemline, that is—with a final Trentini look. Captured backstage at Michael Kors' Spring 09 show, our model wore a little Anna Sui Dress with a slouchy cardigan from the Gap (it's from the men's department!) and a pair of boots she bought in a Parisian vintage shop. Again, Trentini's ability to play with textures is highlighted by the contrast of the silky frock with a cozy cardigan and worn-in boots. To create your own version of this ensemble, just pair your favorite strappy little dress (like the Cherry Print Dress ($375) by Anna Sui) with a slouchy sweater. Topshop's stocking a couple of inexpensive cool options—like the Knitted Zip Long Cardigan ($80) and the Knitted Fluffy Cardigan ($70)—but we're going to save up for Theory's Valene Cashmere Cardigan ($335). It's so wonderfully soft and perfectly made; you'll keep it (and wear it) forever. Just add your favorite stompers, like Rag & Bone's Motorcycle Boots ($550), and you'll have a perfectly MOD look, Trentini-style!


On A Side Note
Just a quick reminder that our Los Angeles book-signing event is tonight! We'll be at Live! On Sunset from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., so please come by and say hello. Everyone from the WhoWhatWear.com team will be there and we're very excited about the festivities. Your support means so much to us, we know how lucky we are to have such amazing readers. Hope to see you there!

Los Angeles
Tuesday, September 29th from 6-8pm
Live! On Sunset
8801 Sunset Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
310.360.1660