The Fashion Memo

Most Wanted

A curated roundup of the best new fashion arrivals, hand-picked by our editors

Fashion
Clockwise from top left: cardigan, Saint Laurent; coat, Joseph; ring, Alighieri; jeans, Agolde; boots, Aeyde; slides, Vince; bag, Gucci; hoop earring, Maria Tash

There’s no doubt that 2020 was a year during which, for many, any need to put together a proper outfit disappeared almost entirely, and our relationship with the clothes hanging in our closets changed irrevocably. With 2021 off to a similar start, thanks to varying degrees of lockdown in countries across the globe, you’d be forgiven for wondering whether fashion has any relevance at all during this strange and singular moment in time? However, to reduce the role and value of clothes to that of pure function is to miss the point entirely. An outfit doesn’t need to be OTT to make you feel polished, confident and ready to take on the day – no matter the circumstances. In fact, truly exceptional design is often the most understated. Take Saint Laurent’s sumptuous cashmere cardigan: this seemingly simple piece can make a fine art of off-duty dressing. Simply pair it with wide-leg pants and gold jewels for a faultless WFH outfit, or style with flared jeans and classic black Chelsea boots for a chic weekend look imbued with Gallic elegance.

While London is still in the midst of a strict lockdown, shopping assistant Connie Parkinson is adding joy to her days in the form of sartorial serotonin. Which is why, when Joseph’s cozy and covetable shearling coat dropped on NET-A-PORTER this week, she was quick to snap it up.

“Having spent months stuck in the same routine, when shopping, I’ve found myself looking for pieces that will elevate the day-to-day; and, with all the time I’ve been spending outdoors, luxurious outerwear is the perfect place to start. This camel-colored shearling coat from Joseph is ideal for crisp January walks around the park. Warmth and comfort are always my top priority for outerwear, but I was truly sold on this clever coat when I learnt it was reversible – the plush shearling is lined with butter-soft leather – meaning this investment piece really does offer endless style mileage. I’ll be pairing mine with straight-leg jeans and combat boots for my daily outings, and when we’re able to pencil in dinner plans with friends again, I plan on wearing it with a silk slip dress and strappy sandals for an effortless day-to-night look.”

If you’re on the hunt for similarly mood-boosting pieces, playful accessories are a failsafe way to add fun and frivolity to your uniform. Vince’s suede and shearling slides make the perfect accompaniment to any outfit – and a stylish alternative to house slippers. Elsewhere, Gucci’s mini tote bag is a worthy addition to any wardrobe, and a sure-fire way to put a sophisticated spin on trips to the grocery store.

Discover more from this week’s What’s New.

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