Runway My Way: 3.1. Phillip Lim Spring/Summer 2011 RTW

It's back! Runway My Way is starting again with Spring/Summer 2011 runways look. After viewing almost all of the runway show photos on Style.com, I picked select looks to recreate from now up until August. So, to begin, let's look at 3.1. Phillip Lim.

3.1. Phillip Lim is a line that has taken pride in providing clean cut, polished sportswear looks that can be worn even after the season has changed. For this collection, he provided looks that were not only versatile but unique in their own way. From bright blue to neutrals to black, the color palette is easily transitional, while the shapes are also timeless. The key distinct factor is the use of layers. The ensembles were put together almost like puzzles, with two or more layers to them. By using add-on collars, the looks became sophisticated and slightly preppy.

The look I chose to recreate is Look #34

 I felt that this was simple yet the add-on colar and bag added a little more depth to the look. So, here's how I recreated the look with my own wardrobe:

 Wearing a thrifted royal blue blouse, Old Navy black t-shirt dress, GoJane black and gold platform strappy sandals, a gifted black classic tote, and gifted gold stud earrings

 I wanted to keep the basic ideas of the look, but also didn't feel the need to go out and buy anything new. I also decided to change my hair up a little to emulate the bang Linnea Regnander had in the look. I decided to do a royal blue collar in order to add some color to my personal look. I just can't seem to shake colors out of my looks sometimes. 

Tips on recreating this look:

1. Definitely invest in a black shift dress. I don't really have a shift dress, this just happens to look that way on my body. However, a good black shift dress, sleeveless or with sleeves, will take you throughout every season. It's a great basic, especially for the corporate world.

2. Layering is an option if the dress does not have a collar on it. When I say collar, I mean one similar to found on oxford shirts. Some dresses are already designed that way, while some have a regular shell or high neckline. So, try layering a collared shirt with matching sleeve lengths under the shift dress to get the same vibe. Or be daring and try a bow tie with it.

3. Platform heels give a edgy feel to a polished look. Platform heels give amazing height, but they also can add a little spice to a polished look like this one. Maintain the classic feel by keeping the colors within the same color palette.

4. A classic tote and one piece of jewelry finish off a polished, preppy, and classic look. A nice classic tote is going to take you through the seasons for decades. Also, by wearing one simple piece of jewelry, you keep the focus on the styling of the look.

Here's some more of my favorite looks from the S/S 2011 3.1. Phillip Lim show:

Do you love the S/S 2011 collection for 3.1. Phillip Lim? Leave a comment about your favorite looks. For more Runway: My Way looks, check back here every Friday :) Thanks so much for the support!

Peace, Love, and Happiness!

Sarah Jane R.