How to dress like Claire Underwood

If you’re scratching your head and wondering who the heck Claire Underwood is … it’s ok, she’s fictional.

She’s not part of my imagination.

No, she’s part of the imagination and genius that is the writing and production team behind Netflix political intrigue series, House of Cards.

Claire is played by Robin Wright and stars opposite the enigmatically evil Kevin Spacey (Frank Underwood) as one-half of a Washington power couple which has its sights set on the US’ top political job – the Presidency. And no-one will get in their way.

(Spoiler alert if you have not seen Season 1 or 2: they get the job.)

Apart from the addictive story line, what has me obsessed about this show is the wardrobe of Claire Underwood.

And it seems I’m not alone.

This question from a reader:

Hi Nikki, I am just re-watching season 1 of House of Cards and I thought of you! I love Claire Underwood (played by Robin Wright) and her style and would love a wardrobe like hers. Even her running gear and pyjamas are amazing. Louise

Oh Louise, so would I. So would I.

There’s just a big thing getting in the way of me having a Claire Underwood wardrobe and that’s my bowerbird ways (I love a sparkly show pony … or a splash of leopard print) and on any given day of the week, I also like to mix it up with my wardrobe style personalities.

Not Claire.

She nails minimalism to a tee. Every time. Every day. Every occasion.

Photo: Netflix (check out full gallery here)

Her wardrobe has a clever knack of being minimalist but it’s far from boring. This is why her wardrobe has garnered so much attention.

Her signature style is all about classic, fitted and structured pieces (often with a subtle twist). It’s about wearing neutral colours that are anything but dull. And it’s about showing her cool, calm (even under pressure) personality through the cool, calm exterior of her clothes.

It’s not about the fussy or frou frou but it’s undeniably feminine and incredibly sexy. Her wardrobe speaks power but without sacrificing her female side.

With her short hair style, Claire works a shirt or dress neckline like nobody’s business. She makes this her outfit focal point and it works every time.

Claire doesn’t wear patterns, with the exception of a subtle pinstripe. Her wardrobe colour palette features black, white, stone, navy, grey and maybe a surprise inclusion of mulberry/wine.

This minimalist style is not for everyone but it does offer inspiration for all of us.

Less really can be more.

We don’t need to make an outfit statement via a statement piece. The statement can be in the subtlety.

It’s ok to swap out a large statement necklace for a fine chain or none at all. Or switch drop earrings for small pearl or diamond studs.

It’s not about the latest trends. It’s about timeless classics with a nod to the current fashion era.

Yes, even Claire’s cream, silk pyjamas fit her signature style; as does her streamlined all-black running wear.

Pulling it off is all about inner confidence. Something Claire has in bucket loads.

Yes, Claire’s physique and poise naturally lends herself to this style but I think if you’re prepared to seek out garments that fit you perfectly – or enlist the help of a tailor or dressmaker to alter them to ensure you do – then you can embrace this look at any size or age.

Impeccable grooming is also key. Claire’s hair is always in place. There are never any tell-tell signs that she’s overdue for a colour appointment at the salon.

Makeup is flawless but naturally so. Same with nails. There’s a lesson in that for all of us, I think.

Here is a shopping/styling suggestion featuring Claire Underwood-style pieces.

1. Cue dress $269 | 2. Witchery OCRF drape front shirt $99.95 | 3. Country Road skirt $149 | 4. Kate Spade earrings $49.95 | 5. Mimco bag $450 | 6. Guess heels $149

And as for her choice in nightwear, these gorgeous silk pyjamas from Australian independent label, Coco Soie, would be right at home in The White House, don’t you think?

Coco Soie silk pyjamas $149 (on sale)

So tell me, are you a House of Cards fan? Love Claire Underwood’s signature style? Could you do minimalist every day?

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