Wear Where
Welcome to Wear Where, the series that talks about what to wear, where - from occasions, to places, and more. Because let’s face it, we can’t have a ‘one-size fits all’ approach to most things in life, not least fashion.
The House Party
Now that social distancing is no more, house parties are back. A few weeks ago, I went to my first proper house party since the start of the pandemic. No limits on numbers, no masks, just pure delicious, freedom. Off the back of that, I thought it was best to consult the fashion diaries and reflect on what to wear at such an event. Read on to find out in my latest Wear Where blog.
WEAR: Sparkles
Unless your house party aims to replicate the dazzling lights of a club or mimic some type of strobe lighting, chances are the lighting will remain pretty “static” throughout. It’s worth therefore counteracting this and adding your own sparkles to your outfit. It’ll lift the vibe of the entire space, not to mention make you feel like the glittering queen you are.
WEAR: Statement pants
Sat down chatting to friends (old and new) in the corridor or stairway? Now is not the time for an uncomfortable skirt. Opt for pants instead to ensure easy movement, but be sure to put the “party” into “houseparty” by opting for ones that have some form of statement – perhaps a bold colour, statement print or unusual cut (think flared or exaggerated leg pants).
WEAR: Hoops
Jewellery is a must for a house party. I particularly like dangling earrings or big hoops. Think bohemian, glam and fun all at once. Plated gold or silver are great bets to ensure your jewellery remains classy yet cool.
WEAR: Flats
In a house you’ll have all sorts of floor – carpet, floorboard, maybe even marble. It’s best to avoid killer heels and opt for flats to avoid any major trip risk. And unlike in a club where you’ll probably be wanting to stand tall (and stand out), a house party is often a much more relaxed, intimate affair. Flats often lend themselves better to such a setting.
WEAR: A light jacket
Although a house party is predominately indoors, chances are there will almost certainly be an outdoors space – a terrace, balcony or garden. If this is the case, be sure to pack a light jacket with you to keep you warm as the night progresses and the temperature inevitably drops. Note – if reading this in winter, replace light jacket for thick jacket to ease off that winter breeze.
The Summer BBQ
As we count the days until lockdown finally ends, we can at least take solace in the flurry of summer BBQ’s that we are allowed to attend across the country.
And what respite this is. After the past year spent wondering whether it’s legitimately O.K to wear the same tracksuit bottoms all week, we now have a special ticket to wear something nice again. And what better way to dust off the old wardrobe than at a summer BBQ with friends new and old?
Read on for some inspiration on what to wear.
WEAR: Open toe shoes
Our feet have very much been neglected over the last year thanks to lockdown. It’s time to bring the enjoyment back to our humble friends and give them the show they deserve, painted toenails and all. And that calls for open toe shoes. [Fun fact, I painted my nails for the first time since 2019 the other day. Amazing.]
WEAR: Something loose
A BBQ is for endless food, Pimms and trifle sponge. Right? It’s time to ditch the need to wear something tight and instead opt for clothes that are comfy, floaty and loose in style. If wearing a dress, choose one that is mid to long in length so you can do all the lounging in the world, without the fear of flashing to next door’s neighbour.
WEAR: A hair accessory
Continuing with the theme of the added extras that have been overlooked due to lockdown; a pretty hair accessory is another must-have for any BBQ. Think a bright headband, a pastel scrunchie or some fun clips. Whatever you chose, keep the rest of your hair simple and neat, so the accessory does all the talking.
WEAR: A pull-over / cardigan / anything else that’ll keep off the chill
Ah yes. To all you who are reading this now living in a hot country, we envy you. It’s little surprise that even the best summer BBQ here in the UK doesn’t run the risk of rain or a sudden temperate drop. Come prepared with some form of extra layer – even if this is kept packed in your bag for most of the event.
WEAR: Florals
Stripes or florals, that is the question. A summer BBQ must mean florals. Bright ones, if possible. Be sure to attract the bees (and those around you) by injecting some floral patterns into your outfit. Think a floral dress, or a floral top with white summery jeans.
Happy BBQ’ing!
2020 – and 2021 so far – has proven extraordinary in many ways. With little to do, most of us have spent a large proportion of it inside. Lockdowns pepper the globe as do instructions to stay at home.
The monotony of life has got the better of us. Not to mention the same sameness of the clothes we wear. Anyone else worn their favourite jumper / hoodie / sweater / [insert other item] for the last goodness knows how long? Yep, guilty as charged.
Well, it’s time to take action and inject some fun back into fashion and style. Here are some ways to get stylish, while remaining snug, even at home.
WEAR: Alternate jumpers
It’s too easy to wear the same jumper every day. To mix things up, chose 3-4 of your favourite jumpers and alternate these throughout the week. It will keep a level of variety in your life, while making sure you give your Zoom audiences something different to look at… Take a look at your wardrobe this weekend and pick out your favourite ones for the week ahead.
