Bugle beads, paillettes and sequins are no longer reserved for evening. These sparkly embellishments, in addition to high-sheen, glittery and reflective fabrics, are surprisingly suitable pairings for daytime separates in flannel, tweed and leather. Although these finishes are not widely considered as office wear yet, such sexy mixing is starting to redefine how we perceive everyday luxury.
One immediate upshot to bigger shoulders: bags go the handheld route. Encased by hardware or less structured with smaller hardware accents, these satchels are inspired by vintage beauties but constructed with present-day precision. Luxe finishes and uncomplicated functionality on the outside and well-conceived compartmentalized interiors represent exceptional value for years to come.
This is power dressing at its finest. Think controlled volume. New tailoring techniques - fabric gathering, seaming details and padding - are responsible for the shoulder focus. To balance this new shape, keep the waist as narrow as possible. Stick with a lean silhouette overall, whether a tapered pant or a slim skirt.
Waist emphasis remains a widespread trend this season to the extent that any outfit can be transformed with the help of a belt. Give shape to sheath dresses or add hourglass curves to oversized knits and coats. Cinched tight enough, a belt can even create a peplum effect for a jacket. Various widths and one-size-fits-all wraparound styles ensure enough selection to experiment. Details of functional pockets and zippers or ornate buckles, studding and medallions confirm that these belts are statement pieces.
Long leggy looks dominated the fall collections and are poised to become wardrobe winners. Super-slim pants follow the shape of the leg, while leather leggings feel like a second skin. Ergonomic seaming and ski details emphasize a sporty sensibility; other pairs, meanwhile, channel eveningwear. Everybody can pull off this look; the secret is to understand proportion - tuck in a top or wear it tunic style - and layer accordingly. Lean ankle-baring pants lend themselves to booties, city pumps and ballet flats, while the slim and long look best with a heel or tucked into an equestrian-style boot.
Ladylike with an attitude, they are predominantly closed toe but boast countless heel variations, from cone-shaped to high stiletto. Opt for jewel-toned suede to punch up neutral ensembles. Or take the classic route with polished calfskin, equal parts sturdy and sexy. There are many stocking options this season: choose nude stockings to suggest conservative chic or match your opaque tights to the colour of your shoes for a long and leggy look. The hemline of a full pant must be long enough to reveal just a hint of heel, playing into masculine-feminine mixing.
This season, knitwear interpretations are wide-ranging: jackets and coats from hip to ankle length, sweaters with distinctive necklines or asymmetrical shapes and fun jumpers. Whether fine-gauge or chunky, ribbed or hairy, mohair or angora, folkloric or Fair Isle, these knits can be collected and worn for any occasion. Short dress styles go best with leggings or tight bootleggings.
Every face needs a frame, and these bold neck pieces offer maximum impact. As wearable art, they boast semiprecious stones, cut glass, stunning metalwork and impressive craftsmanship. Such showstoppers require a stage to shine, so keep tops simple - a sheath dress, a crewneck or a turtleneck is ideal.
As far as investment dressing is concerned, leather yields high interest and haute style. In suede or supple kidskin, with a matte distressed finish or shine, leather embodies seasonless versatility. Expect to find leather biker jackets, sleeveless sheaths and irresistible leggings as a denim alternative. Flowing dresses, soft romantic blouses or eye-catching sequined tops are the elegant yin to leather's edgy yang. Cherish these pieces, wear them often and remember that the items will only get better with age.
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