Doriana DyakovaTransitional Fashion Trends to Get You Out of the Winter Blues
Looking for cute 'fits that feel like PJs? We got you.
It's now April and with lockdown restrictions easing, it’s difficult to shake the slump of the winter blues. I’ve been living in pyjamas with my radiator on high heat, but as Karl Lagerfeld once said: "Sweatpants are a sign of defeat" and I have no intention to continue to be defeatist into spring and summer.
The consistently chilly and wet weather but rising temperatures call for layering and durability while 2021 trend reports echo back to the late ’80s with assorted leather statement pieces, billowing shirt dresses and dramatic silhouettes.
Here are some of the key trendy items that I will be looking out for, with suggestions on where to get them.
1. Vintage style corduroy trousers
I’ve really been loving this option lately because this is such a great material to accentuate natural curves and much more comfortable than solid denim. It works super well in brighter colours with neutral accents, but a classic deep brown or beige goes with everything.
Check out:
Belted Cropped Corduroy Jumpsuit - Lilac | & Other Stories
UO Malia Corduroy Flare Trousers | Urban Outfitters UK
Pink Corduroy Flared Trousers | Jaded London
2. Leather blazers
More eccentric shapes and experimental silhouettes are really in with leather at the moment, whether oversized or knotted. But if you want a little risk with longevity in style, opt for a different colour of leather to shake up the darkness of a winter wardrobe.
Check out:
Black Moriyo knotted leather blazer | 16ARLINGTON | NET-A-PORTER
Long Fitted Padded Shoulder Leather Blazer | & Other Stories
AllSaints Kara Leather Biker Jacket, White | John Lewis & Partners
Steele vegan leather oversized blazer in brown | ASOS
3. Ankle boots
These are a great statement if they’re not black. Opt for leather platforms for warmth and a disco vibe.
Check out:
Dressy Square Toe Boot Off White Leather Feature Heel | Office
Croc Embossed Leather Square Toe Boots - Black | & Other Stories
LEATHER HEELED COWBOY ANKLE BOOTS | ZARA United Kingdom
White Bear 65 two-tone studded suede and leather ankle boots | Jimmy Choo | NET-A-PORTER
4. Statement shirts
These are great for layering under leather or a sweater or belted for a more dressy look and some knee-highs. I am also really loving the maximalist prints coming through for a bright statement.
Check out:
Lacoste button down boxy shirt in red multi | ASOS
PRINTED CROPPED SHIRT | ZARA United Kingdom
SATIN SHIRT | ZARA United Kingdom
Long-Sleeve Cotton-Poplin Shirt | Liberty
5. Cropped trousers
If they’re black they give me such a throwback to the style Audrey Hepburn opted for throughout her career, really cute to show off a bold boot or some cheeky ankles.
Check out:
Santa Cruz Nolan Chino Trousers | Urban Outfitters UK
Closet London flared tailored trousers in micro heart print | ASOS
Pilar High-Rise Wide-Leg Cotton Jeans | Liberty
On a student budget, Depop is the perfect place to get that vintage feel. The Depop boutiques that I currently love are:
Lure Vintage - It’s well priced and the stock is of great quality and material, like wool or silk. Very 90’s vibes, cute oversized blazers and suits.
Brick Lane Vintage - I love their button-ups, some great oversized sweaters.
Rethread Clothing - a great sustainable option, handmade to order by a student at great prices and brilliant quality. Livi also sells secondhand clothing, another sustainable way of getting on trend for less.
I’m a big fan of labels for less; especially in Exeter, where I go to uni, I do feel pressure to conform to the London student gap year look. Such websites include:
The RealReal – really fantastic selection of everything from basics from The Row, Prada and Gucci for a reduction of around 70/80% of the original price if you don’t mind paying the import duties.
Vestiaire Collective - consistently has sales, international selection of vintage designer, not a rich as the RealReal in my experience, but great price reduction on more basic pieces.
Pre-Owned Farfetch - this is a bit of a stretch price wise, but if you want a lower price on more recent items, or rare Hermes prints, this is a good option.