WHAT I WORE - A PRINTED SHEATH DRESS BY MARY KANTRANTZOU

The first time I set my eyes on MarY Katrantzou dresses, I was lost for words and that does not happen very often, let me tell you.  But this time I was absolutely mesmerised by the richness of the prints, by the juxtaposition of colours and textures, by the level of creativity and imagination.  Her collection of dresses was the most exciting among anything else hanging on the racks around me.

Sadly, I found that some of them were a tad too elaborate for my taste and even though they were absolutely beautiful, I knew that I could hardly wear them.  So I settled for a less grand but still totally adorable and hugely adaptable day dress. 

Since the digital print is the focal point of any of MarY Katrantzou creations, this symbol-laden "Julie" cotton printed sheath dress is no different - a simple non-dominant cut that allows the print to make an effortless statement.

Because my dress has such a strong pattern, it is very important to choose the right fashion accessories to create a look that is put-together without being visually overwhelming.  With that in mind, I chose a simple set of sterling silver earrings and a matching ring.

The same consideration should be given to the shoes and the handbag.  If in doubt, my suggestion is go for a nude or neutral colour shoes. 

If you are not sure what shoes to wear with the printed dress, use the colours in the print of your dress as a guide.  If you, like me, have a taste for strong bold colour combinations, choose the shoes in a complimentary colour to the dominant colour of your dress.  (Complimentary colours are any two colours which are directly opposite each other on the colour wheel.  They provide high contrast and reinforce each other brightness). 

Hence, my choice fell on a pair of playful low heel bright red shoes (green and red are complimentary colours) by Chloe, a matching purse and a smear of bright red lipstick to complete the look.

Linking with Fashion Should be Fun

SPRING/SUMMER FASHION TREND 2015 - GREY IS NEW BLACK

Grey is yet another colour that has taken centre stage this season, in fact it was declared the season’s new black (see my previous blog on the colour blue).  Grey is a neutral intermediate colour that sits between black and white and this is the reason why it has such a wide range of shades to play with:  from dark moody charcoal to a light, fluid aluminium, or a futuristic stainless steel, as described by the Pantone Colour Institute, it has been used by many European fashion houses and has become one of the dominants in their 2015 fashion shows.

This is such an adaptable colour that even in cheap fabrics it still looks expensive, elegant and classy.  It is great for layering, texturing and colour popping.  What I like about grey it that it works perfectly with contrasting colours enhancing their hues and allowing them to take centre stage.

Coat:  Top End

Dress:  Lanvin (I wore it here)

Shoes:  Christian Laboutin (i wore it here)

Bag:  Chanel (I wore it here)

 True to my shopping mantra, the first thing I do before rushing off to the shops, is to check my existing wardrobe and see if I can find something in grey that, with the help of fresh clothes and accessories could be brought back to life.  Even an old t-shirt could look modern paired with white skinny jeans, a great pair of shoes and a blazer.

Pants:  Lee (I wore them here)

Shoes:  Ted Baker (I wore them here)

If the minimalistic approach to clothing is your style, think about an elongated coat that will always look classic and chic with a white crisp blouse and a pencil skirt underneath. 

Knit:  Sportcraft

Skirt:  Zara

Shoes & Bag:  Louis Vuitton

Long knit turtleneck jumpers and cardigans are among this season’s must have essentials, they have a lot of textures without being bulky and look great with slim cut pants and skirts.

T-shirt:  Sportscraft

Pants:  Gladstones

Shoes:  Lee

Cardigan:  Lounge

If you are not a fan of wearing brights but still want to break the monochromatic streak of grey, you can pair it with pastels; they go with grey very well, especially dusty or light pink.

Accessories such as scarves, shoes, handbags and jewellery speak about your personality, your tastes and style type and help you to make your outfit feel complete and polished.

 

One more thing, crimson lips is the greatest accessories of them all; paint your lips read, dress yourselves in fashionable grey and you are bound to look fabulous!