Obsession du Jour: Feather Details
While the fall runways may be loaded with enough different looks and themes to satisfy almost any sort of style desire, the fashionable crowd invariably flocks to just a few select trends. Right now, bird is the word, and we're seeing of-the-moment feathered details and plume-accented pieces turn up on some of our favorite style muses, including Erin Wasson, Kate Bosworth, and Rachel Bilson.
As we inspected autumn’s many collections, we were pleased to note that feathers were used for a diverse range of outfits and accentuated lots of different pieces. In other words, there is no single key item to buy for this trend, so feel free to experiment! At Burberry, designer Christopher Bailey sent out beautiful, fully feathered jackets, clutches, and made-for-editorial dresses (one of which was worn by Kate Bosworth to the Night of Stars gala in New York on Friday). Karl Lagerfeld also sent out avian-inspired pieces at Fendi, including a Feather Trimmed Dress
($3690) and Feather Skirt
($925), while at Ralph Lauren and Carolina Herrera, models displayed feather-accented fedoras and other assorted chapeaux. Even Alexander McQueen got in on the trend with his blood red and snow white feathered dress that looked fit for a queen.
Runways aside, we know that using the words “feathered” and “clothes” in the same sentence might bring to mind visions of Vegas showgirls, Cher’s marabou Mackie moments, or even the San Diego Chicken, but this shouldn’t stop you from exploring this of-the-moment detail. There really are lots of understated, modern ways to work a few quills into any outfits and our risk-adverse readers should look to ladies like Rachel Bilson for suggestions on how to subtly add a little plumage. Seen above en route to the Whitney Art Party, Bilson gave her classic ivory halter Herve Leger bandage dress and nude Lanvin platforms an unexpected update by carrying Romanek Los Angeles’ feathered Celeste Clutch ($1580, 248.258.0212). Bilson’s bag is a bit much for our wallets right now, but we could definitely justify picking up Angel Jackson’s Feather Bag ($384), Topshop’s Feather Detail Clutch ($125) in blue or black, or even the aforementioned Forever 21 Fab Feather Wallet ($7.50). All of these options are a great way to add an element of fun to a dressy look and would be perfect for holiday parties or even New Year's Eve (it's never too soon to plan ahead!).
We also love the jaunty cool that a feathered hair accessory adds to any outfit, just check out the amazing headdress Erin Wasson wore to a Chanel dinner earlier this year and you’ll see what we mean! The model/designer crafted the accent piece herself: she simply purchased a length of feathers at a store in New York’s Garment District, wrapped it around her head, and the result was the above, couture-like creation. If you’re less DIY, try the Mars Headband ($42) from Lyte Accessories for a cheap and easy approximation of Wasson’s standout style. If you don’t want to put feathers on your forehead—and not everyone does—we suggest choosing a romantic, retro adornment from ban.do. These killer accessories start at around $75 (the gray one above is $90), come in a range of colors, and have stellar vintage rhinestone embellishments. If you want to really make the look your own, just custom order one by emailing: info@shopbando.com.
Of course, our boldest readers need choices too, and we’ve got a few statement options for you as well. One daring way to wear feathers is via a fluffy waistcoat, like the Elizabeth and James Plume Vest ($595) Mischa Barton wore to Bardot in West Hollywood the other night. Available in black or white, the vest looks best worn with modern accoutrement, like leather or pvc leggings, rather that hippie favorites, like bellbottoms. (Also check out the brand’s Plume Skirt ($765) in green/brown or black/white
, Feather Tank
($225), and
Feather Tee Dress
($345) for three well-executed examples of this trend.) You can also try the Suede and Feather Waistcoat ($125) from Topshop, as a slightly more subtle option. If you’d rather wear your feathers as a true accent, we’d like to suggest Givenchy’s super sexy Open Toe Booties
($964.95) for some ankle flair or the Feather Necklace ($76) by Miss KK. While these pieces are on either end of the price spectrum, both have rich plumes that will elevate even the most basic look.—additional reporting by Claudia Codron
Photos of Rachel Bilson and Erin Wasson, Getty Images. Photo of Mischa Barton, Pacific Coast News. Photo of Kate Bosworth, Splash News. Runway Images, First View.
