What To Do When People Question Your Fashion Quirks

by Jackie Johnson | 2:47 pm, April 2nd, 2010

“I tuck my neckties into my pants — always have and probably always will. It’s a neat tuck, extending only about an inch below the waistline. This practice results in some weird looks, but I dig it, and I see it as a throwback-type thing. Still, it seems that only really old dudes do this, and I’m in my mid-30s. Assuming it’s not the worst offense imaginable, give me a good style-savvy retort to use when people question it. Up until this point, the best I could do was quote Isaac Mizrahi, who I once heard say that everyone should have one goofy style thing they’re known for.”

Well, Mr. Mister let me just say, you are awesome. Fashion quirks are only worthwhile if you are willing to own it and keep it consistent which it sounds like you are doing.

Quirks keep it interesting. For instance, the guy who wears the impeccable Tom Ford suit but pairs it with striped pink and green socks or the guy who wears the same Woody Allen-esque mustard corduroy blazer with the now retro John Kerry pin every day during the Fall. (I shall not name names).

The best advice for those trying to defend their quirks is to not take fashion so seriously and I, personally, think the ‘retro tie tuck’ is a win. As for a style-savvy retort, I give you this. If it is a guy who throws a dig, I would simply reply, “Really? Cause that’s not what your girlfriend said.” Zing! Okay, okay okay. for real. I love the Isaac Mizrahi quote. I would also throw out Coco Chanel’s “Fashion fades, only style remains” — or perhaps even go with “It’s my thing.” I mean, at this point the whole staff at Styleite has your back and we are fashion ninjas.

Where can I get an affordable and cute trench for spring?

Imma let you finish, Burberry — but Target has the cutest, cheapest trenches of all time.

Seriously though: Target’s Mossimo collection has an array of trenches from khaki to cropped for under $35 and they are super cute.

While khaki trenches are a staple, for this spring season, the olive green and navy trenches are the way to go. Urban Outfitters has an adorable navy trench for only $68. Happy Spring!

How do you feel about all these ‘cut out’ bathing suits I have been seeing? Also are one pieces passe?

How do I feel about them? Or how do they make me feel? Well, they give me a ton of anxiety in a “I should start doing spin class twice a day” kinda way. But that is neither here nor there.

Style factor? They are highly editorial, definitely photograph-able, and very cool. Practicality factor? Ridiculous. A friend of mine was actually showing me her tan from this sweet little number, and let me tell you: it was not cute. However, I do think there is a time and a place for them, like pool parties or BBQs where your goal is more to have fun than it is to tan.

I am a huge fan of one pieces! Passe, puh-lease! More like sashay shante. That retro goodness is making a comeback in a big way. My favorites this season are all from J.Crew — like this adorable bandeau one piece and this ruffled Lomellina® number. Work it girl!

E-mail your questions to info@styleite.com!

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Jaclyn Johnson is a Los Angeles based style blogger and freelance marketing consultant. She currently blogs at SomeNotesOnNapkins.com. You can learn more about her at JaclynJohnson.org.