It has been a couple of weeks since fashion week, but I thought a nice way to finish up our series would be to take some outfit inspiration from the runway. The outfit below is from Carlos Miele’s Fall 2012 collection and was one of my favourites of the week. It mixes classic and fashion forward items, which I love to do. Luckily, the fairly seasonless outfit is easy to emulate with mainstream retail pieces that have a similar integrity. 

Here are the components of my version:

Soft blouse + Slouchy trousers + Obi belt + Peep Toe Booties 

You could sport the look at the office, or wear it out on a date with friends. If you substitute the high heels for a more walking-friendly option, you could wear the combination out and about for a day of shopping and errands.

Soft Blouse

I’ve chosen an oversized, soft printed long sleeved shirt and buttoned it right up to the top. Scrunch the sleeves and tuck it into the trousers. You could choose a solid colour, and a different style of blouse. The key is to keep the top soft so that it drapes against the torso. 

Slouchy Trousers

This style of tapered trouser, with pleats and high waist, is at the heart of the look. Substituting them for a classic pair of regular slacks will not be the same (although that would still be a great outfit). The tapering of the trousers allows the booties to be worn over the hems and make a spunky statement.

Obi Belt

Keeping the colour of the belt the same as the trousers minimizes the horizontal line created across the body. If the obi belt is “too much belt”, thread a regular belt through the belt loops of the trousers. 

Peep Toe Booties

This stye of shoe was all over the runways, but wearing strappy black sandals will work just as well. Black closed toe booties, wedges or pumps are also good options. 

I’ve left off the hat and patterned waist tie, and thrown in a colour blocked handbag and a watch. Add jewelry as desired. All that’s left for you to do is rock this elegant and sassy combination.