As we inspected autumn’s many collections, we were pleased to note that feathers were used for a diverse range of outfits and accentuated lots of different pieces. In other words, there is no single key item to buy for this trend, so feel free to experiment! At Burberry, designer Christopher Bailey sent out beautiful, fully feathered jackets, clutches, and made-for-editorial dresses (one of which was worn by Kate Bosworth to the Night of Stars gala in New York on Friday). Karl Lagerfeld also sent out avian-inspired pieces at Fendi, including a Feather Trimmed Dress
Runways aside, we know that using the words “feathered” and “clothes” in the same sentence might bring to mind visions of Vegas showgirls, Cher’s marabou Mackie moments, or even the San Diego Chicken, but this shouldn’t stop you from exploring this of-the-moment detail. There really are lots of understated, modern ways to work a few quills into any outfits and our risk-adverse readers should look to ladies like Rachel Bilson for suggestions on how to subtly add a little plumage. Seen above en route to the Whitney Art Party, Bilson gave her classic ivory halter Herve Leger bandage dress and nude Lanvin platforms an unexpected update by carrying Romanek Los Angeles’ feathered Celeste Clutch ($1580, 248.258.0212). Bilson’s bag is a bit much for our wallets right now, but we could definitely justify picking up Angel Jackson’s Feather Bag ($384), Topshop’s Feather Detail Clutch ($125) in blue or black, or even the aforementioned Forever 21 Fab Feather Wallet ($7.50). All of these options are a great way to add an element of fun to a dressy look and would be perfect for holiday parties or even New Year's Eve (it's never too soon to plan ahead!).
We also love the jaunty cool that a feathered hair accessory adds to any outfit, just check out the amazing headdress Erin Wasson wore to a Chanel dinner earlier this year and you’ll see what we mean! The model/designer crafted the accent piece herself: she simply purchased a length of feathers at a store in New York’s Garment District, wrapped it around her head, and the result was the above, couture-like creation. If you’re less DIY, try the Mars Headband ($42) from Lyte Accessories for a cheap and easy approximation of Wasson’s standout style. If you don’t want to put feathers on your forehead—and not everyone does—we suggest choosing a romantic, retro adornment from ban.do. These killer accessories start at around $75 (the gray one above is $90), come in a range of colors, and have stellar vintage rhinestone embellishments. If you want to really make the look your own, just custom order one by emailing: info@shopbando.com.
Of course, our boldest readers need choices too, and we’ve got a few statement options for you as well. One daring way to wear feathers is via a fluffy waistcoat, like the Elizabeth and James Plume Vest ($595) Mischa Barton wore to Bardot in West Hollywood the other night. Available in black or white, the vest looks best worn with modern accoutrement, like leather or pvc leggings, rather that hippie favorites, like bellbottoms. (Also check out the brand’s Plume Skirt ($765) in green/brown or black/white
Photos of Rachel Bilson and Erin Wasson, Getty Images. Photo of Mischa Barton, Pacific Coast News. Photo of Kate Bosworth, Splash News. Runway Images, First View.
i love love love all this feather detail. I'm not a huge fan of the vest but I think it's because I prob couldnt pull it off.. Elizabeth and James actually has this black super low cut feather dress and it blows that skirt out of the water even though the skirt is gorgeous.. and i think that brown feather dress is overwhelming.. it takes over the whole look and the dress is wearing her shes not wearing the dress at all.
Posted by: kaa | 2008-11-02 18:43:59
I love the elizabeth and james skirt! it's really great! I'm not really into any of the other looks.Kate Bosworth's dress is too much feather detail if you ask me. It's like she's wearing a bird. I love peacock feathers! I wish you would've included some. Maybe in another post?
Posted by: carmen | 2008-10-30 18:24:16
I am really digging this feather details ultimately. They are so fabulous! Of course I would dare to wear them in small amounts. But I really really love that vest that Mischa Barton is wearing, is amazing! And that clutch that Rachel Bilson has is to die for! I am so impressed by the Elizabeth and James line, each piece is genious!
