For the love of fashion after all…

I personally have always favoured the aesthetically extravagant looks. The idea of a perfectly styled day look has been etched in my mind as the ultimate fashion goal for as long as I can remember. My dream – a wardrobe full of colour, statement pieces and heels (of course). Essentially, a modern take on the glamour style of the 1950’s. Think Sophia Loren, Elizabeth Taylor, and Grace Kelly. The reality, however, is quite different.

Today I tend to opt for comfort over style with the only real reasoning – convenience. Denim, trainers, and trench coats, whilst all essential pieces of the spring wardrobe, none are particularly exciting. So, in the pursuit of a capsule collection (like many) my wardrobe has transformed into, quite simply – a rail of basics. I have completely missed what is the inessential? Or better, what is the indulgence?

Spring in full bloom, and a promise to myself to update my daywear, I am on the hunt to add some joy into my wardrobe. And I’m pleased to say the high street is here for me (and you!). Collections adorned with sheer skirts, siren red, and metallics (basically everything we fell in love with from the SS24 runways), there are now a plethora of standout choices to add to our wish lists! One of the simplest ways to add a touch grandeur to a look, is with a bold accessory. So, for jewellery that makes a statement, my go to is Mango. Mango’s Maxi flower and pendant earrings are stunning and can be paired with literally any spring dress or denim and prices start from just £15.99 (thank you Mango!). And while shopping if you do want to splurge then a purchase from the Capsule Collection is a must. If you don’t know, Mango’s Capsule Collection is a selection of exclusive limited-edition items in charming pastel shades. Though initially reserved for special occasions we can definitely mix some pieces into our day ‘fits’. Wear the ruffle and bow dresses with kitten heels and a cardigan (this season’s knit) and a slouchy clutch or crossbody bag for an informally fabulous look. There is definitely a joy to wearing glamorous clothes when the sun is out, and in perfect time high street hero H+M have just dropped their Spring Summer occasion wear collection. In their own words “Whether it’s a wedding, a cocktail party or just lots of fun, we have you covered”. And they definitely do. The collection is filled with sequins, off-the-shoulder styles, and voluminous maxi dresses. I love them all! The red drawstring-detail dress is a perfect option to style up or down. Wear with pointed slingbacks to the office or lunch dates – and just add a red lip.

ASOS collections are also dazzling and filled with one-of-a kind pieces inspired by the SS24 trends. My favourite? The ASOS LUXE tiered ruffle polka dot maxi skirt (giving serious Jennifer Lawrence Oscars vibes). Option to go full ensemble with the top (of course) or for a gentler introduction to revamping your daywear, team with a white tee and black sandals. And as trusted, ASOS has a great range of accessories to choose from.

So, to be more day-outfit daring, or ‘glam casual’ if you prefer, then the best tip is to play with opposites and mix materials. Mix glamorous fabrics, such as organza and silks, with more casual fabrics, like denim or cotton. Also, a pop of colour is always a win for brightening up any outfit. Two colours that are dominating this season are pastel lilac as seen at Michael Kors, and red, both vibrant and deeper tones of cherry as seen at Gucci. My favourite thing about incorporating occasion wear into daywear? Just simply the fun of it. There are no rules. You are not looking for an item to mix and match with your existing wardrobe, you are selecting pieces simply for the love of fashion. And the really funny thing is, in the morning it’s no more inconvenient to reach for that pink satin flower dress than the staple denim and white shirt.

Thus, the goal is simple. Buy what you love and not what you need. I certainly will be.