THAT SEVENTIES SHOW

CLOSET STAPLES

Forget bell-bottomed flares and space hoppers: this year’s take on Seventies style is thoroughly grown-up. From the checked suits and tweed blazers seen at Victoria Beckham to the silk foulards (that’s ‘scarf’ to you and me) and pleated skirts by Celine, here’s how to work the season’s most in-demand pieces into your wardrobe.

When in doubt, start with the dress. We recommend this utility-chic style which will take you from work to weekend with ease. The midi length goes with everything from heeled boots to sleek courts, while the self-tie belt has a waist-whittling effect.

Checked tailoring continues to be hot news for the season, but it is also a wise investment, promising great cost-per-wear value when mixed and matched with pieces you already own. Try a wool blazer teamed with jeans and a tee, or houndstooth pants with a cashmere polo-neck and sneakers.

Dig out a trench

Trench coats are perennially stylish, hardwearing and versatile, and these new designs boast clever water-repelling technology to combat the famously fickle trans-seasonal weather. Slip on over a ribbed knit and jeans for a failsafe everyday outfit or dress up with a pleated skirt for evening. Chunky leather brogues complete the look.

Fit and flair

A figure-flattering dress is always a sensible investment at this time of year, especially one that can be teamed with thick opaque tights once the mercury drops. The rich terracotta hue signals the arrival of the new season while paying homage to the earthy palette favoured in the Seventies. A circular cross-body purse brings the styling up to the minute.