Autumn Style transition –
Well, it’s that time of year when we’ve packed away our summer clothes and have started to think about warmer layers.
There is something quite exciting about changing up what you wear and getting out clothes you haven’t worn for a while and looking at them in a fresh light, reconnecting with old favourites and thinking about new ways to style.
Most of us won’t need to rush to the shops but can ‘shop’ from our wardrobes. As an example, I wanted to talk to you about what I see as a good staple for this time of year. To me this is a pair of jeans, T shirt and jacket with trainers…and perhaps a cardi thrown in for good measure! So, let’s break this down and make it work for you and your personal style.
Starting with the jeans – (A previous blog that might be useful about this – https://lesley-clarke.co.uk/2022/05/03/the-perfect-jeans-what-should-you-be-looking-for/) Think about your body shape and proportions – which cut is going to be best for you? Because this will also make a difference to the style of tops you wear and your footwear. If you haven’t tried any different styles in a while, this might be a good time to have a bit of a try on and experiment.
Sometimes you need think about your footwear and work up. Consider what are your favourite and most comfortable shoes? What style of jean will work best with them? Perhaps it’s a new pair of trainers which are needed to create outfit versatility? Coloured trainers have replaced white ones in the fashion stakes, and they are surprisingly versatile, adding a pop of interest and colour to your outfit. However, my only word of caution is for those of you that are particularly vertically challenged – you are often best to keep the colour of your footwear toned with your hosiery and hemline.
When it comes to jackets or a blazer this can really elevate your look. There are so many options of style and don’t forget to think about texture which adds interest and contrast to your outfit – suede is having a big moment and it maybe something you’ve already got in your wardrobe that hasn’t been out in a while? Or what about heritage checks or chord?
You can pile on the layers underneath when it gets colder and add a scarf, I’m loving the knitted triangle ones around this season – a great and easy way to update your look, or throw a jumper (or that cardi) over your shoulders to extend its wearability. Tailoring works well for so many body shapes but again, just remember to create length you want to maximise your legs, so be mindful of not having your jacket too long.
As to T shirt, my personal favourites are striped, but a good quality classic white T shirt is worth investing in. Or a very light beige/cream if you have a warm skin-tone. (For those of you that have had your colours done with me, check out the light warm beige in your swatches). If you prefer a blouse/shirt and know it suits your proportions and lifestyle better, you can always swap it out for the T shirt to similar effect.
But I think the way to stand out in what is basically a simple, classic outfit is how you accessorise. Look at these examples from Pinterest at how accessories create those extra details that define your style – the design of sunglasses, choice of jewellery, placement of a scarf (this doesn’t have to be round your neck but could be tied to your bag, around your waist instead of a belt or in your hair), the style of bag and how the fabric might mould to your body. Again, the current trend of suede is a great option and adds texture and interest (but always spray with fabric protector before wearing). These are all touches that will elevate your look.
And one final tip – if you like the comfort and style of some aspect of your outfit being a bit oversized, think about showing some wrist, it can make all the difference, trust me on this one and give it a try! Or do a French tuck to show some definition to your figure and shape without revealing too much can make all the difference to the balance of an outfit.
Of course, as always, if you need any help with sorting your autumn/winter wardrobe, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
