Every once in awhile I come across a garment that I absolutely love, that pushes me out of my comfort zone, stretches my style chops, and is way more bold than what I usually wear. It usually leads to a long term love affair and getting a lot more mileage out the ‘plain’ items in my closet. (Past items I can think of include my Lauren Winter wide pants and any Babaá sweater I’ve owned.) There is a time and a place for the classics and staples in a wardrobe, and there is also a special spot for the ‘star’ items, which command more attention and make getting dressed a lot of fun.
This is the Organic Cotton Smock Blouse by Athena Newton, an up-and-coming independent luxury clothing label based in New York. Athena Newton is brand new on the indie fashion scene, they started in 2019 and their focus is on ‘simplicity in luxury wear through classic, sustainable, versatile, and seasonless garments.’ And I am 100% in favor of all of those elements. I decided to put this blouse to the test and see how I could style it for *now* (in the summer) and *later*, in cooler weather.
**Edited to add: The shirt has sold out, but it will be re-stocked in two weeks!**
The Smock Blouse was gifted to me for review, but I was not compensated for this post, nor do we have a commission arrangement.
SUMMER SMOCK
The Smock Blouse is made from woven, organic cotton and is generously cut, with oversized balloon sleeves. It comes in one size and has deep pockets on the front.
I was drawn to the Smock Blouse because I love oversized items of clothing, and this one is not messing around. It’s bold, and when I wear it, I feel like I’m making my pinterest-inspiration materialize in real life, and I love the feeling.
FALL SMOCK
I super love the way the Smock Blouse engulfs jeans shorts, but I super, super love how the blouse looks over my favorite vintage jeans. Major winner right here. This look would be great for spring or fall. I think it would also be super cute with lace up boots.
WINTER SMOCK
Just for fun I decided to add a belt bag to see how this would look with a cinched waist. It’s quite fun, though there is a lot of blousing action at the back. I like that it creates an entirely different look.
If I were to wear the Smock Blouse in the winter, I would wear sneakers or boots, and add my biggest cardigan as a layer. So far I’ve only tried this one over it, and it fit really well. I think it would also be really cute belted, with a turtleneck underneath!
I never like to pressure you guys into buying, ever. But I did want to share that the Organic Cotton Smock Blouse is on sale, and I believe it will only be marked down through the end of the day today (7/9/2020). Just a heads up if you are considering it.
Love this smock. I just checked and its currently sold out. Hopefully they’ll bring it back. It looks great on you.
Hi Browyn, it just sold out. :( But I spoke with the designer and she says they will have a re-stock in two-weeks!
This shirt is just SO you.
I love this shirt! Can you describe the feel of the fabric? Super crisp or soft? See through or opaque. That shape is so outrageous and fun!
Hi Meagan! It is soft and woven, but has a bit of a crisp feel. It’s more crisp than natural/linen feeling. But it is very soft. It’s kind of thick, so definitely not see through! Great questions! And I agree, it is totally outrageous and fun! ;)