Wearing tweed with toes in the sand rather than in pumps.
That is the evolution of fabric iconized by Chanel since its genesis in 1924. Chanel commissioned dresses and suits to be fashioned in the fabric from a Scottish factory which gave the look a more traditional Scottish countryside aesthetic, according to Elle.
Since then, the woven textile has adapted for the modern woman for every occasion, whether she be sporty or feminine. This is thanks to the late Karl Lagerfeld who acted as Chanel’s Creative Director over the last 36 years (seceded by former Chanel Art Director, Virginie Viard).
One of Karl Lagerfeld’s final collections couldn’t be more exemplary of his modernization of the luxury brand: The Chanel Spring 2019 Ready-to-Wear show taught fashionistas around the world that tweed can work for the summer, specifically as beachwear. I decided to draw inspiration from the runway and take tweed oceanside, to Balboa Island just outside Newport Beach, CA.
Strolling down the Balboa Island’s boardwalk feels très chic—or should I say, Krischic (If you were ever wondering, that is the phrase I play on with my blog name and nickname) in this blue and red tweed pinafore from Zara. The frayed trimming on the shoulder and A-line cutoff give the fabric a laid-back persona, perfect for a waterfront walk. The same goes for the fraying on the pockets of this dress.
I love the low-V neckline because it makes the accessorizing options for this piece endless: I chose a gold crown necklace I bought in Germany a few years ago for my neckwear, but could see this dress pairing well with a silk ascot as well. Another tip from the Lagerfeld era of Chanel: accessorizing is everything when working with such a stiff fabric! I am wearing my embroidered Mary Jane shoes, as the roughness of the denim pairs well with the hefty textile of the dress. The floral embroidery on the shoes give off more of a Dolce & Gabbana vibe, which you may know is my favorite brand from my little quiz on Instagram! To shield myself from the sunlight (I did something today I rarely do by shooting this editorial direct sunlight!), I am wearing Prada sunglasses that make me feel like Audrey Hepburn—or Anna Wintour, it depends on the day and my mood!
Final accessories: a Michael Kors crossbody tied with a black and red floral scarf…and a side of fries! My friend Terra Atwood (who took these lovely photos!) and I couldn’t resist a lunch break at Ruby’s while on the island. Just imagine Coco Chanel in a tweed suit biting into a burger! I shall leave you with that image.
Keeping it Krischic,
Kristin Vartan
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Keeping it Krischic 