Look #2 comin’ atcha! Tuesdays are normally a studio day so with that in mind I opted to keep things suuuuper simple and comfy for the 2nd look in the challenge. This is a great outfit for in-office days filled with layouts, production art, shoots, email replies and just about everything else in between (read: dog walks). I’d probably switch to something a little different for a date night or dinner out but overall I’m very happy with this option for a casual work day.
INITIAL THOUGHTS
Right off the top I love the colour palette happening here. Cream, Grey, Burgundy and Black is surprisingly sophisticated and I’ve made a note on my worksheet that it’s one to keep in mind for all seasons.
Next thought, I am SO comfortable. But then…
As I mentioned earlier, I love these pants and I wear them a lot but find myself feeling self-conscious about the added volume at my hips when I’m taking photos in them. Yet, at the same time whenever I wear them out, without fail, someone comes up to say they love them or ask where I got them and that of course changes my tune immediately! So I guess it’s safe to say I’m torn. I’ll explore these more in-depth once I’ve tried them a couple of different ways.
The last initial feeling I have about this look is that it’s about as far as I’d like to go on the ‘masculine’ style scale. I like it and it’s empowering for sure, but I think I’ve found the edge of what I’m comfortable with. Duly noted!
Let’s talk about the next ‘item’ shall we? The Everlane shoe fairy delivered these oxblood beauties right to my doorstep and I’m so thankful she did because I might not have ever tried them otherwise. For the sake of full disclosure I’ll tell you that Everlane is a brand partner that I’m proud to work with on occasion. Sometimes, when new collections launch they’ll send me an item to test out and give feedback on. There are no strings attached and I’m never obligated to feature them or say nice things about the product. But 9 times out of 10 I love the item and I’m happy to share it with my readers in case they’re interested in it themselves. So that’s the scoop! Now onto these puppies!
I get a lot of inquiries about the Modern Oxford so here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions:
1 | Are they true to size? Yes. I typically wear a US size 7 and have these in the 7 and the length is perfect. I also have the modern loafer in a size 7 and these are not nearly as narrow. I think the team at Everlane really worked hard to make these wearable and practical for their customers. They should be snug to start and the leather will relax to fit your foot with wear.
2 | Do they rub your ankles? I had zero issues with that BUT I did opt for a pre-emptive band-aid on my heel to prevent rubbing and that really helped with the breaking-in process. I can happily say these shoes have not injured me in any way to date.
3 | How quick do they break in? As far as Italian-made leather shoes go, very quickly. I spent about 3 full days in them to start, walking Dobby, working in the studio, running errands etc. and they have since melded beautifully to my feet. I’ve probably worn them about 20 time now.
4 | What do you wear them with? Sometimes bare feet when it’s the perfect temperature. But mostly I wear them with a little sockette from the drugstore. I’m wearing them in these photos but you can’t tell and it just saves your feet from getting rubbed and the shoe from getting sweaty and stinky cuz, ew.
Finally, I’ll just add that these are possibly the most flattering flats I’ve had the pleasure of wearing. The ‘tapered’ toe is lengthening so it elongates the foot without turning you into a clown-footed buffoon as some pointed shoes can. I’ve never been into rounded toe oxfords as I have small feet to begin with and find they look even stumpier. I really can’t say much other than, if you’re into oxfords, try these!
If you have any other questions about them, just let me know in the comments! They also come in BLACK | COGNAC | BLUSH | BLACK + NATURAL
STYLE + FIT DETAILS
1 | BALANCE | I wanted to make sure I balanced the volume of the pants with a more fitted top and this turtleneck did the trick. I also think the sleek coat helps to stabilize the relaxed vibe of the work pant without feeling disjointed.
2 | CONTRAST | I like the heavy contrast between cream and black here but if it weren’t for the neutralizing grey sweater it might feel a bit too harsh. Well, maybe not, but let’s just assume so.
