This article was written for Annabel & Grace, which is now part of Rest Less.
A classic quote from Inès – Clothes should make you look better, so that someone says, “You look great,” not “That’s a nice dress”.
Here are five of her easy to follow style tips with my suggestions alongside:
Fun accessories
Mandarina Shoes
Keep it simple i.e. don’t wear too many colours together but jazz it up with interesting shoes, lipstick or accessories. Grace wrote an article about 3 classic pieces which could be enhanced with interesting and colourful accessories. Click on the picture on the left to go through to the post. If you want some really fun shoes try Mandarina shoes who have the most amazing range and I can guarantee that they are extremely comfortable and not a high heel in sight!
Know your classics – and when to use them. I am a huge classics fan. Both Grace and I bought a blazer from Winser London about 3 years ago and whilst it was expensive then, it was the best investment as we both wear them to death. A blazer never goes out of fashion. However beware that you don’t keep buying more of the same. For example, if you buy a new pair of navy trousers you will probably always select them from your cupboard as they will be your new favourites so it would probably be a good idea to send your old pair to the charity shop.
Take risks – don’t always stay in your comfort zone. Try a new hairstyle, lipstick or even a trouser shape. You may be pleasantly surprised, once you get used to the change. Do read the fashion magazines (or subscribe to our online magazine) as the fashion editors have their finger on the pulse and you may discover a brand that you have not ever heard of. I love the current trend for a side-striped trouser. Me+Em have got this style nailed – their trousers are sublime, beautifully tailored and a great fit.
Scrap the logos – we are way past the age when we impress our friends by wearing a designer outfit. My friends are more impressed when I mix high street with something more expensive.
The White Company scarf collection
Don’t be cold or uncomfortable. I think I should put this one at the top of the list. I am long past those T2T shoes (Taxi to Table) though I can admire those that do wear them as there is something very elegant about a high-heeled shoe. I nearly always carry a scarf, to keep me warm when I find it is chillier out than I anticipated. If there is a heatwave (we should be so lucky) a light scarf can be used to protect exposed shoulders from the sun. With shoes I have found that if I find a pair that I love so much I may go back and buy a second pair, maybe in a different colour, but to store away to use when the first pair have worn out.
CLICK ON ANY OF THE PICTURES TO GO THROUGH TO THE RELEVANT WEBPAGE TO PURCHASE.
If you want to buy from Amazon, Inès de La Fressange’s latest book, Parisian Chic Look Book: What should I Wear Today, click HERE.
Do add any of your style tips for women of our age in the comments section below.