Dress Like Keri Russell in 5 Simple Steps

Keri Russell's days of Felicity fame may be over, but the actress has stayed on the forefront of Hollywood's attention with her latest projects, from her role in 2013's modernized Pride and Prejudice story Austenland to her portrayal of Elizabeth Jennings on Cold War-era television series The Americans. No matter what the role, Russell contributes her understated, soft-spoken style and relatable nature, traits which stem from her laid-back offscreen identity.

The same goes for Russell's sartorial choices, which often include a pair of flattering-yet-comfortable jeans and an elegant blouse, with chic extras like the actress's omnipresent pointy toe pumps and fitted blazers. When she hits the red carpet, however, Russell exudes the kind of edgy but relaxed elegance so many of us crave but find hard to achieve. Russell often turns to unexpected pairings such as leather and a cotton tee, or a blue silk jacket paired with skinny leather pants and studded pumps. And for the 2014 Summer Party hosted by Coach and The Friends of The Highline, Russell exuded poise in a striped tank, leather mini skirt, pointy toe pumps, and a leather cross-body bag. If you're looking to capture Russell's chic look for your next summer fete, read on for the five essential items you'll need.

1. STRIPED TANK TOP

If you don't already own the perfect striped summer weight tank, consider this your wake up call. A good striped shirt will take you from the beach to a barbecue, and happens to look incredibly edgy when paired with leather, as Keri Russell demonstrates. Try Soft by Joie's Aarika Top for a similar look.

2. LEATHER MINI SKIRT

A leather mini may not seem like an essential wardrobe item…until you own one. The versatile piece adds modern appeal to any ensemble, but will look especially fresh when paired with a striped top like Russell's. American Apparel's The Leather Mini Skirt is an affordable and chic option.

3. SUEDE POINTY TOE PUMPS

Black suede pointy toe pumps are the Birkin bag of footwear: Timeless, flattering, and ultimately the perfect accessory for any outfit. Try Via Spiga's Carola Pointy Toe Pumps for an elegant take on the trend.

4. FRINGED CROSS-BODY BAG

Leave it to Keri Russell to throw a fringed leather bag over her already insouciant ensemble. If bohemian flair is your thing, try Steve Madden's Black Fringe Crossbody Bag for a comparable look.

5. Pink LIPSTICK

Keri Russell's look wouldn't be quite as alluring without the addition of a bold pink lip, which softens her somewhat intense ensemble. Giorgio Armani's Rouge Ecstasy Lipstick In Orchid provides a similar, sweet wash of color to complement a summer ensemble.

Images: Soft Joie Aarika Top, $88, shopbop.com; American Apparel The Leather Mini Skirt, $125, store.americanapparel.com; Via Spiga Carola Pointy Toe Pumps, $225, shop.nordstrom.com; Steve Madden Black Fringe Crossbody Bag, $29.99, 6pm.com; Giorgio Armani Rouge Ecstasy Lipstick In Orchid, $34, giorgioarmanibeauty.com