Stage-Inspired Fashion: The Bad Years
This musical about twenty-somethings is ideal college wardrobe inspo.
From the costumes to the set, from the words of the script to the movements of the actors, everything on stage tells a story. Stage-Inspired Fashion adds a little drama to everyday style.
A few of my friends went to see The Bad Years in Brooklyn last month, and I am SO. JEALOUS.
Behind the Scenes
The Bad Years is a song cycle written by modern musical theatre team Kait Kerrigan & Brian Lowdermilk that became an immersive house party musical experience for a few weeks. As the website says, the show follows “a bunch of twenty-somethings“ as they flirt, fight, and flip-cup their way into adulthood.”
Kerrigan & Lowdermilk capture the funny moments and difficult moments (sometimes, they’re the same) of that weird transition phase between being a college student and being a regular working adult. They understand your relationship problems and your financial insecurities and those faces you make when you see Facebook posts about all of your high school friends getting married and having kids.
I’ve created three outfits based on three of my favorite songs from the cycle! I’ve linked to my favorite performances of the songs as well. But be warned: Kerrigan and Lowdermilk write the catchiest tunes, and you’ll be humming them for days after you listen to them.
The Bad Years
At what age do I have to stop smoking?
‘Cause I think there’s a cut-off
When it stops being cool,
And you just have lung cancer.
Products: Tank Top, Jeans, Sweater, Shoes, Cap
Performance to Watch: Jay Armstrong Johnson with Matt Doyle, Nick Blaemire, Jenni Barber, Kait Kerrigan, & Brian Lowdermilk
Whether you’re going to a house party or out to see your favorite indie band, try this casual, boyish look inspired by a character somewhere between a boy and a man. Stick to neutrals: a plain white tank top, chunky grey cardigan, and classic black Vans will do the trick. Add interest with distressed boyfriend jeans and a maroon baseball cap.
Last Week’s Alcohol
House parties are proof the world runs to chaos.
I go outside and that’s when I see you.
Products: Shirt, Skirt, Blazer, Tights, Flats
Performance to Watch: Matt Doyle
Just like this song, this outfit is delicate and yet dramatic. When you’re going out for the night, tuck a Brooklyn t-shirt into a black mini skirt, and add opaque black tights and faux suede flats. Pull it all together with a fitted powder-pink blazer (with a pocket for your phone).
Two Strangers
This was not so magical.
You didn’t impress me.
Not at all. No. No.
Products: Dress, Sweatshirt, Socks, Boots, Necklace
Performance to Watch: Morgan Karr with Matt Doyle and Jay Armstrong Johnson
For a look inspired by this elegant, heartbreaking trio song, start with a plaid fit-and-flare dress. Add a light grey sweatshirt, white socks, and heeled ankle boots. Finish the look with a statement necklace that sparkles with a perfect autumn luminescent light.
Epilogue
These years may be the bad years, but at least, with these songs, we know we aren’t the only ones going through them.
Your Thoughts?
Did you go to The Bad Years performance/party? Are you a fan of Kerrigan & Lowdermilk? Are there any plays or musicals you would love to see covered in this column? Let us know what you think in the comments below!
Source: #Fashionblogger #fashiontrends