By Josephine Lalwan –
To be chic at any age we do not need to follow fashion slavishly, however it is still useful to know what’s currently “a la mode”. The trick is to adapt current trends to fit in with our own personal style. This is not about following the herd but changing maybe a few small details that will declare our credentials as women of style. A few ideas to get you started.
TUNICS STYLE DRESSES – I have chosen two examples with long sleeves, not easy to find but worth the search as they are more flattering; not many of us having Michelle Obama toned arms unless we hit the gym every day. If you have a good waist and tunic dresses are too straight for you just add a statement belt et voila!
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Dresses by Goat
SWEATERS – Practical and chic. This autumn sweaters are taking centre stage. None of those frumpy old style woollies this season’s crop are slick and stylish. They will keep you warm and cosy as the temperatures drop. They are also a very useful way of adding a touch on the seasons on trend colours.
Mustard cardigan by Crumpet at net-a-porter and Grey cable knit by D & G at Stylebop.com
THE TOTE – Get rid of all those “freebies” that shops dole out and definitely ditch the plastic carrier bags; they are very un-ecological as well as looking cheap and nasty. Luckily there are a wide range of “Tote” bags to choose from. Keep yours as plain and logo free as possible with minimal detailing so that it does not date. Ideal for keeping all our essentials that won’t fit into our handbag and for extra last minute purchases.
Tote on Left-Vanessa Bruno at Net-a-porter Tote on Right-Kate Spade at Zappos.com
THE SHIRT – Always a wardrobe staple. This year the shirt comes in many colours and fabrics, from neutral to bright, from silk to cotton. Choose yours depending on your budget and the occasion. Great for wearing with jeans/trousers. Alternatively wear loose under a blazer for work, a good look for “apple” and “pear” shaped figures.
On Left-Equipment at Jades24.com On Right-MiH jeans at Net-a-Porter
THE ‘LADYLIKE’ SKIRT – The look this season is grown up and glamorous (think 1940 but not too literally). A pencil skirt will suit you if you have a straight figure, if you have a curvier shape a more A line version will work better for you. When you are buying your skirt do the sit down test to make sure that the skirt does not wrinkle or ride up.
Jaeger pencil skirt
THE BLAZER/JACKET
If it is time for you to buy a new jacket it is certainly worth saving up and paying as much as your budget will permit as you will reap the rewards in quality of fabric, fit, detail and longevity. You can do either long or short this season depending on which style suits you best. There is also a distinct masculine/feminine look to the cut of some of the jackets. If you choose a fine wool or wool mix fabric you will be able to dress it up with some statement jewellery for the evening.
On Left-Navy blazer at rag-bone.com On Right- Hacking jacket at J.crew.com
At the beginning of the season leafing through the glossy magazines or checking out designer websites is a good idea just to get your eye in. The high street chains very quickly pick up on the main trends and you can pick up your chosen pieces at much more reasonable prices.
HAPPY HUNTING
Josephine writes a fashion and lifestyle blog http://www.chicat50plus.com/ from London and St.Tropez,in which she shares her experiences and advice on how to look chic at any age. She worked for over 10 years in fashion PR, then trained as an Image Consultant, beauty therapist and qualified as a Professional coach. Over the years she has helped hundreds of women look and feel more confident in their personal and professional lives.
1 thought on “Adopting the New Fall Looks to Suit You”
Josephine – what a triumph. A really snappy, stimulating article with lots of practical guidelines for the new Season. Thank you.