well you’re the best man, so what’s the plan?

Bodysuit: American Apparel, Skirt: Reformation, Leather Jacket: Zara, Booties: Topshop, Necklace: Etsy

If you’ve been seeing this menswear check pattern around everywhere, it’s because this trend is still going strong! I did a post on this pattern a while back (check it out here), but I have become even more obsessed with it over the last few months and acquired even more checked pieces in my wardrobe since then. This skirt from Reformation being one of them. I snagged this about two months ago when they had their massive semi-annual online sale. For only $65, this was such a steal. It encompasses everything I look for in a skirt: high waisted, maxi length, and a stylish pattern. The buttons on the side add to the appeal of it even more.  If you haven’t yet, definitely  try adding some of this classic menswear pattern into your wardrobe. It’s definitely still going strong and will continue into the spring in more subtle ways (will have another blog post very soon on this – told you I’m obsessed!).

For the rest of the outfit, I decided to keep it simple in all black to let the checked pattern be the focal point. The deep v-neck on this bodysuit balances out all the fabric on the bottom half, and the leather jacket adds a bit of edge to the outfit, perfectly contrasting the more formal pattern of the skirt.  On my feet, I wore these black sock booties that I wear with practically every outfit.  I love them cause they are the most comfortable and flattering shoe I own! And to finish it all off, I have this beautiful gold plated zodiac necklace on.  Definitely my new favorite jewelry piece right now.

Since I clearly am in love with this whole menswear pattern, I decided to feature a song this week by the same name – literally.  First and foremost, anyone that knows me in real life, knows that The 1975 is one of my favorite bands. And their song Menswear also happens to be one of my faves, and in my opinion, also one of their most underrated.

I love that this song starts off slow with light instrumentals, teasing the listener by making them wait for the vocals. The vocals don’t start until about halfway through the song, so I can understand why the beginning of this song may seem a bit boring if you’re typically someone who enjoys the singing part of a song. But trust me, this song is well worth the wait and needs to be listened to wholly.  I think it just makes you appreciate what comes next even more.  If you’re unfamiliar with The 1975’s signature sound, the beginning of this song gives you a little glimpse into it with the melancholic, atmospheric, synth-driven beat.  Soon the tempo quickens and the vocals kick in and all the while you’re straining to make out what lead singer Matt Healy is saying through his thick Manchester accent.  Now you’re tapping your foot along and bopping your head to this catchy as heck song, even though you don’t really understand what’s going on. And that’s the beauty of The 1975. Definitely give Menswear a listen below!