A Fashion Stylist Shares Her Top Fashion Rules
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Keep Evolving
My style is best described as chic, eclectic, and menswear inspired. I tend to build my outfits around classic silhouettes – but with a bit of flair. Experiencing different cultures has had a big impact on the way I dress, and I’m constantly referencing current and 90s runway images for inspiration. I also love looking at what household names and up-and-coming brands are doing. Personal style has always come naturally to me. Growing up, I watched my mum dress up every day. That exposure to fashion early on instilled confidence in me when it came to getting dressed. Although my style has evolved over the years, fashion has always been a creative and important part of my personal expression.
Merge High & Low
Some of my favourite luxury brands include Bottega Veneta, Loewe, Schiaparelli, and Khaite. For more affordable options, I love Aritzia, ME + EM, and The Frankie Shop. It’s really exciting to see what smaller brands are doing, and lately, I’ve been keeping a close eye on Grover Rad, Abadia, and Materiel Tbilisi.
Focus On The Hero Piece
My go-to outfit is always baggy trousers or jeans, a t-shirt, a leather jacket or oversized blazer, with loafers or boots. When I’m putting an outfit together, I start with one hero piece and build around it. But it’s different every time. For example, if I have a new sneaker that I really want to wear, I’ll choose pieces that complement the shoes and occasion.
Take Note Of Trends
Trends can be fun, and I do occasionally buy into them. That being said, I build looks around what I genuinely like and what I know works for me. I’m loving buttermilk yellow for spring. I have a great pair of Jil Sander mules in the shade and this Bottega trench is perfect for travel or elevating your daytime looks.
Rely On The Core Pieces
The three pieces every woman should have in their wardrobe are a good pair of trousers, a dress they love, and a tank top for layering. I’ve been wearing this simple black dress from ME + EM, this sculptural white and cream dress by Abadia, and the Effortless Pant from Aritzia. My favourite tanks are by Re/Done, SKIMS, and Nili Lotan – I wear them all on rotation.
Wear Colours That Work For You
When it comes to colour, wear what works best for your complexion. I suggest doing a colour analysis and finding out what complements you. I gravitate towards earthy, neutral tones – those rich neutrals are what suit me best. I haven’t done a colour analysis yet, but I believe I’m a ‘dark autumn’. When I’m putting together an outfit, I use the three colour rule – picking only three colours will set some boundaries within which you can be creative.
Invest In The Classics
Classic and collectors’ pieces that will never go out of style are always high on my wish list – you should be able to wear them forever and pass them down to your children. For me, these pieces tend to include a great blazer, a classic bag, a black dress or nice trousers. It really just depends on what you come across and what resonates with you. I love shopping for vintage luxury, and that feeling of stumbling across something really rare.
Look To Your Style Muses
When I’m stuck in a style rut, I always look to the Olsen twins for inspiration, and I love Amal Clooney for evening wear. The Olsen twins have perfected clean lines mixed with that edgy, cool and lived-in feel, while Amal always looks elegant. For date night, I like to stick to my classic uniform but make it a bit sexier – like jeans and a blazer with a sexy top or when I’m attending an event, I tend to pull something really special from a brand, like a statement gown, a cape or a dress, depending on the occasion.
Finally, Be Confident
The secret to great style is wearing what you feel best in. When you take time to learn which pieces you’re drawn to and invest in them, your wardrobe will feel cohesive and personal. It also makes a world of difference when you can rely on things you love despite what’s trending. Fashion is always more fun when you’re confident – so know your basics, don’t be afraid to take risks, and realise that your style will change over time.
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