Winter Scarf Styling

I’d definitely say the winter scarf is underrated as a styling accessory. This year I’ve been stocking up on my favourite styles to layer up my outfits. My best purchase has been the black Toteme scarf which I’ve honestly worn most days. It’s 100% virgin wool and so soft. I also opted for black over the cream alternative as I like to wrap my scarf up high on my face, and it made me nervous I’d get make-up on a cream style! I’ve also realised I am allergic to Angora, so checking materials is important to my choices now. 

There are other scarf styles which look really chic other than a long standard style scarf. Don’t shy away from capes and shawls, They are perfect for layering over blazers/coats and also means you can wear a chunky knit underneath and still feel warm. Growing up, my mother would never just wrap a scarf around her neck. She always opened it up, threw it over her shoulder and pinned with a brooch always looking so smart. I also remember all her scarves smelling of her perfume when I’d play dress up in them! 

Maybe a scarf is sentimental in someway, but it’s definitely my most used accessory this winter. Out of all my scarves, I’d say one is higher end, with the others ranging from £20 - £80. Now is a great time to purchase as some stores have up to 70% off which is a really great saving when you are paying for such a high percentage of wool. I feel it’s going to be cold until end of March like the past couple of years, plus a good scarf will last year on year. Just make sure you check washing instructions and add softener to your wash to keep it soft and fluffy. Natural fibres will keep you a lot warmer than synthetic. So I’ve complied some of my favourite styles below, and hope you’ve seen different ways on my Instagram to style this season…

Photography: Your Truly 

Three Knitwear Trends for Autumn/Winter

If you’re like me, you couldn’t wait for colder temperatures to set in so you could finally start layering and having more fun with your styling choices (or maybe that’s just me). Blame my mindset on stifling summers in Australia! Knitwear has had an overhaul this season and some late contenders have made the colder months that bit more bearable, not to mention experimental ways to style your wooly pieces. I’d say there are three key knitwear trends  the street style crowds have been delving into even since early spring of this year. 

1. The Double Knit 

I first started experimenting with adding a jumper into my outfits back in April, but back then it was over a white shirt or tee and tied cross body. This season we are seeing more draped thicker styles over turtlenecks and thicker knitted pieces. There are many ways to try this trend, and personally now it’s getting colder I’ve been experimenting over blazers loosely tied to give that snug look. Keeping the hues similar appears well put together with less fuss, so I’ve opted for double camel. My turtle neck is a lot thinner and then the draped jumper adds texture and warmth. 

2. The Knitted/Sweater Vest 

I first noticed this trend at CPFW in August (namely the beautiful baby blue Jaquemus number which I still can’t stop thinking about) but the vest was styled with no under layer and was paired with culottes/masculine trousers and strappy shoes. Temperatures are plummeting in the UK, so now we are seeing this layered over white shirts or slip dresses, paired with chunky boots. I’d say it’s a good piece to invest in, as it can be worn with bare arms when the warmer months kick in. The cream vest I am wearing in these images is from Arket, and they have such a great selection this season in lots of neutral colours. 

3. The Knitted Bib 

No, it’s not a baby bib but an adult version to literally ‘place’ over a light under layer: turtle neck or blouse. Lets just say that added layer that will thank you on a bitterly cold day. I personally love the cropped versions with a white shirt unbuttoned underneath. There is also the knitted tube top or bra which gives a similar vibe. Looks super cute with a buttoned cardigan over the top.

So have fun this season with knitwear, and happy styling!

All images photographed self-portrait.

Heading Into Autumn

Finally, my favourite season is here! Pumpkin spiced lattes, candles burning and layering has begun. Does anyone else look forward to October? I recently took a trip to Florence and was so nice visiting a European city without all the summer crowds. Italy was on my travel list this summer, but the months just slipped away and couldn’t face a busy Capri, as much as it was on my to do list. There’s always next year! Mornings in Florence were crisp with the sun shining, exactly how autumn should be. 

It’s so nice to be wearing proper tailoring now we’ve said goodbye to humidity until next summer. And I know I will be wearing this red Monsoon blazer and trousers with a coat layered in the winter. It’s such a versatile outfit. I always opt for kitten heels with my suits, but being in a city exploring on foot/bike trainers were the best option. It was also refreshing to not have the trousers taken up as they were the perfect length on me and I’m 5 ft 3. Bonus! This outfit was shot at Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as ‘The Duomo’. 

Day two involved a bike ride along the river and coffee shop hopping our way through the city. Turtle necks are going to be my staple for winter, so it was nice to mix things up a little incorporating this style into a dress. Mornings in Florence are currently around 10-13 degrees celsius and it reaches about 23 in the afternoon so adding a morning layer was key. This coat actually comes with a detachable faux fur collar, which I think will change up the look for the winter months. The riding style boots were perfect for the bike ride, and avoided a lot of nicks! 

Now I am home.....craving the little Nutella croissants. This happened the last time I went to Italy! 

Shop The Post: 

LOOK ONE

Watson Wide Leg Trousers: Monsoon 

Lucy Tailored Jacket: Monsoon 

Dad Trainers: similar here, here and here 

Karl 24 Leather Tote: Boyy Boutique 

LOOK TWO

Cally Cowl Neck Jumper Dress: Monsoon 

Harry Wool Blend Crombie Coat: Monsoon 

Lily Long Brogue Boot: Monsoon 

Belt Bag: similar here 
(Monsoon currently have 20% off autumn coats and boots which ends soon!)

