Monday, 20 December 2021 12:19

Fashions Finest's NYE Outfits Stylebook

The countdown to New Year's Eve is getting closer, and so is the time to plan your outfit for the last night of 2021. An explosive mix of sparkles and red-carpet glam is the most popular choice, but there is no rule. We encourage you to dress to impress as you are.

New Year's Eve Outfits, stylebooks and tips. Ph. Inga Seliverstova, PexelsPh. Inga Seliverstova, Pexels

Are you not sure about what to wear on New Year's Eve? No panic! The editorial team put together their best festive outfits in this NYE stylebook where the key denominator is your personality.


We did it many times: buying a shiny, daring, excessive New Year's Eve outfit and wearing it just once. Fashions Finest's team opened their wardrobe and picked their best NYE looks. Browse our unconventional lookbook for inspiration and tips to let your personality shine and save some money for the new year!

Bethan’s New Year's Eve Look

Bethans New year Look
"My NYE look is styled with a 1960s' glamorous American housewife in mind," says Bethan Carrick, fashion historian and editorial intern at Fashions Finest - "think Mad Men's Betty Draper, my ultimate style icon. My plans for NYE are up in the air so I'm keeping my options open with this outfit but making sure I'm glowing. I have gone for a palette of luxurious golden hues which is tied together with a black Prada centrepiece - can you ask for much more? It is always important to me to match what I'm wearing on my feet with what I'm wearing from my neck and upwards: so these delicious jewel-encrusted Manolo Blahnik heels which no doubt are inspired by the court of Versaille are paired with an equally luxurious vintage gold pill necklace. To balance out the statement of gold I'm wearing a dainty Chanel cloche hat. These Batsheva orange dotted trousers signal to me where luxury meets comfort, which I am all about. Finally, wherever I will be it is going to be cold so I'll need a cosy jacket to take me through till 12 am and this Dior faux fur jacket is ideal. This outfit makes me feel like I'm going to gracefully glide my way through 2022. Cosy golden vibes only, please."

"I've chosen Vestiaire Collective to source my NYE look as I'm a big supporter of resale and believe it's the future of fashion. I spend a lot of time trawling through this site looking at beautiful garments that I hope to one day have money and space in my wardrobe to own."

Find Bethan's picks:
Top - Trousers - Coat Necklace - Hat - Shoes 

Leila’s New Year's Eve Look

Leilas New year Look
"This is an alternative and mainly vintage-inspired take on the New Year’s Eve outfit. It does not always have to be a dull sparkling glitter dress. Embrace the ‘90s and draw all eyes to you, while simultaneously supporting small independent designers and sustainability by shopping pre-loved."

Leila Katharina Kaess, international student and editorial intern at Fashions Finest, goes into more detail: "Snakedivine is an independent brand, based in Kassel, Germany and run by Rebecca. She studies free arts, makes tattoos and began to engage with CGI. Most of her items are unique single designs with an exclusively-limited batch of one to three pieces. This makes everything you buy extraordinarily special and individual. With one of these pieces, you are safe to avoid turning up in the exact same outfit some else is wearing. Rebecca is also keen on sourcing the fabrics from small sellers, remnant fabrics and second hand. The entirety of the range offered online is carefully crafted by hand. In an attempt to conquer fast fashion and overconsumption she invests a lot of time and creativity in every single piece. Thus, it is all the more devastating to see that a variety of her designs have been stolen, manufactured in horrible conditions and with synthetic materials, by the Chinese ultra-fast fashion brand SHEIN, to be sold for a few pounds. She is only one of several upcoming designers to be named. That is why we must support small and independent businesses!

The corset jacket by the infamous ‘90s brand Catwalk Collection is now considered deadstock, as those are not produced anymore, so you might want to get one as long as they are privately sold. A cute bralette underneath means that you could also open up the jacket or get rid of it entirely if you want to wear it as a top.

The well-beloved NODALETO platform Mary Janes pick up the jacket’s black velvet material, thereby creating a continued theme, as well as bringing top and bottom together coherently.

A cute little handbag to fit all the little things one needs when heading out are perfectly stored in this lovely vintage Vivienne Westwood bag. Vestiaire is always a good place to buy designer handbags since they are vintage (good for the environment and your wallet) and undergo testing for proof of authenticity by professional staff, which ensures that no dupes are sold. Lots of chunky silver jewellery and the eyecatcher, a huge Vivienne Westwood pearl choker, bestow the look with an edgy retro vibe. Also, notice how the cross earrings pick up the green colour of the bag, while the nail polish and lipstick match the colour scheme used in the trousers. Attention to little details like this compliment an outfit. This compilation can be used as inspiration, maybe you have some items in a similar, or would like to try your hand at an upcycling project."

