Fashion
We Know You Want To Dress Like Amal, So Here's How
Those who protest that miracles don't exist were likely stunned to silence when a certain celebrity couple wed in Venice in late September. Yes, George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin's Venetian wedding was a shock to nay-sayers, but to the rest of the world, it was a lesson in the enduring power of love — and fashion. As an incredibly intelligent attorney, Alamuddin not only possesses the ability to trounce the opposing council in her cases; she also knows how to outfit herself for the fight.
Beautifully embroidered dresses, elegant skirt suits, tweed jackets, and silk trousers make up Alamuddin's work wardrobe, but after hours she loves to experiment with acid-wash jeans, crop tops, and mini dresses. In essence, Alamuddin possesses the type of innate style which makes her an exemplar for fashionistas everywhere. In the courtroom, her wardrobe is respectable, streamlined, and authoritative; her after-hours look is experimental and quirky. The appearance she demonstrates on a regular basis communicates that Clooney's partner in crime is both ambitious and fun — quite a difficult balance to strike.
Thus, it only seems right to learn from Alamuddin's sartorial know-how. Here are seven essential steps to channeling Alamuddin's covetable look — without the couture price tag, of course.
1. SNAG SIMPLE SILHOUETTES IN VIBRANT HUES
Alamuddin knows the power of a simple silhouette rendered in an eye-popping color. The lawyer adores chic shift dresses and baby doll styles rendered in persimmon, pale pink, emerald, and fuchsia. By selecting figure-flattering yet unfussy tailored pieces in bright hues, Alamuddin maintains an authoritative and chic appearance at all times.
2. NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF BLACK AND WHITE
Not since Bianca Jagger has a wedding suit been such a topic of adoring conversation. Alamuddin understands and frequently harnesses the power of black and white ensembles, often in understated patterns and flowing designs, all the better to highlight her lithe figure and newlywed glow.
3. FIND A LWJ (LITTLE WHITE JACKET)
Call it the power piece of the 21st century: A Little White Jacket (LWJ) is the next must-have wardrobe essential, if Alamuddin has any bearing on fashion. Pair it with a shift or pencil skirt like Alamuddin does for formal public appearances or meetings, or leave it unbuttoned with jeans for a more laid-back look.
4. ACQUAINT YOURSELF WITH CLASSIC PATTERNS (AND A CHIC CARRY-ON)
Windowpanes, stripes, and abstracts are only a handful of the patterns which adorn Alamuddin's timeless-with-a-twist ensembles. Often, Alamuddin will sport a boldly printed top with a neutral skirt, or a swirling, optical print dress with neutral accessories.
5. EMBRACE LACE
Some of the late Oscar de la Renta's finest work was displayed on Alamuddin as she strode down the aisle to Clooney, proving once again that lace is not a dowdy or out-of-date fabric. The lawyer understands that by wearing lace in well-cut designs paired with avant-garde accents, the material achieves a perfect balance of classic and modern — much like Alamuddin herself.
6. PURCHASE A PAIR OF CLASSIC OVERSIZED SUNNIES
This is one celebrity who adores her oversized sunglasses. Most often seen in an tinted black oval pair, she understands exactly which shape flatters her face, and of course keep away prying eyes.
7. DON'T SHY AWAY FROM FEMININE FLORALS
If ever there was a lesson that florals can be something other than saccharine and twee, Alamuddin's Giambattista Valli morning-after mini dress is it. Channel her style in a floral circle skirt or a patterned mini dress with nude heels; you may be surprised at just how fresh the look feels.
Images: bricsusa, oscarprgirl, dolcegabbana, giambattistapr/Instagram; Getty Images