The List
Guess who’s back? (back again). After a long summer hiatus sponsored by bare feet and Babylonstoren’s Rose (um, they deliver) it’s time to get serious. And to get dressed, because suddenly it’s actually Autumn, and I have no idea what to wear. Lockdown coupled with a long London heatwave have made me forget what it’s like to wear real clothes. So in the name of looking presentable (and not losing my s**t pre-7am on a daily basis ], this list is all about the pieces I think will make getting dressed day in, day out, that tiny bit easier. Your uniform if you will. Because I couldn’t do a September post without at least one school reference, could I?
From left to right;
Shhhh. Because this seriously wearable jumpsuit is by a brand that I’m conflicted about because I just don’t identify with it on any level. And even though I’m definitely not their typical customer, I’m not about to cut my nose off to spite my face/wardrobe. When it comes to getting dressed in a hurry, it doesn’t get much better than a one piece for throw-on-and-go. Layer a merino roll neck under it when the temperature drops. Jumpsuit, £110, Hush
More of a moodboard image if I’m honest. But in thinking what feels right for right now I couldn’t get the idea of converse hi-tops and extra-long trench coats out of my head. So as soon as I saw this image on Pinterest, I was sold. It’s a super-old image by the way, but the styling still feels right, which just proves that the classics are always a good investment.
I’ve been a fan of Anna Walker London bags for about 5 years now, and just bought my second one. They feel luxurious, but in a very discrete way (even in bright orange, like this one). The simple silhouettes don’t date, and they go with almost everything. Handmade in London, to exacting standards these are a great investment buy that won’t break the bank like big name designer bags will. Also, you can personalise any style with your initials, or any word you like I suppose. Leather tote, WAS £350, NOW £172.50, Anna Walker London
The aforementioned Converse hi-tops. They just feel right for now. Added bonus? They’re great at disguising the sometimes awkward gap between slightly too cropped jeans and shoes/socks. I’ll wear these in weather that feels slightly too mild for stompy leather boots. An inbetweener if you like. Converse High Tops, Chuck 70, £75 @ ASOS
And ARKET does it again with this amazing wool knit that looks far more expensive than it’s £59 price tag. For me, it’s all about the perfect proportions- slightly cropped, so it will work with high-waist trousers/jeans, a rolled-back cuff, and a just-right high neck that isn’t too tight or too loose. This is a real wear every day style. It comes in black too…. Just saying. Wool Knit, £59, ARKET
There’s just something about an Isabel Marant sweatshirt that makes anything you wear it with look that bit better. I know it shouldn’t, but it does. Don’t hate me, I don’t make the rules. But I’m happy to condone splurging on one if it makes getting ready in the morning that little bit easier (and if it gives you the justification you’ve been looking for to add to basket). If it’s just too expensive, (and you’re patient enough to wait) then make sure it’s in your Wish List on Net a Porter as they often go into end of season sales. High neck flocked sweatshirt, £240, Isabel Marant Etoile at Net a Porter
Back to that picture and talk of a longer length trench coat- this is the one. I seriously rate COS for outerwear, and have had a belted wool coat from them in a very similar silhouette to this for about 4 years. The tailoring is excellent, and the quality far greater than other High Street brands. This is slightly oversized so the volume of fabric, especially when you belt it tightly at the waist, makes it look a lot more expensive than it is. If you’re in the market for a trench, but need to keep the cost down, this is the one. Oversized organic cotton trench, £150, COS
A simple oversized cotton shirt is an easy way to look kind of pulled together, even if you’re wearing it with jeans and trainers. The light beige colour and bold stripe of this ARKET style make it slightly less ubiquitous than plain white or blue versions (which are also great), but neutral enough to still go with most things. Cotton poplin oversized shirt, £59, ARKET
Given I wear jeans 5 out of every 7 days, switching up the colour is an easy way to feel like I’ve made a (tenuous) change to my uniform. Unfortunately, my beloved Levi’s don’t come in a black that I like (too purple in undertone, too stretchy) so I’ve had to search elsewhere. I’ve had good luck before with Topshop Boutique denim (unlike their main denim collection- don’t get me started), so I’ve ordered these as they are just the right faded wash I was looking for and are 100% cotton with no stretch. I’ll keep you posted. Black Jeans, £55, Topshop Boutique
The right pair of trousers can be a great alternative to jeans, it’s just about getting the silhouette right. This beige pair have a nice high waist and flattering pleats, and the straight leg shape and cropped length mean they are easy as your trusty jeans to throw on with trainers and a sweatshirt. Saying that, they would also look great with a simple heel and a white shirt for a nice dinner out (with 6 or less people of course, and only if you’re done by 10pm….). Trouser, £160, Frankie Shop at Net a Porter
This season’s H&M Studio collection (their premium, design led offering released only twice a year) goes on sale today, and although much of it is frankly BONKERS, this cropped cardigan looks like a keeper. Military inspired detail like the buttoned epaulettes and belt give it some interest, but it is the kind of thing you can just throw on over your favourite white tee and jeans and you’re good to go. Knitted wool blend cardigan, £69.99, HM Studio
Sleeveless knitted tanks are everywhere, but if the proportions aren’t just so, they can be almost impossible to style I think. Luckily, new sustainable label Aligne has this wool-mix style that is perfectly oversized and slouchy, and in a versatile shade of beige. Wear it alone as pictured, or over a roll neck when it get’s colder. Side note: I’d avoid layering it over shirting unless you’re going for a Carlton from The Fresh Prince vibe. But if that’s your thing, then good for you. Wool mix sleeveless tank, £75, Aligne
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