Here’s Everything I’m Buying to Dress Like My 22-Year-Old Style Icon

If someone asked me about my style icons, I wouldn't be able to tell you much. Other than Miles Davis, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga (random I know), there aren't a lot of figures that I definitively uphold in terms of style. Quite unexpectedly though, I'm adding a Gen Zer to my list, 22-year-old singer Ama Lou. She first popped up on my radar after hearing my friends rave about her debut EP, DDD, (which I definitely recommend giving a listen to), but it wasn't until her profile popped up on my explore feed that I realized just how good her style is.

If you break down Ama's look, it's pared-back yet not too overly simplistic that you're bored. It sort of hearkens back to Zendaya's recent GQ cover shoot–a spread that lives in my brain rent free–with the sleek menswear vibe of loose-fitting button-down shirts, oversized blazers, with a dash of streetwear. It eschews trends yet feels of the moment in the most carefree way possible. Looking at Ama's outfits I never get the sense that she spent more than 10 minutes picking out her clothes, and that's precisely the effortlessness I aspire to pull off. You never want to look like you're trying too hard.

I've been mulling over all the ways I can recreate her outfits, so of course, I'm sharing them with you here. Ahead, I'm taking a look at a few of Ama Lou's key style moments, along with all the pieces you need to nail them.

Outfit #1: A Showstopping Short Suit

Where: Bottega Veneta F/W 20 Runway Show

I famously hate shorts because I don't love the way they frame my legs, but these pseduo Bermuda shorts feel fairly doable. A short suit this length is not extremely common for womenswear, but I've managed to find two incredibly similar versions from Jacquemus and COS. I'd probably swap in strappy naked sandals for the derby shoes to fit my style, but overall I love this unexpected take on a summer suit.

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Outfit #2: Grandpa Knits

Where: Acne Studios Haute Couture F/W 19 Show

Here's a look I wouldn't mind living in for the rest of my life. Leather pants just ooze cool without even trying, so it makes sense that it sets the tone for the rest of this outfit. Although this look definitely feels timeless, grandpa-inspired sweater vests have been everywhere lately–from Gucci to Ganni. Of course, I can never turn down a gold chain, so I definitely approve of this 'fit from head to toe. 

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Outfit #3: The Event Suit

Where: AMI Paris Launch Party

Sooner or later, parties and events will become a thing again, and when that time comes this look will be waiting in the wings. I love the idea of forgoing a dress in favor of a relaxed formal suit. It's a bit subversive and chic, and I appreciate the added twist of a classic white sneaker for a streetwear edge.

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Outfit #4: Cool Girl Casual

Where: JW Anderson SS20 Show

Let's take a moment to veer into the casual side of things: three months into 2021, baggy denim is currently having its moment in the sun and it's likely only the beginning. These jeans feel like fashion's answer to the classic carpenter pant, and I'm completely here for it. The navy gingham shirt also emphasizes the menswear nod, as well as the black penny loafers (it seems like Ama loves a flat shoe as much as I do). 

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Outfit #5: Formal Leather 

Where: The Fashion Awards

Welcome to another formal look I'm bookmarking for the future. If it's not clear by now, the British singer is a master at pulling off leather, and this outfit gives me leather Canadian tuxedo energy. Stark white accessories break up the dark monotony of the black leather shirt and trousers, with the assist of Bottega Veneta's whimsical "sponge" clutch. The original bag will set you back a cool $8,400, so as an alternative I opted for one in a similar shape from ASOS. Once again a pair of loafers complete the look, albeit with interesting cutout details. 

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