What Would She Wear: Mary-Kate Olsen
Mary-Kate Olsen is a fashion favorite despite (or perhaps because of) the fact that there is no easy way to sum up all the different elements that compose her singular style. At first glance, it doesn't seem like there's a workable formula to her look. She appears to channel an assortment of muses, ranging from a tough-chic chick to a hippie free spirit to a Savile Row sophisticate. But when you deconstruct Olsen's outfits, some simple ground rules emerge: always pick strong directional pieces, pay an extraordinary attention to accessories, and take a devil-may-care attitude about the whole thing. In the spirit of Olsen's insouciant sartorial style, we rounded up a group of pieces with the actress/designer's esteemed taste for today's What Would She Wear story. Though that query could be answered in many ways, we think our selections are perfectly current for Olsen's look now.
1. Benjamin Eyewear Maggie Sunglasses ($325)
Always ahead of the curve, Olsen started a round-frame revolution via her choice of circular sunglasses. (Though they're de rigueur now, don't forget how outré they looked last summer, especially amongst the sea of Wayfarer-wearing celebs.) Needless to say, we wanted to include a pair in today's story, and picked Benjamin Eyewear's Maggie Sunglasses ($325) as our Olsen-inspired selection. We think our tastemaker would approve wholeheartedly of their perfectly proportion shape and how the polished metal frame compliments the gradient rose lenses. If you’re hard on your shades and prefer less pricey pairs, Urban Outfitters' Encircle Sunglasses ($24) have a similarly svelte look and feel.
2. Pour La Victoire Tia Platform Slide
($330)
A chameleon in her fashion choices, one thing that never changes is Olsen's commitment to wearing the season's most directional, radical, statement-making shoes. No matter if she's dressed a couture gown or clothed in a casual ensemble, you can always count on Olsen to wear a killer heel from the likes of Givenchy, Balenciaga, or Stella McCartney, as seen above. To get the look of the super-chic styles she's been sporting of late, we recommend checking out Pour La Victoire's Tia Platform Slide ($330). The platform sandal features mixed silver studs and a plethora of straps, a combo that's sure to add attitude and interest to any outfit.
3. James Perse Racerback Maxi Dress
($225)
In addition to busily making her mark as an emerging actress in independent film fare like The Wackness, Olsen is also committed to co-designing Elizabeth and James with her sister, Ashley. One of the key pieces that repeatedly appear in E&J collections is the maxi dress, so it's safe to say that the Olsens officially endorse the ultra-long frock. Accordingly, we found this modern, modest, and tie-dyed Racerback Maxi Dress ($225) from James Perse with our muse in mind. The muted gray palate and simple razorback silhouette would make the perfect backdrop for Olsen's more eclectic outfit add-ons.
4. Jacquie Aiche Amethyst Slice Hammered Ring ($1100, 323.468.9320)
When it comes to jewelry, for Ms. Olsen, more is more. The tiny titan loves to adorn her fingers with statement-making rings that often feature gorgeously oversized gems and semi-precious stones. This ridiculously lovely geode ring by Jacquie Aiche would look splendid on, especially if worn in conjunction with some modern metallic pieces. We also love the more budget-friendly but equally enthralling Geode & Silver Ring ($54) from The Jewellery People.
5. Elizabeth and James Superfine Leather Jacket
($755)
Although it is the other Olsen, Ashley, who is known for wearing more understated, drapey, simple pieces, we thought we would include Elizabeth and James' Superfine Leather Jacket ($755) for Mary-Kate. This snug number is sensuous, thanks to its narrow arms and a body-hugging shape, plus the cropped length makes it a perfect layering piece. Though it may seem unexpectedly basic, we think that anyone who can master boudoir robe jackets, boyfriend blazers, and motorcycle jackets (covered in oversized studs, no less) would definitely look amazing in this go-to piece.
