As fashion trends come and go, I know how easy it can be to get caught up in the excitement.
A noughties revival appears on the high street with the same gleaming appeal it held twenty years ago, and suddenly you’re caught in the maelstrom; shopping trend-driven items with charm that will dissipate the moment a new trend takes the helm.
In a saturated, trend-driven market, finding an outfit that ticks the boxes of simple and classy can be harder than you’d imagine. Luckily, my time in the business has furnished us with an understanding of how to put together a classic outfit that will weather the trend cycle and uphold a timeless look.
Classy can mean different things to different people, but for me, it’s all about having a wardrobe of timeless and elegant items that are neither “in” fashion nor “out”, and that I want to wear time again. It’s about feeling comfortable rather than uncertain about whatever you’ve put on in the morning, and I have a few subtle tricks and tips that help me get into that zone. Read on!
Well-fitting garments are the crux of an elegant wardrobe, so understanding when you’ve found a great fit, or building a relationship with a trusted tailor can really make a difference. You can still own clothing in a variety of cuts and shapes, but that awareness of whether something is sitting in the right place or could do with having the hem taken up, for example, will help you to bring out the best in your purchases.
The neckline of your outfit can greatly affect the overall look. Experiment with different styles to find a cut that works for you. I personally love an off-the-shoulder-look for an evening ensemble, or a strapless top during the day. If you prefer wearing a sleeve, look for styles with a boat-neckline for an elevated take.
Honing a long-lasting wardrobe isn’t all about sticking to neutrals. You can still embrace all of your favourite colours, but remember to look our for shades that energise and uplift you, not what’s trending or supposedly suited to your skin tone. Wearing the right colours will bring harmony to your look, whilst allowing you to have a little more fun with your styling.
I’m certain that a less-is-more approach to beauty means it’s highly likely you’ll never put a step wrong. A lick of eyeliner and rosy cheeky is enough to achieve a made-up look that will have you looking polished with ease.
Neutral nails are trending, so try a sheer swipe of polish for the summer months.
If you’re not already a shoe person, we implore you to reconsider. The right shoe really can make or break an outfit–or at least highly influence the overall vibe. Right now there’s a shift towards ballet flats, but a slingback will always lend a classic air to any given outfit. This doesn’t have to be a costly experiment—you can always invest in high-quality secondhand pairs that will stand the test of time.
A well-chosen layer can be the key to pulling together a classy look. Tonal outfits always looks elegant, so if you’re unsure where to start, keep a look out for layers in similar colours that you already have in your wardrobe. As the autumn months kick in, remember to keep a white tee on hand to style until a woollen jumper can be easily swapped in.
Next Up: I Want to Look Richer Than I Am—9 Ways to Dress the Part