Welcome back to “So You Want To…” the monthly fashion column dedicated to vibes, whims and general fun. I think? I hope! Every month I cast about in the recesses of my mind to bring you inspiration and frankly, I have outdone myself this time!
This month, we’re taking a trip to South Beach and getting into the iconic summer styles of The Birdcage! Is it a perfect film? Well, no, nothing is, and someone should have yelled at Val for the actual hell he puts his Dads through (and on such short notice, like my dude, maybe introduce your girlfriend to your Dads before you drag her bonkers conservative family to South Beach???) but it is pretty close! Robin Williams exasperated, limp wrist performance is possibly the first time I saw myself represented on screen, and simply every single choice made by Nathan Lane is perfect. And I get to see my absolute girls Christine Baranski and Dianne Wiest? Some things are classics for a reason!
And the fashions! The neon, the billowy linens, the rings and gaudy necklaces! It is very much in step with the trends of the moment — bright and bold and maximalist and just plain old fun! Let’s dive in, shall we?
Armand
Shoes: Naturalizer Demur-Bit in white ($100)
Necklace: Chunky Gold Chain Choker ($26)
Pants: Pleated Wide Leg Trouser ($90)
Shirt: Sunrise Floral Button-Up Top ($89)
For me, Armand is number one with a bullet when it comes to summer fashion inspiration. Every year around this time, I wake up and think “well I simply need the thickest gold chain imaginable and a pair of loafers!” I’m talking wildly printed button downs over tank tops, loose linen and more gold than a Mafia housewife would know what to do with. Let’s face it, Armand is Daddy, and who doesn’t want to bring a little of that energy with them??
Albert
Ring: Statement Chunky Ring ($55)
Shoes: Dansko Sandals in yellow ($120)
Pants: Wide Cut Jersey Pants ($18)
Cardigan: Shaker-Stitch Open-Front Sweater ($45)
What is so inspirational about Albert is his effortless combination of South Beach summer style with just a touch of WASPy drama for fun. The cardigan dramatically draped over the shoulders paired with the gold lame hat and the bright yellow sandal? It’s giving “Yes I missed the last PTA meeting but we all know I’m still in charge” and frankly? He’s right and he should say it! Instead of Armand’s more sedate linens, we’re going for a softer, more femme pant, topped off with bright and bold rings and of course, a beachy cardigan!
Katherine
Shoes: Strappy Heels in metallic gold ($80)
Scarf: Silk Scarf ($14)
Skirt: Mini Skirt ($28)
Necklace: Pearl Necklace ($18)
Hi, sorry, Mommi? Everything about Katherine is prime Mommi content, from the miniskirt to the pearls to the fact that she is “between husbands”?? I don’t know a better woman! Why not treat yourself to a silk scarf for jaunts to pretend to be married to the man with whom you had a child? While you are at it, why not throw on these incredible gold heels and this banging leather and pearl necklace? Unfortunately I cannot give any of us of the legs of a 44 year old Christine Barasnki, but honestly, it is enough to just see ’em.
Agador
Earring: Star Ear Cuff ($10)
Shirt: Sounds Gay I’m In Crop Top ($29)
Shorts: High Waisted Slouchy Distressed Jean Shorts ($20)
Pants: Wide Leg Pants with Belt ($93)
Agador, THEE GAWD. Slutty, helpful, unable to wear shoes. A perfect person, and truly perfect summer inspo for those of us who simply want to toss on a crop top and pair of cut off shorts and dance. Thankfully, his penchant for a baggy, wide leg cargo pant is deeply on trend right now, so grab yourself a pair of those too! And might I suggest adding a dangly earring for an extra bit of sparkle? You are thisclose to booking your big night on stage, I promise!
wow am I having some revelations about how I dress in the summer and how many times I have seen this movie. the only thing im missing is a gold lame hat!
Before clicking, I thought, “like the movie, but really not my style.” Now I need it all! This is the life I need this summer and didn’t know it. Love this series! Fashion-therapy.
AGADOR!!! A forever favorite. Also I deeply relate to “slutty, helpful, and unable to wear shoes” thank you Christina for this perfect piece 🌈💖
I love this movie so so much. Not only is it hilarious, but it has some fantastic performances from Nathan Lane and the late great Robin Williams.
And has the best quote ever in a movie:
“You’re not young, you’re not new and you do make people laugh. And I’m still with you because you make me laugh.”
i waaaaant literally everything on this list, but especially those statement rings
“a baggy, wide leg cargo pant is deeply on trend right now”
Finally! I am on trend!!
Perfection. Also, I couldn’t admit to myself before that “just a touch of WASPy drama” was part of my closet but your Albert collection did it for me!
This is amazing thank you
“For me, Armand is number one with a bullet when it comes to summer fashion inspiration. Every year around this time, I wake up and think “well I simply need the thickest gold chain imaginable and a pair of loafers!” I’m talking wildly printed button downs over tank tops, loose linen and more gold than a Mafia housewife would know what to do with. Let’s face it, Armand is Daddy, and who doesn’t want to bring a little of that energy with them??”
OBVIOUSLY.
Bless you for this gem. I’m about to go shopping with my BFF so they can find a dress for their upcoming grad school graduation and I will def be on the lookout for all these looks.
Yes loose linen and gold chains please and thank you forever amen
Amazing piece of writing Christina, the queers THANK YOU for your service
Gaah, so many fun outfits haha!
Also, the original French film “La Cage Aux Folles” is really good and has fun late 70’s fashion too!
This makes me so happy in my heart.
And makes me want to throw a(nother) Birdcage-themed party!