6. Guerlain Kajal Khol Stick
($35)
Though she has been known to rotate hair color and lipsticks on a fairly regular basis, one item has remained an Olsen signature: subtly sexy black eyeliner. The look is both exotic and rock'n'roll, much like Olsen herself, and is remarkably easy to achieve—if you have the right products! We suggest trying Guerlain’s new, limited edition Kajal Khol Stick ($35) for three reasons: it's beautifully packaged, richly pigmented, and glides on super smoothly, making it ideal for novices and experts alike. Apply to the lower lid line and the inside rim of the eye to get the perfect Olsenesque, sultry, perfectly smudged effect.
7. Topshop Mixed Metal Indian Bangle Set ($17)
One of the most dazzling aspects of Olsen's overall look is her attention to detail and her inspired taste in accessories. Though her repertoire of decorative adornments includes body chains, knuckle rings, and headpieces, you needn't go to such lengths to get her look. Instead, try stacking Topshop's Mixed Metal Indian Bangle Set ($17) on your wrist to get an equally embellished look without veering into the extreme.
8. Alexander Wang Rico Bucket Bag ($795)
Thanks to its nineties sensibilities and low-key good looks, the bucket bag is making a thoroughly modern comeback. With tastemakers such as Alexander Wang and Miuccia Prada designing drawstrings bags for spring, we think that this shape is poised to be the next must-buy silhouette. With her preternatural ability to predict big trends before they hit, we think Olsen would love this fresh-looking Rico Bucket Bag($795) by Alexander Wang. Adorned with grommets and studs, this piece deftly balances luxury and cutting-edge cool, much like our subject herself.
If all this Mary-Kate Olsen information wasn't enough excitement, we’re also exceptionally thrilled to announce that the winner of the WhoWhatWear.com/PurseBlog.com Louis Vuitton Luggage Giveaway is Kaitlyn Thomson from New York, NY! Kaitlyn will receive four fantastic pieces from the famed fashion house, ensuring a lifestyle of stylish globetrotting.
Congratulations to Kaitlyn and thank you to everyone who entered our biggest giveaway ever! Stay tuned for the next WhoWhatWear.com contest, we promise it will be just as amazing...
1. Benjamin Eyewear Maggie Sunglasses ($325)
Always ahead of the curve, Olsen started a round-frame revolution via her choice of circular sunglasses. (Though they're de rigueur now, don't forget how outré they looked last summer, especially amongst the sea of Wayfarer-wearing celebs.) Needless to say, we wanted to include a pair in today's story, and picked Benjamin Eyewear's Maggie Sunglasses ($325) as our Olsen-inspired selection. We think our tastemaker would approve wholeheartedly of their perfectly proportion shape and how the polished metal frame compliments the gradient rose lenses. If you’re hard on your shades and prefer less pricey pairs, Urban Outfitters' Encircle Sunglasses ($24) have a similarly svelte look and feel.
2. Pour La Victoire Tia Platform Slide
A chameleon in her fashion choices, one thing that never changes is Olsen's commitment to wearing the season's most directional, radical, statement-making shoes. No matter if she's dressed a couture gown or clothed in a casual ensemble, you can always count on Olsen to wear a killer heel from the likes of Givenchy, Balenciaga, or Stella McCartney, as seen above. To get the look of the super-chic styles she's been sporting of late, we recommend checking out Pour La Victoire's Tia Platform Slide
3. James Perse Racerback Maxi Dress
In addition to busily making her mark as an emerging actress in independent film fare like The Wackness, Olsen is also committed to co-designing Elizabeth and James with her sister, Ashley. One of the key pieces that repeatedly appear in E&J collections is the maxi dress, so it's safe to say that the Olsens officially endorse the ultra-long frock. Accordingly, we found this modern, modest, and tie-dyed Racerback Maxi Dress
4. Jacquie Aiche Amethyst Slice Hammered Ring ($1100, 323.468.9320)
When it comes to jewelry, for Ms. Olsen, more is more. The tiny titan loves to adorn her fingers with statement-making rings that often feature gorgeously oversized gems and semi-precious stones. This ridiculously lovely geode ring by Jacquie Aiche would look splendid on, especially if worn in conjunction with some modern metallic pieces. We also love the more budget-friendly but equally enthralling Geode & Silver Ring ($54) from The Jewellery People.
