Not sure if you watched the Oscars this year and last year, but there was an interesting fashion trend that became apparent to me. I’ll call it embellishments in the form of pocket squares, lapel pins, and a lot of razzle dazzle. Simple, strong style in an array of colors with of course the obligatory Harry, Winston, gems and jewels but some really eye catching nontraditional pieces as well.
And the thing is some of the most extraordinary examples were on the gentlemen. As with most things in fashion, beginnings are humble and functional and then evolve over time.
For instance, the pocket square sometimes it was an elaborate handkerchief or could be a piece of buck skin or rawhide. The handkerchief usually contained some pleasant fragrance when the times in history where bathing was not on the regular. Sure, you get my drift.
And the more utilitarian pieces of cloth that needed to be handy would be used for perhaps holding the branding iron to stamp the mark on the animal or have a better grip when farming logs .
Running in parallel were the stick pins and decorative statement Lapel pins.
The stickpins tended to hold something in place whether it be the Lapel itself or the “pocket square” to convey a message of some sort. Round pins were called campaign buttons, and quite obviously different sizes and were intended to state which side of an issue or Candidate You were on.
Funny how all these functional fashion applications grew into yet another level of distinction of late. First of all, I would guess that most of the ones we saw on the screen were real jewels, diamonds, sapphires, etc., and are much bigger than their predecessors thereby calling much more attention to the garment and the wearer of the garment.
It was clearly a no fuss way to have impact and call attention to the face of the wearer.
Particularly in the acting business, one wants to be heard and seen in equal measure.
I always recommend things that point up to your face, V-necks, stacked necklaces, earrings, broaches, color, things that will bring the viewer’s eye up to yours so that connection is made . As the saying goes – the eyes are the window to the soul.
As always, I recommend you Dress for the day you want – NOT – the day you are given. Dressing is fun Enjoy.