“A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.” - Coco Chanel

(Family Features) You may have heard the saying that everything old is new again, but there are some things that just never go out of style. But what is “classic style” - and how can you incorporate those special touches into your every day?

Jane Lilly Warren, Katie Armour and Fallon Hogerty are the creative forces behind www.MatchbookMag.com, an online magazine that serves as a “guide to a charmed life.” The women of Matchbook delight in a variety of classic styles and icons - from Chanel and Jackie O to contemporary style-makers such as John Derian and Jemma Kidd. Here, they share the basics about classic style for home decor as well as for the wardrobe.

What defines classic style?

“A classic is something that has stood the test of time and proven to be the best in its class,” said Warren. “It’s of high quality and is meant to last to be passed on through the generations.” Warren says that while you might invest in an H & M shirt that will last a couple of seasons, a Lacoste polo will be around - and in style - long enough to hand down to your kids.

“There’s definitely a timelessness to these things,” said Hogerty, “they have an ability to transcend eras.”

Modern takes on vintage designs are cropping up all over the place. From the clothes modeled on fashion runways to the paint colors in your local hardware store, there seems to be a bit of a retro revival going on. Armour isn’t surprised.

“The world is changing faster than ever,” she said, “and we have seen such instability over the past few years in a vast array of sectors, that I think people are embracing the classics, in part, out of the stability and comfort that they provide.”

How to incorporate classic style into your life
If you’d like to bring some freshly vintage style to your home or wardrobe, the Matchbook mavens have these tips:

- Study the classic tastemakers, such as Jackie Kennedy Onassis. By studying, one can get an idea of what classic pieces will stand the test of time.

- When buying that new coat or pair of shoes, think about what is well made and will last through the years - those will invariably be the classics in your wardrobe.

- When it comes to color, black is always in style and can complement any outfit. Black slacks, ballet flats, cardigan or coat - you can’t go wrong.

- Short red nails, black mascara - sometimes it’s the simple things that add a classic pep to your step.

To get some classic style on a budget:

- Rummage through flea markets for under-appreciated, timeless gems at a steal.

- Visit consignment shops for wardrobe bargains.

- Spruce up what you have - a coat of paint on a piece of furniture can do wonders.

- A little pizzazz goes a long way. Maybe you can’t afford the yards of lavish fabric you want for curtains or a sofa - but try using some for a throw pillow.


Visit www.MatchbookMag.com for fashion and decor inspiration, interviews with the hottest style makers, as well as glimpses behind the scenes of some of your favorite style icons.

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