Gingham Grunge

photos by john

grungy dresses like this always excite me, even though i don’t often feature such looks on the blog. i feel like when one wears something grunge it should go hand in hand with a specific kind of attitude: that je ne sais quoi that, although decidedly raw and undone, makes an effortless allusion to the movement that changed a generation. i’ve never been “grunge” myself but get truly fascinated by the culture surrounding it — the style that emerged from it being no exception. it is often said that the very existence of “grunge fashion” is a paradox, opposing ideas pulling against each other: the former relating to real, everyday life and the latter often pointing toward fantastical aesthetics not entirely accessible by the average person.

but i digress. and so, before i get into a detailed account of the notorious 90’s movement, let me wrap up by saying this: i adore such dresses that are easy and comfortable and will probably wear more of them this season, coupled with messy layers, disheveled hair and the occasional beat-up pair of boots. i’ll just have to make peace with that little voice in my head calling me a big fat phony.

(you know, ’cause playing dress-up makes me happy.)

dress – thrifted (similar here)
vest, bag – thrifted
sneakers – bensimon
ring – old (similar here and here)