3 | CUFF | I’ve really only ever worn these pants with the cuffs rolled up and I think it’s key to reveal a bit of ankle before the shoe starts, plus, the cropped length is more flattering to me than when it’s left straight. I also like the super subliminal repetition of the rolled jacket cuffs too. Little touches like these help give the whole outfit a bit more character.
4 | FULL TUCK | I am all for a front tuck, as you know, but when I wear these pants with a flat shoe I like to highlight my waist and minimize bulk. A slim turtleneck tucks in real easy for a slim upper half.
5 | A POP OF COLOUR | I love the subtle but noticeable pop of oxblood in this outfit SO much.
And there we have look #2! I’m very pleased to say that so far these outfits have been both a pleasure to wear and totally weather appropriate. YAY!
Also, LOVING all the challenges going on the #stylebee10x10 feed. You guys are so freaking stylish!
- Coat n/a Reformation (similar options here and here and this navy dream is 25% OFF!)
- Turtleneck n/a Zara (similar made responsibly here, here in B/W, striped here and this one is made in Canada!)
- Clyde Work Pant in Natural from Elizabeth Suzann (I would probably order a size 2 now and I’m 5’7” and 125 lbs) This pair is similar and this pair has a much slimmer fit but same vibe, both on sale!
- Modern Oxford c/o Everlane
- Eloise Bag by The Stowe (currently 25% OFF!)
- Split Ring c/o CLAUS
- FRESH Lip Treatment
This post is not sponsored but contains affiliate links. When you shop via the links above I may make a small commission from a sale. All opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Style Bee!
Love the pants on you! I can understand wanting to de-emphasize hips, (as I have wide hips myself), but you have nothing to worry about in these! Perhaps it was the tucked-in shirt, but whatever it is, it works!
Thanks for reviewing the oxford- I’ve been deciding between those and the modern loafers. Couldn’t help notice you said you stayed true to size in the modern loafer? I thought everyone sizes up?
Thanks Jessica! So appreciate the kind words and positivity 🙂
So, I didn’t size up in the loafer, I bought them before the sizing notes were added. I have quite narrow feet so with a fair amount of breaking-in I was able to make them work. My baby toes get smooshed after a long day in them but for the most part they’re OK. Modern oxfords are WAY better fit-wise though. Hope that helps! xo
I’d love to hear more of your thoughts on the ES cold weather collection, Lee! My perpetual problem with the Clydes, which seems like would also be true of the Crescent pants, is how wearable they become once temperatures drop and bare ankles are not an option. I always cuff my (green) Clydes too and find they look a little goofy/military with the lace up ankle boots that I turn to in fall and winter. (I feel the same about the cocoon coat since it’s got shortish sleeves and no closure, which seems impractical in Chicago.) And thanks for the intro to The Stowe! I took the plunge a few weeks ago and got the green mini Charlotte.
Hey Emma! Happy to chat ES CW!
What you mentioned is my same issue, exposed ankles are a no-go once it gets properly cold here too. I have the Wool Clydes from last winter and they’re amazing (shocked that she didn’t repeat those!). I wear them with thick socks and Pistol boots or Sorels when it has snowed and that works. The cotton Clydes just don’t retain enough heat for the real winter months but they’re good up until late December in S. Ontario. If anything I think the Florence pants might be the way to go as you could wear tall boots under them and even a pair of tights!
I adore my Cocoon Coat but I wish it had some sort of closure. Even when it’s not super cold it would be nice to not be at the mercy of the wind all the time haha. I was hoping she would do another wool coat like last year but I guess in Nashville it just doesn’t get that cold!
So glad you like the Stowe! Her bags are so well made it’s crazy. You’ll love it! I wear mine as a cross-body to keep my cocoon coat closed haha. I’m currently scheming for another one. xo
Love this outfit, Lee, and the comprehensive post. You always go into just the right amount of detail on fit and stuff. Much appreciated!!