Find Leila's picks:
ShoesBralette - Corset jacket -Trousers Bag - Necklace - Earrings - Rings - Hairclip - Lipstick - Nail polish

Olivia’s New Year's Eve Look

Olivias New year Look
"For me Christmas and NYE is the best excuse to wear a full outfit of glitter and this dress is the perfect example."
  Olivia Brecque, editorial intern and Fashion Design Management student at the LCF, considers the holidays as the perfect time to do something good for someone in needs: "To get you in the Christmas spirit I decided to pick my outfits from Cancer Research in Islington as I believe there are endless choices of outfits in Charity shops, not only is it good for the environment but you are helping to raise money for a cause. This outfit in total cost 69£. Any pair of black boots that you own should do the trick as all the focus is on this glitter dress. I would like to thank the staff at Cancer research Islington for being so helpful and kind."

Olivia's top pick:
Earrings 
To make something meaningful this Christmas and NYE, visit Cancer Research UK.

Deborah New Year's Eve Look

Deborahs New year Look
"I have chosen a look from my wardrobe because I like the idea of thinking sustainably and reusing clothing rather than buying new clothes that I don’t really need." Deborah St. Louis, founder of Fashions Finest, is a champion in sensible fashion choices.

"Most of the items I have worn many times and in different ways. The ASOS top is a new purchase and I love the combination of burnt orange with the black floral design. The warehouse tan skirt is one of my favourite items which I have had for over 10 years so no longer available online but here is a similar look from Warehouse which I’m sure anyone could find in a charity shop for less than half the price.

I have finished my look with a selection of jewellery that I have had for many years and that will complement any look. Similar jewellery can be purchased at an affordable price from Accessorize

My go-to leather handbag has been with me since the '90s and it cost me around £20.00 back then. Here is an alternative from Ted Baker. My go-to heeled boots, which finish this look so nicely, find a similar alternative online at ASOS

Now I’m all set to step out and enjoy my NYE party with friends without even having to spend any money on an outfit."

Find Deborah's picks:
Top - Skirt - Handbag - Boots - Accessories 

Valentina’s New Year's Eve Look

Valentinas New year Look
"How things change... In the past, I was more bothered by the idea of celebrating the year leaving us rather than looking for party outfits and having fun. The fussy me was not ready to bid farewell to the year, especially if it was a generous one for me!

My NYE outfit idea has the typical broken student, my old me, in mind. Here is a versatile look that allows you to reuse the dress and any item in the new year, again and again. The OOTD plays around colours and feels making the '70s the decade of freedom, youth and carefreeness. The essential piece is this Reformation 'Briea' halterneck mini dress. Pattern, colour palette and neckline take inspiration from the party decade for excellence. Move around in this dress; as the silk flows, the cubed pattern acquires fluidity. Geometries break.
Reformation follows the Net Sustain 8 eco-conscious production keys. A candid ZARA faux fur jacket accompanies the dress to keep toasty and conceal the sensual open back. It is 100% artificial fur and crafted in line with the brand environmentally-friendly standards.

2021 footwear saw barely-there sandals and chunky heels alike. These vegan MONKI ankle boots give a strong sense of stability with their structured heel so your feet will thank you too!"

Valentina Chirico, chief editor at Fashions Finest, moves on matching jewellery. "The handpicked accessories recall the dress warm colour scheme: gold. NuebeStudio polymer clay drop earrings in the shade Sahara are a dainty touch of exclusivity and lush: 100% handmade with 14k gold leaf. Behind NuebeStudio is Noelia, a former Spanish model turned SEO marketer, then jewellery maker.

Gold is rather expensive, so why not add some brass bracelets instead? These stackable brass bangles are handmade and fair trade by People Tree, plus they shine like gold! '70s' earthy and saturated colours find a nicely surprising balance in this Louis Vuitton embossed leather pochette in an acidic lime hue. You can go second-hand for that piece of luxury you deserve."

"My country wants red as the go-to and super lucky colour for the festivities, including NYE. But this year, I want some gold and sunshine in my makeup.

Swirl Benefit Galifornia blush on the apples of your cheeks and forehead for an instant healthy glow. Galifornia is more of a warm peachy shade with a sweet and exotic fruity scent. For more gold and lush I would ask imPRESS, it replies with its 'Luxurious' press-on nails dipped in champagne gold and pearls. If time is running low, I trust the brands' innovative cushioned glue pads for extra hold and its superb salon-worth designs.

I almost convinced myself to celebrate this year!"

Find Valentina's picks
Dress - Jacket - Boots - Earrings - Bracelets - Handbag - Blush - Nails 

Katie’s New Year's Eve Look

Katies New year Look
"2022 is right around the corner and people across the world are readying themselves for fresh starts, inspirational Instagram stories and resolutions that they will definitely stick to this year. The best way to channel this positivity and abundance into your New Year" - says Katie Bowman, social media intern at Fashions Finest - "is to dress for success, or so the old saying goes."

