FASHION FROM ABROAD: Layered Up In London

Anyone who keeps up with London Fashion Week knows that year after year, this fashion capital never ceases to take things to the next level—in a good way. From fringed track pants, to mixed and matched prints, to asymmetrical dresses and head to toe neon, London street style and runway looks always manage to make a statement while still remaining chic and put together. When I think of London fashion, designers that come to mind include Christopher Bailey of Burberry, Vivienne Westwood, Victoria Beckham and Elizabeth Emanuel. While each designer is different from the next, they all manage to produce pieces that say “high end, trendy, fashion-forward and sleek” with a touch of authentic London culture.

During my recent visit to London, I was lucky enough to be able to experience the fashion of London firsthand. Constantly surrounded by bold pops of color, graphic prints and streamlined looks, I was inspired to find a Fashionista who embodied everything London! This Fashionista rocked a black monochromatic look with a bold yet neutral print in her blanket poncho. She kept her look sophisticated by nailing the monochromatic trend that is so prominent in fashion today. Monochrome is one of the easiest runway trends to adapt to any style whether it is preppy, boho or minimalist. By simply pairing a basic black top with black high-waisted leggings, she is able to transform basic everyday pieces into a runway-ready look. You can never go wrong with black on black!

As for accessories, she wears black ankle booties and carries a structured leather handbag that she bought at the leather market in Florence, Italy. These two elements are neutral enough that they don’t distract from the focal point of her look, yet are the perfect complement to her trendy open front poncho.

Winter accessories—especially blanket scarves and shawls—are becoming a huge part of runway collections this season. From Burberry Prorsum’s oversized fringed blanket shawl to Victoria Beckham’s collection of sleek armoring jackets, designers are ready to take on the winter season by (snow) storm!

Moving into the colder months, especially in London, layers are key. But being bundled in outerwear to stay warm doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style! Find scarves that can be worn several ways that match most pieces in your closet or blanket capes and ponchos that will make any basic ensemble look like it was just taken off the runway. Finally, find a jacket with clean lines in a dark, neutral color that can be dressed up or down. By investing in a statement outerwear piece that can be worn on any occasion: you’ll be on the hottest dressed list even in the coldest weather!

Captured: I spotted this Fashionista walking through St. James’s Park in the City of Westminster in London, England.

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