Well Darlings, it’s that time of year again. As the end of summer approaches and the weather begins to shift, I find myself reaching for those items in my closet that can easily transition into fall. I’m not quite ready for turtlenecks and plaid skirts, but somehow a caftan or sundress doesn’t feel right either.
It’s more about trading in your summer silhouettes and brighter colors for something more subtle.
One of my favorite go-to transitional looks that works from season to season is the tuxedo. I know you’re thinking I’ve really lost my marbles this time, but it’s not just any tuxedo. It’s the Canadian Tuxedo! This look was so named after Bing Crosby—dressed in head to toe denim—when he was denied entrance into a fancy Vancouver hotel. After his friends back home caught wind of the story they contacted Levi Strauss and had a denim tuxedo jacket designed for the singer.
Denim on denim is a classic style that can easily look like a costume, especially on women over a certain age. So I’ve put together some simple rules to help you carry off this look.
1. Wear only one western inspired piece at a time. Too much western wear will have you looking like a cattle rancher. A tooled belt with a big silver buckle… paired with a sleek ankle boot… would look fabulous, but leave the western boots at home.
2. Mix a darker wash denim with a lighter wash. In other words, don’t look too matchy-matchy with the top and bottom, which can look dated on us. Unless you’re twenty-something Gigi Hadid, wearing matching denim is a trend for the younger set.
3. Accessorize with on-trend pieces. Whether it’s a leopard clutch or a supple leather bag, your accessories can elevate your look. My 70’s inspired “Moon Bag” by Staud is set to become THE bag for fall 2019. Available in several different colors and textures, it’s both stylish and functional.
4. Your shoes set the tone for this look. Imagine your double denim ensemble with a pair of strappy sandals for a night on the town? Or how about a pair of chunky heeled boots for a trip to the farmer’s market? Practically anything will work with this look. For my casual denim vibe I chose a canvas and leather boot from Patricia Nash. The Sabina boot with its wrapped leather laces has a handcrafted, rugged feel which gives it a unique look.
So remember my fashionable friends, let the cowboys go to the denim rodeo. This version of the Canadian Tuxedo is for all you grown-up girls on the go!
Cheers Loves!
XOXO, Hildie
9 Comments
Hildie – I love this look. I didn’t know how it became known as a Canadian tux, love learning new things, thank you!
I never even thought about adding strappy sandals to dress it up… fun! Now for it to cool down here in Texas, and I’ll give it a try!
XO
Hildie, I love this outfit and thanks for the much needed tips about how to wear an all denim look. It’s not obvious, but I think you nailed it. Like Donna, I’m waiting for our Texas temperatures to drop below 100. Yikes!! Maybe I should come see you until then. xoxox, Brenda
Wonderful post! I always love Hildie’s advice. Somehow I have never acquired a denim shirt. I love stretch so much and it’s hard to find a stretch denim top. I do have some great new leopard boots though that would go great with denim: one lucky brand low-heeled casual style and one Sam Edelman dressier style with 2″ heels. That could create a mean evening look! Thanks for the inspiration. I’ll post on IG once I get it together. @sheilamerle1.
I don’t have anything denim. My high waist makes it hard to wear jeans, but I love the story about Bing Crosby. And slick ankle boots always look fabulous!
Oh, to look like you’re illustrations. All your women look so good. Right now it’s still too hot in Southern California. Can’t wear your look but love it. And you rock it.
Hilde
Love your fashion advice! I would totally wear your look. Great advice! You always look so ravishing! I am with Sandra. If only we could look like you!
Hilde- this is great advice. Love denim- always have, always will.
YOU ARE ON YOUR GAME HILDE!
LOVE THE BACK STORY!
XX
I love the look and never knew about The Canadian Tuxedo…. I need those boots. x