Key style notes:
* Oversized;
* Unstructured, slouchy;
* Dusky pink;
* Fur, of the faux variety -- either the whole coat or accents;
* Belted -- cinch that waist with a big belt;
* Quilted fabrics.
2. CHUNKY, OVERSIZED KNITWEAR
Big, snuggly knitwear. Consider going up a size so the sleeves are longer and it's even more slouchy.
Combine your chunky knit or cardigan with leather or something soft and flowing.
Chunky knit scarves/snoods are another option.
3. FULL VOLUME
SKIRTS AND TROUSERS
Skirts and trousers are no exception when it comes to the volume and comfort trend.
MIDI SKIRTS
Midi skirts started trickling in last autumn/winter, but I'm hoping we'll see more of them this season; they're very feminine and flattering.
A midi is a mid-length skirt that traditionally would've sat on or about the calves (which isn't ideal if your calves aren't your greatest asset -- remember, don't end hemlines as your widest points) but this season it varies from just below the knee to just above the ankle. The midi is all about the length. It comes in varying styles from full circle, pleated and gathered to A-line. Aside from the length, the other defining feature of the midi is how it accentuates the waist.
STYLE TIP 1: Avoid full-volume skirts if you're bottom-heavy gorgeous, the added volume in the skirt may make you look bigger than you really are and out of balance with your smaller top half. Rather opt for a straighter line.
STYLE TIP 2: If you've got a rounded tummy, avoid skirts that are gathered or pleated at the waist, it will only accentuate your tum, and we can't be having that! Opt for skirts that have less volume and are flat around the waist.
SLOUCH PANTS
Wide-leg, long pants in fabrics that flow over the body. We're seeing the waistline creep up, too - which will help hold some of us in. High waists are not so flash if you're short-waisted: it may make your top half look short and out of balance with the rest of your body.
CROPPED PANTS
And then there's the cropped version -- dare I say culottes.Team this style pant with boxy crop tops that cut across at the waist.
4. ACCENTUATE THE WAIST
Though the overall theme is about volume and comfort, an essential style ingredient this season is cinching the waist with belts, ties, wraps and waistbands.
5. 60s MOD
Shift dresses, kitschy prints, embellishments, metallics, shiny or glittery go-go boots, swing coats, bold abstract patterns and, oh, let's not forget the mini.
6. 70s INFLUENCE
Not to be outdone by the 60s, the 70s are nudging their way in too with satin, patchwork, quilting, sheepskin, suede, denim and fringing.
7. TAILORING
Power dressing is go. Match with chunky heels. Or introduce a feminine element like a satin top or flowing sheer skirt.
8. OVER THE TOP EMBELLISHMENTS
Chunky embellishments: sequins, stones, beads, embroidery, feathers, fur and fringes.
Lisa Lyford is the founder of Gorgeous Me, free DIY personal styling and makeover advice. www.gorgeousme.co
Send your questions for Lisa to regionalfeatures@nzme.co.nz
