If there’s a box that I always try to ensure my look encapsulates it’s polished. Whether it’s a casual outfit I’m wearing to run errands with the girls or a work meeting or a big fashion launch it’s one of the overarching criteria that I try to maintain. And it doesn’t have to be hard. If there’s one thing I need all my outfits to be it’s easy so I’ve found some ways to ensure that looking polished is pretty straightforward to achieve. Here’s how I do it.
Ensure everything fits well
Whether I’m in jeans and a t-shirt or a suit, the one thing I always make certain of is that everything is tailored to fit. That means things like hems are cut appropriately for my height and I’m not wearing a jacket that swamps me. Taking the time to ensure that everything is tailored beforehand ensures that anything I wear by default, looks polished.
Keep it simple
My look is very classic and I’ve found this is a great way to ensure I look polished. Whilst everyone has their own aesthetic, the one thing you can take away from this is that keeping your look simple often means it presents in a very put together way. This means choosing one statement piece and then keeping everything else simple. Whether it’s a pair of great shoes or knockout earrings, have one focal element and then pare back the rest.
Always ensure your bag and shoes are in good shape
Pay attention to your bag and shoes
I’ve always been a bag and shoes girl and I’ve found they’re often the two key accessories that can make or break and outfit. So I always make sure that whatever bag or shoes I’m wearing looks neat and tidy. They don’t have to be expensive. but they do have to look presentable which means no scuff marks or stains. This is why I always ensure I use fabric protector on all my bags and shoes before I wear them.
Don’t forget about your beauty look
I need to get out the door in a matter of minutes most days so I’m all for beauty routines that are quick and easy. If I need to get out the door fast but don’t have time to do my hair I’ll pull it back in a low bun (which takes seconds) and I’ve got myself a sleek hairstyle for the day. I’ve also streamlined my makeup routine to a few simple essentials (see my full routine here) and that ensures I look presentable when I walk out the door but I haven’t had to spend a silly amount of time in front of the mirror.
Get a steamer
I don’t like ironing and I’m sure a lot of you feel the same. That said, I also can’t walk out the door with wrinkled clothes so a great shortcut is to invest in a handheld steamer like this. If I find something needs a press, I give it a quick steam and then I’m out the door. Most garments are steamed on photo shoots and it’s a trick that I’ve adopted into my own wardrobe.
What are some of your shortcuts for a polished look?
When it comes to fashion advice, one thing I hear quite often is that when you find something that you love, to buy it multiple colours. After all, if something works and it looks great, why not guarantee you can wear it more often by embracing it in different hues? I’ve done it myself, and I have friends and work colleagues who are big fans of doing this simply because it ensures the wearability of one’s wardrobe.
So, is it really a good idea? Well, I for one am a big supporter. On most days I like the process of getting dressed to be somewhat on autopilot. I like to look in my wardrobe and see pieces that I know are guaranteed to work and can be worn in different ways. I’ve found that when an item a) suits me b) works back with my overall style aesthetic and c) fits seamlessly into my existing wardrobe, it’s actually smart to invest in more than one colour. Think about it—if you know it already works, isn’t it better to spend your hard earned fashion budget on an item that you know is already a no-brainer, but just refresh it in a different hue? For me, it’s a much more strategic approach and ensures a well curated closet.
The thing with this game plan is that you want to ensure that the item really works before you buy it in other colours. Often I won’t go back and purchase additional hues until I know I’ve well and truly given said item a workout—that is, I’ve been able to style it into several different outfits and have felt happy each time I’ve worn it. This way, I can ensure that I am definitely going to wear it again and again, and therefore an additional colour will not go to waste.
I tend to do this with basics in my wardrobe as opposed to statement pieces. For example as above, I bought the same top in a dark and light hue, because it’s a staple that can be re-styled multiple ways. I could also see myself doing this with a shirt or jeans or pants. This works as a wardrobe basic is chameleonic in nature, it can take on different iterations and work. I wouldn’t take the same approach with a dress for example, because I tend to like my dresses to be mini statement pieces on their own given I don’t have to pair them back with something else like I would with separates.