5. Elizabeth and James Superfine Leather Jacket
Although it is the other Olsen, Ashley, who is known for wearing more understated, drapey, simple pieces, we thought we would include Elizabeth and James' Superfine Leather Jacket
6. Guerlain Kajal Khol Stick
Though she has been known to rotate hair color and lipsticks on a fairly regular basis, one item has remained an Olsen signature: subtly sexy black eyeliner. The look is both exotic and rock'n'roll, much like Olsen herself, and is remarkably easy to achieve—if you have the right products! We suggest trying Guerlain’s new, limited edition Kajal Khol Stick
7. Topshop Mixed Metal Indian Bangle Set ($17)
One of the most dazzling aspects of Olsen's overall look is her attention to detail and her inspired taste in accessories. Though her repertoire of decorative adornments includes body chains, knuckle rings, and headpieces, you needn't go to such lengths to get her look. Instead, try stacking Topshop's Mixed Metal Indian Bangle Set ($17) on your wrist to get an equally embellished look without veering into the extreme.
8. Alexander Wang Rico Bucket Bag
Thanks to its nineties sensibilities and low-key good looks, the bucket bag is making a thoroughly modern comeback. With tastemakers such as Alexander Wang and Miuccia Prada designing drawstrings bags for spring, we think that this shape is poised to be the next must-buy silhouette. With her preternatural ability to predict big trends before they hit, we think Olsen would love this fresh-looking Rico Bucket Bag
If all this Mary-Kate Olsen information wasn't enough excitement, we’re also exceptionally thrilled to announce that the winner of the WhoWhatWear.com/PurseBlog.com Louis Vuitton Luggage Giveaway is Kaitlyn Thomson from New York, NY! Kaitlyn will receive four fantastic pieces from the famed fashion house, ensuring a lifestyle of stylish globetrotting.
Congratulations to Kaitlyn and thank you to everyone who entered our biggest giveaway ever! Stay tuned for the next WhoWhatWear.com contest, we promise it will be just as amazing...
The AW bag is so gorgeous! He's just getting better and better. And black is a great color for the sure-to-be-new-it bag--plenty of options to add a little something to make it your own, like by adding some whimsical Tina Tang charms: http://www.tinatang.com/charms/goldluckycharms.html .:)
Posted by: TheTinaTangCrew | 2009-03-26 11:26:39
dress ring and jacket. divine! would kill for that dress egotrippingatthegates.blogspot.com
Posted by: D | 2009-03-23 09:54:20
I love love love that Jacquie Aiche ring - must have it! Thanks for posting - I would have never discovered it otherwise. I have already pre-ordered the Benjamin sunglasses - you should not have spilled the beans on the coolest shades of the season, hehe. And on a much heavier note, I'm not sure if this is supposed to be an inspiration post or not, but none of these pieces really seem inspired by MK. I mean, she would never wear any of this. Why not post a link to the actual Stella shoes and E&J blazer she is wearing in the pic, or even find replicas of those pieces for those who cannot afford them - that would be much more realistic, I think.
Posted by: Jamie | 2009-03-20 15:30:47
i think you did a great job finding the stuff... though it would have been a lot more difficult, and a lot more helpful for the average reader if the stuff was at a lower pricepoint? it's easy to find cool stuff when you are budgetless...you know?
Posted by: KELLY | 2009-03-20 11:05:24
I wish I didn't love her shoes as much as I do. Oh well, at least they're affordable.
Posted by: KatLuvsShoes | 2009-03-18 14:23:56
Give it a break! Saks spelled "kohl" incorrectly too... I think this post fully encompasses MK's style- that E&J jacket?! Too Good!
Posted by: L | 2009-03-18 14:01:02
in the photo above she's wearing an Elizabeth and James Blazer, a Leigh and Luca scarf, and Stella McCartney shoes.
Posted by: Sarah | 2009-03-18 10:22:29
i love the OLSEN twins! they both have a great sense of fashion!! LOVE THE BAG! AND im going to GET THE SHOES!!!
