If 2023 was the year of the girl, 2024 is the year reserved for the mother.
In place of coquette aesthetics and pretty, bow-covered things, the internet discourse has shifted to mothering. Made popular among celebrity fan accounts on X, the platform previously known as Twitter, "to mother" is to take upon the noble fight of serving and slaying, often in looks or through social media commentary. An example? Kelly Rutherford—with her jaw-dropping wardrobe, effortlessly chic lifestyle, and peak-cool elevator selfies—is literally mother in chief.
The Gossip Girl actress became a personal-style North Star of mine when I heard the rumor that the style of her on-screen character, Lily van der Woodsen, was closely inspired by Rutherford's own, Birkin collection and all. While the jury's still out on whether the teen sitcom's showrunners were directly inspired by her, it wouldn't be far-fetched if you take a quick scroll through her page. Let's be real. Rutherford's signature 'fit pics have made her a figure to emulate by most fashion people.
In the midst of a style movement focused on refined Upper East Side women, their closets, and the notion of quiet luxury, it's no surprise that Rutherford is literally mother. After scrolling through the fashion archives (read: her Instagram) to find her most-worn closet staples, you can get her classic, elegant look below.
Black Coats
There's nothing chicer than an oversize yet well-tailored black coat. Opt for a layered fit or exaggerated lapels to keep your outerwear interesting.
Elevated Jeans
The key to always looking good is to have a great pair of jeans to match. Pair your favorite fur coat and simple white tee with slouchy mid-wash jeans for a cool-girl effect.
Chunky Knits
Embrace Rutherford's style with a fun, voluminous knit complete with slouchy sleeves. Opt for a full monochromatic outfit, as seen above, or wear it with black leggings to take your dog out for a walk. (Just don't let Chloë Sevigny see.)
Aviator Jackets
Looking good isn't just about opting for classic garments and elevated staples. Sometimes, it's about embracing the cooler, trendier pieces that fashion people swear by. Case in point: a chic sherpa-lined aviator jacket.
Cozy Cardigans
A piece Rutherford swears by? A simple, elegant cardigan to top off any on-the-go outfit. Wear it over a white tee and sneakers for the perfect "throw on and go" outfit.
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