"This year I will be ringing in the New Year with my best friend and her daughter at their home, so my take on the glamour and glitz of New Year’s Eve may differ from previous years. By this I mean pyjamas.

This pale pink satin trouser pyjama set from John Lewis is the perfect co-ord to sip strawberry daiquiris on the sofa. To keep in with the pink colour scheme, these pink fluffy slide slippers from Ugg matched with this cosy dressing gown from Boux Avenue will make you the envy of everyone who decided to party out in the cold.

So whether you’re out in the club, staying in with friends or asleep before the clock strikes midnight, have a wonderful and safe New Year and enjoy the night in style."


Find Katie's picks:
Pijama set - Slippers - Dressing gown 

Sophie’s New Year's Eve Look

Sophies New year Look
"I have mainly chosen this outfit because you could wear this outfit for any occasion. You do not have to underdress or be overdressed. This is more a sort of casual wear."

Sophie Schot, creative media student and media intern at Fashions Finest, embodies a young and practical take on the festivities.

Find Sophie's picks:
Skirt - Sweatshirt - Boots - Earrings 

What a way to wave goodbye to 2021! There are many ways to dress up for New Year's Eve, all varied and still valid, whether you plan to spend the last night of the year partying all night out or staying in all wrapped up nice and cosy.

Mixing and matching our favourite clothing and wishlist picks was a fun game and a good style exercise. Fun aside and most importantly, our NYE stylebook wants to be more than a simple shopping guide. Indeed, it is not.

We like to think we are like no other e-zine around. We do not want you to feel compelled to buy so that you can feel gratified and conformed. Fashion should make you both look good and feel happy. You can do it in many ways; for example, you can join the secondhand brigade and give new life to pre-loved clothing online or in-store. You can buy to support a cause dear to you, wear independent and handmade labels, rent a luxury outfit or even design and sew your own holiday outfit! Being fashion smart is always among the latest trends, and there is no shame at all in wearing something casual on New Year's Eve or repurposing glam pieces to spice up your daily outfits.

Use this NYE outfit stylebook to steal some great tips. Save on money (and headaches), not on fashion!

Published in Blog
Tuesday, 09 November 2021 09:11

Summer Tips: How To Choose The Perfect Caftan

The caftan is a perfect garment for warm months. Scour the beach or the resort you are staying in for the summer, and you will find a woman in comfortable, breezy, and flowy caftan attire. But this summer garb is so versatile. You can dress it up and be suitable enough to wear to a party. You can also match it with fitting pants and shoes, and it would be good enough as office wear during the hot summer months.

If you want to look trendy this summer but do not want to compromise on comfort, you should consider wearing a fabulous caftan.


Here are some top tips to help you choose the perfect one:

1. Go For A High-Quality Brand

AdobeStock 381994183 resultPhoto: Adobe Stock

Caftans are supposed to make you feel effortlessly chic. So, if you want to look your best without sacrificing style, you better not skimp on cost. Getting this attire from internationally known brands that specialise in this summer fashion staple may be more expensive. But you will not regret your decision because you will surely enjoy your quality caftan for many years to come.

For example, if you are looking for a classic but fashionable style, you may want to consider shopping for luxury caftans by Natori. This global fashion company is known for its silk and cotton tunics, robes, and caftans that are lightweight and made notable by their bold and beautiful designs.

2. Buy For Your Size

Kashmir Silk Embroidery Caftan Black by Josie Natori 3 10464.1627597571Photo: Natori

One mistake that most ladies make when selecting a caftan is not buying for their built and size. This type of summer attire is typically loose-fitting to let air circulate freely inside the garment, so you will feel comfortable during the warm season. Hence, even if the caftan fits, if it does not give you the ability to move effortlessly, then the size may not suit you. Once you have found a caftan that perfectly fits your body, you will forever want to include it as one of your go-to travel dresses for summer, along with a wrap-around dress and a backless mini dress.

3. Know Your Purpose

As mentioned earlier, caftans are excellent summer attire because they are adaptable. Some Hollywood celebrities even wear caftan-inspired gowns during red-carpet or awards nights. In the 2021 Emmy's, Elizabeth Olsen wowed the crowd with a trendy but straightforward white caftan-esque gown designed by her sisters. So, wearing caftans for various occasions - even formal ones - is doable and appropriate.

For example, suppose you are going to a beach wedding and want something comfortable but still classy. In that case, you should consider buying a caftan made of luxury fabric like silk. Remember to pick one with bold and elaborate colours and designs. However, if you want to own a caftan just because you think they are stylish, then you can pretty much pick any design, colour, and fabric you want.

