It’s transition time

Jo Baldwin Trott, London-based image expert, personal stylist and colour evangelist.

When it comes to style as well as weather, if you’re like me and feel the cold, the challenge is to layer without bulk. And, if you have half an eye on trends, too, it can be a challenge to update your wardrobe and not just resort to the usual look that can become a bit dull – jeans, jumpers, ankle boots…

This month’s feature is a quick and practical guide to AW17 style. The best trends to bring in plus the worst to avoid.

WINTER ROUGE

Colour is my passion and when a great colour becomes THE colour of the season my first tip to you is to check for the right one!  I didn’t touch red until I had a colour analysis. I’m white and pale so the wrong red created a look of jaundice so I steered clear until I discovered mine.

For most white skin tone in the UK the best red for clothes and lip colour is an orange red or rust red, for darker skin watermelon or blue red will look better.  Take 3 or 4 different red tops to the mirror by the window in store and see which looks balanced and which one wears you. Alternatively discover your perfect red as part of a colour analysis. (see below)

SKINNIES ARE NO MORE  

But we’ll still wear them obviously!  The trouser look is wider, wide and slightly short which needs a little more thinking when it comes to footwear.  Wide trousers are most forgiving in a soft and flowing material and the high-waisted or belted versions look great with a tight t.  Best shoes for this look are either casual trainers/sneakers or short and heeled ankle boots ideally fitted on the ankle to avoid too much width.

HERITAGE

I am so excited about the resurgence of British made products in fashion.  From Hobbs to Stella McCartney there is a big sway towards natural fabrics and pure wool from the UK.  The easiest way to wear is in a jewel coloured jumper, statement coat, blazer or A-line skirt for a more fashion-focused look.  www.makeitbritish.co.uk offer a fantastic range of brands offering British made and sourced items such as Notting Hill based Beautiful Soul London and many more.

SUITS YOU

Suits are back for men and women and bespoke is getting bigger as more of us realise the value of the right fit.  Christian English and Gormley & Gamble are my favourite London-based tailors.  A stylish suit which is modern and the right shape for your body will bring versatility to your wardrobe creating so many more outfits.  Jackets for women are looser and longer, trousers are straight.  For men narrower lapels and colour contrasts.  The days of a grey suit and white shirt are gone.  Dark shirts and lighter (mid-blue or grey) jackets are a fresh way to suit up.

SHINE IN SILVER

Silver and gold have become staple winter colours and are no longer just saved for party wear.  Bring up a day look with a silver jumper or one of the key trends – silver shoes – brogues or slides.

COLOURING IN COATS

A statement winter coat in a bright red, mustard or orange will instantly lift you in the darker months.  Be bold & cover up in colour.

The last few trend boxes to tick – loose leopard print; dresses – short, long bell sleeved; anything animal.  And trends to chuckle at: tapestry and knitted trousers.

If you would like to discover your perfect red and blue, green, pink, etc then please get in touch with Jo to find out more about colour discovery and styling services via email – info@jobaldwintrott.com or visit – www.jobaldwintrott.com/services.