Here’s someone living the dream and wearing it well: Nicole Richie, reality TV star turned successful accessory designer, known for her hip and eclectic, L.A.-cool style. By mixing edgy basics with exotic boho and vintage-inspired pieces, Nicole always looks effortlessly chic and laid back, like she just rolled out of bed looking good. Consider us jealous.
This busy mom, who just launched her “Impulse” line for American Department store Macy’s this September, was recently spotted in Sydney, Australia (on a promo tour for her accessory line, House of Harlow) in a red wide-brimmed hat, flowing polka dot T-shirt, leather pants and an assortment of eclectic jewellery from her line House of Harlow 1960. She completed the look with a cropped black trapeze-style blazer thrown casually over her shoulders. If you’re looking to infuse your wardrobe with some of Nicole’s signature luxe, edgy- chic style, here’s how to do it while still sticking to your budget.
1. Polka dot T-shirt
A blousy polka dot T-shirt, like this one by SheInside ($36), is the perfect alternative to Nicole’s pricey designer version. This playful-yet-versatile piece can be worn casually or dressed up with a pair of leather leggings and a cropped blazer (like Nicole did).
2. Black cropped blazer
Add some tailored sophistication to your edgier pieces (that pair of sexy faux-leather leggings?) with a black shawl blazer, like this one from Miss Selfridge ($62) A good budget-conscious investment, this is the kind of piece that can easily be worn for work or play.
3. Leather leggings
Instead of cashing in your RRSP for the real deal, go for a cruelty-free alternative like these “vegan leather” leggings by Blank Jeans ($90, available at Shopbop).
4. Horn necklace
For a look that is eclectic and boho-inspired, Nicole layers several necklaces including a wooden horn necklace, like this one by Mango ($28), which adds just the right touch of edge to her otherwise sweet polka-dot top.
5. Pendant necklace
For added effect, layer on an additional tribal-inspired necklace, like this longer horn pendant, also by Mango ($35).
6. Starburst cocktail ring
Accessorize with a guaranteed conversation-starting oversized cocktail ring, like this Starburst ring from Richie’s very own House of Harlow line ($145).
7. Exotic bangle
Draw attention to your wrists with some sophisticated arm candy, like this chevron “Aztec” bracelet, also by House of Harlow ($42, Farfetch).
8. Floppy fedora
Finish your look with a wide-brimmed, floppy fedora in a rich burgundy colour, like this one by Agent NinetyNine ($52, available at General Pants Co.).
9. Black wedges
We can’t see exactly what kind of shoes Nicole is wearing, however we’re guessing that she’d feel perfectly at home in a pair of edgy, modern wedges, like these ones by DV Dolce Vita ($90, Heels.com). Perfect for a shoulder season like early fall; as temperatures cool off, you can easily swap these wedges for a cute pair of ankle boots.
Simone Paget is a freelance writer and the author of Skinny Dip, a cheeky blog about love, sex, relationships and everything in between. When she’s not writing her heart out, she loves wandering around her city, large cup of coffee in hand, in search of the next great story.
