As an Image Consultant, I love the change in Seasons! But this one has been quite a challenge!!
The AW20 season hit the catwalk back in Feb, and since then our shops have not only faced the challenge of covid19, they have also had to take the catwalk trends and shape them into wearable pieces for us everyday. Also during this time, how we have dressed has changed, with more home working – some of us will be happy with this, whilst others will be wishing to get back to their ‘normal’ dress code and the desire to get out and about again.
One element that came through the catwalk trends was a continued focus on sustainability, and pieces that are more classical and wearable over time. CHECK is a key ‘trend’ for AW’20. Check never goes out of style for long, which is presumably why with sustainability and a more seasonal-less approach to dressing, it was thought that AW’20 was the perfect time to bring it back to the foreground.
Checks are an easy pattern for even a print-avoider to incorporate into their wardrobe. However as ever there are some keys tips for getting the most out of this trend for you personally.
Colour checks:
If you suit dark colours, you probably have dark hair and eyes – and this cape jacket from River Island is a great throw on over everything from jeans to a pencil skirt
Whilst if dark colours overwhelm you, you probably have blonde hair and light eyes, and hence something like this fitted jumper from Marks & Spencer will balance out your delicate colouring. Its super soft, so great for the autumn days ahead, and whilst the design is bold but the lighter colours make it easy to wear.
If you have a pink undertone to your skin, then you look great in blues – and this luxe lightweight coat delivers effortless cool. You can wear now with a tee or into autumn / winter over winter knits
Whilst if you skin tone is more olive, then browns are a great neutral for you. These check culottes are a very versatile item – wear with a cosy jumper and pumps, or with a blazer and brogues for the office
If you have dark hair and bright eyes, then this dress will make those eye pop due to the contrasting colours! Midi dresses are great for this time of year as you can layer up as and when needed – now with a cardigan or lightweight denim jacket, and as we get further into autumn then team with a long layer underneath plus opaque tights, boots and jacket.
If you find that colour can ‘swamp’ you then you might be better in softer and more muted colours. This mac from Tommy Hilfiger will be perfect for you, and will definitely be an item in your wardrobe that you will get lots of wear out of year after year
Curvy checks:
Checks best sit on straighter body shapes…. So if you have curves then its best to look for checks on the diagonal in softer fabrics – like this gorgeous autumnal coloured poncho from the plus size brand, Persona by Marina Rinaldi. Team with slim leg jeans and a tee or polo neck for a casual look, or dress up with coated leggings and a silk camisole and heels.
Given that checks are a style that isn’t off-trend for long, you might also have some fab finds in your own wardrobe already – and it might just be a case of updating how you wear them!
If you need any help or guidance on understanding how you can best wear checks, or your own personal colouring or body shape, then drop me a line. My studio is now open again for face to face consultations. Plus, I am also running online consultations too for anyone who is in quarantine, shielding, in local lockdown etc. So get in touch if you would like to step into the new season with renewed confidence about your appearance.