For context on this discussion, please see this post.
The Prince (work)
Key words: cerebral, poised, principled, efficient, elegant, enigmatic
Vibe: Minimalist, menswear inspired, tailored, architectural
Style notes: solid colours, menswear-inspired patterns, luxe fabrics, no frills, blazers + pants (mostly), interesting but subtle accessories
Favourite colours: black, dove grey, dark plum, cream
Never would I have thought I’d live to see the day when I would choose trousers over skirts (or dresses), but the day has arrived. If I am looking for something tailored, a trouser-blazer (or trouser-sweater) combo is my go-to these days.
Menswear-inspired clothing has always been a tricky proposition for me, because it sort of goes against my body type – a pear-ish hourglass. Sheath dresses and skirts would be traditionally considered more flattering for my body type, or at least more likely to highlight my “best” feature (waist-to-hip ratio). I do look good in those option, but as I get older, I find that dressing for conventional standards of attractiveness has, well, less attraction for me. I think that, in general, I have less patience for and desire to meet external expectations regarding personal choices. In fact, the opposite is true: it’s almost as if I enjoy thumbing my nose (politely, because the Prince is always polite) at those expectations.
For many years, menswear was also largely ruled out by my love of florals and bold colours. This is not to say that the two cannot mix but, generally speaking, florals are typically paired with more feminine-leaning clothes. I still love my colourful prints, but I am learning that I can appreciate them without wearing them. Not all of them, anyway. I am now starting to express my love in other ways – by taking up embroidery, for example.
For each of my style character, I have tried to pick an individual (real or fictional) who embodies the spirit — though not necessarily the aesthetic — of that persona/avatar. The Prince gave me the most difficulty because, while I have a very clear image of who he is, I haven’t been able to think of a perfect representation in popular culture. There is some elements of Westley (Princess Bride) but with a darker edge, though not quite Machiavellian all the way. Maybe if Westley and, hmm, Snape had a baby, we would be getting closer to it
Anyway, here’s some inspo:
And are some past outfits that would be in the right ballpark:
Psst.. Flamboyant gamine is boyish 🤣
I love Princess Bride. I have a son who is in part named after that movie. I’m also reminded a bit of what’s his face from the Tudors… Jonathan Rhys Myers?
I have two style personas and one is more boyish than the other. My Retro Tomgirl style is influenced by the beastie boys Sabotage video and that 70s show. But it’s more casual than my Regal Powerbitch style. Both loosely fit under Kibbe flamboyant natural and my usual colour palette.
This is very interesting! I’m really looking forward to reading the rest in the series about your other style avatars to see how it all ties together. It makes sense – your clothes reflect who you are and I’m a different person at work, at home, with friends. Or rather I’m the same person; I’m just reflecting a different side of my personality.
Great post, and I’m looking forward to the rest in the series! This makes me realize that one of the recent additions to my closet (these open sweater blazers that I’m really enjoying) has a somewhat “prince”-ly vibe. They feel very menswear inspired and the collar detail reads… I’m always tempted to describe it as being somewhat patrician or priestly when I notice it in the mirror, though I think either term is way overstating the effect, haha.
Ooh, I like that – the Patrician. I might use that for my femme take on the Prince, haha! It’s either that or the Architect, but I can’t quite settle on a name …
I like this! And based on your past post, I’m still ruminating a bit on what my style avatars (and stories) are…
It’s a fun exercise! Please share when you’ve decided (if you’re comfortable)
I love this post Adina, both the style and your description of it. It does suit your personality and body type. It was a treat meeting you, and thank you for the Escada pants–what a find! Very generous of you to pass them on to me. They fit like they were sewn on my body. Look forward to your next visit to Texas. I’m hoping that by your next trip, my thrifting abilities have improved, and that I may find something to pass on to you (Nicole has me in training!–what an awesome lady! So glad she moved to Houston).
Elisa, I had the BEST time hanging out with you and Nicole, and I am so sad that I don’t get to do it all the time. Please, please get that blog started or get working on an autobiography – I would be first in line to read either!!
Hope you enjoy the pants, they were meant for you!