The London Lookbook: Summer in the Shade
When the mercury rises it feels natural to dress in riotously bright colours. However, I’ve always been one to go against the grain…pastel pink in the dead of winter you say? Sign me up!
The summer trend for black chiffon is right up my street. I’m not the only one with a shady view of summer dressing; Hedi Slimane’s SS13 Saint Laurent collection was reminiscent of a 1970’s witches coven. As much as I adore a vibrant colour, Slimane’s provided me with some hot noir inspiration.
This dark take on summer style fits well with one of my favourite hang outs in central London – Charlotte Street. The place is jammed with cool coffee and cocktail joints with outdoor seating. There’s little chicer than louchely loitering in inky black, sipping on an icy cocktail and watching the world go by.
I’ve added splashes of cream, silver and a red lip to shine light on the darkness of this outfit. A limited colour palette feels refined and chic. When colour choices are constrained, you can get away with putting more diverse pieces together.
My 70’s vintage chiffon skirt was an amazing Ebay bargain. With this I’ve added a cropped t-shirt and Mary Janes, both from Topshop. My 80’s monochrome leather jacket was another Ebay find and the patent leather clutch is from Urban Outfitters. My belt is an Edwardian antique from 1901 and my necklace was a gift from my dad. I love to mix textures and eras to create a unique look.
My sunglasses are Tom Ford; a perennial favourite that add polish to the most eclectic combinations.
Do you feel tempted to go back to black in the summer months?
