Today, I’m focusing on what I’ve been wearing, lately – hopefully, to share a little inspiration.
There are a few new additions. But, most of these outfits have been created from pieces already hanging in my wardrobe. I’ve always believed that considered style isn’t about constantly buying more – it’s about knowing what works for you.
Over time, I’ve learned how to nod to current trends without losing what feels authentic. I don’t follow every micro-trend, and I’ve never had a huge fashion budget, so choosing well has allowed me to refresh my look without constantly replacing it.
Take my leather trousers and double-breasted peacoat from French Connection. They’re so old, I genuinely can’t remember when I bought them. What I do remember is the quality and the cut. They weren’t inexpensive, but I found them with a 20 – 30% discount and felt quietly triumphant walking away with them. Years later, they’re still earning their place.
Like most of us, I’ve had moments where I’ve completely lost my way, style-wise. But somehow, I always find my rhythm, again. Great clothes lift my mood, and mixing something current with something well-loved feels both creative and satisfying.
To make this post a little more engaging, I’m going to ask myself a few style questions. Fashion was something my mum taught me to enjoy, which is perhaps why it still feels emotional – nostalgic, joyful and, occasionally, a little indulgent. I also love seeing how others interpret their personal style, especially on social media, where people of all ages, shapes and sizes dress with such confidence and individuality.
A quote that has always resonated with me:
“You know great style at first glance. It’s an ease in your clothing and a pleasure to see. Great style is knowing what clothes suit you, without over-preparation. You don’t have to be tall, you don’t have to be slim—you just need to know what you wear well, and you’ll wear it well.”
— Barbara Hulanicki, founder of Biba
Current Outfit Formulas
As the weather is still quite fresh, I’m reaching for my duvet coat on occasion—I’m not a fan of being cold. But when I want to feel a little more pulled together, I mostly turn to my “jeans and a nice jacket” formula, which works for almost every occasion. Here are a few ideas.
Leather Trousers The Easy Way
Most of the pieces I’m wearing here are older, with one exception. I bought these leather trousers in a Mint Velvet sale, years ago, and they still feel completely current. They’re incredibly easy to wear—I especially like them with flat loafer mules. Add a crisp white shirt and a lightweight wool coat, and the look comes together into a timeless silhouette.
What I Reach for Most
I probably feel more at ease in this outfit than any of the others I’m sharing, today. There’s something about an easy white T-shirt, washed-out jeans and a cosy jumper that just works.
I first tried this jumper on in H&M before Christmas when I was on the lookout for some comfortable knitwear. I decided to leave it and see if it might be reduced in the January sales—but it never was. In fact, I recently checked and it’s still online at full price (£37.99).
Then, one day, I wandered into the store and there it was—reduced to £15. I tried it on, again, checked it over to make sure there was nothing wrong (there wasn’t), and bought it. I still can’t quite work out why it had been reduced—it’s a lovely piece, and I’ve worn it, constantly, over the past few weeks.
A Little More Put Together
This jumper was the first of my winter knitwear purchases, picked up from Zara in November. The wool is beautifully soft—not a hint of scratchiness—and perfect for more relaxed dressing.
I’m wearing it, here, with my brown suede birthday boots and a versatile cream satin skirt. I love the mix of textures, which brings the whole look together.
The Classic Formula
It’s all about the classic formula of outerwear, jeans and a nice top. There’s real value in pairing well-cut dark denim with sharp, simple tailoring—it always feels put together without trying too hard.
I’m wearing my favourite navy peacoat and lightweight wool coat. The combinations work well together.
You’ll also notice I’ve briefly revealed my toes—purely for photos. These are a recent purchase from Next. I like the chunky style, even if they are slightly on the heavy side.
The Suede Jacket
The suede jacket is back in focus on the high street, once again. Whether real or faux, it’s a wardrobe addition you won’t regret.
I’ve had this one from Lakeland Leather for a few months, and I really enjoy styling it. It has a way of elevating whatever I pair it with. It feels perfect for right now.
Do I hoard clothing from years gone by?
I try not to—but there are a few exceptions. The pieces I’m wearing, today, still bring me joy and look good, so they stay.
Style is an ongoing evolution. What I’ve learned is to let go of sentimentality. Growth feels much easier when we release the past—though that’s not always simple. Old habits can linger, as can that one “amazing” dress we hope to fit into, again, one day.
In reality, letting go of those pieces, especially when they don’t fit, creates space for something new—something that reflects who we are, now. And yes, sometimes that does make me feel more current… perhaps even a little younger. If not, there’s always eBay for someone else to enjoy it.
What do I reach for without thinking?
I’ve always been a jeans-and-white-T-shirt kind of girl. Though I am now incorporating a great oversized or fitted shirt into the rotation
That said, there are a few non-negotiables. I love jeans in any colour, but when it comes to blue, it has to be a rich wash—light or dark. The cut is everything. It needs to flatter and work with my shape, which, like most of us, has shifted over the years (Mum was right about gravity).
As for the white T-shirt, quality matters. It’s worth spending a little more on one that holds its shape and keeps its brightness beyond a couple of washes.
I usually finish the look with a tailored jacket or a sharp coat. It always feels effortless – and that’s exactly why it works.
How do I avoid looking frumpy?
“Frumpy” isn’t the kindest word, is it? But I know I’ve had outfits that have wandered into that territory.
It tends to happen when my confidence dips, or when I’ve rushed out the door without a second glance in the mirror – only to catch my reflection, later, and think, hmm… something’s not quite right.
Our bodies change. Mine certainly has. I may even have lost a centimetre or two in height—another hmm moment.
These days, I avoid the frump by wearing pieces that genuinely spark joy—and by taking a moment to check the mirror before I leave the house. It helps.
A few tips I’ve picked up along the way.
Comfort is key—especially when it comes to footwear. The days of enduring blisters for the sake of style are firmly behind me.
Don’t let your outfit take over your personality. Style should enhance who you are, not overshadow it.
Confidence is the most powerful anti-ageing secret. When you truly feel comfortable in what you’re wearing, it shows in your posture, your energy, and your presence.
Wear your clothes—don’t let them wear you.
And choose styles that highlight your best features.
That’s it for today. If you were answering these questions yourself, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Disclosure:
This is not a sponsored post and may contain affiliate links. If you click through to a product, there is no additional cost to you. The small commission I may earn helps support the running costs of my blog.
