Canadian Tuxedo (AKA Denim on Denim)

My hot date Janelle posed a question to me yesterday: "Can I wear a Canadian Tuxedo?"  While I was thrilled to be asked for style advice, I actually had no idea what a Canadian Tuxedo was (to my credit).  In her usual kind way, she explained to "the professional" that a Canadian Tuxedo is denim on denim.  Her style advisor/Jill-of-all-trades says "NO."  And I agree if we're talking about this:

or this

However, denim on denim is a pretty serious trend and a lot of cool kids are doing it.  So that must make it okay.

Let's take some cues from my friend and future client, Ryan.  (His grasp needs a good OT, and I've volunteered because I am very generous.)

• it is okay and even preferable to wear different washes together
• as with the ugly pretty cardi, go forth with attitude
• and since most of us reading this are girls, style it up with accessories/hair/make-up

There were a surprising number of stylish examples when I Googled "Canadian Tuxedo images."  This is the photo I posted on my Facebook page last night:

I like the variety represented in these images, even if you pass (as I would highly recommend) on wearing a cropped Mickey Mouse tee.  Of course, I woke up this morning and wanted to wear a Canadian Tuxedo.  I looked to my VV Boutique pieces for inspiration and came up with this:

 Levis skirt $5, Esprit tank $2.50

Gap jacket circa 2002

I don't have any denim bottoms from VV other than this skirt, so that was an easy choice.  For the top, I had on my chambray initially but didn't feel it was fitted enough, though I imagine it would work well with a jegging in a different wash (now added to hunting list) as in the examples above.  My denim jacket was a little too close in wash for my liking, but I was determined to wear the tuxedo so I let it slide.  As for the gray tee I envisioned with my suit, guess what?  I don't have one!!!  This is a huge glaring hole in my wardrobe and must be rectified ASAP!  I tried a statement tee but, being my day off, I wanted something that wasn't, er, fitted, and liked the contrast of the orange.

To style it up, I added layers of necklaces from VV Boutique ($2.10 and $0.70) and She Does Create and some noticeable earrings ($2.10 from VV)! 

When I say "style it up" I include hair and make-up because without, there's a higher likelihood this look could turn frumpy.

I wouldn't call The Canadian Tuxedo my chicest look ever, but it was comfortable and had at least a little personality.  As for the denim on denim, no one recoiled in terror at the sight of me, so I'm calling it a win.

 With my Miz Mooz Pauly wedges $5.60 VV Boutique

On a scale of 1 to 10 Ryan Goslings, how hot would you rate my look?  Never mind, don't answer that.  Instead, three questions:

1. What do YOU think?    
2. Do YOU wear denim on denim?   
3. Should I style my entire family in Canadian Tuxedos then go out to the mall?