A multi-colour approach is definitely a smart move when you find something you love, that you know works. It opens up myriad outfit options, but also refreshes the existing outfit combinations you’ve already created with the piece in the original hue. It’s definitely one way to help ease the think work that goes into pulling together an outfit everyday, as you’ve already got something that’s guaranteed to work at your disposal.
Padded top in a white for freshness
… and a chocolate version for something that makes a bit more of a statement
Want a cohesive wardrobe that won’t leave you constantly thinking that you have nothing to wear? It pays to think strategically about the key items in your closet that will help you get there. Instead of constantly piling more clothes, more shoes, more accessories onto the pile and ultimately ending up at the same place, you need to start thinking about the few items that will work back with the rest of your wardrobe in multiple ways.
By planning ahead and really pinpointing the items that will be in constant rotation you are able to stretch your fashion dollar further and ultimately end up with more outfit options, simply because you have the building blocks in place for several looks. When it comes to what’s currently on trend, what will stand the test of time and also what’s going to be ultra wearable, here are five great buys to start with…
A great blazer
I will stand by this purchase over and over again. I kept an eye out for this Balmain blazer (similar style here) for ages and finally nabbed it when I saw it on sale and haven’t looked back since. It goes with so many different outfits and it instantly makes anything I wear look polished. Do your research and try on a few different styles before settling on the right blazer and make sure the fit is ultra flattering, not too boxy and is just the right length (I’m a fan of the longline style). Grab one in black and I guarantee you’ll wear it to death.
Dressy sneakers
Sneakers are not going anymore any time soon. They’ve become a wardrobe staple and rightly so given how easily they work back with everything and also how comfortable they are. It’s a bit of an oxymoron but find yourself a pair of “dress” sneakers. So think a style that’s sophisticated and sleek, with minimal embellishments. I love metallics and use it as an accent colour a lot so I knew these Gucci sneakers would work well with what I own, however you may prefer to stick to a nice clean, white palette to ensure that you can wear it with most of your wardrobe.
Statement slides
Slides are one of my favourite trends and whilst they’re great for casual wear I think a pair of slip-on loafers is the kind of piece that’s ultra wearable but can also lift an outfit. Find a pair that’s got a classic shape but perhaps has an interesting detail such as a great buckle or even an appliqué such as the above Gucci pair I fell in love with to turn it into a standout, statement piece. This style can work with everything from jeans, to dresses and skirts so you’ll definitely get your money’s worth with such a purchase.
Elevated white shirt
A white shirt has been a wardrobe staple for forever but lately, it’s become a whole lot more interesting than the plain button down of yesteryear. A style such as the above wrap shirt, also has great finishes that turn into something extra—think the tie detail, the lapels, the ruched sleeve, and the split back detail (you can see it here) that gives it an alluring touch. It has all the goes-with-anything elements of a traditional shirt but so many more extra finishing touches that make it fashion forward.
A quality bag
Think about how frequently carry your handbag. If you’re like me it probably gets quite the workout and is always jam packed with day-to-day essentials so it has to be stylish and durable. I think if you’re going to invest in one thing in your wardrobe it’s a quality bag. One that’s able to withstand constant wear and tear and is able to carry your entire life effortlessly. I love a bag like the above which is a neutral shade making it an easy piece to mix and match, but it has just enough detail to make it interesting.
What are some key pieces you’re planning to add to your wardrobe this year?
When I’m off duty I’m all about comfort. I have to spend a lot of my working life getting dressed up so when it’s time to unwind, I like to ensure that whatever I’m wearing is easy and relaxed. Leisure wear is all about an unfussy silhouette which I love, but my style still maintains a polished feel no matter whether it’s for work or play so I always keep that in mind for any off duty looks. I like to know I can easily go from a day spent lounging at home to a quick trip to the shops without too much fuss. Want to know how to style lounge wear in a no-fuss way? When it comes to dressing for comfort here are the rules I stick to….
Go for quality fabrics
I make sure I buy basics in good quality fabrics. For example I love to wear beautiful cashmere knits or a great linen shirt just to make sure everything looks polished. If you are planning to wear these pieces regularly, investing in quality fabrics will make sure that they last longer. My favourite brands for leisure wear include Bassike and C&M as I find they make great relaxed pieces that are quite fashion forward at the same time.
