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Wednesday, 1 December 2010

The Great Winter Fashion Conundrum



OK, now here's the thing; glamorous party tonight and it's colder than a penguin's backside outdoors, so what to wear to get from bedroom to bar without taking a cab or suffering from hypothermia? The big winter coat is a no-brainer, but what about the rest? I'll be reporting back tomorrow, but in the meantime here's the That's Not My Age guide to smart winter style:


1. Dress up a pair of woolly tights
Knitted hosiery may not be the most glamorous accessory known to womankind but teamed with a fabulous dress - this one is Roksanda Ilincic for Whistles - and some show-stopping shoes, no-one will notice - or care. Remember, it's going to be minus three later this evening!



2. If in doubt get the sequins out
That's Not My Age's sequin jacket has only has one outing this year, and worn with slim black pants and a thermal vest, makes the perfect alternative to the party dress. Don't forget, those shiny, plastic discs provide excellent insulation.



3. Choose sensible footwear
Now there's no way I am skidding down that icy hill in a pair of heels. Tonight, That's Not My Age will be wearing sensible footwear and carrying the grown-up's favourite party accessory; a canvas tote and spare pair of shoes. And though Jane Birkin wears Uggs - yes I'm disappointed too, because frankly I'd rather go out in my bed socks and slippers than slop around like the sheepskin-clad, back end of a pantomime horse - there are better options. The wedge-heeled welly from Hunter, for one. Looks trés chic and is available in both ankle and knee length. Wellies are good for keeping feet dry but not so great at keeping the warmth in, so best wear them with a pair of great big socks.




Or try these lovely wool-lined, lace-up boots from Ilse Jacobsen:



4. Get to the do, then unleash the party shoe
Follow the advice above and arrive at the party with all your toes intact. When it's warm and dry the shoe switch-over can be done sitting on a wall around the corner from the venue but, during the big freeze when it's ankle deep in snow, best to nip inside, sit down and quickly change the footwear.



Now how about these Let's Dance shoes from Beatrix Ong - aren't they fantastic? Not my favourite David Bowie era, ever, but nice idea, eh? Oh and just so you know, a new Beatrix Ong store has recently opened on Pavilion Road, London.



Do you have any tips for staying warm and looking cool?


Photos
Purple beret etc: Gant, Sequin jacket, Moschino from Net-a-Porter, Ilse Jacobsen boots from The Natural Shoe Store.

19 comments:

  1. Can't we just ban winter? I don't like it.

    I do like the Let's Dance shoes.

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  2. I love thos boots...and the dress is dreamy:) I love to wear layers during the winter:) Kisses, my dear

    Ps: I am hosting a beautiful scarf GIVEAWAY today, just in time for Christmas.

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  3. I have a party Friday and as you can see from my post today we have a touch of white :)
    Platforms do keep you above the snow but I that is only if its a couple of steps in and out of the car.. otherwise its wellies and shoes slipped on xx

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  4. Love your options. Have a great time my friend.
    XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

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  5. I am definately going to be rocking the sequin jacket at my party!

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  6. Fab post! No hints - I can't seem to beat the cold whatever I put on. Love your description of Ugg boots (so agree with you) and where can you get those wedge hunter wellies??

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  7. Yes lets dance and ignore the ruddy cold and snow xx

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  8. Wendy - the Let's Dance shoes are totally you! Maybe Mr B will buy them for Christmas?

    Veshoevius - I've linked to the Hunter website, I'm pretty sure you can buy them online.

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  9. I love the dancing shoes, fabulous. I always try to take sensible shoes for getting there, even in summer. Frankly, there is no better way to ruin happy party vibes than hobbling home with aching soles and blistered ankles. Taxis usually help too.

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  10. Nice jacket! I can't be without some kind of scarf - extra wide/long. Love Beatrix Ong too.

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  11. Oooooh, love those wedge heeled wellies. Just the thing for snowy Glasgow at the moment. xx
    http://www.weshopthereforeweare.co.uk/

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  12. That purple in the first picture is wonderful! I want my stairs carpet that colour so I've pinched the picture for reference.

    Great tips, sequins certainly do keep the heat in. I love the wedge Hunters! I've never seen them before. The Actor hates me in flat shoes so I might get away with a wedge welly.

    I love the Beatrice Ong shoes. I tried them on wanting a pair but my stupid feet are too narrow to keep them on. I need an ankle strap.

    I think your tips are spot on for going out. I find layers and layers of thin cashmere works for me in the daytime.

    Have a great time! The snow's chucking it down here as well xx

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  13. Hi my dear-I love the Hunter wellies very much, perfect for this horrid weather! xx

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  14. Great choices! I've some sequinned harems I've been wearing around the house as they are so warm, the postman thinks I'm a nutter though.
    Love the party shoes but I'm put off the Hunter wellies as I can't abide a logo emblazened across the front of anything,just seems chavvy.
    Hope you had a great night! xxx

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  15. Been wondering what the answer is myself as I have a party tomorrow evening and there's no point wearing a gorgeous floaty top if I shove a massively thick cardi over it! On the other hand I hate being cold ... thermal vest?

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  16. Lots of layers and cashmere, only problem is I only own 2 items of cashmere so run out v quickly x

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  17. Fun hunter wedge wellies! You always bring something new to the party so to speak! Had not seen them before... And agree am also a little disappointed in Jane B for wearing Uggs (outside)too! x

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  18. I like your selection. And that dress is amazing. Sorry I have been of the radar a bit, it is so manic I dont know what has hit me. Hope you are well hon. Xxxx

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  19. My answer this year was buying a lovely pink cardi - with rhinestone buttons on it. I figure I can wear it with the buttons front and center, with a fancy top underneath with it open or buttoned up the back. And I'm with you in terms of carrying the shoes THERE and then changing them. Nothing ruins a good pair of black suede pumps like slushy, salty streets.

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