Fashion / Fashion
Triumphant tailoring
There’s something effortlessly chic about tailoring
Illustration by Faye West
It makes me think of the 1920s, before red lipstick and wiggles; instead loose trousers, jackets and shirts. It must have been an exhilarating period in many respects; the 20s held optimism, frivolity and fun. However, we all know at some point the champagne runs out, the double bass player pops off home, the party stops and we are left reflective. It’s wild to be young and invincible, but it is often when everything stops, that the poetry flows.
“And that taught me you can’t have anything, you can’t have anything at all. Because desire just cheats you. It’s like a sunbeam skipping here and there about a room. It stops and gilds some inconsequential object, and we poor fools try to grasp it – but when we do the sunbeam moves on to something else, and you’ve got the inconsequential part, but the glitter that made you want it is gone.” The Beautiful and the Damned, F. Scott Fitzgerald
This autumn/winter it’s about gentle tailoring, in soft colours as well as chic black. Dove grey, pale pink. Shape wise, I don’t need to mention that it’s not the 1980s, do I? Shapes are fluid, effortless and minimal. Every piece needs to be an investment; with beautiful cuts and quality fabrics.
Stella McCartney is a champion of the relaxed suited style and her tapered trousers and relaxed, longer jackets hit the a/w catwalks with knowing confidence. Givenchy rocked some tuxedo styling and accents of colour. Gucci’s tailoring is razor sharp, fitted and feminine. Emulate Gucci and wear your suit with a leopard print pop, chunky bracelets, a clutch and this season’s faux fur short jackets. I’m also a great fan of cuff earrings for adding an extra little edge, like the pair pictured, by Daisy Knights.
Walk with your head held high, ladies. These suits were made for walking. And sitting in cocktail bars poised with considered reflection, grace and style. These are the days.
L-R Reiss £195, Whistles £275, Whistles £225, COS £175, Daisy Knights £150
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