By: Ishani Datta
Illustration By: Sylvain Chan
Yes, it’s already February. Yes, Valentine’s Day just passed. Yes, I am single. No, I don’t want a partner. But yes, I want Blair Waldorf’s tweed outfits so bad (my bank account is crying), but I also want Morticia Addams’s all-black dresses (missed call: non-existent bank balance). Plus, I want Elizabeth Bennet’s white gown to frolic through the fields at 5am (ten missed calls: negative bank balance, and seven voicemails from: reality). Now, the real question is, with all these iconic outfits, how can you make it your own? Whatever your fashionable poison, here is how you can embody these characters this February.
Old Money (Blair Waldorf and Chuck Bass)
Blair and Chuck’s Old Money aesthetic encapsulates what it means to be in love and at the heights of power. This is love that somehow overrides the power of diamonds, and that’s not to be taken lightly. Blair and Chuck’s love story – full of sizzling chemistry, years of history, and repeated sacrifice – unfolds like a high-fashion magazine through their wardrobe. Here’s how you can style yourself like them:
For her:
Silhouettes: Structured blazers, pleated skirts, and high-waisted trousers.
Textures: Tweed, silk, and wool for that expensive but effortless look.
Accessories: Pearl necklaces, statement headbands, and structured handbags.
For him:
Tailoring: Double-breasted suits, tailored trousers, and silk shirts.
Patterns: Pinstripes, plaids, and rich jewel tones.
Accessories: Silk scarves, monogrammed cufflinks, and leather dress shoes.
For Fluid Looks:
Layers: A longline blazer over a crisp white shirt and tailored trousers.
Shoes: Loafers or sleek heeled boots.
Details: Silk ties, suspenders, and structured satchels for a touch of old-school wealth.
Gothic Monochrome (Morticia and Gomez Addams)
Taylor Swift once said: “Don’t blame me, love made me crazy, if it doesn’t you ain’t doing it right.” A love so complex, oftentimes dark and mysterious but profound, that the lovers themselves can’t comprehend it. We have Morticia and Gomez Addams, a love so deep and insanity-inducing, their style is but a minor fraction that expresses their love. Here’s your hack to dressing like these gothic love birds:
For her:
Silhouettes: Floor-length dresses, body-hugging silhouettes, and dramatic sleeves.
Textures: Velvet, silk, and lace for that old-world glamour.
Accessories: Silver jewelry, lace gloves, and dark red lipstick.
For him:
Tailoring: Pinstripe or solid black suits with a crisp white shirt.
Textures: Wool and silk for a refined but darkly romantic vibe.
Accessories: Pocket squares, silver cufflinks, and polished dress shoes.
For Fluid Looks:
Layers: Black wide-leg trousers with a sheer mesh top or structured blazer.
Shoes: Chunky combat boots or sleek Chelsea boots.
Details: Leather gloves, silver rings, and a bold red lip (it goes with everything).
Timeless (Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy)
When in doubt, rewatch Pride and Prejudice, and life will be good again. There’s a reason why Lizzy and Darcy have inspired generations of timeless elegant Pinterest boards (guilty as charged, your honour). It’s nothing over the top, it’s not about impressing, it’s about existing in perfect harmony with the one whose heart beats with yours (cries in single). Here’s how to bring them to life:
For her:
Silhouettes: Flowing dresses, structured coats, and soft, high-neck blouses.
Textures: Linen, wool, and soft cotton for a natural, vintage-inspired feel.
Accessories: Minimalist jewelry, ballet flats, and delicate gloves.
For him:
Tailoring: Loose white shirts, structured coats, and fitted trousers.
Textures: Wool, linen, and high-quality cotton for effortless elegance.
Accessories: Leather gloves, classic timepieces, and lace-up boots.
For Fluid Looks:
Layers: A structured vest over a flowy blouse with tailored trousers.
Shoes: Leather ankle boots or polished oxfords.
Details: Soft scarves, vintage-inspired brooches, and minimalist rings.
This February, disappear into the world of the characters you love but make it your own. Blair might rip you a new one if you try to impersonate her, Morticia might pity you, and Elizabeth will definitely be prejudiced against you (no pun intended). Valentine’s Day matters to some, but nowhere near as much as your ability to don a fit-so tea, the British start looking for it.
