Comments on: The paper-bag-waist skirt

By: Kristers

Kristers — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:52:08 +0000

This look is reminiscent of the paper bag pants of the 80’s, as well as the cinched waist look of the same era [go watch the movie St. Elmo’s Fire or any movie w/ a young Leah Thompson if you don’t remember what I’m talking about.] Are they going to bring back the belted pants/skirt with the attached suspenders next?

My hair never did get big enough back then.

By: Angie

Angie — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:30:02 +0000

Oh Dana, I had several pairs of paper-bag-waist pants and jeans in the ’80’s. Needless to say they were not ideal.

I like Nafisa’s reasoning. If we didn’t have fashion designers pushing the fashion envelope every season, we wouldn’t have trends. Think of the trends you love and sport and thank cutting edge designers for them. Bypass the trends you don’t like or can’t wear and appreciate them on someone else (or not at all).

By: Kate C

Kate C — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 23:33:18 +0000

I actually think I have the idea body for this trend, but it’s just not appealing to me. Not only is it super-trendy looking, but it just looks sloppy and baggy on the third model. I imagine that once I spent an hour, say, sitting on the bus and then walking a couple blocks somewhere, it would lose what little crispness it had.

By: amazona

amazona — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 22:21:21 +0000

I have one in a wrap style by Calvin Klein. I am only 5′5″ and trim and have enjoyed it. It requires heels and a fitted top that clings to the body. It has a matching jacket that works very well. Mine has enough drape not to look huge around the middle. I agree it is tough look to wear and pull off.

By: Nafisa

Nafisa — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 21:44:45 +0000

Redhead,
I see your point, and often feel frustrated that i can’t wear or afford a style i like on the runway.

So here’s my take on this: I feel that designers should create conceptual designs and challenge us in what we think is “wearable”. I look at the runway designs to get the mood of what the designer is trying to convey, or get their take on current culture etc. I love experimental and totally unwearable, costumey fashion design. I feel there is very good purpose for that, it’s art! And art should challenge our accepted and comfortable notions. Sometimes, these over the top designs inspire me and nudge me to try something new and different.

The runway designs do get interpreted into more wearable (and affordable) options eventually and not each item will work for everyone, and that seems perfectly fine to me. We as consumers can make a decision whether or not a piece of clothing fits our context (style, body type, budget, lifestyle etc.).

I’d love to hear other thoughts on this…

By: Joy

Joy — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 21:11:32 +0000

I’m too short and waist challenged to wear this look, but for those who can wear it, it may be a wonderful look at a cocktail party where you never sit down.

By: Maya

Maya — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 20:35:38 +0000

I think everything that describes the ideal body type for this skirt is the opposite of what I have. I’ll enjoy from afar.

By: Munequita

Munequita — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 19:44:22 +0000

love it! I think it is a great evening piece…

By: Budget Babe

Budget Babe — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 19:29:56 +0000

I love this look! The hunt begins for a budget-friendly version…

By: Sal

Sal — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 17:51:29 +0000

So funny. I was JUST thinking that I might want to add a paperbag skirt to my wish list. I just love the look. But out of the prereqs, I can boast a small chest, none of the rest … so maybe I’ll skip it!