I always find it difficult to define my style when asked, a classic question being ‘describe your style in three words’ which is impossible with a wardrobe full of different personalities. There’s the minimalist who loves a white tee with Levis 501s and a blazer, often leaning on androgyny with some sort of heeled boot. Then there’s a style where the devil’s in the detail; pieces that nod to a trend via considered hems, cuffs, necklines, lapels and lengths. In addition to these I also love to clash, mix and match patterns with contrasting finishes and prints, this may be tonal or multi-coloured.
Thinking of my latter more-is-more style personality who loves prints, colour and drama, it may not be surprising that I’ve fallen for this seasons wafty folklore trend. I love romantic clothing but as someone who doesn’t usually sign-up to bohemian trends and peasant silhouettes, I didn’t think it was for me. However saying that, the moody florals, frills and oft high necklines that I saw all over the autumn winter catwalks from Gucci to Simone Rocha and Valentino have won me over – and hoorah they’ve now hit the high-street.
Part-Russian doll and part-sofa florals, what I love about these folky dresses is that you can dress them up with a hot red lipstick and glossy heels or (as seen at Valentino) dress them down with lace-ups and a chunky knit. They can be as feminine as you want them to be because they are wholly romantic but with the darker florals and black background they aren’t too sugary. This Rosebud Dress (as seen below) from & Other Stories is a cool piece with its sporty ring-zip, fuschia rose buds and when-caught-in-a-draught split at the front. Whether you go full length in something like this beautiful floral embroidered Saloni dress or prefer a shorter length like Whistles’s silky fit ‘n’ flare number, it’s time to embrace the darker side of florals.
