Still Loitering: Sequin Outerwear

Tiny sparkly frocks have captivated red-carpet regulars for ages, so naturally we've explored the way some of the most praiseworthy fashion plates wear this glittering phenomenon. Though these pretty paillettes have somehow turned into the dominant decoration of cocktail-party outfits and hot-night-out ensembles alike, sequins aren't just for skirts and dresses. In fact, they consistently look fresh when worn as outerwear, especially when that shimmering cardigan or glittering jacket is paired with casual pieces, like jeans and a t-shirt. Today, we shall examine some of our favorite variations on this long-lingering adornment, demonstrated by past and present tastemakers, in Still Loitering: Sequin Outerwear.



At first glance, sequined outerwear might seem more appropriate for the holiday season, but it's actually an equally excellent option for summer outfits. After all, even during the warmer months, it never hurts to have a little coverage (which is all you get with sequins, they're not exactly tundra gear). Plus, this one glitzy piece will add an unexpectedly rich element to a more mundane outfit. Don't forget that the look is best when worn in a laid-back way, in the spirit of Lindsay Lohan, Daria Werbowy, Kate Moss, and, most recently, Emma Roberts. While each of these ladies styled their twinkling jackets in their own way, they have a few things in common: the use of sequined outerwear to create a vibe that walks the line between day and evening, masculine and feminine, rock' n' roll and elegant!

We first noticed this glittering garment in 2006 when Lindsay Lohan opted for a slouchy, shimmering cardigan to meet friends out and about in New York City. She mixed her cape-like coverall with a fedora and a hooded top, which resulted in a look that is casual and cool—perfect for a downtown rendez-vous! We recommend Elizabeth and James' Sequin Cropped Cardigan ($365), which reflects the less structured bell sleeved shape and luminous fabric of the Lohan-approved piece.

Another way to successfully don dazzling outerwear is by picking a boxy sparkling jacket, as seen on supermodel Daria Werbowy. The willowy catwalker picked light jeans and a draped shirt with her silvery selection for an after-party celebrating Giambattista Valli's F/W 07 runway show. While a shrunken blazer always looks smart, the attention-grabbing material adds a certain pop, creating a look that is sexy, fun, and festive—a combo Werbowy pulled off beautifully! Topshop's Premium Sequin Blazer ($160) is cropped and covered in twinkling square sequins, which will add an element of razzle dazzle to any outfit!

For a Kills concert last year in London, Moss achieved a lux-meets-bohemian vibe by combining her sheer cardigan with a paisley-printed scarf and gold drop-earrings. The overall look is very undone and glamorous—the kind of insouciant chic that is Moss' signature style. For those of you who love the decorative design on Moss' pick, we highly suggest checking out your favorite vintage boutique or searching sites like ebay.com, where we spotted some great shrugs and cardigans for very reasonable prices! For the more contemporary consumer, we also recommend MMMUNT's Sequin Silver Cardi ($139). Just grab your favorite patterned scarf and rough-and-tumble biker boots and Moss' look will be yours in a flash.

The most recent guardian of the glitz is Emma Roberts, who unlike Lohan, Werbowy, and Moss, opted for a more tailored and put-together backdrop for her sequined piece. Attending the New Museum's opening of "The Generational: Younger Than Jesus" exhibit (and hitting up the Mysteries of Pittsburgh after party) the darling dresser chose a gilded blazer, which she grounded with simple and monochromatic separates. If you like her dramatic clothing choice, check out Dolce & Gabanna's Sequin Blazer ($1795); its slim-fitting and the navy hue keeps the coat from looking too dressy. Les Chiffonier's Sequin-Sprayed Jacket ($755) is a similarly shaped gold rendition of Roberts' selection, and is the perfect way to make a sophisticated statement. We also couldn't resist presenting Topshop's Trophy Blazer ($370), which would look amazing with a black top and trousers a la Roberts, and just as chic with your beloved boyfriend jeans. The overall effect of these bedazzled options is glam without being ostentatious—a very 2009 sentiment, indeed!—KM

Photo of Lindsay Lohan, from X17; Photo of Daria Werbowy, from Getty Images; Photo of Kate Moss, from Pacific Coast News.