february 2008

Piper McEndarffer, 23, featured in our February "Does This Outfit Work?" story, has always loved a horsey, riding-inspired look, but wondered if she was trying to do too much in one outfit: a Western-ish fringe scarf and bag, plus jeans tucked into super-tall, equestrian-style boots. Here's what we did to make it all a little more pulled together:

• Switched her over-the-knee boots for a pair of brown suede ankle boots sleek enough to fit under her jeans.

• Opted for a bag with a similar silhouette—but without fringe, so it doesn't compete with her scarf.

• Swapped her boxy cobalt blazer for a more snugly fitted black one.

"Piper's hunch was right," says fashion news director Jen Ford. "It's great to be inspired by a look, but it's important to remember that small doses can go a long way. We kept the focal point on one accessory—the bright orange scarf—and made everything else a bit more subtle."

Piper's reaction: "These booties make my legs look longer and leaner, and I feel more polished and less casual. And I love how my scarf really pops out against the black jacket!"

The Items We Chose: