July 2006

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you had fail proof accessories? Things that could be thrown on for quick trip to Whole Foods and worn for a long night at the Oscars. Something distinctive and timeless. Here are three pieces that have not only withstood the test of time, but are safe bets for a stylish future.

RJ Graziano

Cleopatra drank the wealth of nation (and won a bet with Marc Antony) when she dissolved a pearl in a goblet of vinegar. Jacques Cartier bought his Fifth Avenue landmark store in 1916 by trading two pearl necklaces for the property. Coco Chanel, Jackie O and Madonna all recognized the style of pearls. You can follow their lead with white pearls or choose a colored strand.

Nordstrom

Hoop earrings have been found in ancient Greek tombs on Crete dating back to 2000 BC. In the 16th century, pirates wore gold hoops to pay for funeral costs. Sailors wore hoops to indicate they had sailed around the world or crossed the equator. The clean, simple lines of hoop earrings are (as always) tres moderne today, with or without an oceanic adventure. Choose silver, gold or copper or look for an adorned version.

Alexis Bittar

Cuffs evolved from Roman armor designed to protect soldiers’ forearms. Vikings required their conquered lands to create bracelets for them. No one will argue that a bold cuff can carry an outfit. Pair one with jeans as a funky accessory or use them for dramatic flair with formal attire.

Katharine Hepburn had intelligence and pedigree. Audrey Hepburn combined innocence and impishness. Marilyn Monroe had that va-va-voom-ness. They all had classic dress shirts in their wardrobes. Nothing takes you from here to there and back again as easily as a dress shirt. It can be dressed up or down, worn prim or provocative. Whether you wear it to work or it’s the only thing you pack for a romantic weekend, you’ll have the starring role.

Lafayette 148

Katharine Hepburn almost always wore her button down shirt with trousers and the sleeves rolled up. Capture that refined sense of independence and authority with French cuffs. Wear bright cufflinks for a splash of color.

Ann Taylor

Audrey Hepburn made her own wrap shirt out of a standard button down and a safety pin. The versions this season have the same joie de vivre of Audrey, but with more user friendly closures. Ballet flats, of course, are the perfect accessory.

La Redoute

Marilyn Monroe wore her white menswear styled oxford with nothing else for maximum sex appeal. If you’re feeling a tad more proper, wear one as a bathing suit cover up for a similar effect. Large sunglasses are a necessity.