My style is probably best described as ‘oversized sophisticated’ and as I have become more comfortable with classic styles, I’d be lying if I said I haven’t been veering towards staple items in my wardrobe, and in particular, investment pieces that are not only classics but have forever potential. When shopping, I will often find myself weighing up price per wear alongside seasonal versatility whilst sticking to a few style codes such as the three-colour rule, whilst simultaneously uttering to myself that a good basic will fix most daily style conundrums. With that in mind, here are five sartorial wardrobe styles that not only I can mix and match but can’t do without and will be transitioning with as the days get lighter and warmer.
Suiting
Classic suiting is great to invest in, given the versatility and outfit options you are gifted with as the seasons change. Despite having what can only be described as an innate love for pairing separates, what you will find at the heart of my wardrobe is suiting - and a healthy range of it. My most worn outfit is a coordinated one, consisting of a blazer or waistcoat and matching trousers. The impact that a matching set has is often overlooked and accessories can dress suiting up or down, whether pared back with a cap and trainers or elevated through heels.
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Oversized Outerwear
An oversized blazer will indefinitely deliver, carrying with it, the power to instantly elevate any outfit. If you crave an on-trend oversized androgynous feel to your outfit, an oversized blazer is your friend. I have added an oversized leather blazer here, to what is otherwise a simple outfit and I immediately feel like I’ve added an interesting feature to my look, drawing attention to the shoulders and taking the eye on an aesthetic 80s journey. Polish the look by adding a pair of loafers. My suggestion would be to go up two sizes to get that exaggerated shoulder if the sizing is standard.
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Leather
When we think of leather, most of us can agree that we reserve pulling it out at this time of the year, especially leather trousers and I’m here to tell you; hold that thought! This transitional hero is an understated winner and perfect to take into spring. If you are able to invest in paler shades of leather, even better. Leather will never go out of fashion and so is totally worth the investment – price per wear is reduced tenfold after just a few wears. Pair with some trainers and a soft knit with leather trousers for a more relaxed casual look and add some slingback open toe heels to take this investment piece from day to night. An exaggerated toe point will enhance any leather trouser look. Leather dominated the runway earlier this year and is going nowhere.
Tailored Trousers
A good pair of wide leg tailored trousers are essential to see you through spring. Double pleat or single, high waisted or low, a pair that runs to the floor creates a long-legged flattering silhouette helping us appear taller and slimmer to the eye – perfectly elegant for a night out. Soften clean lines with trousers that flow to below the ankle and get that editorial look all by yourself, most footwear styles will work with these, the ultimate chic wardrobe essential this season.
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The A-Line Midi Skirt
Year in year out, the midi is a great style staple for any season. Worn here with a pair of heels to take me through the evening, or for flats for more laid-back look during the day. Most body shapes suit an A line skirt as it helps balance proportions, and leather midi skirts are a real hit this season. In the colder months, pair your midi skirt with a slick black boot. I can’t wait to get a lot of wear out of this one, this season and for years to come.
