Damn - 24 likes on this comment! Sorry Chelsea but I'm going to have to make you wait longer for this one and do a whole post! Will try and get it up at some point this month for you! x
I recently bought a pair of khaki trousers, in an attempt to wear something (anything!) other than jeans now that I'm 2 years post partum. But now I've got them I have no idea if they're a good idea or not...... they make me feel quite dressy, even though they're just a chino sort of material and not that different to denim really. Any ideas on what to try?!
And I guess related, where do you get your style inspo from? Is there anyone you follow that does "not jeans but casual" really well?!
Thanks for your question! In my Indyx styling session I feel like I've been recommending khaki's a lot, mainly as they make for a good denim alternative and can be dressed down or up as you fancy. If you want dressy then lean into pairing them with a black top and black boots or strap sandals, some nice gold earrings and a good quality belt. That's a nice dinner outfit right there. But to make them feel more casual I'd wear them with a really oversized cable knit jumper, or pair it with a crew neck navy jumper (LOVE navy and khaki together) and some chunky sandals or Converse. I'd just treat them like they were jeans until I felt more comfortable with pairing them.
And for 'not jeans but casual' inspo, I'd go onto Pinterest and just search 'relaxed skandi style'. They do non-denim outfits SO well. I find I end up down a rabbit hole. Find an image you like, click on that and save it and then scroll underneath for more related images. But that's what I use to kick it all off.
Thanks so much Anna! I tried wearing them today and ended up putting a denim shirt on top, which made me feel a bit more comfortable, so I think you're totally right to say just treat them like they are jeans for a while at least :) xx
Ooooh this is a good question Marina!! I mean it's going to be different for all of us, BUT for me:
- A crossbody bag that can also be used with a top handle, like the Loewe puzzle, has been SUCH a good purchase for me.
- A trench. Whenever I put on my Toteme one I never get the itch for anything else. It just ticks all my trench boxes perfectly!
- Denim. Of course going to be different for everyone, but just THAT pair of jeans that make you feel great is always going to be worth investing in in my eyes!
Hi Anna - I want to add a pair of classic two-tone "Chanel" slingbacks to my wardrobe...but I am grappling with spending the big bucks (even second hand) or going with a decent-looking dupe like Sam Edelman. What's your take? Are the real Chanel THAT great?!
Ooooh that's a tricky one! I've never tried them myself, but I have eyed them up secondhand too. I just know that *personally* I would want to save up for the real thing as I'm not sure the dupe would have the same hold on me. But like you said even secondhand they are SO pricey, so it's a hard call to make! Sometimes you've just got to try on both options (if you can!) and decide from there!
Hi Anna. I want to invest in a white shirt. Something timeless - a loose fit but not massively oversized. No pockets. Any suggestions that are shoppable from Canada? Have you ever tried WNU shirts?
Hi Gemma - thanks for your question! WNU is a great shout actually. Their stuff is such great quality for the price point. The only issue I have with them is with sizing. I find they come up quite small/fitted, so definitely keep an eye on their size guide if you want a looser fit.
Hi Anna, this is such a lovely idea! Thanks for offering up your skills to be our style fairy godmother ☺️✨
I’m on the hunt for the perfect trench coat. One that’s a mid to light beige, slightly oversized and potentially leans more towards a car coat in style. I saw my dream Toteme one a few years ago and wish I’d snapped up! Thanks so much! X
As a new subscriber, this is so fun! I don't own any trousers, and I'm on the hunt for 1-2 pairs that I can fit into my largely work-from-home (but like to pop out during the day) wardrobe. I loved your work from home post but couldn't find any recs that were in stock/fit into my ideal budget (I'm searching for something ~$100-$150 (I'm US-based)). Thank you!!
Welcome! Thank you so much for subscribing! I really feel like COS do trousers so well. Here are some of my faves (and lots of elasticated options too for WFH in!):
Great question! I'd seen this cute vest with a lovely gold buckle detail on the strap, but I'm blanking on where it was from. If I find it again I'll come back to it and update it, but in the meantime here are some others I've seen that are fun!
Hi Anna. I have a classic, minimal, structured style, and work in an office e a few days a week. I like to feel put together especially on my office days, but am struggling for shoe options! Heels are just not for me, some loafers really rub my feet and I end up in “smart trainers” a lot of time - which I don’t mind, but looking for other options to try. Any suggestions?
Thanks for your question! Hear me out - suede loafers. I cannot stress just how comfortable mine are!! And they make me feel so put together too. https://www.flattered.com/uk/all-shoes-/loafers/alex-suede-beige They just GIVE so easily and genuinely feel like slippers!
