Well-Suited
Vintage picks along Castle Street
The adaptation of menswear into womenswear is no novel concept. It is, however, interesting to chart its popularity alongside the political and social climates of specific eras.
During WWII – in the absence of men – Rosie the Riveter took factories by storm with her button-down denim shirt and red bandana; in the ’80s, the office “power suit” was the it-wear, giving the proverbial finger to dress codes that not too long before mandated skirts. (Fun fact: It wasn’t until the early ’70s that women of the White House were allowed to wear pants to the office.)
And now once again the rights of women are being scrutinized … and the fashion world is doing its part to protest. Classic menswear suiting – oversized blazers and trousers, striped banker shirts, and the accessory of the moment, the tie – embodies structure, polish, and most importantly empowerment. Head to Castle Street, where a row of vintage clothing shops offer up looks to make your voice heard.
Barbara Kruger said, “Your body is a battleground,” – so consider your clothes your armor.
Pink angora lambswool VEST by L.L. Bean, vintage 1960s party DRESS, 1980s collared blouse, neutral linen SUIT JACKET by Perry Ellis, 1950s baby blue, top-handle BAG, and HEELS by Valentino (all available at Jess James + Co., 511 Castle Street)
Vintage Adidas T-SHIRT, oversized Wrangler blanket-lined western JEAN JACKET, checkered high-waisted PANTS, red leather WATCH, gold bracelet, and gold BAG (all available at Modern Love, 545 Castle Street); SUNGLASSES and SNEAKERS (stylist’s own)
Brown two-piece SUIT, burgundy-and-white, striped button-up SHIRT, brown HEELS, and vintage TIE (all available at Vintage Values, 609 Castle Street)
To view more of photographer and stylists Drewe & Kate’s work, go to dreweandkate.com
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