Before I even start to talk about the wonders of the city of London and its style, let me first say, on behalf of everyone at CF, that our hearts are with those affected by the attacks in the English capitol earlier this month. For info on donating to support victims, click here.
When I visited London last month, in addition to the great food, wonderful accents, and beautiful streets, I couldn’t stop paying attention to what everyone was wearing. Granted, that’s fairly typical for me, but the London street style on display was particularly eye-catching. Even the most basic outfits had some sort of cool, fashion-forward touch. And it was hella inspiring.
After a while, I started literally taking notes on the trends that define London style. I’ve compiled them here, and styled three outfits that channel London’s coolest street style ladies, but will look chic on any street, anywhere. Brilliant!
1. It-Brit pieces: black jeans, cool sneaks, unexpected touches
Product info: Tee – Land’s End, Jeans – H&M, Trench – Topshop, Sneakers – Charlotte Russe, Backpack – ASOS, Earrings – River Island.
When I was in London, I saw more black skinny jeans than Union Jack souvenirs. A black skinnies ensemble seems to be the go-to casual look for Londoners. I also noticed that almost everyone chose to finish their look with cool flats, sneakers, or oxfords rather than major heels. I love that choice, because it’s unexpected, fresh, and very 2017.
Some of the best looks I saw on the street were relatively simple but had one or two more fashion-forward elements. This gingham trench is simultaneously classic and trendy, and this appliquéd backpack makes any look instantly hip.
The fashionable ladies of London I saw preferred to have their bags and shoes be their loudest accessories, while keeping jewelry more minimal. Little studs are all you need to finish this look.
2. It-Brit pieces: floral midis, oxfords
Product info: Dress – Nordstrom, Oxfords – Saks Off 5th, Bag – eBags, Earrings – Shopbop.
The midi trend was out in full force on the streets of London. I’m particularly partial to midi dresses in super-feminine, delicate floral prints, and I saw lots of cool girls rocking them. I have friends who dismiss such prints as too prim, but pretty posies are totally my cup of afternoon tea.
Again, an oxford or chunky flat is a more fashion-forward, surprising choice with a floral midi than a strappy sandal or ballet flat would be.
While both the bag and shoes in the outfit above are neutral in tone, their cute shapes and textures keep them interesting. Still, I think you need one more pop of color, so make your one and only piece of jewelry a bold and trendy pair of tassel earrings.
3. It-Brit pieces: black faux leather jackets, fun flats
Product info: Tee – Hollister, Jeans – Dorothy Perkins, Jacket – Amazon, Flats – Oasis.
The only pieces of clothing I saw more than black jeans were black pleather jackets. EVERYONE had one. While pleather jackets have been staples for girls in the USA for the past few years, in London the trend is next-level. It was like a uniform.
A great black faux-leather jacket that fits you like a glove will become your new sartorial BFF. (Even if you can afford a real leather jacket, remember that being kind to animals is fashionable, so faux is the way to go). Like the ladies of London, let it upgrade even the simplest of looks, like a white tee and skinnies — so classically chic.
Bonus points if your tee features a trendy (and empowering) message. Oh, and if I haven’t said it enough, don’t forget the cool flats! Now you’re ready to catch the tube — just make sure to mind the gap.
What do you think?
What cities inspire you most? Are you loving these London-street-style-inspired looks? Which would you most like to wear? Let me know in the comments!