As we see to the end of January, we are really starting to feel like that Christmas/New Year blur is over and can finally get back into some sense of routine. What better time to look through your wardrobe and find some gaps or items that need a little swap.
We still have a few months of warm weather, and the stores are starting to drop their Tran seasonal collections getting you ready for winter, so it’s a fun time to hit the shops with new inspiration for the year ahead.
Let’s have a think about our lounge wear. Tracksuits definitely still have a place, but why not -elevate this laid-back way of dressing and make a swap to terry towelling or soft and fluid fabric matching sets instead.
The newly opened Elka Collective store on Bayview Terrace, has the perfect Terry towelling Santoria shorts in a vibrant clementine orange or ecru. A simple relaxed fit short ideal for layering with swimwear and basics and is made of 100% natural cotton. The Santoria Shorts are decorated with a large jacquard pattern in the shape of the custom Elka Collective monogram logo. Wear it back with the Palermo bralette for a perfect end of summer beachy look.
Another new kid on the block Nude Lucy, is a great place to find elevated casual pieces. The Lucia and Dara cupro shirt and pants are the perfect set to take you into the cooler weather. Available in a range of colours to suit all tastes, this set has an oversized look and the fabric has a soft velvety hand. And I love to mix and match these pieces back with wardrobe staples like a clean white tee, or jeans.
Let’s talk denim. Of course, we all have a few fav pairs of jeans on rotation and a trusty denim jacket, but why not try a denim dress or a pop of colour to really shake things up. The Aje Lorah denim midi dress is a very chic style and I feel would suit lots of body shapes. The sleeveless trench style dress is in a soft shade of washed sand with gold accent buttons.
I’m really vibing the exaggerated collar that features a braided trim and to pull it is and give some shape it has a matching belt. I think this could be a versatile piece heading into winter, with boots or while it’s still warm, with heels or flat sandals. It would be a great “go to” dress in your wardrobe. If you stop by Sass and Bide, they always have a great range of denim pieces, but I’m loving the Cool Blonde jeans in bright lemon. In a relaxed, oversized style with a slouchy wide leg they are oozing cool. These would be so fun with an oversized white cotton shirt and sneakers or heels and a sheer draped top.
Or for a twist on a classic, Country Road have their Denim Bustier in a dark raw denim. This has potential to be a great investment piece, and something you could keep in your wardrobe for years to come. Pair it back with their matching wide leg jeans or it would be great with printed palazzo pants or a black leather skirt for a after-hours look.
Stylerunner has introduced a new brand Arcaa into their brand mix and my pick is the Hugo tank and Larri pant in soft taupe. A soft lightweight linen knit, the tank is slightly cropped and boxy, and the pants have a wide leg, elastic waistband and contrast side stripe in white for a sporty edge. Perfect for casual days around the house, or meeting a friend for a coffee.
Switching up your corporate work wear can not only make you feel more confident but will turn heads in the office. Of course, the staple pieces like a classic black or navy suit are integral to your work wear collection but try adding a few pieces that will make people stop in their tracks.
Have you ever thought of a jumpsuit as a work option? I think it is a great piece, just like wearing a dress. The Cue Utility jumpsuit is in a satin black crepe, with strong shoulders, v neck line and wide legs. The self-tie belt pulls it altogether to give you shape, and all you need to add is a blazer or trench coat.
For a summer take on the suit, try the Dharma vest and tailored shorts from Saba. Of course, it will be timeless in black or white, but the apricot is my pick to keep it extra summery. Team back with a nude ballet or pointed pump, its simple and understated.
The newly opened Veronika Maine store on St Quentins Ave, have some great options but the Chartreuse linen cotton shirt and crop pant really spoke to me. I’m loving the short sleeve double breast top, featuring large black buttons and a nod to the 80s. The trousers will be super comfortable with the elastic waist and wide crop leg.
Both pieces will work back with other core items in your wardrobe, to get more wear out of each piece. Summery and light, in a linen cotton blend they are perfect for the warmer months.
I know finding “dressy” tops can be tricky, and some of you tend to just stick to the same styles when you can’t find the right piece. But try looking a little out of your comfort zone, and those fun, special pieces are out there.
Camilla and Marc’s answer to this is the Leda shirt. A sheer georgette relaxed fit shirt, with a large floral print on a black background. I can see this with a bralette underneath and layered over wide black trousers and chunky sandals.
Or for a pop of colour the Veronika Maine Organza Voile Crop shirt in vibrant red is a fun option. The slightly cropped boxy shape is very now, and the sheer lace sleeve trim elevates the shirt, it is a special piece.
Sticking with bright colour, Cue have a great wrap shirt in barbie pink. Made from a tech cotton, it is a modern take on a classic cotton shirt. Pair back with white or blue jeans and heels and you will look super chic.
Or for something a little more classic, Country Road have a silk georgette Pussy Bow blouse in rose, black or my favourite, khaki. A piece that would become a wardrobe staple, and always easy to style. From pencil skirts, denim or satin black tux trousers, a great piece to tick that “dressy’ box.
Have you heard, big bags are making a comeback! And I am here for it. Of course, the mini’s and cross body every day bags will remain, but the oversized tote bag is worth taking a look at.
Head to Oroton for their Emilia large tote, available in several colours, but I’m loving the North Sea navy. In a quality pebbled leather, it is not only functional but luxurious. The centre zip closure, and spacious compartment tick all the right boxes.
For something a little more casual the Seed Relaxed Day tote is generously sized and is the perfect blend of casual meets put together. The clasp closure is important, and I love the canvas body and contrast piped trim in a soft natural beige.
Or over at Country Road the High Low Tote comes in black or nougat and I just can’t decide which colour I prefer. It has three roomy compartments, a button closure and metal feet on the base. It’s simple and elegant.
A little wardrobe update and some simple swaps for the season ahead is easy at Claremont Quarter. The stores are brimming with new collections, and I hope I have made it a little easier to find a few swaps that can update your look for 2024.
