Keen to shop but don’t really know where to start? We get it...
Think of this as your trusty companion when navigating the online aisles of all your favourite retailers. These trends will not only get you through winter in style, but they all can be transformed to work just as well in spring, summer and beyond. Ready?
Editor: Marisa Remond | Photography: Grace Alyssa Kyo and Julie Adams | Hair and makeup: Sarina Zoe | In association with Westfield
SHOP: The Grace Tales’ fashion director Marisa Remond in a Zara top, from Westfield
Grown-Up Gingham
If this nostalgic print conjures up images from your childhood, then it’s time to re-think its versatility and style power. The best way to approach gingham this season is in fresh silhouettes and unexpected colour ways. A loose-fitting blouse over slim-line denim, a ruffled skirt with a 90s rib knit or even retro-inspired cropped pants with pointy-toe boots and flats will all freshen up this innocent yet versatile wardrobe addition. This is gingham all grown-up and you need some in your life.
The Grace Tales’ editor-at-large and founder of The Paradise Catcher Emily Armstrong
2. Basket Bags
Think of the latest obsession with basket bags as the anti it-bag movement. Earthy, raw, rustic and undeniably chic, a bohemian-style handbag doesn’t have to mean casual. We love this semi-circle shaped frayed version for its cute shape and longer strap, which means it’s both occasion and weekend appropriate. Need some more room to move? Traditional French-style market bags are your best bet for housing everything from baby supplies to groceries and beyond (Sportscraft has a fantastic selection at Westfield). Take note: this is an affordable wardrobe investment that will stand the test of time.
The Grace Tales’ fashion director Marisa Remond wearing Rag & Bone jeans from David Jones at Westfield; H&M jumper from Westfield; Superga sneakers, $49, from HYPE DC at Westfield
4. Original-Fit Denim
Yes, fashion is funny. While we’ve just gotten used to skinny-leg denim becoming a wardrobe staple and not just a trend, along comes the “original fit” jean which is throwing everything into chaos. But don’t be alarmed! All this means is that denim in its purest form – non-stretch, high waisted, slightly tapered leg – is having a moment and giving more fitted, hipster styles a well-earned break. Strangely enough, this relaxed-fit silhouette is seriously flattering when it comes to highlighting waists and shaping bottoms, so give it a go and thank us later! We’ve only included one pick here because these are our absolute favourites!
Mother Aimee Bayliss
5. Bright Knits
We’re not going to stop encouraging you to buy grey knits in every shade and style imaginable, but we are going to put the spotlight on a brighter-style of winter wear that deserves a moment to shine this season. Coloured knits are a welcome addition to a mostly monochromatic wardrobe (guilty!), adding a playful touch to serious separates. It’s time to embrace colour when it comes to keeping warm.
The Grace Tales founder Georgie Abay wearing P.E Nation leggings, $119, from David Jones at Westfield; and Uniqlo puffer jacket, from Westfield.
6. Sportswear
Even if you have no intention of hitting the gym, sportswear in contemporary prints, shapes and colour ways will always have a place in your wardrobe. From days spent at home with little ones to running errands, grabbing groceries or even meeting friends for lunch, comfortable yet statement-making sweats are the answer to all your weekday to weekend styling needs (oh yeah, and I hear they’re pretty handy for exercising, too).
Gigi wears Country Road jumper, $59.95, and Seed Heritage skirt, available at Westfield
8. French-Girl Hair
So here’s the thing, after getting yourself and the kids ready in the morning, there’s not a lot of time left for personal grooming or beauty maintenance. Quick hairstyles that require minimal fuss and effort will always get our attention, especially when they are endorsed by some of the chicest French women around. That’s where textured-hair comes in. This “I woke up like this” hair trend is actually pretty simple to master with the right products and attitude. An all natural sea-salt spray will help achieve tousled waves without really trying, while a hair serum or oil will tame unwanted flyaways and frizz with ease. Not getting a blow-dry has never looked so good.