4. Match With Your Available Accessories

Young beautiful african american woman standing wearing elegant colorful caftanPhoto: Adobe Stock

If you want to look classy effortlessly, buying a caftan made of excellent quality fabric would be preferable. It may be more costly, but you can save money on other fashion items. In other words, splurge on the caftan itself and not on added fashion accessories.

For instance, always consider what accessories and shoes you already have when choosing your summer caftan. So, instead of buying a new pair of sunglasses or new shoes to match your attire, it would make more sense to search for a caftan design and colour that would look perfect with the accessories you already have in your wardrobe.

5. Mind The Length

Couture Black Silk Embroidered Caftan Black by Josie Natori 80114.1630611824Photo: Natori

You should also have the length in mind when buying a caftan. By doing so, you do not need to go to a dressmaker to have your garment altered. Fortunately, caftans come in various lengths and sizes, so you will find one that is ideal for your purpose.

So, if you want caftans for casual and loungewear, you can pick one with a short or medium length. You can even use short caftans to work if you pair them up with leggings or slim-fitting jeans. However, if you are eyeing to use this go-to summer garb for a formal party, you may want to get a floor-length caftan or one that can at least reach your mid-calf. Remember to dress everything up with a small clutch and beautiful jewellery.

6. Know Your Fabric

The most common fabric used for caftans is cotton because it is breathable and ideal for hot and humid weather. However, you can also find some made from rayon, satin, or even wool. That said, if you want to feel elegant and luxurious, pick something made of silk. Just feeling that smooth and silky fabric touch on your skin would already make you feel like a million bucks.

Conclusion

Caftans are a versatile summer outfit you can wear anytime and for any occasion. However, if you want to feel unique and fashionable, you should take the time to choose the right one for your body type, purpose, and accessories you already have in your closet.

Published in Blog

Winters are just around the corner, and it is high time that you start thinking about investing in the right clothing items that can boost your fashion statement this winter.

How to style black leather jackets. Ph. Tima Miroshnichenko, PexelsPh. Tima Miroshnichenko, Pexels

The cold season has its charm, and it brings out its own set of unique clothing items. However, one winter garment that stands out from the rest is the evergreen leather jacket.

These clothes are generally divided into layers. Each layer has its purpose; the first two layers are there to keep you warm and safe from the harsh weather; however, the outer layer plays a massive role in deciding your overall look. Many clothing items fall in the external layer category, such as sweaters, cardigans, and a wide array of distinct jackets and coats.

Leather jackets have been trending since they came out, and when we look at their history, it would not be odd to say that they might never go out of fashion.

Why Leather Jackets

A leather jacket is the most versatile piece of clothing, and every guy must have at least one leather jacket in his wardrobe. We think that leather jackets are a must for every man because men have always shown adoration towards strong style statements; however, it turns out to be challenging for most men. A leather jacket is the fashion staple capable of giving you a classic look and making your presence stronger than other men.

Different Types Of Leather Jackets

Since leather jackets got so much recognition, the manufacturers started evolving them into different types and shapes. Like we mentioned earlier, there is an immense range in which the jackets are made. Some of the leather jackets prominent among many men include racer, biker, bomber, and flight jackets.

Different Styles For Each Look

Getting a leather jacket according to your personality does the job; however, it does not entirely make you stand out in a room full of people. To achieve that and to look fashionable, you need to style your leather jacket differently for each look. Here are some ways you can rock your leather jackets according to each face.

Black On Black

How to style black leather jackets. All back outfits. Ph. Ramon Mula Garcia, UnsplashPh. Ramón Mula Garcia, Unsplash

Let's start with the basics; wearing a black leather jacket on a black outfit is our first pick because the colour black can make you look bold, confident, and even robust. The best thing about styling your leather jacket with black is that it looks good on almost everyone, and it is one of the safest outfit choices you can make. All black also helps you look fit and is a classic combo for every casual occasion.

The Rugged Look

Leather jackets possess the power to make a man look more masculine and help them give off a rugged vibe. Leather jackets are the only piece of clothing that looks good even when they get old; you can achieve the tough and rugged look by wearing your old jacket. Another worn-out piece that looks stylish in most situations is ripped denim jeans; you can combine these two articles of clothing and achieve a unique distressed style. You can style your old leather jackets with this rugged look and attend events like concerts and parties. You can also add some accessories with this to achieve a funky and rock star-like style.

The Pilot Style Outfit

How to style black leather jackets. Pilot look. Ph. Mirco Violent Blur, PexelsPh. Mirco Violent blur, Pexels

Leather jackets were initially made for pilots, and to this day, people style their looks just like those pilots by combining a simple bomber jacket with a white shirt and a tie. This outfit goes exceptionally well for men who are well built or aspire to achieve a handsome look. A tip would be to pair this look with blue denim or navy blue formal pants. Make sure your shoes are shiny.

