NOW, STRIPE!

ALLOVER STRIPES are ubiquitous these days, despite the average fashionista's innate phobia . . .

First, and most striking, is Lanvin’s jailbird stripe dress (at right, via style.com), which reminds me of a super villain’s costume. Though padded and horizontally striped (a seemingly killer combo!), CoutureCarrie thinks we might just be able to pull it off, given that (1) it has an hourglass shape; (2) the sleeves are three quarter; and (3) the pattern is jostled at the waist by a playful marsupial pocket.

Tracy Reese’s take on the trend combines a sheer striped “swishy” overlay with a black slipdress (at left). The look is elegantly belted at the waist with a wide white cincher – a splendid idea when wearing horizontal stripes, as it breaks up the monotony and creates curves. Go to net-a-porter.com.

Jean Paul Gaultier’s red and white striped ensemble for Spring 2008 is quite fetching, though one would do well to lose the pirate chapeau and extra-long belt when translating from runway to street! Pic courtesy nymag.com.

This Elie Saab variegated stripe gown seems a bit more wearable, perhaps because of the airy feel lent by its wisps of chiffon (photo at left via nymag.com). The added hint of color at the bust line saves this frock from awning overkill. Lovely for a black tie summer wedding, don'tcha think?

This gray and putty striped minidress from the Chanel 2009 Resort Collection is more subtle, for those who are still leery of the horizontal stripe (runway shot at lower right courtesy style.com).

Couture Carrie's advice for wearing allover stripes? Be sure the look is fitted, or create your own curves by cinching the garment at the waist! But don't be afraid of the horizontal stripe, darlings! It is really quite "arresting"!