Eccentric English Style: What to Wear

Now more than ever, it’s time to make your own rules when it comes to fashion. As we move blessedly away from the brand-driven consumerism of the early part of the decade, getting dressed is more about putting on whatever suits your fancy than making a statement with the latest must-have.

So here’s a celebration of the original eccentric dressers: the British, who are still pushing the envelope today. Style icons like Vita Sackville-West, Kate Moss, Simon Doonan, and Glastonbury rockers make for excellent inspiration. Best of all, eccentric works at any age or size if you do it right. (I disagree with Cathy Horyn’s assertion in today’s Times that you have to ditch the irony after 50: there are many examples of successful creative dressers of certain age in the fashion world – Madonna notwithstanding.) The world of Wellies, florals, and kooky hats has long been reigned by the British.

Look #1: Glastonbury Rocker

When rain and mud are part of everyday life, it’s time to embrace the Wellie. Hunter’s in bright red add a cheerful pop of color to a rainy day. And if the sun does come out, top off your look with the quirkiest hat you can find.

Clockwise from top left: Alexander Wang Platinum Muscle Tee ($79), Viktor Osborne Black Straw Feather Fedora ($265), Hunter Boots ($115), Erin Wasson Cut-Off Shorts ($160 on sale).

Note: Glastonbury is kicking off right now! This year there’s a cool Glastonbury blog with live Twitter updates and photos, if you want to live vicariously.

Look #2: Vita Sackville-West

Vita Sackville-West’s bohemian style defined the look of the Bloomsbury group. She favored wide brimmed hats and lots of flowy clothing – when she wasn’t wearing men’s trousers. Her look works at any age. Make sure to include clashing colors and exotic travel souvenirs.

Clockwise from top left: Sunner Caftan ($162 on sale), Nordstrom Flower Fedora ($69 on sale), Indian Mirror Handbag ($9.95), French Sole Madison Emu ($220).

Vita Sackville-West

Look #3: Kate Moss

Kate Moss is a British flower child for the modern day. She’s always mixed eclectic things and has spearheaded the introduction of Liberty fabrics to Topshop designs. Wonderfully unpredictable personal style.

Clockwise from top left: Bourton Liberty Print Dress (L190), Topshop Oversize Sunglasses ($30) Flower Bobby Pin ($12), Eric Michaels Boots in Smog ($176)

Look #4: Simon Doonan

To truly model a look on Simon Doonan, we would have to come up with something so outrageous that almost no man would dare wear it. So here’s a more conservative take – but a Paul Smith shirt is a must.

Clockwise from top left: Paul Smith London Slim Fitted Shirt (L120), Barton Perreira Stokely Sunglasses ($475),
TOMS Vegan Navy/Brown Stripe Shoes ($49), Topman Aubergine Trousers ($35).