The Young College Look

Not only it helps you look elegant, but a leather jacket can also make you look younger if you style it appropriately and embrace your boyish side. To attain this style, you can either wear a bomber leather jacket or a biker jacket.

If you want to show off your innerwear, such as a graphic t-shirt, you should go with the bomber jacket. Bomber leather jackets can also be paired with hoodies for a youthful look; however, you can wear biker jackets if you do not want everyone's focus on your innerwear. Apart from making you look younger, biker jackets can instantly gain the crown's attention as these jackets have a lot of zippers and buttons.

The Sport Luxe

Black leather jacket luxe outfit. Ph. Royal Anwar, PexelsPh. Royal Anwar, Pexels

The term sports luxe is used when you combine sports clothing with luxury items. In this case, the sports clothing we refer to is baggy trousers and t-shirts worn underneath a leather jacket. You can also add zip-through hoodies to the outfit for a cosy and comforting vibe; you can top off this outfit with sneakers and street-styled shoes such as converse. A baseball cap fills the department of accessories. These outfits look incredibly comfortable and, in some cases, give off a lazy vibe which is why adding a luxury item such as a leather jacket enhances your style.

The Semi-formal Look

Semi-formal look with leather jacket. Ph. Dami Adebayo, UnsplashPh. Dami Adebayo, Unsplash

The semi-formal look has been trending for a while now. This look allows you to experiment with different colours and styles; however, it is essential to know that these styles and colours are exquisite and would mainly focus on the formal feel of the outfit.

You can pair your leather jackets with a white or any other single-coloured button-down shirt and some grey trousers. The shoes that look perfect with these kinds of outfits are the oxford shoes. An important to remember is that the shade of your jacket and shoes must match. You can also experiment with discoloured textures in your leather jacket for a unique look.

Black And White Color Combination

When it comes to black and white clothing, people mostly think of combinations such as black jeans and a black leather jacket with a white t-shirt and shoes, although that is not the only way to combine these colours. White leather jackets have been on the rise as they are something many people don't wear and have a distinctive vibe.

Dark outer layers are becoming overrated, which is why people are moving towards light colours. White is the most delicate colour on the visible chromatic spectrum. When paired with black jeans and a black t-shirt, it makes a super casual outfit into a more stylish suit and makes your ensemble more luxurious and expensive.

Final Note

These were some of the best ways to style your leather jackets according to each look. Due to such versatility and timelessness, leather jackets have remained a fashion staple for decades. When styling your leather jacket, an important thing to remember is that you do not compromise on the quality when buying a coat and make sure that you purchase something that suits your personality and fashion statement.

Published in Blog

The '70s are back! An era full of glam, disco, Bowie, Jagger, bell bottoms, bold prints, crochet, dagger collar blouses and so much more. '70s style pieces are full-fledged on again. So, stock up your autumn wardrobe with these five essentials that should not be missed in anyone’s closet this autumn season.

'70s vinatge fashion. Essentials for A/W wardrobe. Ph. Julian Myles, UnsplashPh. Julian Myles, Unsplash

'70s kaleidoscopic style is the hottest fashion trend on Instagram, a good source of inspiration to make vintage looks truly yours. Perfect vibes for the upcoming autumn season, these are our 5 essentials for your wardrobe.


Retro aesthetics of the ‘70s are taking over our social media pages, and surely we all know what this era’s fashion stands for, right? You may have a lot of associations but read on to find out how you can also adapt those to contemporary trends.

Penny Lane Coats

Penny Lane coats. '70s vintsge fashion essentials. Credits @hannahlouisefA black & white example embellished with silver star and moon stitching, seen on influencer @hannahlouisef.

Showcased on everyone’s Instagram feed at the moment, contemporary brands like House of Sunny and Saks Pott brought about the resurgence of an absolute classic, the Penny Lane coat. Not only do they look fabulous, but also keep you warm and cosy throughout those stormy autumn days about to be faced. Simultaneously, these statement piece coats are spreading huge ‘Almost Famous’ vibes, whose character of Penny Lane is where its name originally stems from.

Formerly better known as Afghan coats, the style was brought into mainstream fashion mainly by celebrities, especially musicians like The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix throughout the late '60s and early '70s, which created all the associations it has with Rock n’ Roll nowadays. Available in plain suede or embellished with stitching and embroidery, they add an effortlessly chic twist to even the most basic outfit, a real no-brainer. Penny Lane coats are here to stay!

Funky Prints

Funky prints. '70s vintage fashion essentials. Credits @mounakaeLondon-based influencer @mounakae effortlessly sports a '70s-inspired swirl patterned set. The halter neck top adds to an overall retro atmosphere.

