Style Rules: In Fashion We Trust

Invest in high-quality fabrics. You don’t have to spend a fortune to look expensive, but in my experience, dressing in high-quality fabrics like cashmere and wool makes all the difference. From a practical perspective, they’re warmer, but they’ll also look more sophisticated. A cashmere turtleneck is timeless so it’s worth buying a few in different colours.

Don’t be lured in by low prices. We all like a bargain but buying something just because it’s cheap is a waste. Instead, try to think about how you’ll style the piece in a few different ways before you buy it – if you can’t, then leave it. I once bought a pair of Givenchy boots on sale, only to realise I was more excited by the price tag than the actual boots. I sold them on Vestiaire Collective almost immediately. 

There are five pieces every woman needs in her autumn/winter wardrobe. First, a black, structured leather biker for those days when it’s not freezing but you still need a jacket. Layer it up once the temperature drops. Second, over-the-knee boots – whether you choose a heeled version or something flat and chunky, they’ll make any outfit look cooler. A fedora hat will give your outfit some polish; and a wool or cashmere coat will add a bit of sophistication to whatever you throw it over. Finally, leather gloves – they’re more chic than wool.

Make thermals your secret weapon. It’s not particularly sexy but my number-one hack for looking stylish during the winter is to invest in technical items like Uniqlo's Heattech base layers. They’re like a second skin that protects you from the cold, which then means you can wear what you like without fear of being too chilly. I wear them under blazers, jumpers and everything in between.

There are a few rules when it comes to wearing colour. I love experimenting with brighter shades but getting it right, especially when you’re new to wearing colour, can be tricky. Start with a tonal look, then move onto colour blocking when you feel more confident. If in doubt, don’t wear more than three contrasting colours in one outfit, otherwise it won’t look coherent.

Try to shop pre-loved where possible. I don't follow trends and often covet pieces from seasons past which aren’t available to buy new. Recently, I’ve been buying more vintage pieces, and before buying something new I’ll try to find a similar version on Vestiaire Collective or Vinted. Sustainability has become such a priority for me, and over the last five years my wardrobe has increasingly come from second-hand sources. Pre-loved pieces are more unique and still look relevant, despite their age. I recently found a vintage Christian Dior jacket that’s over 40 years old. I think I’ll still love it in another 40 years!

Don’t be afraid to go bold. Often those ‘wow’ pieces don’t end up being the most versatile, which is what puts people off buying them. However, some of my favourite pieces in my wardrobe are the ones I only wear on special occasions. I first saw Attico’s sequin jacket on Pinterest and eventually found it at Galerie Lafayette on sale. It’s so unique, and instantly adds interest to a simple outfit. As for everyday staples, I wear a lot of pieces from The Frankie Shop – it’s a brand which blends casual and sophisticated so seamlessly – but The Attico and Isabel Marant are great for something more statement. 

My style icon is Zendaya. She works with stylist Law Roach and every look they turn out is incredible – always elegant but memorable. I am also a huge fan of Tamu McPherson (@TamuMcPherson). I’ve been following her for years and I’m always excited to look at her new posts – the way she styles everything proves you can have fun and incorporate colour into your looks every season. Her creativity is second to none. 

The one piece of style advice everyone should know is to be yourself. The key to looking chic is being comfortable with what you’re wearing, whether that’s a mini dress or a power suit. You have to wear the clothes, not the other way around. If in doubt, keep it simple. 

 
Follow @InFashionWeTrust on Instagram. Photography @Edward.Berthelot