I love visiting London, yet finding something suitable to wear that works all the way from a casual lunch to evening drinks can be quite a challenge. It’s especially hard at this time of year when it’s freezing outside but the tubes and shops are overly warm. The way I like to deal with this is to layer up with a cosy warm Winter coat on top of a lighter dress.
My winter coat was a bargain find during the New Year sales last year. It’s wrap around with a tie belt waist so I can shrug it on and off easily as the temperatures change. The waterfall front can be wrapped as loose or as tight as I need, so I don’t have to carry a scarf either.
I’ve wanted a shirt dress for ages but most that I’ve tried on weren’t flattering on my pear shape. This one, however, has a crepe fabric which drapes really well instead of clinging. The tie belt is great for lightly nipping in the waist which helps to give me shape and create a sense of proportion.
I fell in love with the detailing. As I’m petite (aka short) at only 5 foot, the vertical buttons help to elongate my body frame and stop me looking stumpy, plus the gold gives it a slightly more dressy feel.
I love a pair of killer heels to lengthen my curvy calves but they just aren’t practical when walking around London. I compromised with this preppy pair. They only give me a little bit of height but as Victoria Beckham will attest, that extra half an inch makes all the difference! Plus suede shoes are always so comfortable.
Accessories wise I kept things simple with little red handbag…
and my favourite sparkly bracelet.
This outfit comfortably saw me through an epic two hour train journey into London (diversions – yuck!) to shopping at London Fashion Weekend and then on to a very late lunch in Chelsea – perfect!
Black Waterfall Coat, Oasis (similar) | Shirt Dress, River Island (similar) | Suede Brogues, Clarks (here) | Handbag, F&F (similar)
Thanks to Pippa for helping me shoot my OOTD: 30 minutes of trying not to look like I was freezing to death in the bitter cold as the wind whipped my hair all across my face. I gained an impressively red nose and some guy decided to stop and provide helpful commentary. The things us bloggers do!
