It always seems like such a shock when the warm weather changes – denial perhaps. Suddenly its 5 degrees cooler and reluctantly I dig deeper into the wardrobe to find those slightly warmer pieces to layer with. I might not be ready to go Arctic yet, but Brrrr…. I need some coverage!
So my one-and-done midi or maxi dress gets a knit jumper tied round my shoulders, then little cardie over the top. My summer slides morph into sneakers, then boots. But I certainly keep those classic gold hoop earrings and that pop-of-colour clutch bag I loved in summer.
Or my comfy shorts give way to wide-leg pants or a midi skirt, my tank top goes under a button-down shirt like a singie, and my sweatshirt gets the swap for a cosy woolly knit. But I can definitely hold onto those layered chain necklaces and my go-to summer straw tote. It may be winter but I’m not in bloody Siberia yet!
Though… when I am, I’ll just add a scarf, beanie, and an oversized knit. Not much extra room in the zoo required.
Trending now….
With all that Wardrobe Zoo sage self-advice (which new partner will forever hold me to no doubt), I present some of this season’s key trends that are evidenced in some of new transitional pieces from the new winter collection.
1. Block prints
Wood block or block prints are centuries-old, traditional patterns that are literally hand-stamped onto fabric in small squares. They are labour of love. Nostalgic. Romantic. And part of the 70s themes that have been trending for the last few seasons.
2. Artisanal textiles
Artisanal finishes and homespun textiles like crochet, macramé, and antique-inspired lace and cutwork also continue the 70s trend. A little bit hippy, a little bit handmade, sustainable, slow fashion. Groovy!
A red-hot new contender this season is Rick Rack trim, which has blipped on many designers radars. It cleverly covers a few key trend bases – retro, artisanal, handcraft. It adds a colourful touch of whimsy and nostalgia that’s feels like a smile.
3. Hoop Earrings
More 70s chic. Timeless. All-season. All-day everyday. Whether plain gold (or silver if you’re really trend-forecasting) or woven in another on-trend-friend raffia.
4. Tropicals & Florals
Tropical prints continue their trend trajectory along with the 70s push. And nothing says hippy-chic more than Flower Power. But not everyone wants to wear it head-to-toe. So this season we offer a range of clutches and pouches in hand-embroidered woven raffia & knitted styles. All with a pop of summer-fun colour.
5. Stripes
Another timeless & season-less classic is the seaside stripe. A bit French, a bit naughtily nautical. Wear these as a boyfriend shirt over pants, open as a “shacket” over a tank or knit, or as a beach coverup.
6. Layered Necklaces
The term “neckmess” was coined seasons back to describe the layering of multiple gold chain or bead necklaces. These beaded ones are perfect transitional pieces as reminders of summertime beach abandon, and smart holiday wear when you don’t want to fret about wearing (nor losing) valuable jewels.
7. Thongs or Flip Flops
Since Havaianas took the world by storm decades ago, thongs have never looked back. And from designer to surfwear brands, the latest iterations have 70s-style wide bands and platform soles. Meet the Lovers Bay Club thongs from France. Rainbow-hued for tropical travels & poolside cool.
Season to taste. And follow the sunshine!
