From Restrained To Wild Via Essentials

I’m wearing:

KENNETH COLE NEW YORK QUINCIE BUCKLE ANKLE BOOT | KENNETH COLE BLACK LABEL POPLIN BLOUSE | KENNETH COLE BLACK LABEL OFF-THE-SHOULDER SILK BLEND DRESS | KENNETH COLE BLACK LABEL WIDE LEG CULOTTE PANT | KENNETH COLE NEW YORK Cropped Textured Knit Top (sold out, similar style linked)

At a time when classic fashion houses find themselves wrestling on the same playing field with younger labels – some by forward-thinking, amateur designers, I have to say, there is certain artistic patience and maturity in the former that I appreciate.

I mean, the eco system of the industry runs on a balance of design conceptions that resonate with seasons as well as the timeless essentials.

Nothing ultra trendy or cynical but simply aesthetically long-standing and reassuring, essentials like these Kenneth Cole pieces I’m wearing seem to well tolerate manipulating context and personal identity to the garments, a major feat in my view given the current market outlook where individual languages aspire to shape and be heard.

Through working with KC this time, I find it invigorating to be reminded once again that we can build a look with essential pieces like these that not only is nine-to-five sophisticated but could also potentially fit in something wild and passionate, like the trending Angeleno lifestyle, and delivers some instant effortless chic.

Mix and match, or layer the monochromes and neutrals, there are multiple routes to enrich these classics for something exotic and refreshing – in my case specifically, subtly sporty.

Among all things I am layering on me, these slightly androgynous ankle boots are a personal favorite. The tonal adjustable buckles, the sleek pointy toes, and the stacked chunky heels all blend to form something I consider as style fundamentals – the kind of wardrobe essentials that will stay relevant even as our taste and life circumstances evolve.

I’m wearing:

KENNETH COLE NEW YORK QUINCIE BUCKLE ANKLE BOOT | KENNETH COLE BLACK LABEL POPLIN BLOUSE | KENNETH COLE BLACK LABEL OFF-THE-SHOULDER SILK BLEND DRESS | KENNETH COLE BLACK LABEL WIDE LEG CULOTTE PANT | KENNETH COLE NEW YORK Cropped Textured Knit Top (sold out, similar style linked)