Since I’m re-cycling my wardrobe and trying very hard not to make any new clothing purchases unless absolutely essential, it seems anomalous that I’m writing a fashion column. The reason is I’ve had lots of requests from friends and subscribers to keep you updated at least once a season. The main request was to report on the key pieces available and show not only designer versions but also high street versions of a similar look.
I’ve thrawled the internet looking for the pieces which are not only currently popular but will also remain classics. I’ve endeavoured to choose some pieces which suit curvaceous bodies as well as skinnies. As you know this is not always possible as fashion favours the more wasp – waisted creatures among us.
Where I have chosen designer pieces I’ve credited the on-line store where the images come from, but in most cases you will find a stockist in your nearest city, certainly in Dublin or London.
Lace has been around a few years but this year it is more popular than ever. Madonna’s choice of lace dress will always be Dolce & Gabbana and certainly a version less demure than I feature here. I love the two versions by ASOS, one for curvy Goddesses and the other for you sylph like Persephone types.
Dolce&Gabbana Lace Pencil Dress from Nordstrom €1821
Sexy Lace Pencil Dress by Asos €63.98
ASOS CURVE Exclusive Midi Dress In Lace €63.98 in sizes 18 – 26
If you’ve been watching the T.V. series REVENGE, set in the Hamptons then perhaps you hanker after an effortlessly elegant number in dark red. Diane Von Furstenberg has been popular among the West coast Wasps since the 197O’s. This elegant tunic dress can be dressed up or down for any occasion.
Diane Von Furstenberg silk crepe dress €483 at www.netaporter.com
PUFF SLEEVE DRESS €49.95 at Zara. Zara’s version of a classic long sleeved shift comes in cranberry crepe and at €49.95 it suits most pockets.
Adding a Print dress to your wardrobe will inject some much needed colour and since green is a favourite for the new season, Dian Von Furstenberg’s perennial wrap dress is sure to work well. For a more budget friendly option, Coasts Donna dress is bang on the button.
Another choice is opt go for a jersey dress with digital print on the front. The version here from Alexander Mc Queen’s diffusion range is roughly 70% less than a similar peice from his mainline collection.
Diane Von Furstenberg Zalda Bis dress (136522) €402.00 at www.matchesfashion.com
Coast Dorana Dress in Printed Jersey €135.06 at www.asos.com
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Black Hummingbird Print Sweatshirt Dress £285 at Stylebop.com
Even if you decide to purchase a black coat, you will still be faced with an array of styles and shapes to chose from. So how do you choose the perfect multi-purpose coat? One that works well with a jeans and flat shoes combination will not necessarily look well worn over a dress.
My advice is to go for a simply tailored style; – great with jeans. Yet with the addition of a large wrap, it can be transformed into something more dramatic for weddings or a special occasion. Roksand a Illinic’s Oskar coat is beautifully tailored in a sumptuous fabric mix. But since it’s outside my budget I’d opt instead for Zara’s simple version with sleeve appliqué
Money no object -Roksanda Ilincic Oskar coat, €1,242.00 at www.matchesfashion.com
COAT WITH APPLIQUÉS ON THE SLEEVE 149.00 EUR 75% wool at Zara
Trousers, Jeans or leggings
While tailored trousers are returning, two of the funkiest looks around are leather leggings and animal print jeans. Where designer leather jeans can hit close to 4 figure sums, this version of Zara is better value. Less expensive again, River Island offer a an alternative which can look just as good if paired with the right jacket and boots.
STRETCH LEATHER TROUSERS 279.00 EUR by Zara
BLACK PU PANEL SKINNY TROUSERS, Euro 55 by River Island
Flocked animal print jeans can help you get in touch with your inner Goddess. This season, they are available everywhere from Marks & Spencers to Zara. The original of the species is by Current Elliot if you wish to splurge out on a great cut and beautiful fabric.
Current Elliot rolled skinny jeans at www.revolveclothing.com $204
5 POCKET JEANS WITH FLOCK ANIMAL PRINT Euro 49.85 form Zara
There’s an endless choice from strappy sandals to wedge boots and shoes and high boots this season. If you’re going for the simple coat and leather leggings combo, my choice is the wedge boot for a minimalist look which is part androgynous mixed with Star Trek. Diane Von Furstenbergs come in sumptuous leather while the budget version at Zara is in PU.
