As a stylist, I always advise my clients to focus on filling their wardrobe with pieces that fit their style rather than what’s in fashion at the moment. And I practice what I preach… mostly. I say ‘mostly’ because I am also a fashion lover and I like to stay on top of what’s hot and new and trending.
So it’s always a good thing when the two come together, and the trends line up perfectly with your personal style. For one, because everyone is trying there trend, you discover new ways to wear the pieces you already own and love. And secondly, it’s the perfect moment to add quality pieces to your wardrobe as there some much good stuff in stores to choose from.
As always, my advice is to buy well. Focus on quality, shapes that suit your body type, and pick items that have a timeless feel to them so that you can wear them for years to come.
This season I’m spoiled for choice because there are two big trends this autumn/winter that fit my personal style perfectly.
1: All the leather.
For me, like leather is a classic. I go back to it every year as soon as the weather cools down. What I love about the current trend it the luxe, ladylike feel to the new pieces coming out and that everything goes; real leather, faux leather, suede, leather shirts, leather dresses, and even leather trench-coats. It’s just all leather everything in stores right now, and I am here for it.
Here is a very, very small selection of the leather pieces I’m a bit gaga over right now.
Where to shop? For high-end pieces, Net A Porter is your fail-proof option. They have a beautiful selection of real leather pieces from brands like Loewe and faux leather pieces from newcomer Nanushka. However, a lot of high-street stores are doing lovely faux leather too. Zara never disappoints when it comes to trends, but H&M also has some surprising shapes that are worth checking out. Another option is vintage. Not only is this a more sustainable choice, but as I said, leather is a classic. So your local thrift stores are bound to have a good selection as well. E-bay is also an excellent place to look for pre-loved pieces. See the full Style x Heart leather edit here.
How to wear it? I like to pair my leather and faux leather pieces with cozy knits, but I also love the look of a frilly white blouse with a leather skirt and boots. And if you’re the brave sort, try leather on leather, like a blouse & trousers and pair that with a classic black or nude pump.
2: Knee high boots
In terms of winter dressing, nothing is sexier to me than a good knee-high boot. So I love that they are back in style after the last few years of mainly ankle boots. This time around, we see a lot of western styles, and the animal print from previous winter has carried over to more python prints and croc-effect leathers.
Where to shop? Tamara Mellon has a gorgeous range of knee-high boots, and you can choose from 3 different calf sizes! And I love the selection of high-end to mid-range designers at Shopbop. Check out Reiss and Arket for affordable, high-quality pieces from the high street. See the full Style x Heart boot edit here.
How to wear it? Pair your boots with ladylike pleated skirts that cover the top of the boots, or with voluminous baby doll dresses for an easy-going casual vibe. And if you’re brave, try wearing your knee-highs over leather leggings for a sleek vampy look.