Stick to a specific colour palette
I refine my colours down to neutrals such as black, white and grey when it comes to leisure wear. It’s easy to mix and match pieces with that colour scheme and straightforward is what you want when it comes to off duty style. That said, I’ll often add a pop of colour with a scarf or another accessory just to give the outfit a little injection of personality.
Sneakers are a key part of leisurewear (it also makes running after kids easier!)
Opt for dressier shoes
Your choice of footwear can often help dress up an otherwise casual look. For example I love slouchy, baggy pants with a drop crotch and when teamed with a pair of slides or loafers or a dressy pair of runners it looks considered and put together—but still super comfy.
Mix with quality accessories
If I’m wearing a really simple outfit such as slouchy pants with a tee, often the addition of certain accessories can help pull it together and dress it up a bit. A leather jacket or a handbag are easy additions that give it a touch more polish. By doing this I’m still comfortable but maintain a stylish vibe at the same time.
What are some of your fave ways to style lounge wear?
Now that spring is here there’s no better excuse to do a big wardrobe clean out. I always like to do one at this time of year to ensure that I’m utilising my closet space with pieces that I truly love and use often—otherwise I’m just losing precious real estate that could otherwise be occupied by new purchases! That said, it’s also great to take stock of everything to see what gaps I currently have and what I’ve got way too much of so I know what to look for when I’m shopping. Also, it reminds me of old favourites that I can incorporate into my fashion repertoire.
If you’re about to embark on a clear out, take the opportunity to weed out the below items from your wardrobe and donate them to charity so someone else can make better use of them. After this process I guarantee you’ll rediscover clothes that you’d forgotten about and in turn create some fresh looks that will make everything you own feel new again.
“Someday” clothes
You know what I’m talking about—these are the clothes that you’re saving for “someday”. So whether you’re bookmarking something for that time when you reach your ideal weight or are hanging onto an old dress in the hopes you may wear it to an event down the track (even though you’ve been to multiple occasions and didn’t even think to pull it out) then it’s time to be brutal and say goodbye.
Ill-fitting pieces
If something is a bit loose you can either get rid of it or if you think you’d actually get a lot of wear out of it if only it fit, then make the effort to get it tailored. If the problem is that it’s too tight then it’s time to bid it adieu. You want your clothes to sit well and flatter your shape not look like you’re squeezing yourself into something that just doesn’t work.
Anything you haven’t worn in a year
There are some things that obviously don’t fall into this category such as a wedding dress, but generally if you’ve managed to get through four seasons without once reaching for a particular garment then it’s a good sign that you can live without it.
Irreparable garments
There are some things that you may be keeping in your closet as they need a few repairs. Pull all these items out and take the pieces that you actually want to keep and wear to a tailor to see what can be done. For anything that’s not able to be fixed, instead of binning it, try recycling it. There are certain organisations that take clothes that are in poor condition and recycle them into things like rags, insulation or stuffing. Do a quick Google search to find a place near you.
What things do you need to clear from your wardrobe?
It all hits us at some point—that feeling when you look into your wardrobe and think you have absolutely nothing to wear. It’s easy to hit a wardrobe rut when you’re constantly wearing the same things on rotation but the solution isn’t necessarily hitting the shops with credit card in hand, it’s actually finding new reasons to fall in love with things you already own. Here’s how…
Challenge yourself to rework an old favourite
If there’s a blouse you absolutely adore but it has become a little lacklustre of late because of the sheer frequency in which you wear it why not challenge yourself to style it in a new way? If you would usually wear it with jeans why not try pairing it with a high-waisted skirt or a pair of wide leg pants instead? Don’t just rely on your usual outfit combinations, learn to experiment by trying on unlikely pairings and push yourself out of your fashion comfort zone. You never know what great look you may unearth in the process.
