Dedicated Follower of Fashion

I just saw a goth at lunch.

Not ground breaking news. But still, at 27 degrees, someone still decided to don thick trousers, a top hat and make up and chains to go about the task of buying a halloumi and feta wrap.

I find this strange.

The constraints of what we choose to wear are often debated. Are our choices as free as we like?

My case in point is skinny jeans. I lived in flares aged 13. The aim was to get the flare over your trainers (adidas shell toes, nice) and the back, inevitably trailed in dog mess and mud and made my mum weep. Then, somehow, I ended up buying skinny jeans. Why? Maybe Kate Moss.Or perhaps The New York Dolls. Or my trip to New York or time in America. Either way. Not wearing skinny jeans became wrong to me.

Black skinnies. Did I fall in love by chance, or was the fashion world one step ahead, greeting me in America like a new friend. I tried them and loved them. Then they took off. Trying to get flares in 2009 was ridiculously hard. In 2008 you couldn’t move for gypsy skirts and boho gladiator belts.Did I wear them? Of course, they looked good. What’s to laugh about? I surely didn't laugh at them, did I?

And now, even though laugh at flares, know they are coming back. I fear the flare.

So do we find fashion or does fashion find us?

Do we have to conform to what’s on sale? And what does this make us? Fickle followers of fashion – or less interested in the coolness of being individual by having to disobey the shops and actively find your own look?

Doesn’t seeking this out just mark you in a social sect by default?

The point I’m making is that am I any different wearing my skinnies and a tank top with a shiny horse belt and matching chunky jewellery and cute sandals in fuchsia (to match my fuchsia bag) on a hot day, than a goth dressing to meet their own ideal of 'not looking like anyone else'.

What would a goth be if they teamed the goth outfit with some nice gold sandals and some hair extensions?

Would they be true individuals, or would they be deemed 'strange'. Would they be goths? Or would they have broken the code?

Or does personality lead the label? Surely, with my accent, wardrobe and more, wearing a burberry cap wouldn't 'make me' a chav? Or would it?

Where does strange stop and individual begin- and is there such a thing?

I don't know. All I can say is whatever social sect i'm subconsciously dressing to appeal to, either way, I'm pretty sure I’m getting more enjoyment out of this sunshine than anyone in a top hat ever could.

What To Wear For Autumn Winter '11

The arrival of autumn and winter is a

beautiful time. Squirrels, crisp red leaves, tall oaks and blissful walks with a loved one in big boots and smothered in knitwear. (Can you tell I love autumn?)

The only downside is the reality that yes, you will need to pack away those flimsy summer tops. You say a farewell to your maxi dress and the ditsy floral prints that saw you through the year, and dig out vintage tartans, furs, and your knitwear.

If you’ve stored it right, you should be happy with buying just a few key pieces to get you through Christmas, New Year and beyond.

So what does fashion dictate you buy?

The Yves St Laurent shows had plenty of luxurious fabrics. Capes, grey cashmere, black woolen dresses – this is all standard winter wear with the twist of sexiness beneath it, tight a-line hems, crisp, almost see through white shirts and vertigo inducing heels.

Designers like Phillip Lim are using androgynous cuts as well, and a mix of the bright, winter-blues defying palettes along with sombre, classic beiges, greys and blacks.

Burberry Prousum, the original, British, heritage look brand have the brightest brights, Paddington bear style anoraks, duffle and lumberjack coats, all with checks, hats, and large, punchy coloured bags.

As we all know in the real world- fashion filters down, so that your high street brands are going to be using a ‘dash’ of YSL’s sleek caped style, a touch of Burberry’s brights and a mix of the ever present duffle with the high, almost neck length fastenings.

My buy it nows would be:

This delightful velvet tweed coat with a bow tie top from Topshop

The long sleeved, boat necked ‘Carey’ sweater from John Smedley, made with merino wool to lock in heat, with long sleeves that can be rolled off to display some lovely chunky bangles and the new on trend 'friendship’ style armfuls of bracelets. These burgundy Wal G hem pants have a wintery tone and the right fit for slouching about after a hearty meal, and these delicious wedge boots are comfy-ish for walking afterwards to burn off those second helpings. A complete winter look. Enjoy your shopping for Autumn Winter!

Elaine @ More Than A Keyword