Maya Angelou was an iconic figure in American culture, and her personal style was always carefully calculated to make a statement. The key to her unique aesthetic was in her careful selection of colors, fabrics, and silhouettes. If you want to dress like Maya Angelou, first focus on incorporating her signature muted colors, flowing midi skirts and ankle-length trousers, and relying on vertical lines and jackets.
Staples of a Maya Angelou Wardrobe
When it comes to creating a wardrobe that is inspired by Maya Angelou, there are a few staples that you should consider incorporating. Tsipora Schleifer, a stylist, recommends starting with a base of basic items – including simple dresses, ankle-length trousers, and bold scarves – to build upon. When accessorizing, strive for an overall look of comfort and sophistication.
Color and Print
An important part of any wardrobe is the colors and prints you choose. While Angelou was known for wearing muted hues, she also had an eye for statement prints. Look for pieces with interesting geometric shapes or subtle animal prints. These elements can help to bring an otherwise understated outfit to life. Alternatively, you can opt for solid colors, particularly navy blues, blacks, and grays.
Women’s Suits
Maya Angelou often relied on powerful suits and blazers to make a statement. We can attribute this partly to her gender-bending style. Women’s suiting has seen a resurgence as of late, and embracing the look is a great way to embody Angelou’s legacy. Look for well-tailored sharp silhouettes in navy blues, blacks and timeless grays.
Footwear
It’s worth noting that Maya Angelou often wore shoes that were both sensible and stylish. She relied heavily on block heel pumps and mules, and her go-to colors included neutrals and pastels. To ensure you nail the Angelou aesthetic, look for items that will help to elongate the legs and balance out the outfit.
Accessories
No look of Maya Angelou’s was complete without the addition of tasteful accessories. Her signature look incorporated gold jewelry, wide-brimmed hats, and luxurious wrap-around scarves. To finish off an outfit, select items that will enhance the look; a chic pair of earrings or statement necklace can be the difference between a basic look and an iconic one.
Elevated Basics
Maya Angelou was known for her bespoke pieces, but she also relied on elevated basics for her everyday wear. T-shirts and wrap dresses can easily be taken to the next level with texture and embellishments. Look for items that have been covered in sequins or sleek satin fabrics. These items will make your ensemble look unique and polished.
Vertical Lines
Finally, remember that Maya Angelou often relied on vertical lines in her outfits. She loved pieces with stripes, which helped to create a slimming effect. Blazers, trousers and maxi dresses in this style were often staples in her wardrobe. You can achieve a similar look by opting for a contrasting color combination or by picking up a single timeless piece.
Layer it Up
Part of what made Maya Angelou’s classic wardrobe so timeless was her ability to layer items with ease. She often wore midi skirts paired with duster coats, or ankle-length trousers underneath blazers. Her choice of materials also played a part in her style. Invest in luxe fabrics like velvet and faux fur to elevate your outfit without compromising on comfort.
Mix and Match Patterns
Maya Angelou famously incorporated an eclectic variety of patterns into her outfits. She would pair blazers with bold, geometric prints, or find smart ways to combine her scarves and hats. This was one of the ways she expressed her creativity and creative confidence. If you’re looking to replicate this look, consider pairing prints in the same color family or adding unexpected touches of blues, greens and creams.
Be Bold
Most importantly, remember that dressing like Maya Angelou was all about having the courage to be bold. She wasn’t afraid to break the rules of traditional dressing, so don’t be either. Experiment with different textures, colors and patterns to create outfits that reflect your own personal style.
Clothing as a Form of Expression
The fashion choices of Maya Angelou embodied her belief that our clothing is more than just a way to cover up; it’s an expression of who we are. This is why her wardrobe so often combined classic, muted hues with statement accents and bold silhouettes. She understood that fashion could be used to communicate ideas and stories, and she embraced it whole-heartedly.
Shop for Quality Items
Finally, remember that shopping like Maya Angelou means taking the time to shop for quality items. She was a firm believer in investing in timeless pieces that were made of high-quality materials, as this would ensure they would last longer and look better. If you want to master her look, focus on buying items that are made of luxurious, durable fabrics, and that will last beyond the current season.
