If you’ve ever eaten (or in my case, waited tables) at a two+ dollar sign Italian restaurant, then you know the server uniform: a white top, black pants, and black shoes. It’s a simple formula that has haunted my entire existence outside of my former college job. Every time I put on my black skinny jeans and try to pair it with a white top I look at myself in the mirror and think “would you like penne or capellini?”
Of course, there is 100% no shame in looking like or being a waiter (I was one for a long time!), but it’s not how I’m trying to dress outside restaurant walls. So, today, I decided to do a little research, and yes, even do a Pinterest scroll, to find the inspiration I needed to get over this very silly style fear. Enter: Chloe Sevigny at the 2003 Cannes Film Festival.
The actress was at the festival promoting her critically acclaimed film Brown Bunny. For one event she wore a pair of black skinny pants with a white fitted top and black platform sandals by Balenciaga. The look was chic, easily replicated and if it was your restaurant uniform, you’d be lucky. It’s a simple three-part equation that made everything click.
Now, come with me eggplant parm lovers and do the math on how I finally got over it and embraced waiter chic.
High-waisted pants are key:
Stay away from classic, white collared tops:
Don’t wear black sneakers: