HER Style Podcast | Episode 199: Modern Ways to Wear Skinny Jeans and Other New Spins on Your Old Staples

Release Date: December 5, 2024
Host: Heather Riggs - Stylist, Image Consultant & Color Analyst for Women

Introduction and Context

In Episode 199 of the HER Style Podcast, Heather Riggs addresses the resurgence of beloved wardrobe staples—such as skinny jeans, knee-high boots, ballet flats, and baggy sweaters—and offers fresh, modern approaches to styling these pieces. Responding to inquiries from her HER Style Collective community, Heather emphasizes updating classic items to fit contemporary fashion sensibilities without compromising personal style.

Listener Questions: Revamping Wardrobe Staples

Heather begins by highlighting two nearly identical questions from listeners Jen and Krista, both seeking advice on how to modernize staples that feel dated:

• Jen's Query ([03:30]):
  "What styles or proportions are looking dated? I know if we love it we should wear it, but would love to know the most current way to wear skinny jeans, knee-high boots, ballet flats, baggy sweaters, etc."

• Krista's Inquiry ([04:10]):
  "You mentioned that skinny jeans are back for fall 2024. Thank God. Do you have any advice for styling skinny jeans in a modern way? For example, I feel like the cuff with low booties is yesterday's news."

Heather reassures listeners that these staples are indeed back but deserve updated styling techniques to stay current and avoid fashion pitfalls.

Modern Styling Recommendations

1. Skinny Jeans ([05:00])

Wash and Fit:
Heather advises opting for crisp and classic washes, steering clear of overly distressed or acid-washed styles. Raw edge or distressed hems are acceptable but should remain minimal to maintain a timeless appeal.

Length and Rise:

• Avoid cuffing skinny jeans to prevent a dated look ([06:30]).
• Mid to high-rise styles are recommended over low-rise options to achieve a more contemporary silhouette.

Pairing Footwear:

• Fitted knee-high boots create a sleek and elegant appearance.
• Simple heels or slingbacks offer versatility.
• Ballet flats remain a trendy alternative.
• For a more rugged look, lug sole or western boots can be paired while ensuring a smooth silhouette by avoiding bulky shoes that cause lumps under the jeans.

Styling Tips:

• Belts can be added to fitted tops to enhance the waistline.
• When using boxy or cropped blazers/cardigans, tucking in layering pieces can define proportions and add structure.

2. Knee-High Boots ([08:15])

Versatility and Styling:
Knee-high boots are a timeless choice that Heather believes are perpetually in style. Modern styling includes:

• With Skinny Jeans: Maintains elegance and sophistication.
• With Leggings: Pairing with long or oversized sweaters creates a balanced, cozy outfit.
• With Tailored Shorts: Combining with monochromatic tights and shorts adds length to the legs and introduces a playful edge to winter attire.
• With Skirts:
  • Mini skirts (mid-thigh length) offer a flirty look.
  • Midi skirts, such as flowy satin styles, provide a more subdued elegance.
• With Dresses: Long sweater dresses or flowing coats complement the height and structure of knee-high boots.

3. Ballet Flats ([10:00])

Modern Variations:
Ballet flats are cherished for their feminine appeal and versatility. Heather suggests contemporary twists to keep them fresh:

• Square-Toe Flats: Offer a modern aesthetic while maintaining elegance.
• Mary Jane Styles: Features like ankle straps enhance the trendy factor.
• Shape Selection:
  • Pointed flats elongate the leg line.
  • Rounded flats maintain a classic ballerina look.

Pairing Recommendations:

• Cropped Pants and Jeans: Enhance the current look of ballet flats.
• Structured and Minimalistic Outfits: Creates a clean, sophisticated ensemble that allows the flats to shine.
• With Midi Skirts: Provides a soft and balanced appearance, perfect for those who prefer a less edgy look than knee-high boots.

4. Baggy Sweaters ([12:00])

Balancing Oversized Pieces:
The key to styling baggy sweaters lies in showcasing some skin or defining the waist to prevent being overwhelmed by the garment.

Styling Techniques:

• Showcasing Skin: Displaying the neckline, wrists, or ankles can add interest and balance.
• Layering: Pairing with wide-leg pants requires adjustments like rolling sleeves or adding a belt to create a flattering silhouette.
• Balancing with Fitted Pieces: Combining oversized sweaters with skinny jeans or mini skirts creates a harmonious contrast.
• Sweater as a Dress: Utilizing long enough sweaters as dresses introduces versatility.
• Wrapping Over Shoulders: Layering oversized sweaters over fitted tops like turtlenecks or tank tops adds dimension without bulk.

Incorporating Trend Colors and Personal Palette ([13:45])

Heather underscores the importance of integrating seasonal trend colors and prints to refresh staple pieces. She recommends:

• Trend Colors: Burgundy, olive green, various browns, navy, cool pinks, and metallics are currently popular.
• Personal Palette Alignment: Selecting colors that complement one's complexion, hair color, and eyes ensures that outfits enhance personal features.
• Seasonal Prints: Incorporating patterns like leopard print adds a contemporary twist to classic garments.

By aligning trend elements with personal style analysis, individuals can make their wardrobe staples feel both current and uniquely tailored to them.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts ([14:00])

Heather encourages listeners to embrace creativity and experiment with their existing wardrobe pieces. She reiterates the importance of wearing what makes them feel confident and authentic, rather than merely following fleeting trends. The episode serves as a guide to revitalizing beloved staples, ensuring they remain relevant and flattering in modern fashion contexts.

Notable Quotes:

• "You don't have to try to keep up. It is always more important to style your clothing and accessories in ways that make you feel good." ([06:20])
• "Maximize what you own and look for new ways to make your pieces feel fresh and contemporary so that you can be excited as you continue to get dressed day after day." ([07:00])
• "Square toe ballet flats have a very contemporary feel." ([10:45])
• "The most important thing is not to get swallowed up by your clothing." ([12:30])
• "Choose a trend color that complements your personal coloring. We always want your clothing to bring out your best and to be in harmony with your personal features." ([13:50])

This episode provides practical strategies for updating and styling classic wardrobe pieces, ensuring that listeners can build a confident and timeless closet without succumbing to outdated fashion norms.