Get The Beatnik Look With Slim Black Jeans & Parisienne Touches

Black and white stripes, black skinnies, ballet pumps and bongos… oh là là I’ve gone all Beatnik style on you.

There couldn’t be a more simple (and stylish) look to emulate than the look which is beautifully summed up in this clip of Audrey Hepburn dancing in the movie Funny Face – gotta love her.

So when Wallis asked me to review a pair of jeans from their 216 Denim Collection, I went for the Black Slim Leg Jeans, which I specifically chose for two reasons: 1. I’ve been hankering after dresses worn over jeans a lot lately, so I thought the flat front and zip on the side would be perfect for creating a smooth silhouette, and 2. My ballet pumps have been crying out for the perfect pair of fitted black jeans just to get the Beatnik look for ages. And I’m pleased to say they fitted like a dream! Comfy with plenty of stretch, no gaping on the waist and beautifully smooth for layering. The rest of the outfit was easy: Ray-Bans, Breton stripes, a vintage head scarf and bongos (which I’m learning to play. Slowly).

I have to mention the beautiful vintage scarf: this was a birthday present – see the pictures below for what the pattern looks like. How appropriate that the Eiffel Tower is on it, considering I think Beatnik style is just so French, mes chéris! If you want to get an Eiffel Tower scarf similar to mine, click here for ones you can buy on Etsy, there’s some real vintage beauties there.

It may not look like it, but I was actually playing (probably badly) the bongos when the photos were taken… it’s something that I’ve always, always, wanted to learn to do. Not really a bucket list thing, just more of a hankering to learn a new skill that would surprise people. How about you – any weird and wonderful new skills you’re hankering to acquire?  Do share them in the comments!

Scarf: Vintage* (Magpie & Bear), Top: Asos, Jeans*: Wallis, Ballet pumps: Debenhams, Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Wayfarers, Gold rings: Asos, Bongos: from Keith