061: MICHELLE PHANH
lives in capri pants and bloomers.
Hi! Happy Friday to everyone except the writers of this SNL skit from last weekend, which hit a little too close to home. Multiple people sent it to me. Which was… rude.
Jokes aside, I am always thinking about the riddle that is getting dressed in your 30s. When is it giving The Row, and when is it giving “we make Diane Keaton look like a prostitute”? My best friend’s husband (lovingly?) refers to our style as tiny women in enormous clothes—which, well, we often are.
Where’s the line between cool and oversized and a little too much fabric? I actually don’t feel any age-related pressure to dress more conservatively, but I do think more about what feels cool to me, and what I’ll actually be comfortable in.
Lately, the answer is about playing with proportions. A slouchy pant with a tiny top. A mini with a flat instead of a stiletto. I’m still partial to Melissa’s take, especially for summer: spaghetti straps and baggy jeans. It’s not about hiding or revealing, just getting the balance right. I’ve also been thinking about getting back into heels lately, albeit of the kitten or wedge variety, like these…
For this week’s letter, I spoke to Michelle Phanh, a model and artist (and a Substack writer herself) who seems to understand this subtle balance intrinsically. Her style is playful and expressive but never overdone. She makes the art of dressing in your 30s feel effortless. I asked her to tell me what she’s been living in lately.
Describe your personal style. What are you living in right now and why?
Masculine-feminine. Second skin style. Comfy never fussy. Personality dressing is always fun. Emphasis on black and neutrals at the moment. Pieces you can wear everyday, year round. Building a cohesive closet!
MICHELLE’S MOST WORN
Saks Potts Croc Bag and St Agni Low Waist Trousers
The bag is no longer available for purchase but I never carry it without getting a compliment (ed note: linking similar). The trousers are the perfect low rise, 90s trousers. Great for those who have a longer waist.
Backless and so breathable. Feels so soft on the skin. You will look good leaving the party.
In this lightweight nylon. So Prada. Perfect for Spring/ Summer.
How often do you shop?
I try to purchase with intention— no more impulse buys. Investing in a closet that will last a lifetime is a great ethos. Shopping in person is the most ideal for me, but if not possible, I stick to silhouettes that are tried and true for my body to avoid returns. A good rule of thumb for me nowadays is to purchase only when a staple piece is missing in my wardrobe.
Where do you shop the most?
I try to shop in person as I feel nothing beats touching fabric. And you never know how something fits until it falls on your body. Part of why I buy in store is because I’m obsessed with how fabrics feel on the skin. L'Ensemble is a great boutique for the 30+ modern, New York woman (ed note: I interviewed the very chic founder of L’Ensemble last summer).
Charlie Bloomer and Fane Bra Bag
These bloomers are easiest, comfiest, most versatile bottoms to wear. They go with everything and come in all colors/ fabrics. And I am a bag lady through and through. This one by Paris brand Fane is the peak of minimal chicness.
South Korean brand I was introduced to recently. Love their classic, well constructed approach. (ed note: Michelle’s is sxold out but I’ve linked some cute options below)
What’s your go-to bodega/coffee/grocery-run outfit?
My go-to corner deli outfit is a vintage sweatpant and sweater from Varsity LA.
Thank you, Christina! X such a pleasure
Ooh, I love Michelle's style! Thanks for sharing.