Did I tell you I met Jane Birkin? Mmm...thought so. Ever since that blissful encounter, That's Not My Age has been channeling NBFJB style (that's New Best Friend Jane Birkin if you've just joined me). I've found myself trapped in a fashion moment with the queen of casual glamour. Which is not a bad thing because low-key style with a twist is my vocation, you can read all about it here. The aim is a natural, carefree look with added sparkle - when we met, NBFJB was wearing a Margiela knit over second-hand combats with satin ribbons hanging from the belt loops and a pair of 15-year-old Converse. So far I've tried; a military jacket over a sheer chiffon tunic with cropped black trousers, Chelsea boots and chandelier earrings, an over-sized shirt with jeans, tan lace-ups and er, chandelier earrings. Next week I'm thinking of branching out into scarves.
What I really admire is the fact that Birkin has stuck with the same style choices all her life. Apart from a stint in dresses during the Gainsbourg days, NBFJB tends to live in trousers and prefers the looser fit of men's clothes. This nonchalant approach to fashion - probably comes easy when you're beautiful, rich and famous - sounds simple enough but can end up looking a little shabby if you're not careful. So how to get the look?
Do
1. Go back to basics. Khakis, jeans, a v-neck top and white shirt are all key pieces that work well together or help loosen up a more formal wardrobe. Be sure to add a camel coat to the list this season.
2. Stay neutral. Birkin loves shades of khaki, olive, grey and sand. Easy-to-wear, timeless colours that look good whatever your age.
3. Get a handbag named after you.
Don't
1. Cut your own hair. Birkin is her own hairdresser but let's be honest, there's a very thin line between boho chic and care-in-the-community.
2. Wear Converse. Two words. David Cameron. And so what NBFJB wears plimsolls? She probably doesn't have to walk anywhere/ commute in the pouring rain. Opt for a sturdy brogue or lace-up instead.
3. Attempt to make you're own perfume. Leave it to the experts.
Photos
NBFJB: Last.fm
Patent shoe: LK Bennett
Oh the things I've missed, must catch up!
ReplyDeleteI love her style but I just can't put clothes together like that, I can't layer or mix pieces together, I'm a one piece pony.
Oh peed myself laughing at your 'care in the community' comment. Am starting to cut Sonshine's hair and yes, it's a bit...institutional looking lol!
ReplyDeleteLove this casual glamour. La Birkin really pulls it off.
Ali x
Love your post ... Ms. B is truly a classic. Working on re-enventing myself = wardrobe , this post was exactly what I needed to be inspired!!! Thank you... HHL
ReplyDeleteHi there-a lovely post, very inspirational and she is just oh so permanently stylish and chic, sigh!!
ReplyDeleteDon't care what you say, I love my Converses!! La Birkin is truly stylish.
ReplyDeleteI'm soooo envious that you met her! She's such an incredible style icon. I have the camel coat, but sadly am missing everything else! xx
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Not MORE JB - you spoil us TNMA!! Seriously what a fantastic post - love her style and aspire to this kind of dressing - can you show us some of your NBFJB style combinations with some photos? Thanking you from Oz. x oh and p.s so laughed about your advice about not cutting your own hair.!
ReplyDeleteLove Birkin's style - I should dress like that - comfy, elegant, functional, chic - all at the same time. Now all I need is her bone structure and slender figure....
ReplyDeleteOh, she is just marvellous. If I tried to pull off that sort of look, I'd no doubt veer into care-in-the-community territory ... I'll second the request for pics of your NBFJB-inspired looks.
ReplyDeleteI think I will quote my old boss - rules are for fools, he knew nothing about fashion but I think it all depends on the individuals ability to carry it off.
ReplyDeleteTa very much for your comments. Now there's an idea Semi Expat - my take on NBFJB style coming soon! Oh this could run and run.
ReplyDeleteHahahah brilliant - I love it when you get a NBF you channel them so well!
ReplyDeleteThis is very exciting!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteYes cutting your own hair is a big NO,having recently gone down that route for a while (following being offered Botox at the hairdressers when I only went in for a cut)Came out feeling worse than when I went in!!
ReplyDeleteShe is so chic though.
I love her style .... you are right the carefree look should be carefully thought out.
ReplyDeleteGreat post! love the birkin ...
xo
am green with envy....she's a goddess, saw her 'performing' at the Barbican few years ago, surrounded by balding, pot bellied blokes of a certain age, she was sporting a bit of an urchin do, definately a cut too far....am longing for high waisted, lose legged trousers, also longing for skinny thighed, narrow hipped body to go with!!
ReplyDeleteHer style is so effortless and cool, if I tried to emulate that look I'd look like a bag lady.
ReplyDeleteThose Cameron's have put me off Converses for life. x
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ReplyDeleteLove it! Great post and she is such a style icon :) I'm a newcomer to your blog but it's fantastic, looking forward to reading more, City Girl x
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I'd add the crucial thing is clothes that are cut properly and fit well. Once you have that, you're half way there.
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