Fashion

Channel Hayden Panettiere's Style

by Tyler Atwood

The world is abuzz over the recent rumors of Nashville star Hayden Panettiere's pregnancy, which in true celebrity gossip fashion could be completely fabricated or some type of Kate Middleton-esque invasion of privacy. However, I highly doubt that whether Ms. Panettiere is with child or not will have much impact on the actress's killer fashion sense. From daring mini dresses with risqué cutouts and Art Deco-inspired Tom Ford dresses to perfectly tailored jeans and booties, the five foot star knows how to dress her petite frame in styles that highlight her shape without overwhelming her.

For those who share in Panettiere's conundrum of having a diminutive frame in a world of lanky model-types, it may be time to take a sartorial cue from the actress's own fashion choices. Panettiere chose a particularly arresting ensemble of a distressed tweed motorcycle jacket, a draped white tee, black leather leggings, and black booties while attending SiriusXM's event "The Highway presents The Music of Nashville" in Nashville this past winter. The outfit is ideal for those with petite proportions who are in search of the perfect off-duty ensemble for a less-than-sunny day this spring, or simply something to wear to The Bluebird Cafe's next open mike night. Here are four essential items to add to your closet for Hayden Panettiere-like style.

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1. A Moto Jacket

Panettiere knows the power of a casual motorcycle jacket, especially when paired with other laid-back separates such as skinny jeans and a worn-in tee-shirt. Try a lightweight version in distressed grey tweed, soft cotton, or worn-in leather for a less harsh look than your typical heavy leather jacket. Tibi's Freya Leather Combo Moto Jacket united leather details with relaxed cotton accents for a modern take on the piece.

2. A Plain White Tee

There are few more useful wardrobe basic than that perfectly draped white T-shirt that looks just as good under a sharp blazer as it does paired with ripped jeans and boots for a backyard barbecue. Panettiere balances out the more formal elements of her outfit with a relaxed tee that has several well-placed accents, for a look that's both modern and appropriate. James Perse's Casual V Neck Tee in White offers a close fit and deliciously soft cotton.

3. Nice Black Leggings (Yes, They Exist)

A good pair of black leather leggings is not only an easy solution for chilly days; they're also a chic and comfortable alternative to those yoga pants you occasionally wear out of the house on a whim. ASOS Petite's Leggings in Leather Look are perfect for consumers who, like Panettiere, need a shorter length than the average mainstream brand can provide.

4. Heeled Booties

A chic pair of basic black booties is essential to any fashionista's wardrobe, and Hayden Panettiere demonstrates their power to polish off a perfect ensemble. Try a pair with a slightly pointed toe and subtle shine to elongate a shorter frame. Stuart Weitzman's Right Nero Calf Sport Booties have an elegant heel and beautiful shape to cap off your outfit.

Images: Tibi Freya Leather Combo Moto Jacket, $209.40, shopbop.com; James Perse Casual V Neck Tee in White, $65, revolveclothing.com; ASOS Petite's Leggings in Leather Look, $30.49, asos.com; Stuart Weitzman's Right Nero Calf Sport, $193.99, zappos.com