Posted by: pau | 2009-03-18 00:30:49
i would LIVE in those shoes everyday of my life...if i had the money (and guts) to spend that much money on a pair of shoes =/
Posted by: Britni | 2009-03-18 00:27:33
That dress would look terrible on her, she would look like even more of a dwarf! I love it though! Could never pull it off, but love it. The shoes are cute too, and you guys spelled kohl wrong. [: exquisillusiore.blogspot.com exquisillusiore.blogspot.com exquisillusiore.blogspot.com exquisillusiore.blogspot.com exquisillusiore.blogspot.com
Posted by: Hadley | 2009-03-17 21:39:40
I hate Marykate, she is a midget monkey. Hahahaah I am taller than her for sure. Hey, MK stop killing animals. Oh, and that dress looks waaaaaaaay too long for her. Cya. ;P
Posted by: MK-Hater | 2009-03-17 21:16:01
Ummm....does anyone notice how ridic this pic is? her head looks waaaay big- like it's superimposed...terrible photo
Posted by: meg | 2009-03-17 20:41:30
since when was mary kate olsen rock n roll or ethnic? cos black eyeliner sure doesn't make someone either of those things. ps. i adore most of her outfits and i always hate on most of your posts, so i will be a bit more giving and be honest in saying that this one does not suck. ps. the guerlain eyeliner is amazing, so is their KISS KISS lipgloss in the peachy color. and beware of the topshop bangles cos they are plated like urban outfitters shit and will turn your skin green.
Posted by: lux lisbon | 2009-03-17 17:46:21
For #6, it's spelled "kohl" not "khol". I've been googling it and realized it was spelled wrong. I love it, but i'm broke. I want a sample!
Posted by: Kamie | 2009-03-17 17:31:54
I LOVE this post! That leather jacket is gorgeous.
Posted by: Amy | 2009-03-17 17:19:30
Even though there's basically no way I could afford their clothes, and actually wouldn't wear them anyways... I am always inspired by the Olsen's style. Love the post!
Posted by: Leah | 2009-03-17 16:46:46
nope leia, you're not alone. whilst i may appreciate some of the clothes they wear, the olsens just creep me out. i could not possibly aspire to looking so freaky. they need to just lighten up, chill it down! and they always look so swamped and hunched and miserable.bad post.
Posted by: sarah | 2009-03-17 15:09:17
love MK
Posted by: ama | 2009-03-17 13:55:06
great post, heart MK's style . beautyandthestreet.blogspot.com
Posted by: Amber | 2009-03-17 12:33:22
I think I'm one of the only ones who doesn't like MK's look. She looks like she just woke up and threw everything on!
Posted by: Leia | 2009-03-17 12:25:59
love the geode ring... but i'm assuming you mean "racerback" not "razorback" in reference to the maxi?
Posted by: Jenny | 2009-03-17 11:24:51
can this post be any more stuck up? who do you think can afford any of this stuff? next time have more affordable options please.
Posted by: sabrina | 2009-03-17 10:40:30
The leather jacket is identical to the Rick Owens leather jacket that Ashley always wears
Posted by: Gillian Pesner | 2009-03-17 10:33:04
She's wearing Stella McCartney shoes: http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/39222
Posted by: Liz | 2009-03-17 10:04:04
LOVE LOVE LOVE any MK post. this one is just great. does anyone actually know what shoes MK is wearing?
Posted by: Ami | 2009-03-17 09:15:40
I could live in that dress all four seasons.
Posted by: Llew | 2009-03-17 08:29:34
love, love this post - MK is a true fashion icon!
Posted by: N | 2009-03-17 06:15:46
more ashley olsen too please!
Posted by: cc | 2009-03-17 05:46:18
Love the MK post.. love her style. Thanks :D
Posted by: Molly | 2009-03-17 05:28:46
i LOVE all of this :D great find on the eyeliner!
Posted by: nicole | 2009-03-17 04:05:22
Love this post.. love the site.. keep them coming! =)
Posted by: Alicea | 2009-03-17 02:03:24