Battle the upcoming gloomy autumn days with ever more vibrant colours and funky prints. They appear in numerous forms and can be incorporated through basically every form of clothing. No matter if it is a top, blouse, trousers, skirt, jacket, or if you do not want to go all the way simply add a colourful headband or scarf. Chevron and flame stitch, argyle, paisley, swirls, zebra, floral and abstract geometric patterns are just a few infamous '70s patterns to be named. All were influenced by folk and psychedelic rock of the era. Matching sets are an easy way to pull off a nice fit without much effort. Bright colours and bold patterns can complement each other or clash in an offbeat way. This season there is no such thing as too radiant or vibrant. Multi-coloured clothes all the way, it is about mixing and matching, so be bold.

Flared Trousers

Flared trousers. '70s vintage fashion. Credits @hannahlouisef@hannahlouisef wears a classic denim flare with a middle line seam.

First popularised by Cher and Sonny in the mid-'60s, flared trousers became a staple piece of the era, and are interconnected with the counterculture hippie movement.

They are extremely versatile and can be styled in either '70s Americana style, feminine chic, androgynous with a pantsuit, or in a glam rock/disco manner for those nights out and about. Extra points if they are corduroy or in flower print, for the ultimate retro style. A more classic approach would be a pair of simple blue denim in true Farrah Fawcett manner, worn with a colourful top and white trainers. The choice of fabric is key here, they are available in either denim, cotton, corduroy, or polyester and vary in terms of how wide they flare at the bottom and whether they have an additional split hem. One thing is for certain, every kind of flared trousers will give legs for days since the shape is known to elongate the silhouette.

Platform Boots

Platform boots. '70s vintage fashion essentials. Credits letsgetflashy, Ph. Alexandre Alaux@letsgetflashy goes all in with a Bowie-esque approach on colour coordinating platform boots, perfectly fitting her ginger mullet. (Ph. Alexandre Alaux)

The '70s surely were an innovative decade for fashion, as the clothing represented youths newly found carefree mentality and desire to deviate from their parents' generation’s norms regarding outward appearances and attire. The way they dressed was an act of rebellion in itself. Platform boots were mainly popularised by glam rock performers like Elton John, the New York Dolls, and especially David Bowie during his alter ego Ziggy Stardust phase. This made the trend gender-neutral, since Bowie incorporated various queering elements in his stage performances and photoshoots, so a lot of men adopted this element and could be spotted wearing heels.

Due to being considered the era’s disco shoe, the connection to present events seems fitting. Now that clubs have reopened after long months of social distancing, expressing a newfound sense of liberty is once again expressed through head-turning clothes. Online shops frequently advertise new 'going out wear' with phrases and puns referencing a need for customers to prepare for their comeback to the club floors with fitting party outfits, predominantly targeting teens and 20-somethings. Just like the trend was originally about catching attention, the intention remains the same. On a side note, the shoes are particularly petite friendly and can add a good few inches of height, while also keeping your feet dry when stomping through those leaf-covered parks and forests once foliage hits the ground.

Bulky Square-shaped Tinted Sunglasses

Bulky square-shaped sunglasses. '70s vintage essentials. Credits @annacascarina@annacascarina stuns in a simple, yet eye-catching black-framed model with yellow/orange-tinted glasses, which harmonizes very well with her floral printed Resume blouse.

A drastic opposition to the previous tiny sunglasses trend, originally stemming from the '90s. Now the motto certainly is 'the bigger the better!'.

Don’t shy away from colourful tinted glasses to give your fit this extra pop of colour. Particularly popular now are blue, yellow, amber, and red-tinted glasses with a tortoiseshell look frame. A perfect companion when having to hide nasty dark under-eye circles or puffy eyes in the morning.

Where To Get The Look?

It is apparent that these trends are interconnected in cultural significance, socio-political influence, and historical context. A feeling of exuberance seems to be around, which is expressed and underlined through fashion.

Though all items are in some form currently available at the established high street fashion houses, we recommend you take a look at your local thrift store or browse online through secondhand apps like Vinted, Depop, and Etsy to find a truly unique and long-lasting piece of clothing with an attached history. Not only is the quality of fabric and construction usually higher, but buying used clothes contributes to more conscious and sustainable consumption, therefore helping to protect our planet and spreading awareness. If these options do not fit size-wise, upcycling in DIY, or bringing it to a local tailor can easily fix any issue and simultaneously make it more distinctive and individual. Fashion cycles have always existed and will continue to do so, however, now with constant online access to fast-fashion retailers they are speeding up more and more. Nevertheless, the aforementioned trends are certainly not fleeting or just adaptable for this season, because true vintage never goes out of style.

