The Trousers:
culottes
Culottes are one of
those items people
tend to shy away
from, mainly because
they don't know how
to wear them,
whether they suit
them or how long
they are going to
stay in fashion.
They are great for
those of you who
'don't do skirts' as
they are a
compromise between
trousers and a
skirt. If you go
for it, make sure
they finish at a
narrow point on your
calf, you don't want
to accentuate the
bigger part of your
calf. Avoid cuffs
at the bottom if
your legs are short.
Below the knee are
easiest to wear, but
again, it's all
about balance and
getting the overall
look right.
Different heel
heights will project
a different look.
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The Top: boxy
blouse
These neat tops are
somewhere between a
T-shirt and a dressy
blouse. It's a
versatile piece for
spring/summer as you
can wear them for
both casual and
formal, depending on
the colour or
pattern. The
sleeves are
generally just above
the elbow, so it's
cooler than having
long sleeves but you
don't have to worry
about exposing your
upper arms if you
don't want to. This
shape works best on
rectangles, ovals
and inverted
triangles, but it
can be styled to
work for other body
shapes too if you know how to wear it.
Avoid this style if
you have a big bust
or are longer in the
body.
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The Coat: oversized
cocoon
The cocoon coat is
very wearable and
looks effortlessly
stylish. Those that
can't do belted
coats will be
delighted that this
more relaxed style
has taken off. It
is ideal for
layering in spring
and you can wear it
with trousers or a
straight skirt, but
not with a full
skirt. The cut has
a dropped shoulder
so do be careful if
you have smaller
shoulders.
Three-quarter
length is best for
smaller figures but
also more practical
for everyone and the
bracelet sleeves are
perfect for milder
weather. Do buy one
in a colour that you
love and that really suits you.
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Etc.
Other styles to look
out for this season
are the wide-legged
trouser - a welcome
alternative to
skinnies for some;
the slouchy trench
coat - more
effortless style
than the fitted look
of the traditional
version; the bomber
jacket - the key
piece for this
season's relaxed,
sporty look.
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