Planning a weekend away? Lucky you, can we come? Jokes! Here are some essentials that will see you through your mini trip (because a getaway shouldn't meant that you also have to take a vacay from your style). Scroll down for our Fashion Director's selections of nine fashion staples to pack, along with matching outfit options for each.
1. Colourful knit
There is something about jeans a jumper that can feel, well, just a bit boring. This timeworn combo can also instantly make you look like you're going for a dog walk, even if you don't actually have a dog. Bright sweaters, however, can make an outfit feel instantly more put together. Also, if the weather is typically British and greyer than a local sheep, this addition will inject a lightning bolt of colour to your ensemble. Layer under a classic Barbour and you're good to go.
Multicoloured Anni Stripe Wool-Cashmere Sweater, £295
2. Denim skirt
Mini skirts and the countryside aren't friends, they just don't go together, like oil and water or Angelina and Brad. Their 'dressy' quality makes them sit weirdly in a rural setting. There is something much more nonchalant and relaxed about a midi skirt, it works well with tights and won't get muddy when you eventually set out on your walk. In terms of footwear, this '70s silhouette will work with trainers, knee boots or wellies (if you are going full on Country File).
topshop Side Split Denim Midi Skirt, £35
3. Tweed blazer
A tweed blazer is a wardrobe saviour, whether you are going away for the weekend or not. A pair of classic blue Levi's 501s, navy cashmere sweater and blazer is an outfit combo that will have you breathing a sigh of relief in to your morning coffee. There are loads of options on the high street but charity and vintage shops will have a plethora of heavier tweed styles to choose from. Beware though, vintage shops will often stock more than a few men's jackets, so they might come up larger than expected. It's worth noting that, if you find the perfect blazer and it still looks a little off, you can always have the shoulders taken in at your local tailor (as this is usually the giveaway that something is too big).
4. Tonal basics
There used to be a silly kind of fashion rule that you couldn't wear white jeans in winter. God knows where that started or who made it up, but erase that from your memory because it's not true! Wearing all cream or taupe or white in winter looks incredibly fresh, especially with a dark coat thrown over the top of it. Our suggestion? Pick jeans that don't stretch as they will be thicker and more opaque, and a straight leg cut looks more timeless.
5. Warm beanie
Fun fact: Did you know you lose between seven and ten percent of body heat through your head? Being cold is not chic. And wool can be itchy, so try opting for cashmere instead. Loads of high street places do great affordable cashmere now. Think of the grunge-era and style with your favourite summer dress and a thermal layer underneath.
6. Pleated skirt
A pleated skirt or a kilt is something that will never go out of style. And, because the fabric is generally heavier on a traditional kilt, it will be warmer for winter months. Try and hunt down a rare vintage Burberry checked style on Vestiaire or eBay for major fashion points. Since pleated skirts have a bit of volume, keep the top half fitted and then team with a classic women's sweater that sits around the skirt's waistband. Uniqlo has the biggest selection, so you won't leave empty handed.
REISS Dora Black Pleated Midi Skirt, £165
McQ Alexander McQueen Kamaso asymmetric checked cotton-tweed wrap mini skirt, £425
7. Dungarees
There is something so comforting about a pair of dungarees. Maybe it's because they remind us of being toddlers, or long Sundays where we've attempted to decorate our homes. Wear a loose shirt underneath and then the structure of the dungaree will give your body shape. You can also leave a few buttons undone and the bib will still cover your nips, sexy. If you find the thought of dungarees intimidating, opt for black as it will feel like less of a statement 'look' and slot easier in to your existing wardrobe.
8. Cardigan
Is there anything more wintry than a cardigan, apart from perhaps a penguin ice skating? Cardigans are one of the most versatile pieces you will own. If the neckline is right you can wear them buttoned up and on their own like a sweater. Alternatively, you can wear them backwards, so they look like a sweater from the front (which is sexy as it shows off your back). Or you can layer them over/under other pieces. You can even wear them as a scarf if they aren't too chunky, and when the weather isn't freezing they pass as a coat. So if you don't own one, get on it.
9. Tank top
No, my name is not 'Grandpa'. Tank tops evoke thoughts of geography teachers and bearded Nordic fishermen, but they're really best worn over something super casual like a t-shirt (GAP make our favourites) or a white loose shirt. You can also make this piece totally evening-appropriate by wearing it with a black skirt and nothing underneath the tank. SASSY.
Photographer: Jane McLeish-Kelsey
Fashion Director: Amy Bannerman
Model: Ishi at The Hive
Hair & Makeup: Lucy Gibson at Frank Agency
Fashion Assistant: Maddy Alford
Photo Assistant: Fraser Thorne
Follow Amy on Instagram.
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