Posted by: Ilianexy Morale | 2008-10-30 08:36:15
Who'd have thought that the two little twin girls of "It Takes Two" (a fav movie of my childhood years) would be incredibly talented fashionistas? I want that skirt, and that surprises me. -Sarah- its because she's high as a kite. Which I guess in its own hippy way is awesome... never thought of it that way. The Givency boots and Rachel Bilson in general are to die for.
Posted by: missy | 2008-10-29 16:00:03
Not a big fan.
Posted by: kinky | 2008-10-29 12:09:21
Cute post! I love the Givenchy shoe and Erin's headpiece is amazing! I love that she went all DIY for such a glam event. I remember reading on style.com about Erin on the hunt for feathers before the Chanel party. Too cool! Rachel looks adorable as usual!
Posted by: jackie | 2008-10-28 22:30:47
LOVE iT! http://www.hanniscloset.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Sue | 2008-10-28 21:20:35
Erin Wasson did not make that headband herself! It was custom made for her by littledoe, and anyone can order them. Go to littledoeislove.com. Great lookbooks too...
Posted by: westvillage | 2008-10-28 19:42:49
Erin Wasson is just amazing, she can literally pull ANYTHING off! And those givenchy boots..wow! http://the-shades-of-black.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Amy Williams | 2008-10-28 18:22:56
LOVE feathers. i bought a feathered headband at bendel's last week. its neutral colour so it goes great with everything.
Posted by: tobie | 2008-10-28 16:06:21
I am completely lusting after the Elizabeth and James skirt. Snaps to MK!
Posted by: Candice | 2008-10-28 09:43:09
I love the feathers....and the birds don't have to die for us to use them! Although I love the fur, too!
Posted by: blinkbunny | 2008-10-28 09:25:05
Get feathers at FreePeople.com! http://search.freepeople.com/?q=feather We have some really great pieces coming in next week as well!
Posted by: Megan | 2008-10-28 09:17:50
In the words of the incredibly vapid Miss Lauren Conrad, "I LOVE THAT THERE'S FEATHERS!"
Posted by: Llew | 2008-10-28 09:02:09
i love feather details!! erin looks incredible as usual! she's stunning and has amazing style. so effortless and simple. i also love kate's dress. the color is very nice. great post!
Posted by: elizabeth | 2008-10-28 07:47:49
*the navy feathered clutch I mentioned below is from Zara.*
Posted by: stephanie | 2008-10-28 07:28:20
Great post- WhoWhatWear I have to say I look forward to reading your daily posts each morning over breakfast and you never disappoint: your team is excellent as you're always on trend and provide overall valuable suggestions. That being said, I just purchased a navy feathered clutch a la Rachel Bilson's (pictured). I adore that Elizabeth&James skirt- I've been eyeing it on shopbop for some time now. And for a headband like Erin's, Urban Outfitters recently had a similar (more modest) version in stock.
Posted by: stephanie | 2008-10-28 07:24:24
totally obsessed with feathers!! great post!! www.extra-spicy.blogspot.com
Posted by: crista | 2008-10-28 04:30:32
An unusual but cute trend! Less is SO more... However I love that Elizabeth and James skirt, despite being a skirt I don't think it would look like 'too much.'
Posted by: Vanessa | 2008-10-28 04:25:49
that totally does not look like kate bosworth! and that dress has been thrashed, god knows why, i find it positively revolting. i have actually decided, after much confusion over mischa, that she really has SO much of her own thing going on , she cares not a toss what we think, and that i have newfound respect for her and totally dig everything she does. rachel, she looks strange here, erin, ick, pah, spit her out, she always looks the same, trashy, lurrve fendi at the moment. that's all.
Posted by: sarah | 2008-10-28 02:54:00
Think this cud be a really bad look if not done right! Rachel looks great with just a small feather detail and not decked out entirely in feathers.
Posted by: melody | 2008-10-28 02:32:38