the look Sam shirt $299 Saba
Back to basics You’ve probably asked yourself this question at one point – ‘Why did I buy that?’ Turns out, we’re all victims to trends and impulse purchases. Here, former editor-in-chief of Vogue Australia, Kirstie Clements, gives us some of her top tips for curating a stylish, timeless wardrobe. It’s all in the edit Fashion stylists and designers often talk about wardrobe foundations – the key pieces that every woman needs to cover every occasion. When I see a list in a magazine or on social media, I always have a quick skim to see if there’s a new addition I might have missed, like a quilted orange cape, or silver platform rainboots. But, no, the classics seem to have pretty much remained the classics, so it’s worth doing a rundown of the top 12 so we know we are on the right path. A tailored blazer: In black, navy or a neutral, such as sand or khaki, a smart blazer will pull any outfit together and can even be worn over workout gear. Current styles are a little bit oversized and boxy, for ease of movement. I am currently eyeing one in teal blue velvet for some added drama. Jeans: High waisted seems to be a defining trend now, either straight legged or loose fit. Warning: high waist and loose fit is heading into mom jeans, so is probably better left to the young. High waisted and straight is a great look with a heel and a jacket at any age. White shirt: You can’t have too many. Oversized man’s style is a good option. Looks great over jeans or black leggings. Leggings: Ah, the legging. They are such a modern, comfortable, versatile option, at any age. Wear them with a big white shirt, or with a T-shirt and a longer line blazer. The trench: A neat khaki trench coat is a nobrainer – a bit of French-inspired cool with a utilitarian edge. And pockets! A soft knit: A roomy black, grey or camel sweater is always appropriate, night and day. The short sleeve sweater is also a great cross-seasonal piece. Very chic and great over a long-sleeved shirt. 22
canberraweekly.com.au
Text extracts from Why Did I Buy That? by Kirstie Clements, Murdoch Books, RRP $32.99.
Suit: A well-cut suit is another timeless solution piece. Black is the obvious option and will double as a tuxedo for more formal events if you add jewels and heels. White is also a gorgeous choice if you can bear the dry cleaning. The jacket and pants can also be worn separately, of course, to make more outfit options; a cream jacket with jeans is a smart look for lunch or a dinner date.
Ramona jacket $329 Sportscraft
Dress: Choose any style that suits your figure. It might be a silky slip dress (wear a sweater, cardigan or trench with it), A-line, a sack dress with puffy sleeves, a sheath, a button-through shirt-waister, or a tunic. I bought a new one this week – mid length and with long voluminous sleeves, which are edged with a band of striking yellow fluoro trim to add interest. And with, joy of joy, pockets. T-shirt: A silky black T-shirt will work with everything. A key wardrobe essential. Mid-length skirt: Current styles are wrapped and A-line, but again, go with the cut that suits your body shape. I am currently mad about biascut slip skirts with elastic waists – I have them in metallic silver, navy silk and pink sequinned. I love them worn casually with a cotton shirt and a sneaker. Hoodie: This is a newish foundation piece, but casual loungewear and sportswear feel like they are here to stay. Make it cashmere for the ultimate in casual luxe. The oversized comfy cardigan: Chunky, ribbed or textured, the grandpa cardigan is key to easy weekend style. There are your basic perfect 12. Then again, I don’t wish to be too militant; there is room to be playful. This might be the moment to throw in some insanity. I need to discuss my new lime green patio pants.
Classic straight jeans $139.95 rollasjeans.com
