When I think of Tibi, I generally think of light fabrics, frilly accents, and vibrant patterns, what I’m used to seeing at Bloomingdales or Saks. I was in for a nice surprise when I checked out the Tibi Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear show at New York Fashion Week. Designer Amy Smilovic, played with soft and hard looks, combining delicate fabrics and feminine prints with artillery detail and military influence. She did the same with colors, mixing navy, grey, and olive green, with warmer tones like rose and burgundy. I loved that Smilovic incorporated edgier detail, like leather and studs, in a delicate way that kept the softness and femininity of the brand.
My favorite looks? The leather artillery pouch, the cropped silk pant with draping bow, and the endless layering over cotton tees (Tres chic and economical!) All looks I can see on front row attendee and ‘City’ girl, Olivia Palermo.
While the styles shown at Fashion Week are for the upcoming fall and winter seasons—grr, like seven months away—us online editors get a little antsy and like to use these flash-forward trends ASAP. So, we’re giving you Tibi-inspired runway styles you can wear right now.
Silence & Noise Paperbag Trouser, $58. These aren’t your mom’s pants anymore, especially when you pair them with sky-high heels. The ruffle on the waistband gives it an extra touch of pretty.
Adam Emma Twill Pleated Shorts, $225. Structured, tailored shorts are great transitional pieces. Wear with opaque tights on frigid days and bare-legged when the weather gets warm. Dress it up or dress it down. It’s the ultimate purchase.
Banana Republic Washed Silk Military Shirt, $79.50. Pair this top with trousers or shorts (above) and you have the Tibi look instantly. Remember, wear one military piece at a time, ladies.
Diane von Furstenberg Military Vest, $245. A utilitarian vest must be paired with a fun print to get the perfect look for any soldier of fashion.
Leather Cylinder Pouch, $16.99. I’m not trying to bring back the fanny pack or beeper holster—ick. But I couldn’t help but love the unusual look at Tibi. Get your leather ammo (or lipstick) holder at a hunting store for cheap. Hey, it’s authentic. Oh, what we do for fashion.
Alexander Wang Brenda Mini Camera Bag, $425. Fine, maybe the hip pouch isn’t your thing. This mini cross-body leather bag has that same rugged touch.
3.1 Phillip Lim Double-Breasted Cardigan, $375. The same goes for this grandpa-inspired knit. Cold weather absolutely calls for plaid.
Asos Scoop Neck Maxi Dress, $44.83. From the looks of this season’s Fashion Week, floor-length dresses and skirts are in. Play around with layering cotton pieces with this simple maxi dress or wear with a more structured jacket.
Forever 21 Military Sheath Dress, $27.80. Wear this uber-trendy piece with a heather grey long-sleeve tee, grey ribbed tights and chunky heels and you’ve got a winner this winter.
– LINDA VONGKHAMCHAIN
Splash image by Meagan Aguyo
Written by Sabrina Alexis