Your postpartum newsletter was so helpful and I had a question off the back of that. I’m one month postpartum now and can wear most of my pre-pregnancy clothes but have just gone off of most of what’s in my wardrobe! I don’t want to rush into buying a whole new wardrobe and then regret any purchases but are there any staples that you think would be good to invest in now?
Thanks for your question and huge congrats! I hope you and little one are doing ok! Sounds like you are doing the right thing by holding tight - you never know you might warm to pieces again, but from my experince I did the same and went cold on a load of it too! I'd just take you time and rebuild things slowly and as you see some kind of pattern emerging with your new style and things that sing to you. My best investment at this stage were my Converse as I could do lots of walking in them, but they felt like the chic version of a trainer.
Ah okay I already asked a question but just thought of another—what are your tips for adding a "third item" as it warms up? I feel like I have this pretty down during the colder months, but feel stumped when the layers are being shed!
Thanks for your question! In the warmer months I feel like I do this more with accessories - think sunglasses or a chunky necklace, earrings, a textured bag. In a way I like the simplicity of being able to do it with smaller pieces if that makes sense!
Hi Anna - I’m in need of some help with swimwear! I’m 8 months post partum and want to cover my stomach, so either a swimming costume or high waisted bikini would be perfect. I’m happy to spend £100-£150 and I like neutral colours / patterns (e.g. stripes). I’m a fan of Hunza Gs but want to branch out to something a bit different! Thank you so much in advance x
Thanks for your question!! I have to say I'm a bit stumped here as I've only really had a great experience with Hunza G - but I'll pop something in the chat now and see what the community has to say as I'm sure they'll have some great recommendations for you!
Hey Anna! I love how you add texture in your outfits. I struggle with tops to pair with skirts that add texture. Or bags. Do you have any links that add texture to outfits?
I'm plus size (and in the US) so I know that it's difficult to find links. Plus size shopping can be sad. Anything would be helpful and maybe I can search for something similar! Moderate price range is preferred. Thank you!!
Thank you so much for your question! I'm actually OBSESSED with Madewell at the moment, which I think is US based and they have some brilliant textured bags that could really help you add 'something something' to an outfit. I love these ones:
With every Vogue must-have email, I become more and more depressed with what is supposedly hot and everyone's buyimg ( look at what they sent today!) Summer is NOT investment stuff to me as it's all too perishable. What do you think one really needs to ++ up a summer wardrobe in a hot & sunny climate?
Thanks for question and I feel you! I agree that I definitely priortise investing in my winter wardorbe over my summer one personally. In terms of things that I find really helpful:
- Sandals that feel simple and dressy, but you can actually walk in
- Wide leg linen trousers with a belt loop so you can make them look more formal if you need to
- Linen or knitted waistcoats - nothing too tight!
- Linen dresses in whatever is your style preferance
- Fun things like textured bags and jewellery that you love so you can make your everyday favourites go further.
Hi Anna. Hope you are doing well 😊 I’m wondering if you have thoughts on the following. I’m looking for two items to add to my wardrobe. 1) is a pair of shoes for spring/summer for work - ie smart, easy to mix and match, no high heel or completely flat (I find both uncomfortable 😳) 2) a smart, durable leather bag that would fit a laptop and some other day to day essentials. I live in Copenhagen. Most of wardrobe is navy, brown, neutral colours - not so much black as it does not suit me much. Thank you so much!
Hello! I live in the countryside and as much as I would love to spend my time in ballet flats and suede adidas trainers and suede Boston birks (and I do!) I need a practical day to day shoe that I can use for going to the village shop, running after two kids and a puppy. I WFH 4 days and in London 1 day (which I find dressing for v.easy it's like a day for fashion!!) I am 5ft 3 and a size 8/10 and my three style words are simple, earthy and polished. Dream brand for my wardrobe would be Tove - not into chunky shoes! Thanks so much in advance!!
Thanks for your question and feel you on this! Isn't it nice to have a day in London to dress up for - I'm the same! My favourite day of the week to get dressed! For colder days my mind went to a sleek boot - https://uk.dearfrances.com/collections/boots/products/skye-boot-black. Something like this? Something that isn't waterproof per se, but are completely wipeable if you get a bit muddy. Then I've found myself reaching for a leather loafer quite often in the early mornings as the weather gets warmer. I just wear them with a sock and similar to the boots I can wear them if it's a bit damp outside. A bit of stretching with a shoe strecher and they can end up being super comfy! https://www.jigsaw-online.com/collections/shoes/products/frame-bar-loafer-black
Hi Anna, I’m never sure what to wear for dressier evening events. What’s the equivalent of “jeans and a going out top” nowadays for 30-somethings?
