Elaina Bellis Styles Summer's Bold Stripes and Checks

Since my Summer 2017 collection was inspired by camping trips and spending time in the outdoors, it’s filled with classic stripes and checks in bold hues. When we photographed model, mother, and art director Elaina Bellis, I couldn’t wait to see her in them. Elaina is stunning, for one, and I knew she’d bring her signature easy, bohemian charm to these strong patterns in a way that I envisioned when originally designing them. I love that she slipped our buffalo check down jacket over an easy black slip-dress, for example, and that the pants she wore to complement our red striped knits were simple cotton trousers with a feminine high-rise. See Elaina in the looks and learn a bit more about her personal style, below. XXJKE

Rip & Tan: Why did you gravitate towards these specific Jenni Kayne pieces? How do they complement your personal style?

Elaina Bellis: I love the “tomboy” style and I think the pieces I wore really embody that. I also like mixing tomboy with feminine pieces. 

Rip & Tan: What personal items did you incorporate into the looks? Tell us about where you found these pieces.

EB: The green high-waist pants I wore I got at the General Store. As for the white sailor pants I wore (see here),  my sister-in-law bought them for me at the Army surplus store on the East side! I’m a sucker for a high-waist wide-leg pant.

Rip & Tan: Where would you wear these outfits? How do they fit into your lifestyle?

EB: I would wear all these outfits at home or out. I love how versatile they are, and how you can dress them up or down. 

Rip & Tan: Do you have any rules or advice on building a beautiful outfit?

EB: I live by the motto less is more. I love anything cashmere or cotton gauze.

Rip & Tan: How did you accessorize these looks? 

EB: Just threw on my sunnies, and my Mohinders slides. I don’t wear much jewelry!