As we settle into the colder months, Brittany Pooley maps out your fashion essentials to extend your wardrobe this winter season.
Your current wardrobe is bound to be full of potential pieces waiting to face the season. This week, we look into how you can tap into this potential and supplement your current wardrobe for a chic winter season.
Trenched coat
The trench coat is as timeless as it is tasteful. Light in weight and neutral in colour, this piece is an effortless trans-seasonal essential. The trench is easily layered with other winter pieces, making for an easy styling piece. Layer over another jacket for extra warmth on particularly biting Otago days.
Be sure you avoid layering jackets with too much bulk or length. Opt for bombers, cropped faux furs or dark denim jackets. Your trench should be longer than the rest of your layers, falling right below your knee.
Purchase a high-quality piece to ensure longevity in wear. Classic yet contemporary, the trench is a sound investment piece for your wardrobe.
Denim is a trusted constant in our wardrobe. However, it's not excluded from the changing trends of the fashion industry. This season has denim taking on a darker, indigo wash.
This stems from the current noughties trend where dark wash was the denim of the decade. This trend has connections to the utilitarian trend, a fad that focuses on comfort, convenience and functionality.
Whether it's a jacket, dress or pair of jeans, dark denim is easily worn and styled, and can be a refreshing alternative to a predominantly black wardrobe. Be on the lookout for tailored pieces with contrast stitching.
Wrapped printed scarf
Layering can be challenging with the addition of colour and print. Sticking to more neutral tones in your winter wardrobe allows for easier ensembles for the beginner stylist, but this doesn't mean you have to miss out on the fun.
Printed scarves can be a great way to buy into and play with seasonal prints. Styling options are endless. Wrap around your neck in a variety of ways, drape over your shoulders, accessorise your hair or tie to the handle of your bag.
Styling with scarves serves both aesthetic and function. Shield yourself from winter winds by adding this pop of print to your winter ensemble.
Buttoned white shirt
A white shirt is a wardrobe essential for any season. There are fewer pieces I lean on more than my favourite organic cotton shirt by Kowtow. Styling any crisp, white shirt is easy. If trends are on your radar, opt for an oversized style balanced with a fitted pant. Or tuck your favourite white button-up into a simple, pleated mid-length skirt. Elevate your workwear by layering your shirt with a blazer or blazer dress. Be sure to roll up your sleeves to show off any intricate shirt cuff designs.
And finally, go casual. Throw your white shirt over a high-neck black knit for a carefree, relaxed look. Or, simply French-tuck your shirt into a dark seasonal denim. With endless styling options, a simple white shirt can carry your wardrobe across every season.
A black high-neck knit is the perfect essential for keeping you warm this season. Whether it's turtle, mock or cowl, a high-neck knit can refine any fashion look. The classic turtleneck is traditionally tight-fitting with a slim neck. This piece can act as the foundation for layering almost any look.
Wear minimally, tucked into the waist of your favourite jeans or with a skirt paired with tights. Best layered with a regular scoop, round neck sweater, or unbuttoned white shirt. For a lower neckline, opt for a mock neck. Alternatively, cowl necks are a wider and more loose-fitting style than your classic turtleneck. This season, they are best worn over a simple, white shirt and fitted black pant.
Tinted lips and cheeks
When it comes to winter make-up, less can be more. This winter's make-up trend draws on your natural skin colouring with a dual-purpose lip and cheek stain or balm. A subtle tint of colour will highlight your cheeks and deepen the colour of your lips. With one product ticking two boxes, it can help minimise your make-up routine and maximise space and time.
Apply lightly to your lips and cheeks with ample blending. Cold weather can be drying to your face and lips, so pair this product with a generous helping of moisturiser and balm as your base.