Just add accessories
It’s true, the right accessories can really transform a tired wardrobe. Pair a scarf with a dress or top a shirt with a statement necklace to give each look a new spin. Alternatively if you wear the same bag everyday why not mix things up and try pairing your outfit with a different bag each day. A simple bag change can really alter the overall effect of an outfit. The same goes for shoes. If you usually wear a particular look with heels try pairing it with flats. If you usually wear it with dressy shoes try teaming it with sneakers instead.
Use visual inspiration
I am guilty of falling into a wardrobe rut where I’ll just repeat the same outfits over and over again. To help shake myself out of this I’ll do a quick scroll through Instagram, flip through a fashion magazine or visit some of my favourite style websites just to get the creative juices flowing. Sometimes all it takes is one image to spark a new idea for an outfit I can pull together using what I already own.
Get something altered
Survey your wardrobe and see if there’s anything that can be repurposed into something new with a few alterations. An old look can be completely transformed with a new hemline or having something taken in in order to change the silhouette. You could find yourself with a brand new wardrobe favourite for just the cost of visiting a tailor.
Take my outfit challenge
If you’re bored of your wardrobe after an easy to follow plan on how to tackle it, try my 7-day outfit challenge. I’ve outlined a different thing to try each day and it will force you to have to look at what you already own and steer you into new territory.
What are some of your favourite ways to refresh your wardrobe?
Let me preface this by saying that defining your look is something that happens over time. It doesn’t just immediately happen because learning how to define your signature style is a lengthy process of discovery. As you identify what makes you feel great, what’s flattering and what’s not and what’s simply feels “you”, you’ll soon be able to pinpoint your look. The thing with discovering your signature style is that once you know it, it frees you from the constant back and forth between what to wear and what to buy because you’ll immediately know if an item of clothing or a particular shoe fits into your style ethos. And that’s when things get exciting. By doing this, you’ve given yourself the ability to sidestep a lot of wardrobe dilemmas by simply being able to articulate you in clothing form.
But it does take a little effort on your part. I think I slowly discovered my signature style by paying attention to how I felt in particular styles, how certain things looked on me and slowly pinpointing what made me feel confident. Also, I had a range of women whose style I admired, and I started to really look at what it was about what they were wearing that appealed to me. And it really helped to shape my style. If you want learn how to define your signature style, here are a few key things you need to do.
Look at what you double up on
A lot of us subconsciously start a healthy collection of items of clothing that make us feel great, and just feel like us. So look at your closet and see what those things are. Is it light denim? Is it midi dresses? Stripey tops? Once you start to see those things, you’ll know that those items will make up the bulk of your signature look.
Moodboard your style icons
As I mentioned, I do have a few women whose style that I just love and I started to look at them collectively to see what it was about their wardrobe that clicked with me. Was it the colour palette they worked with? The silhouettes they chose? The accessories they used? You can try doing this yourself by collating a range of outfits from your style icons and pinpointing the commonality between them all. Once you’ve identified them, then you can use them to work on your own signature style.
Describe what you see
Sometimes it just helps to label things. So look at what you wear, and think of words to describe it. Would you describe your look as classic? All about bohemian? Edgy and cool? You’d be surprised to know that often once you label your look, it makes it much easier to really spot the things that are you.
Think of what gets you compliments
What are you often wearing when people tend to send compliments your way? You may find a connection amongst them. So if you find that whenever you wear a printed blouse that you earn yourself major style praise then that could be something that underpins your signature look, as it’s something that obviously works for you. This is one of the most helpful things you can do to when learning how to define your signature style.
Find your ‘thing’
Most people have something that is instantly identifiable as being them. It could be the fact that you’re always rocking a flowy dress, or that you love pairing sneakers with absolutely everything, but whatever it is, own it. Because it’s intrinsically you. And if you look back over history’s most revered fashion icons, you’ll find that there was always something about their look that was their calling card, their signature ‘thing’.
Trust your instinct
You’ll often know when things just feel off when you’re wearing something. It could be a particular silhouette that just doesn’t immediately feel like you, or it could be the fact you keep trying to wear particular items of clothing but always end up changing out of them. More often than not, your gut will tell you which styles are winners and which ones aren’t, so it pays to listen to it. It won’t steer you wrong.