WEAR: A pretty headband
We may be grateful that endless days at home mean less need for blow-dry’s, straightening and other lengthy morning hair routines. But that’s not to say we should just whip our hair into a boring bun each and every day. Experiment with a headband or pretty silk tie that will lift your look in a quick, effortless way.
WEAR: Cosy socks
Okay. This one is perhaps more about comfort than style, but it’s worth investing in some comfy, fluffy socks to keep your feet warm all day. There’s nothing worse than having cold feet in life (literally and metaphorically). In normal times, we would be wearing shoes all day - empowering boots or heels. So for now, make sure your feet don’t go neglected and be kind to them too with some awesome socks.
WEAR: Patterns and colour
We can all agree that life is dull at present, with nowhere to go and barely anyone to see. Fashion can be the antidote for the tedium of life. Try a bright pop of colour (my personal favourite is my yellow buttoned shirt) or a bold pattern to instantly lift your mood and add excitement back into life. What you wear impacts your mood - so make it something fun and joyful!
WEAR: Pretty lingerie
This one is purely for you and making you feel good. There’s a great theory that your underwear helps channel your inner goddess and can make you feel more confident about yourself. Why wait until a special occasion to wear that beautiful laced bra? After all, there are hardly any occasions happening right now. Perhaps try it on a Friday as a special way to mark the end of a week.
How are you dressing at home? What fashion indulgences have you tried yet? Drop me a line - I would love to know.
The Beach
Holiday season. If you’ve managed to get away and hit the beach - be it home, or away, then you’ll know being by the sea really is the place to be. And as for what to wear? Read on for the top beach essentials everyone should pack.
WEAR: A kaftan. The cover up essential for any beach holiday. A kaftan is the summer equivalent of a winter jumper - you needn’t think twice about taking it with you. Opt for floaty styles for a magical look that will take you from sunrise to sunset.
WEAR: Sliders. There’s nothing quite like running your toes through the sand. Ditch the hassle of strappy sandals that take an age to take off (and put back on) and instead opt for sliders. Choose ones in dark brown or black for a sophisticated look.
WEAR: Your largest sunnies. There really is no maximum size when you’re on the beach. Sharper, pointed ones might be all the rage now, but keep those for the city and opt for a softer, rounder look for the beach.
WEAR: Denim shorts. High-waisted denim shorts scream nautical, especially when worn with white and blue. Perfect for a staycation beach trip and a look that is both minimal and effortless.
WEAR: A halter-neck. Swimming in the sea demands a bikini top that will stay in place. Keep the strappy and bandeau tops for the #gram, and swim secure in a halter-neck.
The Picnic
Picnic season is well and truly here! Be it the local park, the countryside or the riverside bank, picnics in the sun are one of life’s simple pleasures.
But how do you stay cool, avoid an obvious food baby and look good at the same time? Look no further, here are five tips on what to wear, where.
WEAR: Low-rise denim shorts. Low rise will mean that you can snack all you like without getting a tight restricted feeling on your waist. As for the denim shorts - has there ever been a more timeless summer classic?
WEAR: White. There’s something super pretty about wearing white against sun-kissed skin. It’ll make you look more tanned - and like you just stepped out the French Riviera.
WEAR: Slip-on sandals. Because there’s nothing quite like taking shoes off easily to feel your bare feet in the grass - am I right?
WEAR: An off-the shoulder blouse. Pretty, understated and perfect for those inevitable picnic selfies. Wear with loose hair, or tie in a bun for a sophisticated yet understated look.
WEAR: A floaty dress. Alternatively, opt for a floaty mid-length dress in whatever pattern takes your fancy. The loose cut will be sure to keep you cool - and ensure that food baby remains out of sight. Hear hear, more strawberries & fizz.
The Theatre
Calling all theatre lovers! There’s nothing quite like heading out to watch your favourite theatre show - be it The Phantom of the Opera or Wicked. But what to wear? We hear you - read on for some key tips.
WEAR: A faux fur shawl. Hands up who has ever felt cold in the theatre due to over zealous air-conditioning? A faux fur shawl is the perfect way to stay cosy while still looking flawless.
WEAR: A long black dress. There is nothing quite as sophisticated and understated than a long black dress - it doesn’t have to be fancy. Let the length and the simplicity do the talking.
WEAR: Something sparkly. The theatre is all about lights, camera, action right? Why not take a leaf out of the actors book (read: script) and add a dash of glitter. Be it sparkly make-up or jewellery - the choice is yours.
WEAR: A statement bag. We all know the interval is the time to head to the ladies to touch up your make-up and buy another glass of G&T. Make sure you have a stylish bag or clutch to accompany you.
