‘Fashion fades, style is eternal’
If it hadn’t originally graced the lips of Yves Saint Laurent, this ‘almost’ cliche would be totally worn out. However due to one man’s copious amount of style, it lives on. For me, this quote has two points of sense which I swear by, the first is the basic belief that it’s as much about what you wear as it is how you wear it. The second is that it keeps me from having the unholy overdraft which I would need to ‘stay en Vogue’. Every year around this time we are hit with the trends for A/W, and while a decent amount of indulgence should always be encouraged, a little restraint must always be shown. This restraint, however, can thankfully be shown in investing in timeless pieces. Pieces that last both physically and beautifully.
Just as sure as those nautical stripes of navy and white will be waving proudly outside the High Street for Spring/Summer, there are a few Autumn/Winter staples you can be sure to rely on too.
- Brogues – The ultimate back to school shoe. And, while you may be far beyond the homework stage of life, the brogue is always a perfect way to start your September. Black, tan, ox blood or metallic. Patent, plain leather or suede. Smooth, engraved or embellished. And even that lovely choice of flat or heeled for those of us who refuse to face being vertically challenged. My safe pick for brogues always comes from Office Shoes, but a quick stop into the Shoe Garden at Arnotts has me totally obsessed with Bertie’s heeled Amoy brogues. Or to really take you back to those school days Clarkes are the go to in brights.
Office shoes
Clarks.
2. Houndstooth – It’s a no-brainer staple for print lovers but its classic monochrome colour makes it accessible for the more apprehensive wearer.From a structured box jacket to subtle accessories to a full blown jumpsuit, houndstooth is a go to for annual Autumn/Winter chic. It is a vintage classic which lives on decade to decade and a must have for any wardrobe. It was granted its eternal status through its showcasing by Christian Dior and continues to flourish with designers such as Chanel and Balmain to name but a few. Coming back down from that designer dream though, the high street have loads to offer in terms this print, including this much coveted two piece from American Apparel.
3. Leather – Or more possibly pleather, either way I’ve seen very few survive the colder element sans leather jacket. Be it biker or tailored, the leather jacket is the ultimate go to for many. Its mix of simplicity with flexibility is what gives the leather jacket it’s status of ‘eternal’. A somewhat promiscuous item of clothing, the leather jacket isn’t picky about what it’s paired with. Whether it’s for the commute to work paired with skinny fit tailored trousers and a sensible court. A night out on the town covering your otherwise scantily clad shoulders which your strappy embellished dress does not cover. Or simply donned with a pair of skinnies, oxblood chelsea boots and a beanie. The leather jacket is always game. If you’re are truly in the investment mood, Maje have an amazing ribbed biker jacket, but for a little less damage to your back pocket, River Island never disappoints.
Maje
River Island
Words: Sinead O Reilly.
Images : Pinterest.
