I have always been a strong advocate for taking more of a formulaic approach when it comes to getting dressed. In leaning towards certain recurring themes or anchor points (colour, shape or silhouette, signature item), my “style uniform” creates parameters while still allowing for variety and experimentation throughout.

If, like many of us, you are someone that doesn’t have much time to consistently plan out full looks but still want to look automatically put together, using a repeatable formula can be a great option for looking stylish without too much effort.

If in doubt, wear monochrome + matching tones 

We may have collectively overused the term “chic”, and scrolled through more “Things I Find Chic” round-ups on our FYP than we can count this year, but it’s hard to deny that a well-crafted monochrome or tonal outfit doesn’t immediately scream put together.

I find that the most eye-catching monochrome outfits are the ones that experiment with elements outside of colour: shape, texture, or proportion, for example. Monochrome and tonal dressing takes the thought out of colour blocking (more on that later), whilst still looking elevated and as though one put in more effort than they actually did.

In this case, a snood stays functional while being fun and fashion-forward, while the matching grey knit creates continuity and understated elegance. Win, win.

Featured in this outfit: GRAPHITE MERINO WOOL AND CASHMERE HOODED SCARF and GRAPHITE MERINO WOOL AND CASHMERE JUMPER

Inject bold colour one statement piece at a time 

For those of us with more of a minimalist approach to dressing, wearing bold colours can often feel daunting. Sure, your Pinterest board is filled with multiple outfits that expertly mix colours, prints, and textures, but how does this actually translate when it comes to your IRL wardrobe?

The answer: keep it simple. If in doubt, consider shining the spotlight on one standout bold piece, and treat your classic wardrobe staples as supporting acts. These cobalt blue trousers are absolutely breathtaking, both in colour, texture and composition, and as such they deserve to stand out against a crisp cotton vest top and buttery brown leather tote.

Featured in this outfit: LAPIS WOOL TAILORED TROUSERS

Tailoring over knitwear = automatic outfit elevation 

There are times of the year that call for layering and knitwear, whether or not said call is answered out of choice or obligation. Winter season in London is one of those times: linens and lighter fabrics are stored away and replaced with layers, thermals and knits (all still chic and elegant when styled appropriately, of course).

If however, like me, your personal style favours sharp lines and strong tailoring, I find that layering a softer, thicker knit piece with a well-crafted tailored wool coat or blazer adds style whilst sticking to the outfit’s main objective: keep-me-warm!

Featured in this outfit: CREAM MERINO WOOL AND CASHMERE JUMPER