Ladies Who Lunch Are Fashion's Latest Muses

You can thank Ryan Murphy.

And just like that, another Fashion Month is in the books. As we feasted our eyes on the structured suiting, sumptuous fabrics, and lavish accessories of the Fall/Winter 2024 collections, we were transported to a bygone era of sophistication and scandal—the heyday of the original "ladies who lunch," affectionately known as The Swans.

Immortalized in Ryan Murphy's Feud: Capote vs. The Swans and portrayed by Naomi Watts, Chloë Sevigny, Diane Lane, Demi Moore, Calista Flockhart, and Molly Ringwald—these high society debutantes epitomized timeless elegance. Topping international best-dressed lists, they regularly graced the pages of Vogue, with romantic entanglements and secretive affairs only adding to their mysterious allure.

In 2024, Capote's muses are more relevant than ever, dominating not just TV screens but runways and social feeds everywhere. Ahead, we're breaking down the ladies who lunch fashion trend.

The Trend

If you've ever dreamt of living amongst the Upper East Side elite, clad in couture while dining within the hushed ambiance of a posh eatery, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the sartorial keys to The Swans' enduring appeal.

Whether decked out in satin blouses and statement necklines or tailored suits in understated hues, the wardrobes of ladies who lunch were a master class in deliberate dressing. In their world, presentation was everything. From Babe Paley's less-is-more approach to Slim Keith's androgynous silhouettes and C.Z. Guest’s East Coast prep sensibility, this style is a testament to the power of timeless pieces over transient trends.

And unlike the ladies’ tumultuous friendship with Truman Capote, which dissolved in the wake of the scandalous exposé La Côte Basque, the Swans' style remains a cornerstone of classic American fashion thanks to the enduring appeal of staples like sheath dresses and bold outerwear.

Need proof? Look no further than this season's runways: Dior debuted a homage to '60s elegance, Schiaparelli embraced architectural suiting, and Hermès expertly crafted monochromatic looks that nodded to timeless sophistication. Even Marc Jacobs sent a doll-like interpretation of the socialite matching set down the runway at his off-calendar show.

How to Style the Trend IRL

If you won't be shopping the ready-to-wear collections showcased in Paris and Milan this season, you're not alone. Fortunately, it's entirely possible to emulate The Swans' signature style without an heiress's fortune. The trick is finding modern takes on timeless classics. Look for buttoned-up staples—think sleek vests with matching trousers, oversized suits, and luxurious satin coats—that will become the intentional pieces in your wardrobe that transcend fleeting fads.

To put a modern spin on things, embrace the irreverent spirit of Miu Miu’s latest collection with pearls draped slightly askew against structured collars. If you’re on the go, juxtapose tailored separates with vibrant sneakers from Samba, Adidas, or New Balance for a touch of streetwear flair. As demonstrated by costume designer Lou Eyrich, accessorizing is key in the Swans' universe, so opt for statement gold earrings to elevate your ensemble or add a contemporary twist with a chic claw clip.

Where to Get the Look

While menswear-inspired fashion continues to reign supreme, this season heralds a return to tailored silhouettes that fall closer to the body. Slip into a form-fitting suit jacket to accentuate the waist, cinch chunky knitwear with a sleek belt for added interest, or try straight-leg trousers as a streamlined alternative to their wide-leg counterparts. Whichever path you choose, the ladies who lunch aesthetic is a versatile pick for navigating corporate boardrooms or indulging in afternoon gossip over prosecco and light bites—public fallouts and PR nightmares not included.

Read the original article on Byrdie.