Here at Who What Wear UK, we're all about delivering the latest and greatest shopping edits, as approved by our team. That's why we've created a new shopping column, The Joy of Shopping, which will see me, Joy Montgomery, heading to all your favourite stores to test out new-in pieces IRL. From summer dresses to the brands you might've forgotten about, prepare for changing room selfies aplenty. Is there something you'd like me to cover? Make sure to tweet or Instagram me your requests!
The line between daywear and evening wear is starting to blur—what were previously polarised fashion categories have now merged to become a shifting grey area that blends fabrics, silhouettes and fits to create something entirely new. We are embracing the jarring appeal of high-low styling, whether it's a tulle gown with trainers (oh hey, Villanelle) or a tracksuit with a strappy heel. The rulebook has been thrown out, and we couldn't be happier.
Lesson one of outfit selfies: Find a good interiors backdrop. I almost took this rug home with me.
While this might sound like yet another tricky sartorial situation to navigate, the reality is that a whole new world of styling options has opened up to us, one where we can easily combine new purchases with items that are already in our wardrobe. And, as we edge ever closer to the Christmas season, this ability to mix-and-match becomes more and more invaluable: Essentially, we want an edit of pieces that can be adapted to a variety of situations, whether it's work drinks or weekend brunch.
French Connection's winter drop is the ultimate reflection of this new hybrid approach to style, and, as a fashion editor, I consider this versatility essential. I went to the new flagship on Duke street (which comes kitted out with a coffee shop—just saying) and was tasked with putting together outfits that I can happily wear from morning till night and feel comfortable all the while. The whole collection is a sliding scale of formality, where sequins rub shoulders with knitwear and midi dresses can switch from boots to party shoes with ease.
I'm always looking for outfits that will take me from desk to dinner, and I'd feel comfortable in this outfit in any dress code.
Personal highlights include brown leather trousers, which will look just as good with a silken blouse as they will with a crewneck knit. The oversized jumper dress is another highlight and will pack in plenty of '90s vibes when paired with knee-high boots. I also have to give a shout-out to the achingly cool black tuxedo, which feels very YSL when worn sans blouse, and is a great fashion-savvy alternative to a party dress. So much goodness, so little time.
Shop My 13 Favourite Winter Outfits
Style Notes: I'm a total leather trouser convert and have owned various pairs over the last few years. This season they're everywhere and come in a variety of fits and finishes. This wide-leg pair is the ideal silhouette to wear with a chunky knit and trainers.
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Style Notes: I'm totally sold on the resurgence of the jumper dress, particularly when they come in a loose fit and are elevated with knee-high boots. This grey number ticks all the boxes with its versatile hue and cosy fabric.
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Style Notes: A shearling biker is one of those classic coats that never seems to date. I like the contrast of the brown faux-fur interior with the high-shine black patent exterior. A godsend on a cold weekday morning.
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Style Notes: I don't usually wear much colour, but I do like a vibrant knit to add interest to neutral separates. This red cashmere does the job nicely and will brighten up anything from beige camel coats to heritage checks.
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Style Notes: The Fair Isle knit is no longer the reserve of fusty fashion, with the fashion crowd embracing its traditional appeal. I like to dress the classic style up with smart tailored trousers and heeled boots.
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Style Notes: If you're not into the glitz and glam of traditional Christmas party dressing (guilty as charged), I recommend trying a pared-back suit. I like how the waist tie gives the jacket shape and helps to balance out the wide-leg fit of the trousers. Perfection.
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Style Notes: This is just what I want to wear for a chilly weekend walk. The coat is a great balance of smart yet sturdy, so you can easily wear for both formal and casual occasions. It looks fab with French Connection's dreamy shearling-lined hiking boots, which are sure to keep your toes toasty all winter long.
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Style Notes: I have become a true orange convert this season, and this long-sleeved midi is an easy way to experiment with such a bold shade. The long sleeves and hemline give the dress a '70s twist, particularly when paired with knee-high boots.
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Style Notes: I'm obsessed with the oversized, double collar effect on this beige coat, which gives it a distinctly designer feel. I tried it on in my usual size, but I could also imagine it looking chic when worn oversized. A winning staple that you'll bring out season after season.
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Style Notes: This is the perfect example of the high-low styling I was talking about earlier. I'm a huge fan of the contrast between the high-shine sequins and textured oversized roll-neck—it's just the right balance of fashionable, flattering and effortless.
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Style Notes: This is a great example of the versatile dress-up, dress-down midi. It's the sort of dress that would look just as good with knee-high boots and a roll-neck for work as it would with spangled heels and statement earrings.
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Style Notes: Forget about a duvet day—just nab yourself this oh-so-cuddly coat and you'll feel like you've never left your bed. Coming in the softest faux fur, this has got to be the warmest coat I've ever worn. It comes up quite roomy, so size down if you prefer a smaller fit.
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Style Notes: If you're looking for a real party showstopper, you can't go wrong with a sequined jumpsuit. Featuring a plunging neckline (tape is definitely required) and loosely fitted waist, it will pack plenty of '70s vibes when styled with platform heels and shearling jacket.
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Shop French Connection's full new-in drop here.
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