Welcome to the second edition of Wear Test—this is where I test out the wearability of internet trends and the latest runway fashions
This week, we're discussing speedos—not for swimming, but for everyday wear!!!
Dear reader, you're probably tired of hearing me go on and on about Miu Miu SS24. Despite it being six months since the show and the pieces being in stores for about three months now, the sheer delight and inspiration it brought, both to me and
, still linger. To finally bring an end to all of my Miu Miu SS24 discussion, I've decided to take a bold step: I'm putting a speedo to the test, mirroring the spirit of the show. Admittedly, I've sung praises about this speedo in a past letter, but let's chalk that up to winter blues, shall we? It's undoubtedly a remarkable piece, though I must confess, I have a bone to pick with the price.For the hefty price tag of $900, not including taxes, you could easily assemble a Miu Miu-esque ensemble for the same cost as that mere sliver of embroidered nylon.
While it doesn't quite add up for me to splurge on swimwear, I've found myself entertaining the idea purely for its potential as a piece of fashion history. So, if I dare to contemplate dropping that kind of cash on a speedo, why not test the waters and try wearing one as “everyday wear” before committing to the Miu Miu version?
Attempt #1
My first foray into this experiment took place the same week of Purim. I figured it could serve as a convenient fallback—if I found myself too timid to explain to someone that this was all just a test, I could simply claim it was a costume! However, right out the gate, I encountered a hurdle: my limited selection of low-rise or mid-rise pants made it difficult for the speedo to peek out naturally. As a result, I had to awkwardly hike it up so high that it ended up digging into my sides. And to add to the discomfort, I decided to forego underwear, leaving no barrier between me and the nylon material.
Despite the initial challenges, I had a packed schedule planned for this outfit. I began by visiting the cobbler, then made my way to the Miu Miu store to inspect the actual speedo in person. As I examined it, I couldn't help but ponder: was this meant for swimming, or was it simply a $900 fashion statement? While there, I also tried on the polo, which I must admit had its own allure. After my Miu Miu excursion, I enjoyed drinks with Naomi Mishkin of Naomi Nomi and Henry Zankov, followed by a visit to temple for a Purim event, which was followed by an album release party for Tyla. By the time I returned home, I was sore from repeatedly tugging at the speedo to ensure it remained visible, all while braving the chilly weather in attire more suited for summer.
Despite the challenges and discomfort, I couldn't shake the feeling of curiosity. So, as the weather turned and spring appeared to be on the horizon, I felt inspired to give it another shot. And besides, could it truly be considered a wear test if I didn't dare to wear it to the office?
Attempt #2
Talk about timing—on the very day I decided to strut into the office sporting a speedo, NYC decided to unleash a cold front. Talk about irony! Fed up with all things winter-related, I decided to brave the chill in my shorts and strappy sandals, and simply imagine that the cold air was merely me getting into a cold plunge.
So, off I went to the office, and to my surprise, there wasn't much fuss. Perhaps my colleagues are so accustomed to my quirky style choices that a speedo barely raised an eyebrow. This time, I took precautions by wearing underwear as a barrier, and I paired the speedo with some loose-fitting La Collection shorts that sat comfortably below my hips. Taking cues from Miu Miu, I tucked in my polo and cardigan, giving it my best shot at channeling the runway. And not to toot my own horn (toot toot), I feel like I nailed the look!
As I sashayed around the office, confidence soaring, everything seemed peachy—until about three hours in. Despite my efforts to avoid the dreaded swimwear dig, the tight confines of the speedo combined with the layers of fabric started to chafe. The discomfort soon became unbearable, and I had to forgo the idea of wearing a speedo for the rest of the day. Not only was I ditching the speedo for the rest of the day, but I was also ditching the idea of even buying the Miu Miu one.
Final Verdict:
I could wax poetic about the impact of the Miu Miu SS24 show (and trust me, I have, haha!). But I believe the Miu Miu speedo serves as a perfect example of an idea that thrives within the context of the show but falters in reality. That's not to say the collection is inundated with impractical fashion pieces; there's still a diverse range of items that exude a sense of uniqueness, some of which I'm seriously contemplating purchasing.
Take, for example, the Miu Miu rope sandals—they're undeniably special, and considering the price of designer footwear, they're quite a steal. And for those who still yearn to channel a beachy look and feel without actually taking a dip, there are the satin bermudas. They effortlessly straddle the line between fitted and baggy, and remind me of Carrie's beach stroll outfit from the 'Twenty-Something Girls vs. Thirty-Something Women' episode of 'Sex and the City.'
And if neither of those options tickle your fancy, there are the adorable little lanyards that can double as anklets or bag charms. I suppose the moral of this wear test is that while the speedo may have been a charming runway moment, if you don't foresee any water-related activities in your day, it's probably best to leave it at home.
See you mid week!
XX
JJ
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Loved this sooo much!!❤️❤️