As yet another year flies by, it’s time again to build your Christmas wardrobe and plan those head-turning outfits for the party season.
Looking back at this year’s AW14 catwalk collections, my inspiration for Christmas chic is coming from the likes of Zuhair Murad, Valentin Yudashkin and Christian Dior. Give the frock a break this year and look for tailored jackets and close-fit pants complemented by feminine blouses, a touch of leather and a splash of animal print.
Catwalk looks AW14
And what better worldwide boutique for this sophisticated look than French brand The Kooples, known for bringing chic back to the streets with their sleek masculine pieces, clean tailored lines and fresh vintage look.
The most important piece to start with is a well-cut jacket. This can be worn over a dress, used to smarten up jeans and a tee, or worn daringly with nothing underneath. This Crepe Jacket is cut beautifully from a stretch fabric for a fabulous fit, and the leather and zip details give it a rock edge.
Crepe Jacket with Leather Collar £295
A tailored pair of trousers are also a women’s wardrobe must. Paired with a tucked-in blouse and either masculine brogues or a skinny heel, you can’t go wrong for those Christmas parties you’ve got to head to straight from the office.
Stretch Trouser with Leather Belt £175
Prince of Wales Checksuit with Leather Collar £530
For when the jacket comes off, you need an elegant blouse to keep your outfit chic and sophisticated. Look for pieces with lace details to be complemented by the jacket’s leather collar. Tuck the blouse in and button to the top for a preppy chic look, or leave open and loose for a romantic famine touch.
Shirt with Lace Inlay £145
For you ladies who really can’t give up the dress, try the Structured Biker Dress. Think LBD but revamped, Kooples-style, with press studded collar and hints of leather. Keep jewellery simple but add a pop of colour on your clutch or heels.
Structured Biker Dress £215
We all know that pain of cramming your feet into six inch heels all evening, then the sweet release at the end of the night. However, you can’t deny what a fabulous pair of shoes can add to an outfit. If you really can’t bear the idea of heels, try an elegant androgynous look with a funky pair of brogues. These Pony Style Leather Derbies have a slight heel for subtle added height and a splash of zebra print.
Pony Style Leather Derbies with Zebra Print £245
Or go full zebra with these Faux Pony Leather Heels. The gently pointed toes and quilted suede inserts on the heel mean that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for beauty.
Faux Pony Leather Zebra Print High Heel £255
If you feel this look is restricting you to a world of black, you can add a flash of colour by adding a silk scarf, fold over clutch of dash of red lipstick. The Kooples’ Scarf with ‘Check Belt’ Print adds a rock touch and keeps your neck cozy.
Scarf with ‘ Check Belt’ Print £115
And with winter in London being icy cold, a fabulous coat is the top must! This wool blend has a touch of cashmere and a luxurious fur insert to keep you toasty and embellish any day-to-day outfit. A dark colour is always a good choice, it’ll save you a few trips to the dry cleaners!
Coat with Fur Insert £475
