The Shopping Bag: Add some sophistication with two-toned Mary Janes

Header image for Interrobang article CREDIT: SHOES AND BAG FROM JUSTFAB.CA

Trends come and go, and ways to style certain pieces can change from time to time, but there are some outfits that stand the test of time and look stylish regardless of what is hot in the world of fashion.

In today's hot fashion trends, boho can be mixed with edgy pieces with one simple accessory change, but there's something about the polished and sophisticated look of a silk blouse and high pencil skirt that will always be in style — the combination is conservative but also sexy at the same time.

The leather high-waisted skirt creates a sleek silhouette from its form-fitting nature — perfect for tucking in blouses — and also emphasizes the texture and color of the blouse it's paired with. A cream V-neck three-quarter sleeve blouse with a bold gold zipper is the perfect addition to the leather skirt. The zipper breaks up the monotonous feel of the two neutrals and opens up a detail to the outfit. To complement the sleek ensemble, the classic Mary Jane pump gets a makeover with two-toned and two-texture update. The heel is snakeskin textured burgundy (a hot colour this season!) with a suede dark navy all over the rest of the shoe. A small square clutch with a simple rectangular clasp keeps the look sharp, clean and sophisticated.

Why are these pieces and styles still in fashion after all this time, while others seem to fade from season to season? What separates these pieces from fads is the versatility in how these pieces can be paired with many other pieces in a wardrobe, the silhouette can be flattering for many body shapes and sizes and also the silhouettes are simple enough to change them into colours, shapes and textures to suit many people's tastes. On some part, it could be the history of the silhouette that we may not even be aware of that is contributing to its longevity. Mary Janes have been around since the Renaissance era, but got their name from the sweetheart character from the comic strip Buster Brown named Mary Jane. The blouse has been around since the 1860s and then popularized to the elite during the Victorian era where it was adapted as formal wear. The pencil skirt became popular after World War II, when women wore them to the office.

These pieces have deep roots tied into our history and pop culture, so no wonder they're here to stay!

1. Blouse: This sleek V-neck blouse with a gold zipper on the centre is perfect for tucking into a pencil skirt or with a pair of dress pants for work. (Express, $39.90)

2. Pleather Pencil Skirt: This creates a smooth canvas to complement any top its paired with. (Dynamite, $24.90)

3. Two-Toned Mary Janes: A great deal from JustFab.ca, these are a trendy but sophisticated twist on the classic Mary Jane. ($39.99)

4. Square Clutch: A great cocktail clutch that ties in all the refined details of the outfit together while maintaining it's function. (Justfab.ca, $45)

This sleek and refined outfit, although simple, has a long history that proves the versatility of its silhouette. It can be paired with trendy pieces for an edgy look, or in this case, a sophisticated, tailored and classic look.

Hai Ha Nguyen loves to discover the new trends in street fashion, accessories and styling. Follow her on Instagram at instagram.com/misshaihanguyen for the trendiest pieces this season! If you have a suggestion or feedback for her column, send her an email at hhnguyen.77@gmail.com.