Fashion North’s readers are helping our new style agony aunt Meg West feel right at home with their burning questions…
For those of you who are unfamiliar with a fashion agony aunt, I turn to the wise words of Blair Waldorf. I am simply a “dictator of taste”.
Think of me as your big sister. The sister you turn to in times of outfit crisis, and styling nightmares. However, I draw the line at letting you borrow from my wardrobe!
So, let’s dive right into the deep end and start relieving some of your fashion related stress.
Imogen, 22, asked: “I bought these red boots for Halloween, but I didn’t end up wearing them. I don’t want them to go to waste, can you please tell me how to style them for everyday wear?”
Of course, Imogen! That’s what I am here for. Now as these were a Halloween buy, I had to ask for a photo to fully grasp how spooky of a red boot we were talking.
These are definitely what you call a statement boot! But just like how no question is too big or too small to ask, no boot is too red or too high to make the most out of your purchase.
If it was me, I’d start with pairing them with a muted outfit. You can never go wrong with a little black dress. You don’t want a colour clash or even worse a colour overload. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make the bright red pop. I envision this outfit with a short black dress, matching red clutch and even a red lip if you are feeling daring enough. Which I can tell by this purchase you are. I’d make it the solo colour of the outfit, adding accessories of the same tone will help to bring the whole outfit together.
If you’re not a dress girl, I would suggest taking inspiration from a childhood TV classic Victorious. Tori was known for her iconic look of a knee-high boot over skinny jeans. Pair it with a red top or even a chunky knit and you’ve got yourself a stand-out Christmas day outfit.
If all else fails, Halloween will be right around the corner again before you know it, and I have a long list of costumes that scream for those red boots. Starting with Little Red Riding Hood and ending in the Queen of Hearts.
Hannah, 21, asked: “I think I’m stuck in a style rut. I find myself always reaching for an old pair of jeans and a sweatshirt in my wardrobe. I’m heading into my third year of university and I want to polish up my look while still being practical. What should I wear?”
Hannah, I’m so glad you asked this question. I don’t think you’re alone with your dilemma. Certainly, after extensive lockdowns, I think everyone got a little too comfortable in their lounge wear. But haven’t you heard? The world is starting to get back to normal and it’s time to glam up and strut our stuff all over again.
Your best friend when it comes to freshening up your look is accessories. Pick out a colour in your outfits, may it be a subtle hue in a jumper you’re wearing or in Imogen’s case a bright red knee-high boot, and help them stand out!
Got a strip of purple in your jumper? Pair it with a purple bag, a touch of eyeshadow or even a hair accessory of two and you’ve got yourself a look!
Another great way of stepping out your comfort zone is retiring your old jeans for a flowing mid-length skirt. Equally as comfortable but a whole lot more stylish. You can even still pair it with a sweatshirt. It’s what everyone is doing nowadays. It’s an effortless go-to look that works every time. I’ve even provided some inspiration below.
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View this post on Instagram
Wide leg or loose trousers instantly give that sophisticated vibe that you’re after. My only rule is you’re only allowed ONE loose fitting item in one outfit. What I mean is, if you’ve got a loose pair of pants, wear a tighter or straight cut top to pair with it. You don’t want to mask your figure under frumpy clothes.
I hope that helps!
Let me know and tag us in your new looks on Instagram @fashion_north. Keep writing in with your fashion and styling dilemmas at fashionnorth.agonyaunt@gmail.com
