I’ve always wanted a 3/4 length winter coat but have always considered them impractical for Maine winters. But since it’s been practically balmy this year, I was very envious of this camel coat. A sweater and wrist warmers are a smart addition, just in case it ever does cool down. Her perfectly worn Bean Boots were a hand-me-down from Mom.
While Nate and I were perched in one of our usual spots, we happened to notice an impromptu fashion shoot going on behind us. These close friends and students were trying out an early Christmas gift - a fancy new SLR - and were using the Old Port as their backdrop.
We interrupted their photo session and took note of their cozy chic knee-high boots and colorful cold weather accessories. Hot pink gloves, plaid earmuffs, a teal scarf and a pretty plum coat were the highlights of this moddish quartet.
Smell that? It’s the sweet scent of a new-to-Maine fashionista. We love newbies! This Seattle native moved to Portland in May and currently works at uber hip Addo Novo on Congress Street. Just look at these proportions at work! A flouncy pleated skirt with button details contrasts nicely with her pink smocked camisole. There’s lots of frilly, feminine details too - a tonal floral pattern on the top and a delicate gold charm necklace. In lieu of the gladiators we see all the time, her bold cheetah flats were a sample sale score from Opening Ceremony. Me-ow.
The heat is on in Maine. Nate and I have found ourselves perched on benches, hoping fashion comes to us rather than sweat our way through the streets in search of it. There is no single item that can waft through summer better than a linen kaftan. Sadly, we don’t see enough of these in Maine. This MECA art history student purchased hers for less than $40 at Made in Maine in Belfast several years ago. This particular print is not for the fashion meek. Instead, she dons it with pride (“I think the fabric was supposed to be for a couch”) and even adds an added dose of color with hot pink aviators. Sorry, Demis Roussos, she wears it better than you.
Eyeglasses are undoubtedly my favorite part of the new geek chic phenomenon. I’ve had a soft spot for tortoise-rimmed spectacles since Annie Hall and I thought they looked totally adorable on this UMaine art history student. Her eclectic style hails from Los Angeles and Korea where she grew up. A delicate, sequined blouse, tulip skirt and ornate accessories were dressy enough for a night on the town, while her chambray shirt and navajo-inspired bag relaxed the look. No girl about town is finished getting dressed without something sparkly. Her glitz came in the form of a cluster of rings and a fabulous Forever 21 feathered necklace.
When we spotted these gals crossing Commercial Street, I thought they were a girl group - like a modern day Wilson Phillips or something. These Mainers (only one still lives here - tsk, tsk) were in Portland for a 27th birthday celebration, hence the peacock tiara. Surprisingly, their matching ensembles weren’t planned. But hey, you can never go wrong with an LBD (little black dress) and some good accessories. Though each dress had a similar silhouette, their individual styles came out with some smart uses of belts, layered necklaces and some sweet headwear.