Diane Von Furstenberg leather Opalista boots €372.00 art www.matchesfashion.com
WEDGE ANKLE BOOT WITH FLAPS 59.95 EUR at Zara
The new trainer is more a style statement than a functional trainer since it has a hidden wedge incorporated into the design. Ideal for making you look taller while wearing casual clothes, the only drawback is the fact you won’t be able to run very fast. Designer brand Ash have been to the fore in bringing out this style over the past couple of years. For a more affordable option have a look in places like River Island and Marks & Spencers, along with online stores.
Ash Cool Multicoloured Green Wedge Trainers €248.80 at www.asos.com
Black high top trainer with hidden wedge £40 at River Island
My favourite high street buy this season has to be the mixed fabric sweater from Warehouse. It comes in a choice of three colours; – navy, burgundy and soft pink. (A slightly different version is available in dove grey). Arms and back are in a viscose/cotton knit and the front is in a silky shirt fabric. The style is similar to an expensive cashmere/silk version by a top designer but at prices ranging from €45 to €50 the fabric mix used here is a little less luxurious.
I have bought the navy version with longer back and can assure you it drapes beautifully. They are ideal for layering vests underneath and dressing up with scarves or jewellery. Equally they are a neat fit so it’s possible to wear them under a fitted blazer.
Jumper with silky front fabric, knit arms and back €48 at Warehouse and www.warehouse.co.uk
Woven back knit jumper in pink €48 at Warehouse and www.warehouse.co.uk
(1) A stylish army jacket at River Island which combines leather look sleeves with khaki twill. KHAKI PU SLEEVE ARMY JACKET £55 at River Island
(2) A skull scarf from Zara- the skulls look as though they are made form crystals and there‘s a hint of blue in there too. SKULL PRINT SCARF 19.95 EUR at Zara
(3) A colourful scarf from Zara. ORNAMENTAL PAISLEY HANDKERCHIEF 25.95 EUR at Zara
(4) The studded ankle boot for to put the Va Va Voom into Goddess! STUDDED ANKLE BOOT 119.00 EUR at Zara
(5) A neutral block heeled boot is good with denims and adds versatility to your wardrobe. BASIC COWBOY ANKLE BOOT In Leather 69.95 EUR at Zara
(6) A multi – purpose bucket bag. Multipurpose bucket Zara 36 x 46 x 16 cm. / 14 x 18 x 6 inches. 69.95 EUR
(7) Cage sandals are the perfect shape for most dresses this season. Black caged sandal £55 from River Island
(8) A dress which can be worn on its own or over leggings is great for a weekend away. Above: Karen Millen Feather Print Jersey Tunic Dress €106.63 at ASOS
Lipsy Tapestry Print Bodycon Dress €56.87 from ASOS
I love this. It’s great the way you have included key pieces for the season, which will appeal to a range of ages and shapes. The prices scale is a good idea too from high street to designer – budget to splurge. Thank you!
I’m so glad you love this Siobhan. While the designer pieces are beautifully made in luxurious fabrics, the price range is often out of reach except for a very special occasion. We all like to update our wardrobes without breaking the bank and it’s fun to add quirky accessories.
I really love your blog.. Pleasant colors & theme. Did you create this amazing site yourself? Please reply back as I’m planning to create my own personal blog and want to learn where you got this from or exactly what the theme is called. Kudos!
So glad you love this site Maude. I will be delighted to tell you about the design process if you wish to subscribe.
I love your style choices. You’re a woman after my own heart. This page is the way I want my closet to look – and my waistline. LOL. Anyhow… I’ve been sitting on my butt blogging too much lately. I need to get up and exercise so I’ll look good in those cute dresses, just in time for the holidays. 🙂
I’m sure you look great Debra and I’m so glad you love the choice. Same thing happens to me when I sit down to write – the area between my ribcage and hips fills in a way I never thought possible. But let’s not scold ourselves. There’s plenty of styles with lycra and the lace dress from Asos looks fab on a fuller figure. Love your amazing blog too Debra.
Hi Mary
Your autumn/winter collection is so so good – gives me lots to think about
Love how you include prices and places to purchase.
Admire your taste; – a great site
Thanks for stopping by Mary.
I’m surprised and delighted by the amount of hits this page is getting. It’s a simple catalogue of key pieces available this season.
Not my collection though – I leave that to the designers and I have to say it’s great to see them responding to the demand for good quality clothes at better value prices.