Damn - 24 likes on this comment! Sorry Chelsea but I'm going to have to make you wait longer for this one and do a whole post! Will try and get it up at some point this month for you! x
Thank you! Looking forward to it!
Hi Anna
I recently bought a pair of khaki trousers, in an attempt to wear something (anything!) other than jeans now that I'm 2 years post partum. But now I've got them I have no idea if they're a good idea or not...... they make me feel quite dressy, even though they're just a chino sort of material and not that different to denim really. Any ideas on what to try?!
And I guess related, where do you get your style inspo from? Is there anyone you follow that does "not jeans but casual" really well?!
Thanks so much xx
Hi Liz!
Thanks for your question! In my Indyx styling session I feel like I've been recommending khaki's a lot, mainly as they make for a good denim alternative and can be dressed down or up as you fancy. If you want dressy then lean into pairing them with a black top and black boots or strap sandals, some nice gold earrings and a good quality belt. That's a nice dinner outfit right there. But to make them feel more casual I'd wear them with a really oversized cable knit jumper, or pair it with a crew neck navy jumper (LOVE navy and khaki together) and some chunky sandals or Converse. I'd just treat them like they were jeans until I felt more comfortable with pairing them.
And for 'not jeans but casual' inspo, I'd go onto Pinterest and just search 'relaxed skandi style'. They do non-denim outfits SO well. I find I end up down a rabbit hole. Find an image you like, click on that and save it and then scroll underneath for more related images. But that's what I use to kick it all off.
Hope that helps!
Anna x
Thanks so much Anna! I tried wearing them today and ended up putting a denim shirt on top, which made me feel a bit more comfortable, so I think you're totally right to say just treat them like they are jeans for a while at least :) xx
Hi Anna, if you were to pick 3 stable items that you think are worth investing in, which ones would it be and which brands? Thank you !!
Ooooh this is a good question Marina!! I mean it's going to be different for all of us, BUT for me:
- A crossbody bag that can also be used with a top handle, like the Loewe puzzle, has been SUCH a good purchase for me.
- A trench. Whenever I put on my Toteme one I never get the itch for anything else. It just ticks all my trench boxes perfectly!
- Denim. Of course going to be different for everyone, but just THAT pair of jeans that make you feel great is always going to be worth investing in in my eyes!
Hope this helps! x
Hi Anna - I want to add a pair of classic two-tone "Chanel" slingbacks to my wardrobe...but I am grappling with spending the big bucks (even second hand) or going with a decent-looking dupe like Sam Edelman. What's your take? Are the real Chanel THAT great?!
Hi Bonnie!
Ooooh that's a tricky one! I've never tried them myself, but I have eyed them up secondhand too. I just know that *personally* I would want to save up for the real thing as I'm not sure the dupe would have the same hold on me. But like you said even secondhand they are SO pricey, so it's a hard call to make! Sometimes you've just got to try on both options (if you can!) and decide from there!
Hope this helps!
Anna x
Well, I just ordered a secondhand pair so I will have to let you know!
Hi Anna. I want to invest in a white shirt. Something timeless - a loose fit but not massively oversized. No pockets. Any suggestions that are shoppable from Canada? Have you ever tried WNU shirts?
Hi Gemma - thanks for your question! WNU is a great shout actually. Their stuff is such great quality for the price point. The only issue I have with them is with sizing. I find they come up quite small/fitted, so definitely keep an eye on their size guide if you want a looser fit.
Hope this helps!
Anna x
Thank you - that’s helpful info to have
Hi Anna, this is such a lovely idea! Thanks for offering up your skills to be our style fairy godmother ☺️✨
I’m on the hunt for the perfect trench coat. One that’s a mid to light beige, slightly oversized and potentially leans more towards a car coat in style. I saw my dream Toteme one a few years ago and wish I’d snapped up! Thanks so much! X
Hi Sarah,
You are so welcome! Oh god I've gone down a rabbit hole here and fallen in love but this one from Skall is, in my eyes, perfection! https://www.selfridges.com/GB/en/product/skall-studio-macy-raglan-sleeve-organic-cotton-twill-trench-coat_R04290247/#colour=DARK%20BEIGE. For the high-street dupe of it Albray does a good job - https://www.albaray.co.uk/products/sb-trench-coat-ss24?variant=44296259993837¤cy=GBP&utm_source=google&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_campaign=sag_organic&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwq86wBhDiARIsAJhuphnIBGhAMNtrS3E3SYjHhqGm7FBVGTBZbRYrr0OiO9YsDBQbsBq_j7YaAtOXEALw_wcB.
