Cash & Fashion Conscious
I have been dying to dig out my winter wardrobe for a couple of months now, however the unpredictable UK weather has had us swanning around in summer dresses and sandals. Oh, and did I mention that this was just in October?
I shouldn’t complain really as our ‘actual’ summer was a bit of a flop but by the time it gets to October/November hibernation sets in and I just want to be wrapped up in cosy knits and thick socks. So I am actually pretty glad that the weather is turning, it’s getting a bit chillier and once again it is acceptable to wear a snood bigger than the average child.
Staying stylish in the winter months can be a bit of a burden on your bank balance what with forking out for Christmas presents and the like but I’m sure you’ll agree that everyone needs a new Christmas Party frock, Christmas Day frock, New Years’ Eve frock, New Years’ day jumper. You get the gist.
I regularly use Preloved to snap up stylish secondhand bargains. Here are my favourite Autumn/Winter Preloved finds and some top thrifty tips for saying ‘on trend’ this season:
Flattering Forties
The party trend this winter is Forties Chic. We’re talking Hollywood glamour with pearls, faux fur and shrugs. A real trend to make you feel fancy. Key looks include figure-flattering pencil skirts teamed with a pussy bow blouse, floral pleated tea dresses and midi-length figure hugging dresses made from sumptuous jewel-coloured fabrics worn with the highest of heels.
This beautiful pleated forties tea dress may have a bit of a summery print but a few styling tweeks and it's perfect for Winter too. Team with a chunky knit, thick tights and a little forties jacket to make it work for you. Then as soon as summer comes round you can ditch the tights, pop on a sunhat and you're ready for the nearest garden party. All year round fashion with one dress? Priceless.
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Lady Looks Like a Dude!
Androgyny has been a key trend for most of the year but it is really coming into its own this winter. It’s the ultimate in power dressing and perfect for staying on style at work. Cigarette pants, a crisp white shirt and heeled brogues mean you’ll be the sharpest dressed lady (and man for that matter) in the office. It's all about tailoring, oversized boyish jacket and overcoats too. So don't be afraid to wear mens clothing and transform them into ladylike chic. Thats exactly what I did with this jacket found on Preloved last month. In fact I believe it was even his wedding suit jacket..!
More Preloved Finds
- ASOS Real Leather Trousers
- Top Shop Trousers
- Top Shop Floral Blazer As Seen on Katy Perry
- New Look Blazer
Jump to Onesie
A jumpsuit is a fantastic alternative to a dress this season and they are super versatile. They can be dressed down with a chunky knit and some pumps for a day time shopping trip or just throw on some statement jewellery and some heels and you are ready for a night on the town. Onesies were all over the catwalks this year and ranged from a wide-legged seventies style to a tailored tapered leg. With materials ranging from satin and silk, to jersey and cotton it truly is the chameleon of the season.
I managed to snap up this Henry Holland jumpsuit secondhand. What a bargain!
More Preloved Finds
- Tan Jumpsuit
- Rad Black and Grey Patterned Jumpsuit
- Leopard Print Jumpsuit
- Forever 21 Shimmery Grey Jumpsuit With Bow Buttons
Prints Pack a Punch
Prints are key this season and boy are there a lot of them. However my favourites have to be polka dots, paisley, leopard print and winter florals. They are very wearable and look great on every shape and size. Prints look amazing in statement dresses if you wish to stand out in the crowd. However, if you wish to opt for a more subtle look just incorporate the prints into your accessories.
That said, my philosophy is always 'stand out from the crowd' so I couldn't resist getting my hands on this paisley silk number from a lovely Preloved member.
More Preloved Finds
- Monsoon Polkadot Dress
- River Island Floral Dress
- Hand Made Ethically Sourced Floral Dress Motel Rocks
- Laura for Top Shop Designer Black and White Print Dress
Country Chic
Not wanting to leave the boys out, here is a trend that’s popular with both men and women this season. Think tweeds, tartans, Barbour jackets and riding boots. That’s right, the eccentric countryside style has hit the cities and I must admit it’s my favourite trend of the season. It’s great for staying warm yet remaining stylish over the winter period.
My winter coat this festive season is this second hand quilted jacket. Now I just need to find myself a dog to walk and a countrypub to sit in!
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Claire is an experienced creative entrepreneur and consultant who is always looking for a new challenge.
