I wrote yesterday about building an outfit and shared my Easy Outfit Formula in terms of putting together colour and print for a balanced look but what this doesn’t cover is shape.
There’s a difference between getting stuck in a style rut and having a failsafe outfit combination which you know flatters and you can reach for at any time, whether for daytime, evening or work. Having variations on a theme within your wardrobe can work wonders for dressing in a hurry as you don’t have to think so hard about what to wear.
Celebrity style file: Holly Willoughby
A great example of knowing what suits your shape and lifestyle, or in this case work role, is celeb mum Holly Willoughby. Not only is Holly’s signature style of fitted print skirt and plain blouse or fitted plain skirt and print blouse figure-flattering and appropriate for the occasion, it also makes accessorising easy with a capsule of just a few pairs of neutral shoes which will work with every outfit.
Invest in your neutral shirts and skirts – Holly’s a fan of Roland Mouret pencil skirts – and shop the High Street for seasonal printed updaters; Oasis, Whistles and Damsel in a Dress are popular with Holly. Pair printed shirts with plain skirts and wear the plain shirts with printed skirts. Style made simple.
Get the look
This elegant and feminine look is ideal for lightening up a working wardrobe for summer by introducing bright floral prints and lighter neutrals, while a trusty black pencil skirt can one updated for the summer months with a bright floral shirt.
1. Pink skirt, Mango | 2. Blue and white print blouse, Episode | 3. Lace print skirt, True Decadence | 4. Print shirt, Whistles | 5. White blouse, Hugo Boss | 6. Botanical floral skirt, Oasis | 7. Black pencil skirt, Michael Kors | 8. Cloud print blouse, Yumi | 9. Coral blouse, Hugo Boss | 10. Print skirt, Pied a Terre
Accessories
Keep it neutral like Holly for maximum wear.
L-R: Cut-out pointed courts, Dune | Navy slingback, Daniel | Suede pointed courts, Daniel | Mid-heel slingbacks, Head Over Heels
Top tip: Keep your look fresh and drop in the odd surprise by switching in a trouser with your printed shirt one day and a dress another day just to mix it up, both of which will also work with your staple shoes…
L-R: Floral maxi dress, River Island | Print blouse, Topshop and trousers, Alexander McQueen | Fit and flare dress, Closet London | Cowl neck dress, The Fold