WEAR: Your best boots. A little extra height never hurt nobody. And at the theatre, standing out is hard. Opt for some extra heel and, if you’re feeling really daring, your knee-length boots.
The City Break
Having just been on a glorious four day city break to Budapest, a city break is the ultimate when it comes to exhausting fun. From cycling and exploring the city, to roaming museums to meeting new people, city breaks require comfort at all times due to the sheer levels of activity! But staying comfy and staying stylish can go hand in hand. Here are my key tips for the next time you have your city break.
WEAR: Jumpers
Cities can often be somewhat precarious when it comes to the weather. I was most grateful for my oversized yellow jumper that could just be flung over whenever I felt the chill. Opt for large and rib-necked, and, if feeling brave, try a bright colour to truly stand out in the new city.
WEAR: Stacked trainers
Trainers are a must and on the market now are a whole range of ones that don’t look like you have just been out for a run. Stacked trainers have a great level of volume too, so you can stand tall and walk comfy.
WEAR: A simple rucksack
Continuing the theme of practical yet attractive, the simple rucksack is ideal for keeping all your belongings safe. Rather than a clumsy backpackers rucksack, choose a sleek and sturdy variety. Also ideal for keeping your hands free to take as many pictures as you can.
WEAR: Good jeans
A city break calls for your best jeans to come out. Like a long-lost friend, these should be a delight to be united with - knowing they will never let you down, their durability will put you in good stead for spending both days and nights out exploring.
The Garden Party
It’s that time of the year again. The time when the great outdoors becomes populated with parties that start at 1pm not 10pm. When Pimms, prosecco and strawberries become a staple diet. When you finally see your Great Aunt Jane again, and when Sally boycotts the playlist to the sound of Drake’s Passionfruit on repeat. And as for the clothes? Lest us not forget such a centre-piece! Here’s a breakdown of essential tips for the much-anticipated garden party.
WEAR: Creams, off-whites, neutrals
Given a garden party takes place in a…. garden… anything green or too floral may risk you being mistaken for the rose bush. Err on the side of caution and opt for pretty, natural shades that’ll make sure the bees stay well away.
WEAR: Circular or pointed sunglasses
Sunglasses are a given. But looking for that extra edge that’ll make you stand out? Opt for round or pointed versions that have recently come into fashion. For extra quirk, choose those with a tinted shade.
WEAR: High waisted, elasticated, midi skirts
So sleek. So wonderfully comfy. So great for eating all the garden party treats. Midi-skirts (pleated or plain) that come with an elasticated waistband will be your new best friend. They flatter all sizes and ooze elegance.
WEAR: Flats or wedges
Many a stiletto has sunken into the grass at a garden party. Avoid a Bridget Jones moment and instead opt for flat shoes. Or, if you’re wanting extra height, wedges made from cork or straw – the earthly heel will fit perfectly into the garden setting.
WEAR: Minimal jewellery
Save the extra jewellery for a night out, and instead opt for flashes of understated jewellery. Pearl earrings, small silver necklace and a cream loose blouse? Pass us the strawberries and cream please because now we’re really talking.
The Spring Walk
As we enter into April and see the flowers start to bloom around us (hello, pretty blossom and yellow daffodils), the first edition of Wear Where looks at the spring walk. Here are the essentials for the next time you decide to wander down the lake, stroll through the cobbled streets of Covent Garden, or take a skip through Richmond Park…
WEAR: Denim
Nothing says spring more than denim dresses and denim skirts. These become too heavy and hot in the summer months, so now is the time to wear them! Think: loose denim dress with a lazy cardigan, or a white blouse tucked into high-waisted denim skirt.
WEAR: Practical flats
Let’s not forget the ‘walk’ in spring walk. Dolly shoes/flimsy sandals are fine for the occasional stroll, but anything over 1km and they (or your feet) will start to wear. Opt for practical and sturdy shoes that don’t sacrifice on prettiness.
WEAR: Pastels
For me, colours really do play alongside the seasonality. If winter is for black and navy, spring is for pink and baby blue. Pastels don’t have to mean ‘cutesy’ either – try a boxy trench coat in a feminine colour. Also great for matching the cherry blossom. Ample #gram opportunities indeed.
WEAR: Layers
We all know that the slightest hint of sun gets us excited, but the temperature can still be unpredictable in Spring, even at the best of times. A soft, thin jumper, or a light coat made from cotton are great options when faced with the precarious British weather.
WEAR: Hands free bag
There’s nothing worse than lugging around a heavy handbag on a walk – not least the resulting shoulder ache this causes. Opt for a sling over bag packed with just your essentials, for a light, hands free (read: care free) walk. You’ll be running around the hills singing The hills are alive with the sound of music in no time.