How Locals Wear: Scarves

We’ve all heard the adage, “It’s not what you wear, but how you wear it” before. Rough translation: You ain’t hot shit just because you’re wearing an expensive little number on which you spent your rent $ money. On the flip side, the phrase promises that a rather simple piece has the potential to look extra special; that is, if you can style it right. This mantra is particularly true for accessories and especially for the sartorial add-ons you gotta fandangle a little bit…like the scarf.  A few twists, knots and tucks turns a strip of fabric into a voila statement piece. So how are the 上海人 twisting? And shouting?

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Her oversized scarf stands out in the palette of blend-in browns and beiges.

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Not just for girls; this gentleman shows us his fresh take on the traditional loop-through.

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Twists of the super-sweet shade of pink reminds me of salt-water taffy.

“How Locals Wear…”:: Nomad

SSF is all about covering trends that surface in this magnificent city, but it is just as exciting to sleuth out how well-dressed locals import overseas-must-haves into their Shanghai wardrobes. Call it trend tracking—> like a fox who sniffs out the hound. Come out, come out wherever you are!  What did I dig up this week?

Welcome to a new segment on SSF: “How Locals Wear…”

Who: a lovely Shanghairen spotted out and about last weekend
What: Native American/Nomadic : knitwear characterized by heavy embroidery, geometric pattern, and cozy comfort.
Wear: “Coatigans” and bold knits were brought back into the style spotlight by DVF’s debut of her 2009 Fall collection. Off the runway, fashion blogger Jane looks impeccably chic in her own interpretation of the look.

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Photo Property of Style.com, Diane Von Furstenberg F/W2009

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Photo property of Jane Aldridge of Www.Seaofshoes.typepad.com

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Today’s local models the lower-end of the style spectrum. Even though she does not wear the $$ originals, I believe her take captures the essence quite well. That’s what I love about fashion– while the fantasy of runway is something to dream about, I am more interested in the reality of clothing and how people dress themselves.

While everyone continues to rock the sexy, spot-on BLJ (=black leather jacket. Come on, get with the program people!), these chunky sweaters are the perfect “I don’t give a damn” alternative. Admittedly, it’s not the sexiest or most feminine option, but this outwear definitely adds a lot of personality– and warmth!– to a ho-hum winter wardrobe. By definition, nomads belong nowhere, but for now this style inspiration feels right at home.