The Dressing Mood Outside of New York Fashion Week Was All About Feminine Tailoring—Shop the Look

Another season of fashion shows has coursed through New York City and as usual, the looks seen off the runways were just as inspiring as those seen walking. Designers may be the ones to set the tone of fashion to come, but it’s the show attendees who really show us how to wear it. In a city as unique as New York, the getups spotted in the streets ranged from artful grunge to evening glamour and yet, overarching themes were apparent.

Our Feminine Tailoring Essentials:

One such theme was prim tailoring with a feminine twist. Business-worthy blazers, button-ups, and trousers dominated runways at the likes of Prada, Miu Miu, Ferragamo, and Gucci last season, and these designers schooled us in new ways to wear them. By combining the classics with bright colors, ladylike silhouettes, and hints of lace or sheer details a new outfit formula emerged. It’s clear that New York show-goers have taken note. Whether it was a khaki skirt suit, watermelon-pink button up, or preppy pleated mini skirt, our favorite outfits this season turned tailoring on its head. For a guide on how to wear it now and into the cooler months, look no further than our edit below.

The Khaki Shirt With a Matching Pencil Skirt and Boat Shoes

Khaki, once reserved for prep schoolers and midtown bankers, feels fresh when it’s triple layered and seen in new shapes. An it-girl maxi, button-up shirt, and oversize trench are the keys. This combination pairs well with preppy extras, like boat shoes and white ankle socks.

Photographed by Phil Oh

The Colorful Button-Down With Wide-Leg Trousers

The classic shirt and trouser combination gets turned on its head here with the help of a few small styling details. First, unexpected color—try a button down in poppy pink or even purple, and second, the hint of a bra. Take the look into fall with the addition of a leather bomber and socks.

Photographed by Phil Oh

The Classic White With a Preppy Miniskirt

Pleated minis are still having their moment, and we love the way the look when paired with other preppy elements. For fall, try it with the season’s favorite field jacket, a classic shirt, and a sleek pair of knee-high boots—leather welcome, suede preferred.

Photographed by Phil Oh

The Pinstripe Shirt With a Sheer Midiskirt and Cashmere Knit

A thick sweater layered over a button-up might remind you of your high school uniform, but wearing it with a sheer midi-skirt (à la Prada’s runway) takes it back to fashion. Khaite’s oversized aviator jacket and a pair of heavy boots keep the look from getting too sweet (or too sheer).

Photographed by Phil Oh

The Pleated Short With a Turtleneck and Minimalist Sandals

You can keep wearing this summer’s tailored shorts all fall by pairing them with a heavy knit turtleneck and socks. Kitten heel sandals and an itty-bitty bag balance out the heaviness of the look, adding a hint of feminine charm.

Photographed by Phil Oh

The Textured Ladylike Jacket With Tapered Trousers

While this trouser, jacket, and shirt formula is far from new, the materials and colors of each piece keep this look from feeling staid. Try a textured jacket in a utilitarian shape, like this one from Gucci, a breezy tunic instead of a simple shirt, and a wide-leg pair of pleated pants. Black accessories anchor the look.