Simplify your wardrobe and look fabulous on a budget with an easy capsule collection of super separates that look good, and feel relaxed. We show you how to wear the latest wardrobe essentials that won’t break the bank.
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Wardrobe essentials on a budget
1. Invest in a blazer
A lightweight blazer is useful and suits every age and body shape – even petite figures. Softly tailored, flattering cream is a great foil for brights.
How to wear it
Rev it up with hot acid-coloured tops for summer, or keep it cool with neutral tone-on-tone trousers or shorts. Pick a cut and length that flatter your body shape, and invest in the best you can afford.
Why it works
A blazer transcends seasons and trends as it’s always in fashion. Work it with classic accessories and it will become your fashion mainstay.
2. Start with a chiffon skirt
A bright chiffon skirt is a wardrobe must-have because it’s so versatile. Plus, this type of fabric is comfy, uber-cool, and floats over hips. Orange is one of the best colours to invest in as it’s ideal for all seasons. Simply pair it with neutral tones in your wardrobe, such as a white blouse.
How to wear it
Pair it with pumps or sandals for a casual mood, or tuck in a tailored shirt for more of an office look.
Why it works
Every woman can wear one if the colour is right. A flowing chiffon skirt flatters both super curvy and petite women, and instantly updates your wardrobe classics.
3. Pull it together with a pencil skirt
The pencil skirt is a fashion saviour and, in a beautiful block colour (such as plum or purple), it can make the switch from daytime street chic to night-time glam. Find an affordable piece, in soft stretch fabric. It will pull you in and define your waist – perfect for hourglass figures – to pull off an instantly stylish look.
How to wear it
Tucked in and layered up with confidence. Go for a collared shirt for a smart formal look, or loosely fitted blouses and Tees for weekend chic. You can even pair with a lightweight trench or cardi for extra cover.
Why it works
A perfectly fitted pencil skirt adds a touch of sophistication to any ensemble, and it has that timeless stamp of style that fits into everyone’s wardrobe with ease.
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4. Impress with a key dress
The simple shift. Polished and immaculately cut, this classic dress says it all for ladylike ease and comfort! Why buy 10 things when you can rely on one? The right dress solves all your fashion dilemmas, is easy to wear and looks sublime on long and leggy figures.
How to wear it
With lots of confidence – if you have the figure, flaunt it. Go for a style with soft drapes if you want a more forgiving line.
Why it works
It’s so easy to accessorise – all you need are sexy heels and modern statement jewellery. In this case, less is definitely more.
Key rules for easy dressing
Layering is essential
The best way to create that easy, luxurious feel is by mixing up textures – like wearing a silk shirt underneath a knitted short-sleeved sweater. Keep layers loose; this look is not about defining your waist.
Choose longer lengths
A longer T-shirt, vest or shirt is the ideal starting point, as it can be layered over maxi dresses or under fine-knit sweaters. A nude colour will go with everything.
Keep tailoring soft
Look for flattering draping – things shouldn’t cling too tightly.
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Fabrics with stretch work well
These will also allow for extra comfort. Stick to lighter-weight jersey material and knitwear for easy layering. Keeping colours pared down makes it easier to style, and it looks lavish, too.
Always choose comfortable shoes
If you need a bit of height, on-trend ‘flatforms’ are ideal. If you like to wear heels, keep them neutral, with a chunky block heel for extra comfort.
It’s all in the cut
If you love that wide-leg-trouser look, you’ll need to buy them in a heavy-enough fabric so that they drape beautifully. Silk and cotton are fine for peg trousers that are slimmer in silhouette.
