How nightdresses became the new office wear
Swap your summer dresses for these co-ords which ooze charm and comfort
This summer has been a long time coming and I feel like it’s arrived with a lot of hype and expectations on the style front. I’ve heard a lot of women talking about the need to glam up.
All the summer dresses we waited to wear can now be aired around at events. The high heels that have been collecting dust are finally getting their first scuffs, and those poor neglected handbags with nowhere to go are seeing the world once again.
At the same time, there might be more than a few of us feeling the fatigue of it all and I want today’s message to be the warm hug you need, knowing that you can dress with one foot still in the comfort zone this summer.
Yes, we’re back out and about, but that doesn’t mean style statements must be all fuss and no favour. Co-ords are the perfect marriage of charm and comfort appeal – yes, those dynamic duos that have all of our mothers and fathers asking: “Why are you wearing your pyjamas to work?” My standard response to this remark is: “If the catwalk says it’s daywear, who am I to argue?” OK, that’s not much of a defence, is it? But, it is true.
Of course, it’s all too easy to wear a set that looks like pyjamas if you don’t accessorise it correctly. Rocking this trend is all about your “add-on” game.
Shoes are key. If you can, pair with a chunky block heel. You’ll still be comfortable but you’re elevating the look. Inject colour with a clutch or a crossbody bag. Then, as we get higher in the outfit, make it clear you’re in daywear by accessorising with chunky earrings or a large and in charge necklace.
Or you can wear your set exactly as I am here, casual and cool. It’s really all about confidence. I find no one questions any woman’s choice of outfit if she walks like she owns it. Once you learn to channel that confidence, no ensemble will ever feel out of place.
Emily wears: Bandana print shirt and trousers, from a selection at Polo Ralph Lauren; mini Ricky crossbody bag, also from a selection at Ralph Lauren; and Chuck 70 low-top trainers, £75, Converse
The details
- Accessories matter: Take your look from day to night by piling on the jewellery
- To tuck or not to tuck?: It all depends on the set you’re wearing. For a more casual look or with a longline shirt, let the tails hang free
- A handbag for confidence: If you’re nervous about this looking “straight out of bed”, a handbag instantly
translates for those not in the style “know” - Keep the look loose: Fit is critical. This look should be loose and casual
- Best foot forward: Trainers give this look a carefree feel. For an elevated, or nightwear transition, add heels or sparkly slides
Now make it work for you
L-R: Stripe All Day top (£50) and trousers (£75) both Me+Em; Smocked short sleeve blouse (£75) and trousers (£55) both Boden; Wrap blouse (£79) and trousers (£69) both Phase Eight at Marks & Spencer; Satin crepe shirt (£77.40) and wide leg trousers (£103.20) both Karen Millen.
L-R: Eleonora slingback block heel sandals (£228) Reformation; Notte & Giorno earrings (£155) Soru; Raffia Eyes crossbody (£350) Anya Hindmarch; Air Heart sunglasses (£60) Le Specs at Net-a-Porter
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