A classic good quality coat never goes out of fashion. I have owned this cool brown Max Mara coat since the mid-90s. I remember buying it in the sale in their boutique in Richmond, Surrey. It seemed incredibly expensive at the time, even in the sale yet cost per wear over the years I think that I must be in credit. It was originally much longer and had a tie belt, which I still have but prefer to style it without. I had it shortened a few years ago and had a large press stud attached to the collar so that I can wear it closed if I want to. Here is how I wore it on a previous occasion.
I used to wear it for formal business meetings, first impressions count and when you meet a potential client you are normally, at least in the UK, wearing a coat. My lifestyle has changed considerably since then and so has accepted dress codes. I now style my formal coat with more casual outfits in my wardrobe.
One new piece that I have added to my wardrobe recently is this casual herringbone hoody from MeandEm. Now sadly sold out. It definitely adds a more laid back look to the coat. My side stripe trousers are a couple of years old from MeandEm this years version.To complete the sporty look I have added my tried and trusted Adidas Stan Smiths
My fun earrings are from St.Tropez market. Similar US and UK
Anatomy of my outfit:
Classic camel wrap coat JohnLewis&Partners / orange wool scarf St.Tropez market / grey hoodie MarksandSpencer / black backpack JohnLewis&partners / Side stripe trousers JohnLewis&partners / Leopard trainers Boden.
All photographs taken by Laura Hines. Follow her on Instagram
Yes , I’m feeling that my ‘ladylike’ coats need toning down just now & hoodies are good for that . I bought a navy padded quilted hood from Cos that fits in some of my coats & jackets & it seems to do the trick . Looks like an inner layer without the bulk .
Hi Wendy
The Cos hoodie sounds great. Must go and check out their current range.
I love you weekly posts, it makes me think how I can wear little worn clothes.
Love the “long” coat on you but have decided to get rid of mine. Still like them, but my life also has changed and, at my age, I need a simpler, less formal approach to fashion.
Yes our lives do change and we need to keep our wardrobe relevant for our lifestyle.
Is that Hampton Court? I really like the new look of your blog.
Hi Kay
Yes the photos were taken at Hampton Court. Glad you like the blog I am trying to make it simpler and easier to navigate.
As always some great ideas on how to wear what we have and give it a new lease of life.
Hi Christine
I think we should all get as much wear out of our existing clothes. Just adding a few new items per season we can create a sustainable wardrobe.
Thanks for sharing this amazing post.
Hi, so glad to have found your blog!! Loving the styles and how great they look. I am off to France in April for 5 days and although at last count I have over 200 items in my wardrobe(s) I am completely lost as to what to take!! I need your blog for sure so that I can de-clutter my clothes. Can you help.
Hi Marion
I am off to France on 14th March. I will try and put together a capsule wardrobe.