Despite all signs pointing to global warming (i.e. the never ending summer), winter is still apparently on the cards – time to buckle up and layer like the Michelin Man, right? Wrong. Dodge the bulk and figure-flatter like a pro in our round-up of cold-weather loving favourites.
1. The Trench
Très chic, classique. The forever MVP of 24/7 dressing, the trench’s multi-tasking skills around a figure just don’t quit. For example: buttoned-up and cinched, cinched at the front with a gap (a great way to highlight statement staples underneath); knotted at the back for clean, figure hugging lines, bow it up – multiple personalities are all catered for when it comes to the trench coat. Look for styles that aren’t too piqued at the shoulder for a more femme take.
Witchery Wintour trench coat, $399.95, witchery.com.au
Diane Von Furstenberg Grace coat, $735, matchesfashion.com
David Lawrence Kelsey trench, $329, davidlawrence.com.au
2. The Wrap Coat
Wrap it, knot it, cinch it – whatever your method, highlighting a waistline is vital to keeping a silhouette in check. Look for styles that fold at the neckline to soften your bustline (ample or otherwise, this is universally flattering). Amp up the visual trickery in a grey marle or light neutral colourway – a softer take over black (a deep, dark rectangular silhouette is never on point).
Witchery Makoro Suede Coat, $699.95, witchery.com.au
Country Road shawl waterfall coat, $399, countryroad.com.au
H&M Bouclé coat with a tie belt, $79.95, hm.com/au
3. The Culotte
At first glance, she’s difficult – a brattier version of a wide-leg trouser, perhaps – but when you take a moment to understand her, she’s heaven. Essentially, a mid-calf hemline demands you treat them as you would a midi skirt – simple, tailored pieces up top (bonus points if you’re dressing tonally to elongate) are key. For work, play with proportions – any outerwear that hits above the hip is going to widen out your silhouette, so think long and languid in gilets or butt-skimming tailoring. Off-duty, they’ve bound with all the comfort of your go-to trackies with added structure – a quick way to polish up that sweatshirt and sneaker combo.
Country Road merino culottes, $149, countryroad.com.au
H&M culottes, $59.95, hm.com/au
Weekend Max Mara Verace culottes, $255, matchesfashion.com
4. The Kimono Dress
If the Wrap and the Shift dress were to bear a child, you’re looking right at it: the Kimono dress. Complete with the versatility of both Mum and Dad, it’s heaven for anything you throw at it – a deep-v neckline combined with a roomy sleeve and the option to cinch (or not) with a belt is perfect for every shape on the body spectrum. Go bare with hosiery and an ankle boot, or layer up for warmth with a fine sheer knit underneath.
Country Road tie front dress, $149, countryroad.com.au
Vivienne Westwood Anglomania Hope crepe mini dress, $536, net-a-porter.com
IRO cotton kimono dress, $471, stylebop.com
5. The Corset Belt
When in doubt, cinch it out – as has been the common thread amongst all our essentials this season, but the original and the best outcome is thanks to this historic accessory. Think Balmain over BDSM – beautiful leathers, embossing and hardware amp up the luxe vibe to steer you well clear of anything too racy. Layer it over coats, knit dresses – anything plotting to hide that waistline is at risk.
Maison Boinet leather corset belt, approx. $212.28, lanecrawford.com
Zana Bayne cincher leather waist belt, $335, net-a-porter.com
Becksondergaard leather waist belt with oversized tassels, $121.41, asos.com
6. The Bodysuit
Your mind may instantly wander to underwear as outerwear, but hear me out: should you be partial to a high-waisted or wide-leg pant for winter, a bodysuit is the perfect, seamfree partner over a wildly uncooperative shirt or tee that requires constant tucking and attention. Look for long sleeves in thick, stretchy fabrics for an immediate inch off the waist (seems like cheating, right?).
Wolford Berlin stretch bodysuit, $365, net-a-porter.com
Yummie By Heather Thomson Eve stretch-jersey bodysuit, $136, net-a-porter.com
Topshop wrap bodysuit, approx. $68.72, topshop.com
feature image via pinterest
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