Published in Blog
Wednesday, 24 February 2021 14:47

How To Wear Black in a More Interesting Way

There are always fresh style ideas that earn the title of being the “new black” when they have the potential to become timeless, and for a good reason – black is, indeed, timeless in its simplicity, elegance, and sophistication. That is why people who love wearing all-black outfits will never look out of place or anything less than stylish.

5 Styling Tips to Wear an All Black Outfit in a More Interesting Way resultNikita Shirokov, Unsplash

Black remains the one and only hue that will never go out of style and that you can wear for practically any occasion – yup, even in wedding dresses, black sparks joy.
However, there’s no reason to stay in a single hue lane when you choose that full black look. You can mix and match with other colors in a less conspicuous way, through accessorizing, footwear, makeup, and the like. So, to help you with refining your all-black look, we’ve listed a few tips to serve you for any occasion!
 

Add Some Sheen And Texture

 

Add some sheen and texture resultMike Palmowski, Unsplash

Black is one of the most versatile hues you can wear, but few people think of it as something that can come in different shades or versions. That said, you can make sure that your wardrobe isn’t brimming with exclusively one shade of black, and no texture at that. Plus, why not experiment with shimmer?

Black can come with all kinds of built-in sheen depending on the fabric of choice, such as the naturally glossy satin and silk, while cotton is matte and easy to match with, let’s say, black jeans that come in charcoal instead of ink black. Try out textured black with frills, or crushed velvet with its unique texture combo.
 

Seasonal Accessories To The Rescue

 
Seasonal accessories to the rescue resultLona, Unsplash

Who says you cannot look lovely during winter? In fact, the sheer selection of cozy accessories can add a new level of warmth to your look. Think: wool hats and scarves, gloves, ear warmers, all kinds of leg warmers, etc. You can spruce up your winter look with more than your black basics, so make sure that your add-ons are not just purposeful, but vibrant, too!
Once the warmer months kick in, you can swap your warm accessories with a wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun’s nasty rays away from your face, not to mention eyewear in many hues and patterns, as well as purses and backpacks in all shades of the rainbow.
 

Bauble Up Your Black Look

 
Bauble up your black look resultJoshua Rondeau, Unsplash

Jewellery is by far the most creative outlet for giving your black outfits a more personal, authentic dimension. All the colorful bracelets, earrings, and layered necklaces make it a dream come true to diversify that all-black wardrobe of yours. However, unlike mass-produced accessories, only unique baubles can truly epitomize your personal look.
Think of all the black as a sophisticated canvas, and then you can design your own locket that will become the pinnacle of your style expression. It can commemorate an important relationship, a milestone, or merely hold the image of someone you love to motivate you in difficult times. The beauty of it is its authenticity and uniqueness, making it by far the most creative way to step outside of your all-black comfort zone.
 

Put Your Best Foot Forward


Put your best foot forward resultNajla Cam, Unsplash

While it’s true that most practical people pick black, brown leather, and gray as their go-to footwear colors because it’s simpler to combine that way – if you’d like to expand your palette and your options, then shoes will help you diversify your otherwise black look. An easy way around is to go for nude or beige shoes that are also easy to wear with pretty much anything, and yet they naturally add some contrast to your all-black combo.

However, for a more vibrant option, you can pick bright colors such as lilac, neon green or pink, or perhaps burgundy and emerald for a classier vibe. Even patterns on your shoes can be wonderful with your black look, so animal print shoes, polka dots, and stripes can look great!
 

Let Your Makeup Do The Talking


Let your makeup do the talking resultAndrey Zvyagintsev, Unsplash

If you take great care of your skin, then the glow of your complexion is probably more than enough to complement that black outfit of yours. However, you can always reach for a few simple, yet impactful makeup items in your beauty ensemble and elevate your look with a touch of color – but not too much. For instance, red lipstick goes stunningly well with anything and everything black, and the occasion doesn’t matter.

Then again, you can add a little black liner and mascara to emphasize your eyes, and a touch of shimmer in your natural skin tone to bring some brightness to your lids, and you’ll be good to go for a fabulous, glam event. If you’re playful by nature, even less conventional shades on your lips such as bright orange, pink, and even purple can work well with your black tones.

Minimalism in the shape of all-black tones still leaves plenty of wiggle room for creativity in details. A touch of shimmer or a silver necklace, and you’ll have an outfit that can be transformed into a true reflection of your personality. Have fun with all those little black dresses, pantsuits, and athleisure, and you’ll find that there’s nothing dull or monotonous about black – as long as you start exploring your look from new perspectives!
Published in Blog
Thursday, 04 February 2021 17:10

Ideas for Gender Fluid Dressing

The face of contemporary fashion is changing. Gender boundaries are increasingly viewed as outdated, and a lot of people – especially Gen Z - are more open to the idea of gender-neutral dressing.