Photo credit to Hannah Crosskey from A Fashion Fix 

Collaboration in partnership with Monsoon 

Slips and Statements

Season to season, the black slip dress has remained a versatile piece within my closet, and I’m sure yours too. Details change - whether it be the neckline, the straps or the length. Overall, it remains a strong option worn alone or styled layered. I actually love the update on todays Third Form dress. The tie details on the spaghetti straps add something a little more than just a simple LBD. Styling can be mixed up depending on the occasion, worn high on the neckline to look more polished or a little more loose for those easy braless beach days.

Now onto the slogan tee - I.JUST.CAN’T.GET.ENOUGH. My collection is rapidly growing and a little less serious than some of my wardrobe staples. I am finally introducing this seasons biggest colour red somewhere other than my make up bag. The pop of colour on the tee pairs back nicely with a strong lip. I've opted for a statement earrings because let's be honest... there's some amazing pairs around right now. My jewellery box is begging for more space. Something about this ensemble takes me back in time - and I’ve come to the decision it’s the sunnies, clogs and red lip that contribute to this!

Shop the look:

Mini Tie Dress: Third Form Via The Iconic or similar here, here and here

(Similar) Feminist T-Shirt: Tee and Cake or similar here, here and here
Kyra Shoes: Senso, or similar here and here
Formalities Coat: Third Form or similar here and here
Statement Earrings: similar here and here
Faye Suede Bag: Chloe via Farfetch
Audrey Sunglasses: Celine and similar here

Photo credit to Jo from Jo Hombsch blog

Relaxed Silks

Silky delicates are favourite of mine moving into spring. I get slightly addicted to certain styles if I know it works for my shape and it’s easy to style into my weekday and weekend wardrobe. If it gives off a relaxed feel, it’s definitely a selling point. I’m already building a nice collection of camisoles to pair with lightweight skirts and denim and you should do the same! A neutral girl at heart means I’ll be sticking to nudes and warmer tones, but if you are lover of colour there are some great popping bubble pinks and baby blues filtering through for the season ahead.

Silky basics are so easy to take through into next season.  Today’s dress is a little oversized and has a beautiful plunging backline. It will be such a winner come summer with a bronzed glow, but until then a relaxed fit tee is my go to.

Never overlook small style changes in such basic pieces. Tip: Buy one size bigger in tees so that you can pull off one shoulder. It can make such a difference to the look.

The cropped raw hem flare (as you know I love) are perfect to wear under a slip dress on chilly days. They’re fun to layer and I’ve been such a fan of this throughout winter. Moving into spring, there’s definitely a bit of excitement to wear silk and linen fabrics on their own, with the only styling coming from statement shoes and bags.

As the seasons change, I’d love to know what trends you are looking forward to wearing. If there’s a particular trend you’d like to see more of over on Boho Tailor please let me know!

Shop my look:

Double Strap MiniDress: BLQ BASIQ via Revolve

Cosy Modal FrenchTerry Top: Splendid via Revolve

Crop Flare Jean: Rag & Bone

Horsebit Loafers: Gucci via Gucci or Net-A-Porter

Ivory Klinga watch: Triwavia The Iconic

Black Clutch Bag: Similar via Rebecca Minkoff via Shopbop or Oliveve via Shopbop

Photo credit to my love, Chris

The layered Black Dress

Layering has been my go to styling tool for the majority of winter ’16. It was featured heavily in the European winter fashion weeks and I love to pull inspiration from them even though they are rocking summer at the moment.

When living in the UK, I discovered the website Lyst which had a good selection of high end brands. I always find it easier heading to one website typing in what I am looking for and getting an array of styles and brands all in one place! Although I own way too many coats for the Sydney climate, it’s actually quite nice leaving them out for todays post. Whether you layer a camisole, slip dress or heavier fabrics there are a few things to keep in mind when wearing this trend comfortably for any occasion. 

1. Draw attention to back detailing. I have seen some great styling this month with black dresses paired back with an off shoulder shirt. I myself have dabbled in this last month, and feel it works really well with a scoop or low back dress. 

2. Pair a slip dress with a tee and sneakers. This combo is so easy to wear, especially when worn casually. 

3. It doesn’t always need to be a tee. Try styling with a shirt or turtleneck for a suitable workwear look.

4. Flared jeans look cool too. This one is for you ladies currently in winter. The slip dress can be a little chilly this time of year, so don’t forget that layering doesn’t have to only be on your top half.

5. Add hardware. Cute chains and chokers can make this look feel more 90’s. I personally love circle detail pendants.

6. No rules on dress length. Make it work for you and take your season into consideration. Try a mini style if currently in summer and a midi style if still feeling the chill!

Today's dress is from Vale Denim and it's actually quite different to any other dress I own. It's a heavy denim that's great to wear without a coat. The eyelet detailing is also super cool and gives the dress that added bit of oomph. Sneakers just felt right to keep it more street for a day out in the city. Wearing boots would give off a different vibe altogether. Saying that, I will probably wear a good pair of knee highs with this dress for dinner dates.

I have compiled some of my favourite black dresses from Lyst this season which you can layer the way that works for you.

Enjoy!