So, I have my own version of this story which is that whenever I wear a pair of pleated menswear inspired pants that are not at all a “skinny jean” shape I get so many compliments from other women. And I’ve been on the complimenting end too. I agree with Michelle– I think we respond to certain styles on other people because they seem confident and individual, giving a polite middle finger to whoever it is that tells us what we should wear and how we should look. That we need our clothing to flatter our feminine shape in only one specific way. Anyway, if I saw you out and about wearing this outfit, I would totally flag you down and tell you how rad you look. I think you nailed the proportions and the colors are spot on.
Also, side note, what are your thoughts on Elizabeth Suzann’s new Crescent pants? I think I’m obsessed…
Lindsey, Thank you so much! This is such an insightful comment and I so appreciate it 🙂 I totally agree that we respond to the way people carry themselves and if it’s with confidence, that’s very appealing. I’ve often thought I should get little business cards made that say something like, ‘You’ve got fabulous style.’ and hand them out to people I think look fab. Although they’d probably think I was accosting them!
Oh man, I just want to talk about the new Cold Weather collection with anyone who will listen! I’ve honestly got mixed feelings about some pieces and the crescent pants are one of them. To me they are equal parts amazing and insane, which is usually why I like something but I’m undecided haha. xo
Hi Lee.
Great outfit.
Just wondering – I know you mentioned you tucked in the top to emphasize your waist, but if you feel your hips are accentuated, would the turtleneck untucked hide that a bit?
Just a thought.
I think you look great though.
And thanks for pointing out Canadian made items when you come across them!,
Monica, thanks so much for your suggestion. I tried the un-tuck but then I just sort of felt like an apple with no figure. I know what you mean though, tucking it all in does accentuate the hip, but I prefer those proportions when I’m in flats. With platforms I’ve worn these pants with a loose tee-front tucked and loved how that worked (here’s the outfit post).
Glad you spotted the Canadian note! I’ll keep at it. xo
I think that these pants are empowering. I don’t think they look too puffy on you. Also love the shoes and thanks for reviewing it… glad you did because with a size 9 that I will need, I now know that these shoes won’t work on me. I never thouht feet could ever be too small.
Thanks Michelle! ‘Puffy’ is exactly the word I was looking for and trying to avoid obviously. haha
Just my personal oppinion on the oxfords, they might be fabulous on you. My friends/family have often asked how I even stand with such tiny feet! haha So I might have developed a bit of an unnecessary issue. xo
Love the shoes! And the colour palette. I generally wear black and greys…with occasional red accents. Really like the ox-blood colour here more than the brighter red I normally choose. Seems to add more depth and character.
Thanks Dana! You know I used to go for bright, saturated reds but never felt quite right. Maybe give a deeper shade a try and see how you like it! xo
I bought these pants second hand from eBay and wanted to love them but I was too unhappy about the added bulk in the middle. I’m 5’7″, 129 lbs. but I just didn’t feel comfortable wearing them. Lesson learned? No matter how amazing something is, if it doesn’t feel right pass it along to someone else who’ll love it.
This is a great color combo and you’re killing its with these comprehensive posts! The scope and attention to detail is unparalleled: the Style and Fit Details section is so useful. Thank you!
Alex, That is such a good lesson! Probably one of the hardest to accept, at least for me, but so key to closet contentment. So glad you’re liking these more in-depth posts! It’s been fun to dig deeper. xo
Alex- If you’re looking to resell (and haven’t already) I’m super interested! I have been scouring eBay like a mad woman.. ha!
Cute outfit! I’ve been interested in those pants because everyone seems to love them, but I’m short and hippy. I’m just not sure I could pull them off even if they look so good on everyone else.
Thanks Judith. Honestly, I think it just depends on the person more than anything. If you’re determined to rock them you will and if not then they probably aren’t meant to be. They definitely take a bit of confidence to start but they really grow on you! xo
Great color combo! My (Nisolo) oxfords are one of my shoe options too. These pants are so cute on you, tucked in is definitely the way to go. 10 out of 10 for this one lee. Looking forward to the rest. Xo.
Thanks Jodie! Those oxfords suit you really well. I love my Elizabeth slides so I can imagine the oxfords are just as beautifully crafter. xo