Bright statement suits, checks - whether they're embellished or tailored, and a touch of sparkle added to your outfit are all trends for the season of A/W20. But you know how I feel about trends. They can be the injection of life that may be needed in your wardrobe. The 'that was the piece I was waiting for' moment as you inhale Zara's latest collection. But the reality is, by the time they've been purchased, the label cut out and you're in your Uber after cocktails with the girls the next trend is on it's way. The thing is with trends - you can never quite keep up with them. Welcome to fast fashion consumerism.
I don't know anyone who doesn't love the comfort of Autumunal clothing. Cosy knit wear feels safe and kind to our body. We can feel stylish in a simple outfit such as a chunky knit and biker boot. Unlike it's counterpart, Summer style can feel forced, unfamiliar and exposing. Autumn / Winter is like your best friend, loyal and familiar.
For me Autumn reflects timeless staples. Clothes that can be worn year after year. Each garment can be adapted a different way and still feel as exciting as the day you purchased it. Here are my top timeless pieces for Autumn / Winter styling.
THE PERFECT WOOL COAT.
I am most definitely a coat girl. I always say to clients it doesn't matter what your outfit is saying underneath, if you're wearing a drab waterproof or your 'dog walking' coat over the top of that amazing outfit you carefully curated then that is all we're going to see. Dog walking coats belong on the dog walk. That is it.
Investing in a good wool coat will really prove it's worth in your wardrobe. Why? Because it can be literally be worn with any outfit for any scenario. Late for the school run? No problem - add some athleisure glam to your comfy co-ord with the structure of a wool coat. This will instantly elevate your look to a more stylish ensemble. Throw a wool coat over a slip dress for an evening out and you'll not only feel warm but stylish. My personal favourite is a slightly oversized tan / camel coat. Because no one ever regrets investing in a camel coat. The epitome of timeless style.
HEAVY DUTY JEANS
We all reach for the knitwear during the colder months, but it can be more of a
challenge when it comes to the bottom half - especially if you don't feel comfortable wearing skirts/ dresses accompanied with high denier tights. I always suggest a more industrial, hard wearing jean for colder seasons. They'll feel warmer compared to a skinny jean.
Vintage stores or second hand online sites such as Depop and Oxfam are great when searching for a more industrial jean. Plus they're fab if you're after a more branded jean. Vintage Levis are timeless and classic and can be found for half it's original price. The thrift / charity stores are also a great place to start if you're wanting to shop more ethically.
THE SOFT FINE KNIT.
With us all loving our chunky knits , the softer finer knit pieces can get ignored. I'm not saying we shouldn't wear thicker jumpers when the cold snap hits - but we can often feel clammy, hot and overhwhelmed as soon as we enter a warm building. Stripping off in the middle of Selfridges on a Saturday afternoon can leave us feeling exasperated and that's when we start questioning if we made the right outfit choice for our shopping afternoon.
We love Autumn and Winter for the layers. The finer knits will not only look great layered but are also brilliant transitional pieces when going through to the warmer months. I love wearing finer knit wear under a blazer which is accompanied by the perfect wool coat, finished off with a classic black scarf. Winter needn't consist of one or two layers. Wearing pieces multiple ways is a great example of your wardrobe really working for you. Remember - make sure every item you have in your wardrobe has deserved its place.
THE LEATHER JACKET
I've never not known a time where a leather jacket hasn't been on trend. It's your go to whatever the season and theylook great over the top of any outfit. A classic example of a piece really earning it's place in your closet.
I'm always a fan of the real deal. Real leather will last longer They are very much an investment piece so make sure you pick one that you'll still love for years to come. If perhaps you like the idea of a leather jacket but don't want to commit to paying hundreds of pounds then again check out
thrift/vintage stores. I love my oversized vintage jacket. It's great for leaving the house on those cold mornings. I'll be investing in a fitted leather jacket once I've lost the lockdown weight!
JOGGERS
Having something soft and relaxing against your skin on those dark, rainy days is something we all yearn for on those cold mornings when we just want that extra five minutes in bed. The athleisure look has been around for at least the last 5 years - so you can guarantee that investing in your comfy's is something that will feel money well spent.
Luxury jogging fit trousers are great for a smarter look whilst maintaining maximum comfort. Pairing them with your favourite heel for meetings or wearing them whilst taking your third zoom call of the day will give you optimal snugness - yet with a more luxurious feel than leggings / jeans.
I personally love these jogging trousers from Massimo Dutti. They also come in copper and mink. (£59.95) I would advise to invest in your athleisure bottoms the same you would a work trouser - especially for those who are now working from home more. You will find not only will you be wearing them more but they'll be a versatile piece in your wardrobe.
THE BLAZER
In my opinion any look can be fixed with a good blazer. Cover up for you LBD ? A blazer draped over your shoulders. Coffee and catch up with friends? Blazer underneath your wool coat, accompanied with a cute slogan tee and heavy duty jeans. Dressing up those joggers? You got it - Blazer with a pointed flat / heel. You might now get the idea that a classic blazer really will be your go to for years to come.
I personally love a structured blazer. One that isn't too light and flowing. We usually reach for a blazer to smarten up an outfit. One that is thin and lightweight may not elevate that outfit. I often discuss with my clients the power of mood enhancing. A mood enhancing piece are those items of clothing in your wardrobe that will help lift an outfit. Your mood illustration pieces help you dress for the mood you're in. So if you feel like wearing joggers because you're feeling tired, it's the time of the month or your seeking comfort then they will be your mood illustrators. Now I say to many of my clients if your'e searching for that 'lift' - that elevation to complete your outfit then look for your mood enhancement pieces. A classic blazer will do this to any outfit.
Got any questions?
Then please feel free to book a no obligation chat with me. Details can be found here.
Comments