Knee length? Easy! Mini? Can do! Maxi? All over it! Midi length? A slightly tricker proposition. I am the first to admit I used to think the midi was an unflattering length (especially if you’re on the petite side). I just saw it as an awkward length that wasn’t particularly wearable.
But the thing with fashion is even if you’ve discounted something once before if you see a trend often enough you start to think that it could be worth another try… And I’m so glad I gave the midi another chance. With a little experimentation on how to style it, it’s now a go-to length of mine and I often favour it when it comes to skirts and dresses. Here’s how I’ve made it work…
Consider your footwear
If you’re going to rock a midi length skirt or dress the most flattering footwear option is a pair of heels. It gives added height which elongates the frame. As the midi lands below the knee to mid calf it can cut you off at an unfavourable part of your leg so the best way to combat it is to add a few inches in the form of a heel. That said, I’ve been wearing it a lot with flats and sandals and I think it also works, so go with what’s more comfortable.
Maintain balance
Keep proportions in mind and ensure that you have the right balance. For example if you’re wearing a voluminous midi skirt then make sure your top is fitted whilst it would be the reverse with a slimline skirt. If you’re too top heavy or bottom heavy it can throw the entire look off.
The midi skirt or dress has quickly become a fave of mine
Experiment with details
Interesting details such as a bold print or pleats are one way to make a midi length skirt or dress stand out. The midi makes a strong sartorial statement so why not allow it to really make its mark by choosing impactful elements.
Cinch in the waist
The thing with the midi length is that it can come across as frumpy if you don’t have the right silhouette. You want to have a cinched in waist to give the look some shape, otherwise just having a long dress or skirt end halfway down your leg does not make for the most flattering look.
Pay attention to where it ends
Wearing a dress or a skirt that ends mid calf means that the dress cuts off at the thickest part of your leg. Often, this isn’t the most flattering length for a woman so I would suggest going for something just slightly below for a better effect. It shows off the ankle and generally makes for a better finish.
Tell me—for you, is a midi skirt or dress a yay or a nay?
Wearing white is one of the best ways to freshen up a winter look. While it’s expected we gravitate towards dark tones during the cooler months, there’s something fresh about incorporating crisp white into a look—it’s unexpected and one way to brighten up an outfit.
Also, one of the great things about wearing white denim is that it plays well with virtually every kind of print and pattern you can think of. You can wear it with a neutral palette like I have above, or work it against a classic print like spots or stripes, or pop it on with a tee and a coat. The options are pretty much endless. It’s also a great trans-seasonal option, being able to go from winter knits during the cooler months to slips and tees once summer is upon us. You can also layer it really well given the ease in which in can work back with different colour palettes, also it works beautifully with different textural elements.
If you’ve yet to introduce white denim into your wardrobe you’ll be pleased to hear that there are plenty of shapes and styles to work with this season. From straight leg jeans to old favourite skinny denim and cropped styles, there’s definitely an option to size every size, shape and budget.
While it can sometimes feel like a daring feat to wear white during the day (particularly when you’re a mum encountering sticky/an or dirty hands almost constantly!) there’s something so polished about incorporating white denim into your casual wardrobe. It’s easily becoming a fave in my own wardrobe and I’m sure it will be the same with yours. Go ahead and add a little lightness to your winter look, I promise you won’t regret it.
Shop my edit of great pieces to wear back with white denim below.
Stylist Lana Wilkinson has styled the likes of Megan Gale, Rebecca Judd, Anna Heinrich and Zoe Foster Blake, and in 2019 she launched her eponymous shoe brand—so, if anyone knows the key to great style it’s Lana. With the launch of her second shoe range this month focusing on versatility and multipurpose styles, I thought it was a great time to catch up with Lana herself to share her tips on how to achieve the one thing most women want: a truly versatile and functional wardrobe.
Celebrity stylist Lana Wilkinson
What’s the key to ensuring versatility with one’s wardrobe?
“My number one tip for ensuring your wardrobe has versatility, is to buy pieces that you can integrate and pair with three items already in your wardrobe. It makes the styling process far less overwhelming.”
