Conscious Top Five
We are all getting excited to be welcoming hotter weather, lighter clothes, and brighter colours as Spring bursts in on a Covid weary world. I love a new season as I check the trends and give my wardrobe its much needed freshen up! But I always thank the fashion Lord for my key items – those favourite basics that you wear every spring. I NEVER throw clothes away and know that these heroes will not let me down.
These pieces are not necessarily wow pieces, or those that turn you from duckling to swan in one easy move. But they do add the base layer, make you feel good, go with everything you own, and provide comfort to your daily dressing up.
What basics can you not live without? I have picked out my key five for this Spring - hero pieces that never leave my wardrobe and worth every penny of their season after season wear. And be warned – these are not fashionista show off pieces, but simple, long lasting, and sustainable!
Sarah x
1.Blazer.
How many times have I worn my neutral or black blazers! With jeans, dresses, smart trousers, this gem of a basic gives back way more than it costs. My tip? Pay as much as you dare, and make sure it fits well to suit your shape and style. I have gone slightly oversized with my neutral blazer, and more fitted with my black piece, as they do very different jobs for me. Arket do one of the best on the high street and in a good oversized shape to look modern. Zara are also great for mid-price fashion colours. I should have bought the Zara hot pink version but it sold out quickly. He who hesitates....
2. Second skin top.
Although the name sounds scary these are such useful pieces. Sheer tops that sit close to your skin also happen to be on trend at the moment and easy to wear for all shapes and sizes. I swear by these layering pieces for the chilly days and always buy mine from Cos in 100% wool - they offer great colours in different neck styles (so I do have a few!). This season wear as an under layer or show off as a semi sheer top with your wide trouser or pleated skirt. Most brands have a version in every price and design - so have fun!
3. Blue Jeans.
What can I say! Well I could say that until I met my husband, I did not own a pair of jeans. He thought that was freaky but my excuse was that they didn’t suit me. However now I am older and wiser I know that there are jeans to suit everyone as long as you get the right fit. My tip here is to try on LOADS, find the right fit for your shape, check your back view as well as your front, and don’t buy until you discover the best for you. Thankfully the high street has some great choices so it's not always an expensive task, and here are some of my favourites. Blue jeans are crucial to your wardrobe now, and one of these fits will provide you with denim comfort forever.
"724 High Rise Straight jeans” Look to the experts for a great range of shapes and eco-conscious fabric production. Levi is leading the way with development.
“Keeper Cut Cropped jeans” Part of the & Other Stories fantastic jean offer and made from organic cotton. Every style in the range is a winner.
“Mom High waisted jeans” I have the wide leg style and adore – so these may be next on my list. Easy, loose, good for WFH or chasing the kids.
“The High Waisted Runaway” Love this brand as it supports eco-friendly production and its bootcut is the best goddam fit! Invest and never look back.
4. White t-shirt.
Simple. Classic. Crucial. Every woman should own a few white tees to dress up or down. Make sure the shoulders sit well on your frame, the neckline flatters your bust size – crew is a good all-rounder, V neck good for larger cleavages, and the fabric is ideally organic cotton with some weight. And don’t forget the men’s department if you want a bigger shape. I love wearing mine with over-the-top skirts to calm things down, or with my blazer for a crisp clean look coupled with a bling necklace. The best out there? In my opinion it is Arket for a heavier weight, & Other Stories for a simple boxy shape, Uniqlo men's, and if you are feeling flush, Isabel Marant for her beautiful linen blends.
5. Sweat pants.
I know, I know – sick of the sight of them after a year of hard-working lockdown. But actually my black H&M joggers bought purely for dog walking have suddenly become my most worn item for over 12 months! And this is from someone who once said joggers are a sign you have given up! I add a hoodie for walking with friends or a fancy jacket and cool trainers for a quick dash to the supermarket. These stalwarts will soon be on everyone's list. I am going to update this year – and buy in a more premium fabric to become my luxe lounge staple.
