Athena Calderone, a figure synonymous with impeccable taste across design, culinary arts, and fashion, offers her expert guidance on navigating the sartorial challenges of the holiday season. With a multifaceted career spanning interior design, creative direction, authorship, and her influential platform EyeSwoon, Calderone's distinctive aesthetic and discerning eye are well-established. As she steps into the role of model and muse for rag & bone's "gift of style" guide, she generously shares practical wisdom for curating memorable, party-ready ensembles.
Calderone's approach to dressing is rooted in versatility and confidence, reflecting her dynamic daily schedule. Her professional life, which often involves moving between design team reviews, site visits with contractors, and vendor meetings, necessitates an wardrobe that is both adaptable and refined. She champions polished yet comfortable attire, such as tailored trousers paired with a simple cashmere sweater, as a means to feel empowered throughout long days. For her, looking well-dressed is intrinsically linked to feeling self-assured, a sentiment she believes is crucial for navigating any demanding environment. When it comes to reliable outfits, her go-to uniform includes a crisp white button-down shirt and classic, uncomplicated denim, providing an instinctive and stress-free starting point for her daily attire.
Addressing specific dress code scenarios, Calderone reveals her preference for classic, timeless, and tailored pieces. For early morning events demanding a polished appearance, her failsafe combination involves tailored trousers, a belt, a simple crew-neck sweater, and heeled boots, often complemented by a trench coat draped over the shoulders for an elevated finish. She expresses no apprehension towards formal dress codes like black tie or cocktail attire, finding joy in selecting appropriate ensembles. However, she admits to an aversion for certain silhouettes, specifically mentioning puff sleeves, heavily tiered or voluminous skirts, and overly bright or kitschy aesthetics, preferring a more understated and sophisticated elegance.
Athena Calderone's insights remind us that fashion is more than just clothing; it's a powerful tool for self-expression and confidence. Her philosophy encourages individuals to embrace timeless elegance and versatility, ensuring that personal style not only looks good but also feels empowering. By focusing on well-chosen pieces that resonate with one's lifestyle, anyone can cultivate a wardrobe that inspires self-assurance and readiness for any occasion, fostering a positive and self-reliant outlook.