What should women keep in mind when shopping if they do want a wardrobe that has longevity and versatility?
“If you want your wardrobe to stand the test of time, I recommend buying classic investment pieces that don’t go out of style. Staple items like a blazer, classic black pant or LBD and denim are always great go-to pieces, no matter what the trends are for the season. My wardrobe formula is quality over quantity, 80% classic / 20% trend-based.“
What are the most versatile style staples every woman should have in her wardrobe and why?
A Pump Heel. They create the ultimate leg-lengthening effect, making you look feminine and elongated all at the same time. Total boss vibe too!
Blazer. A Blazer is the ultimate wardrobe staple and has the power to make any outfit look more styled and put together. Blazers designed in a classic colour way (black, grey, camel or white) will always be a great investment that you will wear time and time again.
Denim. Jeans that make you look and feel amazing will be one of the most essential pieces in your wardrobe. They can be worn casually with trainers or styled up with a signature pair of heels.
Basic T-shirt. A good T-shirt is often overlooked as a key wardrobe staple. They can be worn in so many different ways and can be dialed up for day or evening. Again, in signature colour ways like black, white and grey – you can’t go wrong.
What are the 3 most versatile pieces in your wardrobe and why?
“I’m a sucker for a cool midi-dress. Pair it back in winter with a chunky knit, trainers, pump or boots or in summer with a pair of sandals or flats.
A must-have for me is a black blazer. It sure gets a big workout in my wardrobe! It is so versatile and perfect for layering, I can wear it with jeans and a t-shirt, or pair it with black trousers for a power suit look at work.
A good fitting pair of jeans are another versatile piece that serve me through the week and also on weekends. You can pair them with a knit for an off duty look or with heels and a structured top to go out at night.”
Lana debuted her eponymous shoe range in 2019, with the hotly anticipated new collection available this month
When it comes to shoes, it seems there is always an endless array of designs to choose from. What should women look for when it comes to picking shoes that will go the distance?
“I’ve found that shoes are such a personal fashion item, so I have a hard time advising women on what they should and shouldn’t wear. My main advice is usually to have fun with them and make sure you are comfortable. The aim of my shoe collection is to give women multiple options and fashion forward staples that they can wear again and again.”
What was the inspiration behind your new range? Why are they the kind of shoes that can be worn time and time again?
“My aim in designing my footwear line is to create versatile, fun pieces that you will feel great wearing. I have been inspired by utility and want to make sure that my customer can wear the pieces time and time again, not just for one season. The new collection features classic styles in versatile colours to make sure that my customer can get the most out of each piece.”
Lana’s go-to the ‘Megan’ shoe
If you had to pick, which style in your new collection would be your go-to shoe?
“It’s always so hard to choose! At the moment I’ve been wearing the “Megan” (pictured above) to death as they go with everything and the heel height allows me to wear them all day.”
What should people scrimp on if they do want to ensure that their wardrobe is functional and wearable season after season?
“I always advise people to scrimp on basics like t-shirts and shirts, as these are the building blocks of an outfit but won’t add any wow factor to them. Uniqlo and Zara always have excellent layering pieces at an affordable price.”
Where do you think women tend to go wrong if when they look at their wardrobe they constantly think “I have nothing to wear”?
“I think we need to aim to reinvent our wardrobes more than we currently do. Instead of thinking that you need a completely new collection of clothes, try taking out your essential pieces and play around with them to find new and interesting ways to build an outfit. Styling my garments and accessories in different ways gives me extra wear out of pieces. I try to make my wardrobe habits more sustainable which results in less stress when I get dressed in the morning!”
What’s the key to classic, timeless style?
“Everyone has their own version of classic style as fashion is so subjective, however wearing tailored silhouettes and timeless pieces will ensure that your look has longevity. Try not to follow trends too closely as these tend to go out of style more quickly.”
What’s one thing you wish more women would do when it comes to their wardrobe?
“I wish that women would feel more confident wearing pieces more than once. This is something that we were told was a big ‘no-no’, however why shouldn’t we wear items that we feel great in all the time? If you invest in a piece that you absolutely love and look after it, it can last for decades, instead of just one season.”
