The UK is a wonderfully eclectic place, boasting a wide spectrum of personalities and tastes—sartorial and otherwise. It's one of my favourite things about living here. There's outfit inspiration to be found wherever I go. Even a quick bus journey can leave me frantically searching online for the vintage bag I spotted on a stranger or wondering if I could pull off a pair of satin trousers.
That being said, there are certain markers of British fashion that feel unique. And I'm not just talking about the impressive dossier of talented designers. The culmination of weather, history and the ever-changing zeitgeist has filtered out the items that just don't feel quite right in a British wardrobe, and a select few have emerged as non-negotiables. By that I mean pieces that make getting dressed for the climate and lifestyle easy; those that work together season after season to create an endless array of polished looks.
As someone who works in fashion, I spend an alarming amount of time analysing and deconstructing outfits I like. In doing so, I've identified the pieces that crop up time and again. If you're a Brit who's in the process of building a capsule wardrobe, or you're a curious non-Brit, scroll on to see the wear-with-everything staples that should be added to your wish list.
7 Items London Fashion People Always Own:
1. Striped Jumper
Style Notes: This one might be borrowed from our French neighbours, but British women have wholeheartedly embraced the Breton jumper—particularly the monochrome variety.
Shop the Staple:
The kind of piece you'll invest in once and wear forever.
Simple and effortless.
Each year, my knitwear wish list is 90% M&S.
2. Longline Coat
Style Notes: The UK's weather is responsible for this necessity. Just because we have to put up with a year-round breeze and consistently cloudy skies doesn't mean we can't look good doing it.
Shop the Staple:
So sophisticated.
Let this snug style envelop you on a cold winter's day.
Light enough for autumn, layerable for winter.
3. Chunky Footwear
Style Notes: Be it loafers, combat boots or Derby shoes, when it comes to footwear, the chunkier the better. While Parisians typically reach for dainty pumps and heeled boots, Londoners love a thick sole and bulky silhouette. We're truly indebted to the original Dr. Martens.
Shop the Staple:
Nothing like a thick sole to say bring it on, British weather.
I bought these for myself and can confirm they're even cooler in the flesh.
Chunky Mary Janes? I'm in.
4. Straight-Leg Jeans
Style Notes: Really, straight-leg jeans belong in capsule closets globally. No matter where you live and however you describe your personal style, this easy essential offers unparalleled versatility.
Shop the Staple:
The kind of jeans that get better with every wear.
Just enough stretch to keep you comfy.
This pair comes in three chic washes.
5. Leather Jacket
Style Notes: The leather jacket has undergone a renaissance in recent years, with fashionable Brits trading in their biker silhouettes for blazer and boxy iterations. While the former is still a staple, this more refined take has proved immensely wearable with all kinds of outfits.
Shop the Staple:
Like everything Whistles creates, this is such high quality.
So damn chic.
Faux leather means so you don't have to miss out if you're vegan.
6. Printed Midi Dress
Style Notes: With sandals in the warmer months and loafers or boots when the chill hits, a printed dress is a foolproof all-in-one option. Make it a midi to defy the seasons, and slip it on when you want to feel put-together.
Shop the Staple:
Look at those sleeves!
So chic.
Style it with heels for upscale events.
7. Slip Skirt
Style Notes: Every capsule wardrobe should have a day-to-night option. For Brits, slinky maxi skirts have proved to be endlessly versatile. This simple staple looks just as good worn with an oversized knit and converse as it does with heels and a matching silk shirt.
Shop the Staple:
So elegant.
Another expensive-looking buy from & Other Stories.
A little bit of lace adds something different.
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