Perfect harmony

By Michelle Abbott @maison_abbott

Perfect harmony

You’d be forgiven for blinking and missing it, but I have to tell you that Summer is over. For those who found their share of precious sunshine and soaked it up, I applaud you. I’m packing away the wafty cotton, broderie anglaise and linen, it’ll have it’s day (hopefully many), next year.

For now, I’m eagerly looking forward to the new season. There’s something about autumn dressing which feels exciting, fresh and full of promise. Gone are the days when we need to rush out and purchase a new wardrobe - instead, we should only buy what we really need and absolutely love, to give new life to existing favourites, and hint at trends which are current for the season.

Slip Dress, £55 • cosstores.com

When you look at the styles which are emerging all over the fashion world, we probably already have many of the key elements to pull together a new look. This A/W, I can summarise as follows: You’ll need a statement jacket, a slip dress, something bright, possibly a piece with a graphic cut out detail and if you want to be edgy, a pair of platforms. If you don’t, then a loafer is your best friend. Nothing ‘new’ here, you’re thinking. True, but as with every trend which rolls around, it’s the way the pieces are styled, paired with something unlikely, |or reminiscent of another era, which gives that sense of freshness, and, (when everything works together), of harmony.

A silky slip dress with a sweater or jacket is the perfect combination for Autumn 2021

Let me talk you through it. Start with a slip dress, in satin or silk (in a good weight to take it up a level from nightwear). It should be midi length at least and minimal in design - black, caramel or any neutral. Layer this under a loose fitting sweater.

Add loafers for day time, or those 70s style platform sandals (yes you can wear opaque tights). Remove the knit and pull on a jacket with a wow factor - I don’t mean ‘in your face’ WOW, but a fabulous cut, vibrant colour (a key point this season), beautiful fabric and most importantly, the perfect fit for you. That’s a statement jacket. The platforms will elevate you (literally), the loafers will anchor the look and keep it understated.

A stand alone piece will be something with cut out detail - probably best worn alone and in black for impact. Where you choose to have the detail depends on the individual - bare a shoulder, a glimpse of waist, or the small of your back - whatever you feel comfortable with (always) - but let the rest be totally up to the imagination.

Until next time, Michelle x