Hope that helps!
Anna x
As a new subscriber, this is so fun! I don't own any trousers, and I'm on the hunt for 1-2 pairs that I can fit into my largely work-from-home (but like to pop out during the day) wardrobe. I loved your work from home post but couldn't find any recs that were in stock/fit into my ideal budget (I'm searching for something ~$100-$150 (I'm US-based)). Thank you!!
Hi Lauren!!
Welcome! Thank you so much for subscribing! I really feel like COS do trousers so well. Here are some of my faves (and lots of elasticated options too for WFH in!):
- https://www.cos.com/en_gbp/women/womenswear/trousers/product.silk-wide-leg-trousers-black.1228349001.html
- https://www.cos.com/en_gbp/women/womenswear/trousers/product.elasticated-satin-wide-leg-trousers-beige.1224406001.html
- https://www.cos.com/en_gbp/women/womenswear/trousers/product.wide-leg-linen-blend-trousers-black.0992842018.html
https://www.cos.com/en_gbp/women/womenswear/trousers/product.pinstriped-straight-leg-trousers-beige.1228159001.html (LOVE these!)
- https://www.cos.com/en_gbp/women/womenswear/trousers/product.wide-leg-linen-blend-trousers-beige.0992842019.html
- https://www.cos.com/en_gbp/women/womenswear/trousers/product.wide-leg-fluid-denim-trousers-blue.1209795001.html (a comfy denim option!)
Hope this helps!
Anna x
Love a piece with architectural details -- any tops or dresses you've seen recently with that style? Thank you!
Hi Maya,
Great question! I'd seen this cute vest with a lovely gold buckle detail on the strap, but I'm blanking on where it was from. If I find it again I'll come back to it and update it, but in the meantime here are some others I've seen that are fun!
- https://shop.mango.com/gb/women/tops-party/asymmetrical-textured-top_67057121.html?c=05
- https://shop.mango.com/gb/women/blazers-blazers/double-buckle-jacket_67057719.html?c=05&l=01
- https://www.sezane.com/en/product/gioia-blouse/black#size-12
Hope this helps!
Anna x
The jacket😍😍😍
Love these esp that jacket! Thank you!
Hi Anna. I have a classic, minimal, structured style, and work in an office e a few days a week. I like to feel put together especially on my office days, but am struggling for shoe options! Heels are just not for me, some loafers really rub my feet and I end up in “smart trainers” a lot of time - which I don’t mind, but looking for other options to try. Any suggestions?
Hi Rebecca,
Thanks for your question! Hear me out - suede loafers. I cannot stress just how comfortable mine are!! And they make me feel so put together too. https://www.flattered.com/uk/all-shoes-/loafers/alex-suede-beige They just GIVE so easily and genuinely feel like slippers!
Hope this helps!
Anna x
Hi Anna,
Your postpartum newsletter was so helpful and I had a question off the back of that. I’m one month postpartum now and can wear most of my pre-pregnancy clothes but have just gone off of most of what’s in my wardrobe! I don’t want to rush into buying a whole new wardrobe and then regret any purchases but are there any staples that you think would be good to invest in now?
Hi Ellie,
Thanks for your question and huge congrats! I hope you and little one are doing ok! Sounds like you are doing the right thing by holding tight - you never know you might warm to pieces again, but from my experince I did the same and went cold on a load of it too! I'd just take you time and rebuild things slowly and as you see some kind of pattern emerging with your new style and things that sing to you. My best investment at this stage were my Converse as I could do lots of walking in them, but they felt like the chic version of a trainer.
Hope that helps and stay well!
Anna x
Ah okay I already asked a question but just thought of another—what are your tips for adding a "third item" as it warms up? I feel like I have this pretty down during the colder months, but feel stumped when the layers are being shed!
Hi Lauren,
Thanks for your question! In the warmer months I feel like I do this more with accessories - think sunglasses or a chunky necklace, earrings, a textured bag. In a way I like the simplicity of being able to do it with smaller pieces if that makes sense!
Hope that helps!
Anna x
Hi Anna - I’m in need of some help with swimwear! I’m 8 months post partum and want to cover my stomach, so either a swimming costume or high waisted bikini would be perfect. I’m happy to spend £100-£150 and I like neutral colours / patterns (e.g. stripes). I’m a fan of Hunza Gs but want to branch out to something a bit different! Thank you so much in advance x
Hi Amy,
Thanks for your question!! I have to say I'm a bit stumped here as I've only really had a great experience with Hunza G - but I'll pop something in the chat now and see what the community has to say as I'm sure they'll have some great recommendations for you!
