Let’s talk about Elle Fanning for a minute – or more specifically, her style. As one half of the über fashionable Fanning girls (Dakota is her big sis), Elle never seems to have a problem putting together an impressively chic outfit, which to me, is amazing considering the fact that she is only 14 years old. When I was 14, my personal style was discombobulated at best. I didn’t have a clear sense of what I liked to wear or what worked for my body; I mostly just bought pieces that I kinda liked and figured at least one of them would go well with something I already owned (it usually didn’t). But Fanning has such a remarkable grip on her personal style that I’m almost more amazed by her supreme fashion skills than the possibility she might be one of the lucky humans who successfully circumvented the “awkward stage”. So without further ado, I present to you four looks inspired by Fanning’s unique and striking style that are geared more toward a modest budget.
(1. Forever 21 – $5.80, 2. ASOS – $19.88, 3. Land’s End – $20.97, 4. Forever 21 – $8.80, 5. ModCloth – $42.99)
I’m sure most of us would love to wake up in the morning and open our closets to find a Rodarte dress hanging inside, but something tells me that isn’t a realistic scenario for the masses. Luckily, Fanning’s gold and blue get-up can be recreated in a more casual fashion with this gold crop top and floral skirt. Unlike a fancy dress, this combo can be worn more frequently, however, it can still be dressed up by switching out the crop top for a gold, blue or neutral button-up and adding a pair of heels (if you so desire). Lastly, the gold shirt collar necklace I chose can be paired with either a button-up or crop top, and considering its on-trend status, this accessory is bound to work in the look’s favor.
(1. Mango – $44.99, 2. DSW – $39.95, 3. American Apparel – $17, 4. Amazon – $29.22, 5. White House Black Market – $39.99)
There are few things I love more than a girl who can rock shorts in a dressy ensemble—OK, maybe there are more than a few things, but Fanning’s black and white look is a prime example of how a simple pair of white shorts can be elegant enough for evening wear. Take a cue from the actress and complement them with classic, understated accessories, like black patent leather heels and a small metallic clutch, as well as a short-sleeve black blouse. Collectively, these accessories will allow the shorts to stand out in an undeniably stylish way.
(1. Urban Outfitters – $39, 2. ASOS – $36.45, 3. Endless – $59.44, 4. PacSun – $10.50)
Fanning’s next outfit doesn’t involve as many pieces as her previous looks, but the leopard print alone is enough to make a statement. The dress I chose can be paired with similar platform heels, as well as accessories such as this geometric necklace and black crossbody bag. However, too many accessories might make the ensemble seem chaotic, so see how you like the look accessorized with a minimal number of complementary items before considering adding more.
(1. Forever 21 – $16.90, 2. Topshop – $40, 3. Nordstrom – $18, 4. Endless – $59.95)
Recently, I’ve felt like I’m in the minority for loving nautical-themed looks, but seeing Fanning’s sailor dress restored my faith in the existence of other navy and red fans. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a dress that looked exactly like Fanning’s on my budget, but I did find this belted stripe dress that is quite sailor-esque. Moreover, I selected these navy loafer heels and a straw hat as accessories inspired by Fanning’s choices, and I also included a gold watch as a substitute for the gold buttons on her dress.
Despite being so young, Fanning is giving plenty of stylish starlets a run for their money in terms of fashion, and she’s additionally inspiring other young (but older) women like me to take a greater interest in developing their personal style. What do you love about Elle Fanning’s style (or Elle as an actress/person)? Is there a favorite look of hers you’d love to share? Do you have alternative pieces in mind for one of the looks? Feel free to voice your thoughts in the comments section below or share this with your friends on Twitter and/or on Facebook by hitting the “Like” button!
Elle Fanning images via peoplestylewatch.com (1, 2, 3, 4)
I love Elle Fanning! She’s my favorite of the two sisters… I just think she has such a broad range when it comes to her acting abilities. Consider We Bought A Zoo (although it may not be the greatest movie ever): comparing her character in it to the one in Super 8, it’s a perfect example of how she can portray vastly different personalities.
She’s fabulous! And I agree, she always looks good, stylist or no.
I’ve found elle fanning’s navy dress, it’s by a UK brand called ‘Miss Patina’
http://misspatina.bigcartel.com/product/miss-patina-60s-cute-navy-style-dress-red-ribbon
Ah! Nice work, girl! I love that the dress isn’t overly expensive, either
@Erin Baldwin, I’m working at the Oxford St. Forever 21, London in the UK and I’ve always wondered whether their policy is ethical or not. I can’t say I’m shocked but I’m disappointed. They have various campaigns for Water charities and the like, but they are among swathes who use poorly paid, poorly treated labour. It’s no excuse, but unless the label says “Made in Western Europe /USA” it’s likely to have been made in a sweat shop, in a poor country.
I really enjoy your series on achieving celebrity fashion styles but I really wish you’d stop using forever 21 so much. Forever 21 is notorious for exploiting their workers in sweatshops (in the USA and overseas). I mean think about it…if they’re going to make a profit off a shirt that sells for $5.80 how much do you think they’re paying the woman who sewed it? It’ll be mere cents. I feel the a webpage like hellogiggles that’s a “destination for smart, independent and creative females” should not advertise for and encourage a company that profits off exploiting less fortunate women. I encourage you to read more at this webpage: http://www.39thandbroadway.com/hate-21/ or watch clips of the documentary “Made in LA” on youtube.
Thanks for sharing these! I’ll check them out.
I don’t think these look anything like what Elle Fanning is wearing. Just sayin’.
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I just LOVE Elle. She really does have such sophisticated style. (I love the nautical look too, don’t worry.) I do think she has a stylist but lots of celebrities have stylists and don’t look as great as her. She obviously appreciates fashion. She’s one of those people who can pull off a look that’s a little crazy, like that first dress. She also seems super sweet and her laugh is to die for. It feels weird she’s all grown up, doesn’t it? I’ve loved her and her sister for a long time! I don’t think they’ll be gone anytime soon
I really like her, I find shes really cute.
I feel like it is disingenuous not to mention that she more than likely has a stylist. Unless you are Tavi Gevinson, no 14 year old has the sense (or education) of style to buy Rodarte dresses and YSL pumps.
I understand where you’re coming from–Elle’s profession definitely provides her with resources (like a stylist) that give her the opportunity to learn more about fashion than most 14-year-olds. But I also think my column could have benefitted from mentioning that Elle has previously expressed in interviews that she possesses a strong interest in fashion and cultivating her personal style, as well as researching about various designers and models in her spare time. From what I’ve gathered, she seems to have an active role in deciding what she wears. Again, I don’t disagree though that her status as a celebrity affords her greater access than typical teens to educating herself about fashion.
Both sisters are actually considered very fashion-savvy. They continually get invited to both attend runway shows and participate in couture ad campaigns.