Fashion Savvy but Practical
It's not easy separating Sarah Jessica Parker's iconic fashion status from that of her beloved Sex and the City character, Carrie Bradshaw. That's what happens when an actress plays a role on the big and small screens for more than a decade. Unlike Carrie, SJP is a mom. And her ability to combine style and maternal practicality makes her all the more admirable.
Classic vs. Trendy
One of the reasons fans don't know where Parker ends and Carrie begins is because of Patricia Field's work. She's the costume designer who dressed Carrie on Sex and the City until the show ended in 2004. Later, she dressed the character in both movie spinoffs. She's also been one of Parker's stylists for nearly 20 years. But where Carrie is a label-loving acolyte, Parker has more classic, conservative tastes. "Carrie is Bohemian," says Mai Young-Brooks, stylist and fashion show producer based in Los Angeles. "Sarah is more refined."
Feminine and Masculine Blends
Parker, 48, has a flair for blending feminine and masculine influences. This is something she proved when she donned a sexy but simple black Elie Saab jumpsuit at the 2013 BAFTA Awards. "Sarah has an effortless and versatile style," says Young-Brooks, a 13-year fashion veteran. "She's not afraid to take risks, and they pay off."
A Stop at Halston and a New Line
Fans were excited when Parker was named chief creative officer at Halston Heritage in 2010. This was especially thrilling for those who enjoyed her line at the now defunct Steve & Barry's. But the Halston Heritage gig (pictured) was cut short by the company's financial instability. Both posts helped solidify Parker as a fashion icon. Now, she's launching a shoe line with Manolo Blahnik CEO George Malkemus. "This woman put Manolo Blahniks on the map," Young-Brooks says. "It only makes sense that she would launch her own shoe line."
Speaking of Shoes
Parker shocked fans when she said she would no longer wear heels: "Unless they're really nice," she said. This was in part because the mother of three has been photographed in a lot of Ugg boots. But with a new line of shoes, bags and trench coats hitting Nordstrom shelves in 2014, Parker has explained that she hasn't sworn off heels—just cheap heels. "My hope is that Sarah doesn't forget real women's price points," Young-Brooks says. "I mean, how many of us can afford Manolo Blahniks and Louboutins?"
One Infamous Misstep
It's rare that Parker is harshly criticized for her sartorial choices. That, of course, changed when she landed on a number of worst dressed lists for the pale yellow Chanel Couture gown and tousled chignon she sported at the 2010 Academy Awards. Some even mercilessly called the look, "sloppy." "Sarah still hasn't rebounded from that," Young-Brooks says. "She's been more low key. She hasn't been on the Oscars red carpet since."
Red-Carpet Ready
While Parker hasn't been back to the Academy Awards, she continues to turn heads for the better. This includes a stop at a Fashion Group International event in 2012, where she stunned in a striped L'Wren Scott dress. "She's still a trendsetter," Young-Brooks says. "Whenever I'm in need of inspiration, I go to Sarah Jessica Parker's Pinterest page. She's amazing, classy and classic."
Casual and Relaxed
This Ohio native is a lot more practical than the woman she played on "Sex and the City." In fact, Parker prefers boots, jeans and T-shirts, especially when spending time with her husband, actor Matthew Broderick, and their children. "She has an eye for formal and casual wear," says Young-Brooks, who is also a mom. "But she seems most at home in jeans. She adds her own flair, but it's a much more casual look."
Shape-Flattering Fashion
Parker is petite and sinewy, so wearing clothes that complement her body is a breeze. That said, many wonder why Parker doesn't wear more hip-hugging styles. After all, she's athletic but curvy. "She's into the flowy look now," Young-Brooks says. "But she looks amazing in form-fitting clothes. If you have it, flaunt it."
Snag the Style
Think simple, classic and clean if you want to dress like Parker. This means stocking up on white T-shirts and blouses, pearls, khakis, jeans and even yoga pants. Invest in a trench, a solid pair of heels and manicures and pedicures. "You don't have to spend a lot to look and feel beautiful," Young-Brooks advises. "We tend to let ourselves go as moms. Resist the urge. It's about how you put clothes together that counts."
