Wearable Souvenirs
This time we have been challenged by Ana Maria G. to help style some of her recent travel finds. After working for more than a decade covering the wholesale distribution of Max Mara in Latin America and the Caribbean, she finally took a sabbatical. Born in Bogota, she was educated in Colombia as well as in the US and Italy. Hence her style: eclectic and modern with touches of vintage and local finds. Ana Maria always blends accessories and pieces into the most updated and unique look.
During the last several months she traveled to Hong Kong, San Salvador and Guatemala, Milan and Modena, and Buenos Aires, to enjoy some family time. Now back home in Miami, Ana Maria wants to wear her memories of her trips abroad. It's been a challenge to blend the pieces into wardrobe, all the while adapting them to her life in Miami.
The pieces she's been working with are from all over the globe. A paneled and plisee white dress, a’ la Issey Myake, bought in Hong Kong; a colorful Vietnamese tunic found in a Saturday market in Modena, where she also bought a pair of elaborate lizard, straw and patent leather sandals at a Sportmax outlet; a long, intricate, textured woven belt from Guatemala; and a spectacular woven messenger made by the women of the Wayuu tribe in her native Colombia. Her last piece, bought in a flea market in La Recoleta, Buenos Aires, is a vintage ostrich purse.
The First Look - Classic Neutrals
© Francesca Belluomini / MFb
The white plissee dress has a lose panel in the front and one in the back that has a “peplum” effect. By twisting the thin belt all around the waist, the look becomes that of a classic dress with a full skirt. The look works wonders with the ostrich purse from Buenos Aires and the Sportmax sandals - combining neutrals for a perfect Summer look.
The Second Look - Brights
© Francesca Belluomini / MFb
Because the colorful sleeveless tunic from Vietnam is open on the sides, it's best to pair it with shorts than to wear it as a dress. Keep it casual by wearing denim shorts and use the woven belt to create a corset effect. This funky outfit is perfect for a Sunday brunch at the Mondrian.
The Third Look - A Splash of Color
© Francesca Belluomini / MFb
Needless to say I loved the white dress, maybe because it is the most versatile and neutral. This time I used the bright woven belt with the Wayuu messenger bag, creating a perfect pop of color. Pair the look with flat sandals or a pair of TOMS for an informal day look.
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About the Author
Francesca Belluomini has got style, class and sass. In How to Wear It, she offers fun and funky style solutions for your most troublesome wardrobe pieces. When she's not writing, Belluomini designs jewelry. Her collection draws from the colors, textures and aromas of her native Tuscany. See it at www.francescabelluomini.com.
