If you thought December was cold, it’s got absolutely nothing on January! In the dark months where utility bills scare the living daylights out of us and suddenly two pairs of tights just aren’t enough, let’s warm our cockles with some style indulgence instead!
Black-out
As soon as January arrives, fashion mags start adopting phrases like ‘banish the winter blues’, ‘brighten up your winter wardrobe’ and ‘start the New Year in style’ (can we have some more inventive slogans please?). As much as I love a bit of colour for a cold-weather kick in the face, who really wants to be caught in torrential rain wearing a pair of floral trousers? Nothing screams effortless style more than a black-out, and in frosty weather head-to-toe monochrome is hot. I’m not suggesting we tackle the chill without any creativity – January is dull enough without sticking to one look. I’m merely proposing that we don’t forget about classic cold-weather colours like black, brown, navy and grey because they can often make much more of an impact.
Trainers
Surely none of us have broken the ‘exercise more’ resolution yet? If, like me, you’re more interested in running to the bakery than hitting the gym, it’s probably just due to totally uninspiring footwear, right? Once we’ve invested in some stylish, sporty pumps, the exercise will become easier! Here are a bunch of my favourites.
A) Topshop B) ASOS C) Gienchi at ASOS D) Dune
Print it perfect
Have you noticed that black and white stripy things have landed in their millions? I think that this one is going to be a bit of a marmite trend, what do you reckon? Don’t run head-first into monochrome mania or you may risk a look that’s more mug-shot than magic. If you’re unsure, go for one stand-out piece like a clutch or a jumper that you can throw on over jeans. And there’s no reason to stick to black and white. Fun and funky 60’s graphics are the definition of this trend so don’t shy away from a splash of colour!
A) River Island at ASOS B) Zara C) ASOS
Over-sized Coats
Winter minimalism has landed and it’s sexy and simple. From capes and blanket coats to belted boyfriend coats and boxy 60’s cuts, over-sized is hot for the cooler months. It’s a great trend for those of us who love a streamlined cut and just think of all the knits that we could fit underneath! The trick is to pair these coats with a bit of structure so that the look isn’t all volume; try super skinny jeans and heeled ankle boots.
Sunnies
It’s difficult to slip into a pair of sunglasses during the winter months and not feel a little bit self-conscious, especially if the day is dull and dreary. After all, we typically associate them with…well, sun! But the north pole temperatures certainly aren’t a problem for fashion’s A-list; celebs, street-stylers and bloggers are snapped well into the New Year wearing sexy shades of all shapes and sizes. I think it’s time we established that there is no time of year where sunnies aren’t chic! From blacked-out cat eye to vintage-inspired frames, they have the power to turn any ensemble into a look worthy of a second glance. If you’ve decided to take the plunge into winter shades territory but you’re unsure which style to go for, here are a few tips:
Go over-sized
Because size does matter; if in doubt, super-size it.
Add a chunky scarf
If you’re a little apprehensive or feel like your shades stick out like a pair of chemistry goggles, try throwing on an over-sized scarf to add a little extra volume up top.
Tortoiseshell is chic
Whatever you’re wearing, tortoiseshell shades are a safe option. They just seem to add that effortlessly cool vibe to anything from jeans and a jumper to a knock-out skirt and blazer combo.
A)Missoni at ASOS B) French Connection C) Topshop D) Mango
Sexy Gloves
“Well, these cashmere gloves I need as it is winter and I have… hands.” A perfectly reasonable confession from a fellow shopaholic.
There’s nothing sexier than a pair of leather gloves! If you wanna be way ahead of the fashion crowds (I’m talking Autumn/Winter 13) then invest in some elbow-length gloves, trust me you won’t regret it! I love wearing long gloves like these with an over-sized coat or cape, matching boots and (say it with me) blacked-out sunnies!
A) ASOS B) John Lewis
What’s on your fashion hit-list this month?