Hope this helps!
Anna x
Thank you! The community have suggested some great recommendations, really appreciate your help 💕 x
Hey Anna! I love how you add texture in your outfits. I struggle with tops to pair with skirts that add texture. Or bags. Do you have any links that add texture to outfits?
I'm plus size (and in the US) so I know that it's difficult to find links. Plus size shopping can be sad. Anything would be helpful and maybe I can search for something similar! Moderate price range is preferred. Thank you!!
Hi Paige,
Thank you so much for your question! I'm actually OBSESSED with Madewell at the moment, which I think is US based and they have some brilliant textured bags that could really help you add 'something something' to an outfit. I love these ones:
- https://www.madewell.com/the-essential-bucket-tote-in-suede-NM988.html?dwvar_NM988_color=NA0242&cgid=accessories-bags
- https://www.madewell.com/handwoven-leather-tote-NP318.html?dwvar_NP318_color=BR6311&cgid=accessories-bags
- https://www.madewell.com/the-leather-trimmed-straw-tote-NP319.html?dwvar_NP319_color=EE5645&cgid=accessories-bags
- https://www.madewell.com/the-open-crochet-straw-packable-tote-NP820.html?dwvar_NP820_color=OR6306&cgid=accessories-bags
I hope this helps!
Anna x
Thank you so much! I love your brown braided leather bag but it's above my price range, so I love that you've listed a similar one! Thanks 🤍🤍🤍🤍
With every Vogue must-have email, I become more and more depressed with what is supposedly hot and everyone's buyimg ( look at what they sent today!) Summer is NOT investment stuff to me as it's all too perishable. What do you think one really needs to ++ up a summer wardrobe in a hot & sunny climate?
Hi Kate!
Thanks for question and I feel you! I agree that I definitely priortise investing in my winter wardorbe over my summer one personally. In terms of things that I find really helpful:
- Sandals that feel simple and dressy, but you can actually walk in
- Wide leg linen trousers with a belt loop so you can make them look more formal if you need to
- Linen or knitted waistcoats - nothing too tight!
- Linen dresses in whatever is your style preferance
- Fun things like textured bags and jewellery that you love so you can make your everyday favourites go further.
I hope this helps!
Anna x
Hi Anna. Hope you are doing well 😊 I’m wondering if you have thoughts on the following. I’m looking for two items to add to my wardrobe. 1) is a pair of shoes for spring/summer for work - ie smart, easy to mix and match, no high heel or completely flat (I find both uncomfortable 😳) 2) a smart, durable leather bag that would fit a laptop and some other day to day essentials. I live in Copenhagen. Most of wardrobe is navy, brown, neutral colours - not so much black as it does not suit me much. Thank you so much!
Hi Flaminia,
Thanks for your question!! I have some ideas:
1) For your pair of shoes I really love these -https://www.sezane.com/en/product/matilda-ballerinas/black#size-2. They are nice and cushioned so feel really bouncy but are so easy to wear.
2) Then I love the Sezane Romie bag too - https://www.sezane.com/en/product/romie-bag/smooth-sandstone#size-TU - it fits in a laptop with some room on either side so you can fit all your essentials in there.
I hope this helps!
Anna x
Hello! I live in the countryside and as much as I would love to spend my time in ballet flats and suede adidas trainers and suede Boston birks (and I do!) I need a practical day to day shoe that I can use for going to the village shop, running after two kids and a puppy. I WFH 4 days and in London 1 day (which I find dressing for v.easy it's like a day for fashion!!) I am 5ft 3 and a size 8/10 and my three style words are simple, earthy and polished. Dream brand for my wardrobe would be Tove - not into chunky shoes! Thanks so much in advance!!
Hi Stef,
Thanks for your question and feel you on this! Isn't it nice to have a day in London to dress up for - I'm the same! My favourite day of the week to get dressed! For colder days my mind went to a sleek boot - https://uk.dearfrances.com/collections/boots/products/skye-boot-black. Something like this? Something that isn't waterproof per se, but are completely wipeable if you get a bit muddy. Then I've found myself reaching for a leather loafer quite often in the early mornings as the weather gets warmer. I just wear them with a sock and similar to the boots I can wear them if it's a bit damp outside. A bit of stretching with a shoe strecher and they can end up being super comfy! https://www.jigsaw-online.com/collections/shoes/products/frame-bar-loafer-black
Hope that helps!
Anna x