For those who know the difference between Margaux and Marlo, were aware of James Turrell’s work before it was plastered on the walls of Kendall Jenner’s Los Angeles residence, and know that the best way to discover music is to listen to The Row’s monthly curated playlist, do I have news for you.
In a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it fashion, Mary-Kate Olsen made a rare public appearance last night, showcasing her oft-imitated, never-replicated personal style as she departed the New York City office she shares with her sister Ashley.
Of course, given that he is at the helm of one of the most prestigious A luxury fashion brand, one can assume that her wardrobe is filled with gorgeous and decidedly minimalist silhouettes designed by her. However, knowing Mary-Kate means knowing her own style philosophy is quite mysterious.
The luxurious offerings she offers each season in Paris and her delightfully curated boutiques in London, Los Angeles, Manhattan and Amagansett may be the pinnacle of sophistication and secret wealth, but that doesn’t mean she exclusively adheres to this philosophy. Instead, she combines these immaculately crafted staples with bohemian flair and a slightly disheveled energy—this is the woman who pioneered the beat-up Birkin and the pen-stain Balenciaga City Bag—infusing these timeless pieces with a vibrant, vintage-inspired feel.
(Image credit: Backgrid UK)
To achieve this, you’ll often find Mary-Kate, or at least those moments when the paparazzi cameras secretly watch her, pairing her Swaddling Virgin wool coat with brocade scarves and real antiques, which is why, when she stepped out wearing a controversial flat shoe trend, my interest was immediately piqued.
For the occasion, Mary-Kate paired her luxurious, long outerwear and ultra-rare crocodile The Row Lady bag, estimated at £25,000, with a pair of ankle-length, lace-up boots. Although not a trainer, this silhouette is reminiscent of a moccasin in the vein of the viral Clarks Wallabies or Birkenstock UTTs.
The shoes in question are called the Tyler, which are made from soft suede and retail for £930. However, as a fashion editor living in London can attest, this is a shape you’ll usually find on Canon Street or finance bros working in Canary Wharf. However, as cultural monuments prefer inheritance As shown, these well-heeled corporate types are not immune to the allure of incredibly expensive but totally inconspicuous clothing. Lest we forget, Kendall Roy was decked out in Brunello Cucinelli, Loro Piana, and Jacques Marie Madge, even if she was just wearing a pair of navy trousers and a gilet.
These contradictions are what make Mary-Kate so charming on a sartorial level. In a world of hyper-curated ensembles and overly polished personalities, it’s refreshing to see a member of the celebrity genre take something unexpected, individualistic and, frankly, a little flamboyant. Although always underpinned with an artistic flair and deceptively basic edge, she’s really at her best when she’s being upfront and subtly provocative.
Shop the Lace-Up Shoe Trend:
Quarrel
tyler lace up shoe
This pair is close to selling out.
free people
clarks wallaby shoes
Perhaps an extension of the Man Repeller fashion trend that dominated the 2010s, but these polarizing shoes prove that there’s always room for a weird shoe in the fashion landscape.
birkenstock
Utti Lace Suede Leather
These shoes are not only incredibly functional, but also incredibly comfortable, making them perfect for staying on your feet for long periods of time as you walk around town.
This French girl iteration feels a little more wearable and pretty.
studio nicholson
Woodrow Suede Shoe in Taupe
Take styling cues straight from The Row and wear it with an oversized blazer and thick leggings.
massimo datti
soft leather lace-up shoes
Sure, these have a bit of a fetish vibe, but when paired with low-rise jeans and a white T-shirt, they look just as charming as loafers or trainers.
MS
suede lace up flat boat shoes
Sleek and polished, these boat shoes have a similar shape but are much more suitable for everyday wear.
Improvement
Terra Scrunch Sneaker
Of course, if the idea of wearing these shoes is completely depressing, opt for a similar color but a flattering shape, like these satin trainers.
