Fashion Savvy but Practical
Feminine and Masculine Blends
Parker, 48, has a flair for blending feminine and masculine influences. This is something she proved when she donned a sexy but simple black Elie Saab jumpsuit at the 2013 BAFTA Awards. "Sarah has an effortless and versatile style," says Young-Brooks, a 13-year fashion veteran. "She's not afraid to take risks, and they pay off."
A Stop at Halston and a New Line
Fans were excited when Parker was named chief creative officer at Halston Heritage in 2010. This was especially thrilling for those who enjoyed her line at the now defunct Steve & Barry's. But the Halston Heritage gig (pictured) was cut short by the company's financial instability. Both posts helped solidify Parker as a fashion icon. Now, she's launching a shoe line with Manolo Blahnik CEO George Malkemus. "This woman put Manolo Blahniks on the map," Young-Brooks says. "It only makes sense that she would launch her own shoe line."
Speaking of Shoes
Parker shocked fans when she said she would no longer wear heels: "Unless they're really nice," she said. This was in part because the mother of three has been photographed in a lot of Ugg boots. But with a new line of shoes, bags and trench coats hitting Nordstrom shelves in 2014, Parker has explained that she hasn't sworn off heels—just cheap heels. "My hope is that Sarah doesn't forget real women's price points," Young-Brooks says. "I mean, how many of us can afford Manolo Blahniks and Louboutins?"
One Infamous Misstep
It's rare that Parker is harshly criticized for her sartorial choices. That, of course, changed when she landed on a number of worst dressed lists for the pale yellow Chanel Couture gown and tousled chignon she sported at the 2010 Academy Awards. Some even mercilessly called the look, "sloppy." "Sarah still hasn't rebounded from that," Young-Brooks says. "She's been more low key. She hasn't been on the Oscars red carpet since."
Red-Carpet Ready
While Parker hasn't been back to the Academy Awards, she continues to turn heads for the better. This includes a stop at a Fashion Group International event in 2012, where she stunned in a striped L'Wren Scott dress. "She's still a trendsetter," Young-Brooks says. "Whenever I'm in need of inspiration, I go to Sarah Jessica Parker's Pinterest page. She's amazing, classy and classic."
Casual and Relaxed
This Ohio native is a lot more practical than the woman she played on "Sex and the City." In fact, Parker prefers boots, jeans and T-shirts, especially when spending time with her husband, actor Matthew Broderick, and their children. "She has an eye for formal and casual wear," says Young-Brooks, who is also a mom. "But she seems most at home in jeans. She adds her own flair, but it's a much more casual look."
