The Elevated Basic
As the year draws to an end, invitations flood in and the social calendar fills up. Don’t get me wrong, you can’t go past an eye catching LBD and red lipstick to ring in the holiday season. But buying something new and flashy to wear once is not really in ‘fashion’ for 2021, especially when there is so much focus on shopping smarter and less often.
Introducing the styling hack of the season - The Elevated Basic.
Moving into summer here in Aus, basics have become a large part of many wardrobes to take you from day to night. So if you’re a bit of a minimalist, moving on from relaxed fits to evening wear can be quite daunting. The past month, there’s been a love amongst the fashion masses for asymmetric bodysuits and tops with unusual necklines. Add a tailored pant, bold lip and kitten heel….Voila, you have yourself a low maintenance evening look.
Here are my top styling tips for elevating your PM looks by investing in a few key styles this season. Some pieces you might already have in your wardrobe, but it's about rethinking how to pair them together
The Loose Fitting Pant
If I’m ever asked what style trouser is the most flattering I would have to say a tapered leg with a pleat. Especially if you size up and wear low slung on the hip. I think this style looks best with a tank top or asymmetric bodysuit, similar to the style below from Weekday. Camilla and Marc also has some great options.
2. The Fitted Maxi Skirt
A multi season style that looks good with platform flip flops, chunky boots and scrappy heels. I first saw this style from a few of my favourite Russian brands paired with chunky knits. But here in Aus, we can style with tube tops for a summer feel. Options include brands such as Harris Tapper, Christopher Esber (pictured below) and Sir the Label. For a girls lunch, the fitted maxi also looks chic with a muscle tank and loose fitted shirt worn undone.
3. The Kitten Heel
Prada has made a statement this year in the shoe department, namely for their brushed leather slingback pumps. A good kitten heel can dress up even the most basic look. Lets not forget the revival of Sex and The City Reboot - sparking joy once again for the Manolo Maysales
4. The Bold Lip
An all black outfit is instantly festive when adding a bold lip. Red is my go to, but hues of orange are also having a moment thanks to the likes of Hermes. Lipstick sales in the US saw an 80% increase in April as lockdowns lifted and the pace of social interactions picked up.
"We have been preparing for this renaissance in makeup for the last six months," said Sam Cheow, global head of makeup innovation, portfolio and product development with The Estée Lauder Companies. Cheow said he expect to see vivid shades like orange, bright pinks, and magenta on lips heading into the summer. Lipstick has instant gratification and an easy way to perk up a simple look.
So there you have it, an easy way to feel put together without having to buy that expensive dress. On the plus side, you’ll re-wear an elevated basic beyond the festive season.
Direction, words, styling and photography by Yours Truly, Helen-Jayne