Colder climes mean an abundance of clothing - layers, layers, layers.
Marshmallow dressing is the only means of staving off the chill. And as such, silhouette is secondary as the Michelin Man is the unlikely icon of the season. Chunky knit jumpers, blanket-like scarves, voluminous coats - layers are thick and bulky, with even shoes featuring chunky soles.
Weather so cold warrants fashion that is fit for function and this season *some* collections had the allure of practicality as opposed to purely fantastical renditions of escapism. Perhaps nothing befits the baltic conditions more aptly than the Balenciaga 2018 Ready-to-Wear collection, which saw items outrageous enough to garner attention, but ground in the mundane practicality of the everyday.
None such item epitomised this sentiment more so than the severn layer jacket/flannel shirt/parker coat hybrid, that had the fashion set and pop culture abuzz. Various memes followed and countless Joey Tribbiani comparisons circulated the internet. However, despite the obvious functionality vice purely aesthetic appeal, it is a somewhat playfully farcical take on practicality.
Though this multi-layered coat hybrid is a tad overbearing for a dash around the shops (not to mention the hefty price tag), the mantra of the season is definitely more-is-more. The key is to layer until one can almost no longer bend arm at elbow. Though this may impinge on everyday tasks, appendages will remain intact, which in these minus conditions is nothing to eye roll at.
Limited mobility aside, attempting to maintain that there is in fact a body under the mounds of fabric, is something of a feat. With the majority hidden in bulk, it is important to highlight a narrowness where possible, for example a cuff at the ankle. A slither of skin acts as a visual counterpoint to anchor the abundance of layers, whilst not exposing too much and compromising on cosiness.
Though this multi-layered coat hybrid is a tad overbearing for a dash around the shops (not to mention the hefty price tag), the mantra of the season is definitely more-is-more. The key is to layer until one can almost no longer bend arm at elbow. Though this may impinge on everyday tasks, appendages will remain intact, which in these minus conditions is nothing to eye roll at.
Limited mobility aside, attempting to maintain that there is in fact a body under the mounds of fabric, is something of a feat. With the majority hidden in bulk, it is important to highlight a narrowness where possible, for example a cuff at the ankle. A slither of skin acts as a visual counterpoint to anchor the abundance of layers, whilst not exposing too much and compromising on cosiness.
Bundle up on top and offset with a straight legged trouser to streamline an otherwise spherical silhouette. To alleviate the stuffiness of significant layering, a cuff at the ankle is a literal and visual point of relief. Whether cuffed messily, or in a smart, tailored fashion, or a deep statement cuff; each variation adds a stylistic finish, that though a seemingly innocuous adjustment, reshapes the voluminous bulk of layering. And if the thought of an exposed ankle is shudder inducing, add fancy socks and make a feature out of your cuffs. To further lengthen and draw out a somewhat bundle-like figure, a pointed toe shoe or boot elongates, inviting the eye downward to a slender fixed point.
Though the weather sometimes leaves little option but to resemble Mr Blobby's cousin, it is in the duality of exposure and concealment that a flattering outfit can be formed. In the balance between practicality and aesthetic, comfort and appearance, necessity and vanity, lies the formula for flattering Winter dressing. Coco Chanel advised that one remove an item before leaving the house. However, in colder climes, one should add another layer and an extra turn up to ones cuffs - mulled wine and indoor heating are also highly recommended.
(Photos via : fashionfiles.com, stlecaster.com, thefashiontag.com, instyle)
