With all the sales, both in store and on the net, we can sometimes buy a little too much ‘just because it’s on sale’. I personally always try to buy classic, basic pieces that I know I can use for at least a few seasons. When I’m looking for something more trendy I first try to see if I find it at a more affordable price. If it’s something that is really this-season but still could work into the next season I’m more willing to splurge.
My style is a bit casual and can sometimes be a bit simple. But I do like statement pieces, colour and chunky jewellry to give life to my outfits, especially for the night.
A few of my favourites basic safe choices I always have:
- A V-neck t-shirt in white – slightly oversized. Preferably in grey too.
- Basic knits; a V-neck, cowl neck and an oversized cardigan.
- Black tights. Although leggings were a big trend for a few seasons I still kept my loyalty to the tights. I just think they’re more classy. And now that leggings are out and tights are in I’m getting different versins. They’ve come more of a statement, like grey rib tights or black with a bit of a metallic flair.
- The perfect pair of jeans that suit my body. Your basic, perfect pair of jeans should work with everything. You should not let the latest trends rule your decision, only use them as inspiration. When buying a classic pair of jeans, be ready to spend some money, as some of the cheaper jeans aren’t made of quality denim. Dark, unwashed denim is best for a classic pair.
- Casual day dresses in neutral colours (black, brown, grey...). They’re in soft and flowy fabrics and are great for change of seasons, since you can always wear long sleeve tees underneath and thick tights to make them warmer.
- The LBD. Everyone knows this, the little black dress is a must in every woman’s closet. It is perfect when you’re in an outfit crisis, and is always a safe choice.
These choices are something that I start with as my base and then I just build on that to make it more interesting. I’m not a big fan of colour, but I always try to wear some colour or if I’m wearing head-to-toe black I play with texture.
Shoes
Ballet flats are adorable, chic and comfy for daytime. Although some strict fashionistas avoid being seen public in flats (ehm, Victoria Beckham) I really like them. They’re perfect with jeans and casual sun dresses, but you should not wear them with cocktail dresses. They’re not really dressy, so in most cases their not suitable for any fancy outfit. When it comes to heels I don’t like plain black stilettos. Don’t get me wrong, they’re okay, but I believe that shoes should be exciting. Of course thay can be black, but at least they should have some texture, something to make them interesting. When you’re wearing a classic LBD, you must wear attention grabbing shoes. The dress is not the main thing, so make the most out of it and wear a pair of stylish pumps.
Accessories
For a normal day I often wear a printed scarf. I like the way it can spice up my outfit. I can be wearing only basics, and the outfits looks really boring, but the scarf brings the life too it.
As for jewellry, I don’t wear a lot of it during the day. Just some diamond stone earrings and maybe a thin gold chain necklace. For the night I’ll add a cuff or bangles and skip either the necklace or earrings. I don’t like wearing jewellry on wrist, fingers, neck and ears all at the same time.
In the handbag department, as I’m a student I can’t wear a structured handbag, so I choose a tote for the day. For the night I like clutches in all sizes, colours and shapes.
It depends on your style and what you like when it comes to jewellry and accessories. Some people don’t like wearing them and just want to keep things simple, while others pile on the jewellry.
If you are more fond of vintage and glamour, and like the styles of Mary-Kate Olsen and the stylist Rachel Zoe; vintage cuffs, gold chain necklaces, cocktail rings and diamond earrings are your kind of jewellry.
If you are more of a street chic and are more into less-is-more and casual style (think Lauren Conrad and Kate Bosworth); a scarf, jewelled stone earrings and a few bangles are probably your choices.
Inspiration
The tips I’ve been giving are something that many of you know already, but I really wanted to describe my style and show you what I like so you can get inspiration. Sometimes we’re stuck in the same trends, in the same routine of dressing. Trust me, I’m not perfect when it comes to my own style, but I'm always looking around me and seeking inspiration.
Inspiration is all around us. You can get it by following fashion shows and designers, reading magazines, check out what celebrites are wearing, watch other people’s style on the streets, go to vintage stores and flea markets, see what the high streets stores have to offer and so on. You don’t have to be a fashion victim or a fashion know-it-all to be stylish. You just have to look around you, because you can find inspiration in everyting!
I’d love it if you’d describe your style in a few words and tell me what are your basic choices, what are your splurges this season and where you get most of your inspiration from!
Clockwise from top left: 
That’s a tough one. I could name so many, but I’ve narrowed it down to only four designers. Phillip Lim, for his effortless style and wearable pieces. Luella for her energetic and fun styles. Christopher Bailey at Burberry Prorsum for his luxurious designs. Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez at Proenza Schouler for great collections in general.
Elle UK, love their trend section, French Vogue for editorials and Harper’s Bazaar for everything in between.
Twenty 8 Twelve by S.Miller, loved the romantic designs but the collection also included some edgy pieces. Kate Moss for Topshop was great too, I wasn't really impressed with the whole collection, but in general it was good. It reflected Kate's style really much, so her biggest fans haven't been disappointed.
Urban Outfitters US for great knits, dresses and accessories; Asos for copies of celeb dresses and trendy shoes, ShopBop for designer brands and American Apparel for basics.
Clockwise from top left: 
I love these ¾ sleeves. They’re great for more formal occasions. 
Black and gold is a gorgeous combination. I am in love with the dress in center.
The ones on left and center are more structured and elegant. The one to the right is perfect for fuller bottoms since it’s flowy from waist down. 
Grey can be a bit dull colour, unless it’s glamed up with some sparkle. 
I love all of these dresses.
These are lighter and more romantic. They're a perfect substitute from all the LBD’s. 
Here the attention is on the chest area with embellishment. 
Navy is one of my favourite colours. It’s quite save like black, but at the same time interesting.
Purple is such a glam colour. 
Strong colours, like blue, look great on shiny fabrics, they get a more jewel tone. 
I love wearing red for christmas, the ultimate christmas colour.