Published in Fashion
Sunday, 24 January 2021 20:38

Tips For Stylish Dressing In The Winter Season

It is no secret that when the temperature falls, people often find it challenging to pull together dresses that keep you warm as well as look both flattering and fashionable. Nevertheless, it can be done - despite the chilly and cold weather outside. Are you wondering how?

alesia kazantceva gj80u3CgKvM unsplash resultAlesia Kazantceva. Unsplash

Don’t worry, we have your back! We have curated a list of simple yet amazing tips to show you how to style your winter outfits fashionably.

Tip #1 Wear A Classy Leather Jacket

If you are a fashion expert, you would know that jackets make you look trendy as they reveal a bold statement about your fashion sense. And this is the reason why they have been popular among both men and women for a very long time.

Did you know that pairing your clothes with the right type of jacket can make you look elegant and help you stand out from the crowd at the same time? Although there are different types of jackets available in the market, like denim, bomber, etc., if you want to look good and protect yourself from the cold, a leather jacket would be the perfect pick for you this winter season.

Besides this, a leather jacket can give you a more stylish appearance and make you look impactful. All said and done while buying a leather jacket, it is crucial to ensure that you are buying from brands that offer genuine, high-quality leather jackets. This is because such types of jackets are not only durable, but their elegance is priceless. Apart from this, for a unique and bold style statement, you should right away buy a high-quality, black leather jacket.

Tip #2 Carry A Knitted Sweater

According to past studies, it is predicted that the global sweater market will generate 104.8 billion US dollars in sales in the year 2021. This is because people like wearing sweaters as they don’t just make them look stylish, but also make them feel comfortable and confident. However, many people find it tricky to choose the perfect sweater for their wardrobe. So, we have curated a list of some of the basic things that you should consider while purchasing a sweater that can make you look stylish this winter:

The Neckline

There are different types of necklines available in sweaters. So, firstly, you should see which one would look best on you. For instance, do you want a V-neck for a stylish look or a turtle neck for a comfy appearance?

The Length

The length of the sweater plays a critical role when deciding to buy it or not. You can either go for a classy looking cropped sweater or a long, traditional one, depending on the clothes you’d wear underneath that sweater.

The Volume

Similarly, one of the defining factors of a sweater is its volume. For example, you need to decide whether a fitted one would enhance your overall look or a relaxed, comfy one.

Tip #3 Find The Perfect Coat

It is no surprise that in case of cold weather, a coat becomes your best friend. It is your closet item that you can pair with most of your outfits, so you should find the perfect coat for yourself. You should choose the one that saves you from the cold and reflects your personal style.

Not sure how to choose the perfect coat? Here are a few expert fashion tips to help:

- There are many different types of coats available in the market, but you should go for high-quality ones if you want to look good.
- Select the color of that compliments your complexion.
- Go for the coat shape that enhances your body’s shape and figure.
- Make sure the coat of your choice has pockets.

ryan spaulding 6SdLUCe0wb4 unsplash resultRyan Spaulding. Unsplash

If you are still not sure how to style your winter coats fashionably? Here is an ultimate winter coat accessory guide.

Tip #4 Wear Your Show Stopper Boots

Buying the most suitable pair of boots can be difficult if you aren’t sure what you need to look for. But, don’t worry, we have curated some expert tips that can help you in finding the perfect boots that fit your feet so well that you will never want to take them off! And let’s face it, girls, don’t you love a stylish yet comfy pair of boots?

While looking for your ideal boots, always remember comfort is key. You need t be able to wear them for long periods of time, and you dont want to end up looking clumsy, walking strangely and feeling uncomfortable before the day is through.
  
One of the most significant tips for buying the perfect boots is their size. Pay extra attention to the size of your legs and ankles so that you can find a flattering style. Always make sure that you select the ones with the best material. For boots that you will wear often, it is best to go for the ones made out of leather.

Tip #5 Add A Trendy Scarf

We all know that scarves have been an essential fashion accessory since the beginning. This is because they make you look comfortable and stylish at the same time. Besides this, by adding a fashionable scarf to your outfit, you can protect your neck from chilly winds in the winter season.

Below are a few tips for selecting a trendy scarf to pair with your outfit:

- Go for a scarf with a longer length as it is easier to style a lengthy one.
- Don’t forget to check the quality and softness of the scarf’s material.
- Inspect both the front and backside of the scarf.

Tip #6 Layer Yourself Perfectly

One of the most important style tips is to experiment with a mixture of thinner pieces that offer maximum warmth, and at the same time, make you look fashionable. You can also play with shirts and sweaters of varying lengths for flattering your body shape.

The Final Word

Oftentimes, the best outfit is one of the simplest ones. So, if you want to make an impact and spend your winter season fashionably, you should choose a classic winter outfit that is easy to put together and carry by following the above-mentioned style tips.

Published in Blog