56

img 1 source unknown, img 2
Snug. Feeling like I could use a warm shearling lined jacket and an oversized woolly cardigan about now, fur collar included. Possibly even worn at the same time. Spending my morning with shivers and my evenings with goosebumps isn't the most fun. I imagine I've missed the boat on both the above pieces, although that doesn't stop a girl from dreaming. Can only imagine how poorly I would cope in a country where temperatures regularly drop below zero. Aside from layering on the merino and jumpers, I'm finding that plenty of tea has been helping slightly... Happy weekend!

 

55

Helmut Lang blazer, Ashley Fogel tunic, J Crew belt (similar), Topshop boots, Karen Walker rings
Pitch black. One thing I love is rediscovering pieces that have for whatever reason, gone unworn for a number of months. After moving in January, I had asked my mum about what had happened to this tunic dress of hers, as she never wore it. Needless to say, the tunic ended up making its way into my wardrobe, and with that, the feeling of being new all over again.

Many things could be said of the 'Wellington uniform' of all black, that it is dreary, depressing or the like, but then at the opposite end of the scale, wearing all black can look chic, or be an interesting combination of layers and textures. Sometimes it's also all you want to reach for when you hear the wind bashing against your window. Either way, I love its simplicity, and wearing simple pieces like this makes me appreciate, and wonder of the potential for what an all black wardrobe could look like.

 

54

Helmut Lang blazer, Kate Sylvester top, Topshop superskinny jeans, Country Rd ballet flats (similar)
On heavy rotation. Mornings like today, where the wind is bitter cold, has had me wishing that I was snuggled up in bed with a warm cup of hot chocolate. These are the days where you layer on your warmest merino, two pairs of tights, and a big thick winter coat to block out any breath of cold air.

On other days, when winter seems much less harsh, I’ve been gravitating towards a few simple pieces in my wardrobe, of which a few are above. Heavy wool jackets, thrown over pretty silk blouses and skinny jeans seem to form the base of most of my outfits on days that I don’t choose to wear a dress or skirt. Topped off with a pashmina, a simple pair of ballet flats (or some sturdy boots), and I’m good to go, once I’ve thrown on my winter coat that is.

It makes me realise that the saying that we only wear 20% of our wardrobe, 80% of the time, is not far from the truth. It wouldn’t be hard for me to pick the 20 or so things out of my wardrobe that I tend to wear more often than not…

 

49

Isabel Marant Etoile jumper, Karen Walker blouse, Storm faux leather leggings (similar), Topshop heels (similar)
Wrapped up. On freezing cold days, like we had this weekend, I find the perfect remedy is an oversized jumper, that engulfs you in its warmth. This Isabel Marant Etoile jumper does exactly that, as well as injecting a little much needed brightness. I'm sure it goes without saying that every year, come winter, I rug myself up in my winter woolies - scarves, jumpers, beanies, you name it. Lately, this has also extended to wearing merino wool tops underneath dresses, for the added layer of warmth, and in an attempt to winter-ise my summer pieces.

Today marks the launch of Woolmark's "Wrapped in Merino" campaign, which aims to create a record for the World's Longest Social Scarf. Best part is, that by participating you automatically go in the draw to win one of eight fashion prize packs, including prizes such as Net-a-Porter vouchers and merino wool scarves. Participating is easy - just go to the "Wrapped in Merino" site, pick a photo and create your scarf!

 

35

image source: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8
Winter essentials. As the temperature continues to drop, I've started digging around for a bit more winter inspiration. Being practically addicted to list making, I thought I'd share my essentials for winter.

Oversized woolen blazers - I love the look of these thrown over all kinds of outfits, and aside from pulling the look together, they can be the perfect cover up for those not so cold moments. I tend to fold the sleeves up ever so slightly, allowing the sleeves of blouses, jumpers or cardigans to peek out.

Leather leggings or pants - Probably one of the more expensive pieces to buy, but I think well worth it. I've spent the past few years looking for a pair, and only recently managed to source a pair of faux leather ones, which are not only convincing but also quite possibly the warmest thing I've ever covered up my legs with.
Loose baggy jumpers - These are perfect thrown over a dress, or loosely tucked into a skirt, dressing up or dressing down a look as required. I find that this can be the best way to make an otherwise 'special occasion' dress a little bit more casual, or appropriate for work.

Unexpected prints - there's nothing more striking than a print when you didn't expect it. I suppose that's why I'm drawn to florals on jeans or pants, printed blouses, or cover ups that have a bit of detailing on them.

Simple, statement accessories - I find myself yo-yoing between images of simple and understated accessories, to arms piled high with an assortment of bracelets, amounting to more than I even own. In winter I prefer to skimp on the accessories, choosing pieces that complement my outfit, and stand out of their own accord.

And, I suppose a leather skirt wouldn't go astray, nor would the obvious thick woolen scarf or heavy pashmina wrapped loosely around one's neck. Let's add stripes in there too. This winter I see myself pairing blacks, greys, navys and burgundys together, interspersed with the occasional camel or blush toned piece.

With this in mind, I've managed to hunt down a few pieces which fit the bill. Like these Helmut Lang leather leggings paired with this J Crew knitted sweater and this Equipment blouse peeking out of the collar. OR this RAOUL leather skirt with this A.P.C jumper, ASOS boyfriend blazer and Michael Kors watch.



 

13

Karen Walker blouse & coat; American Apparel fingerless gloves

What was seeming like a promising start to Autumn quickly transformed into something resembling winter. Wind, rain, and low temps have been plaguing us and I have, as per usual, been struggling to keep warm. I guess it's times like these that I can be grateful for owning an abundance of silk blouses and good quality woolen coats. I'm beginning to think that there may also be some merit in getting high denier tights, as I continue to consider putting on two pairs every morning.

And what I had just the other day considered to be an abundance of coats in my wardrobe (I believe I have 8 or 9 - divided between light/heavy jackets), seems to be somewhat of an asset. I've never been one to want to get rid of coats and tend to wear them for years on end, until they are practically on their last legs. This would probably explain why I seldom seem to purchase them, a sub0conscious effort not to fill my wardrobe up with coats I would later find exceedingly difficult to part with. A girl needs a jacket for every occasion.. am I right?~