We ask the amazing Annie, First Floor staffer and stylist for all our fashion shoots, how to layer clothes for the Spring. The SS20 collection from Hambledon favourites Bellerose provides the starting point.
We're not really interested in keeping you cozy. This isn't an exercise in survival at high altitude, complete with air trapping merino base layers and a fleece. This isn't about making you look like a crazy lady who has raided the wardrobes of a bunch of random individuals and grabbed a table cloth for good measure. We're talking about layering to add interest, fun and playfulness to getting dressed. And to do anything well, you have to follow some key rules.
It might seem counterintuitive but make sure you clash your colours. This isn't about being tasteful. In order to make it clear that your maximal approach is a deliberate choice, you need to be brave. The Bellerose Lookbook SS20 features the following beautiful, but extremely shouty, combinations: hot pink, cinnamon and bottle green; green, red, navy, cream; pink navy blue and leopard.
And it is as much about the print and pattern juxtapositions. Mix up Bellerose's take on Nigerian Ankara fabrics (Giulia) with recoloured plaids (check Graff). Mix up micro checks (Sempe green) with their outsize cousin (Vincent).
'Don't be too matchy matchy'
In the same way that you need bravery with your colour and print, you need to be bold in playing with different textures and yarns. Start with a lightweight tee (Genny is a really nice super fine silk jersey), add a fine gauge knit (Senia or ) or a good cotton shirt (plain Graff), layer some more with a chunky knit or jacket. Try a V Neck Dosany or a Stoemp. And the cardinal rule here. Don't layer the bottom. There are very, very few people who need to add volume to their lower half.
'The more texture the better, especially if it's fluffy'
Mix it up a bit more. We love a Graff shirt under a Datto knit because it is a bit too bulky and a bit too long and it looks just a little bit scruffy in a good way. Wear your coat a little oversize with a narrow, crop trouser. And please, please remember a crop trouser isn't just for Christmas or tall people, it genuinely suits everyone. Use a narrow belt to fasten a loose, boxy jacket.
'Don't be afraid to supersize. It doesn't make you look big'
Don't be boring with your accessories. Add a few more than usual (Coco Chanel isn't always right). And go large. Try the Bellerose scarf. Use the Lormina shopper as a handbag. And make sure you make a feature of your socks.
'Repurpose. Use a jumper as a scarf and don't use the belt to keep your trousers up. Use it to fasten your coat'
Have a look at SS20 Bellerose for their super stylish take on the season.
