Pile of Laundry

Dear Pres:
I tried the unmatched look that you so dearly love, but it didn't work. I combined some clothes at random: A tannish skirt with embroidery, a beige unstructured cotton blazer jacket, a fuchsia tee, some tweed kitten heel pumps. It looked awful. I think the random look is disheveled and raggedy, and being foisted upon us by the Fashion Establishment. Coordinating the elements, as I always do, would have looked lovely.
Can you possibly defend yourself?
Susan-Isobel


Dear Su-Is,
For openers, the look isn't random. It may look unmatched when you review the components, but it's a perfect outfit nonetheless. And, it does require some fresh elements to make it work. If you separate an old Chanel suit, and add the jacket, with shoulders from 2004, to a gathered full skirt in a muted tone; then combine this with fishnets and pumps with a large toe box, you aren't going to get the latest ensemble. The unmatched look requires a snappy jacket with a new silhouette, like a swing shape; a pencil, or other fitted skirt; and low profile wedges, round toe spool heels, or structured flats.
I do understand the need to use pieces from your closet; but it's best to include just one vintage item in any ensemble, no matter how it's coordinated.