Fashion Inspiration: An Education

 

When I reviewed An Education last week, I quickly touched upon the movie’s costumes. Since the movie is set in 1961 London, the clothing is reflective of both 1950′s silhouettes and early mod styles. Jenny’s style in particular is fresh and feminine, and as she grows up and learns more about the world, her clothing becomes more sophisticated with richer textures and colors.

The movie’s wardrobe was chic and timeless, especially Jenny’s clothing. Her wardrobe was certainly an object of envy for me, so there’s no reason why young women can’t try to emulate it. That’s why I choose An Education as my first fashion inspiration post- Polyvore sets included!

Look #1: Schoolgirl Sass

As bright and cultured Jenny is, a big part of her identity is that of an English schoolgirl. The preppy uniform is a fashion staple, with its newest reinvention coming from Gossip Girl‘s Blair Waldorf. That’s why pairing a crisp, white button-down with a matching skirt and blazer is no fashion breakthrough. Still, using Jenny’s look as a starting point, I tried to put a little spin on the classic schoolgirl uniform.

Rope Headband- Forever 21 (Canada); Color Blocked Tank Dress- Target; Cardigan- All Saints; Purple Slim Tie- ASOS; Oxford Heels- Aerosoles.

This tank dress is a great alternative to Jenny’s button-down and long skirt, plus the mauve band mimics her red belt. The purple skinny tie adds another pop of color and can worn loosely for a casual look. You can also throw on a comfy gray cardigan. A rope headband is a stylish way to keep your hair off your face. Finally, add some oxford heels to complete the outfit.

Look #2: Bon Voyage

In one key part of An Education, Jenny and David travel to Paris. It’s a trip of a lifetime for her, as it would be for most seventeen-year olds. She does all sorts of fabulous things, all while looking gorgeous in a light purple print dress. It’s a classic look that’s perfect for spring and summer.

Dress- John Lewis Women; Sunglasses- Forever 21 (Canada); Flower Stud Earrings- Miss Selfridge; Peep Toe Pumps- ASOS; Gold Watch- Amazon; Locket- Forever 21 (Canada).

The focal point of the outfit is definitely the purple dress, and this one is actually pretty close to the real thing. I picked these cat-eye sunglasses in tortoise-shell which flatters more skin tones than Jenny’s black ones. I love the frames because they’re not extreme cat-eyes but aren’t the ubiquitous wayfarers either. The watch and locket are not overly glitzy, so they compliment the look. I chose the flower studs because they are girly, young, and fresh, and I felt that pearl earrings would be a little costume-y. The peep toe pumps in a creamy ivory have a cute vintage vibe, but don’t compete with the dress.

So what do you think? Did I capture Jenny’s style? Would you like to see more posts like this? Let me know in the comments!

~ Sarah