Latest news with #Wakeley
RTÉ News
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- RTÉ News
How to style summer dresses with runners
Gone are the days when trainers were just a comfortable option for running errands. Today, they're a summer staple to pair with jumpsuits, dresses and everything in between. Here, fashion experts break down the dos and don'ts of making this trend work every time. The key to choosing the right trainers Summer dressing calls for shoes that feel fresh but are also functional. The best way to nail the look is to focus on clean lines. "Right now, the trainer trend is all about clean, minimalist silhouettes," says fashion designer and podcaster Amanda Wakeley OBE. "Any classic white leather style [is] pared-back, elegant and versatile." Low-profile shapes are leading the pack, but some subtle height doesn't hurt. "A slightly chunkier sole or flatform can add a modern edge without overwhelming the look, with the added benefit of elevating you slightly," says Wakeley. Meanwhile, old-school plimsoles are currently trending. "Retro runners are also having their moment in the sun, adding a sporty sensibility to feminine pieces," says Wakeley. Muted shades and soft suede textures are also big this spring/summer. "This season, it's all about low-profile, retro-inspired trainers [like] 1970s athletic footwear, reimagined," says celebrity and personal stylist, Deborah Sheridan-Taylor. Soft creams, pastels and muted vintage tones complement the lightness of summer fabrics. Sheridan-Taylor suggests butter yellows, light browns and baby blues. Balancing proportions is essential Pulling off the trainer-and-dress look isn't just about what you wear, but about how you wear it. Proportion plays a huge role in getting it right. "When wearing a more floaty dress, grounding the look with a sleek, structured trainer creates a sense of balance," explains Wakeley. "Keep the volume in check – if the dress is voluminous, opt for a low-profile shoe and perhaps layer with a cropped jacket or defined waistline." It's all about creating harmony from contrast, says Sheridan-Taylor, who lays out a simple style formula: "The longer and looser the dress, the chunkier the trainer. "As hemlines rise or become more fitted, the trainer should get sleeker and more refined." Her current go-to is the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66. "There's something about that criss-cross back design element – it acts like a corset for the ankle. Just that little bit more thought-out and considered." Not all dresses work with trainers While this styling duo can be effortlessly cool, not every dress makes a great match. Some silhouettes are just too structured or formal. "Ultra-tailored or bodycon silhouettes might not sit as harmoniously with the ease of a trainer," says Wakeley. Looser, more fluid shapes tend to work better, like relaxed shirt dresses, A-line midis or floaty maxis. Trainers, after all, should never feel like an afterthought. "It's all about the relationship between the shape of the dress and the style of the shoe," says Sheridan-Taylor. "Chunky soles with diaphanous skirts? Yes. Try the Axel Arigato Sphere Runner – a chunky, mixed-material trainer that brings instant nonchalance." For those testing the waters, she suggests starting tonal. "An all-black look – a black linen two-piece skirt suit paired with a simple tank, anchored with a retro black trainer like the Adidas Tokyo Low-Top – works beautifully to create a monochromatic look that's well-suited for a work setting," says Sheridan-Taylor. Accessories can transform the look The right accessories can take the trainer-and-dress pairing from relaxed to refined in seconds. "Accessories are key to making this look feel polished," says Wakeley. "I love layering fine gold jewellery or sculptural earrings for a touch of glamour […] while an oversized pair of sunglasses can easily pull everything together." Adding more unique touches – beyond jewellery – can make the outfit entirely your own. "[You can] introduce a vintage, Hermès-inspired, silk scarf tied nonchalantly at the waist or around your bag for a flash of colour," Sheridan-Taylor suggests. She says to then pair the colour of the trainer with the colours in the scarf to tie the look together. Yes, you can make the combo formal Formal dressing doesn't always require heels. With the right styling, trainers can feel elevated enough for any occasion. "Trainers can work beautifully for more dressed-up moments, as long as they're impeccably clean and styled with intent," says Wakeley. She recommends luxe fabrics and strong accessories. "A slip dress – perhaps in silk – paired with a sleek leather trainer and elevated with statement earrings or a sharp blazer, can feel fresh and relevant for a summer event." Similarly, Sheridan-Taylor says the key to elevating a look lies in the fabric. "A pale yellow floaty silk trouser suit with a suede trainer is perfect," she says. "Or retro metallic low-tops styled with a floor-length silk maxi skirt and a crystal-embellished top." She points out that trainers are the most important piece of footwear to invest in. "You'll spend a fortune on heels you wear once and regret all night. Why not invest in elevated trainers you'll live in?" she says.
The Independent
04-03-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Styling baggy jeans is tricky at any age – here's how to do
From horseshoe to barrel-leg, unconventional denim silhouettes continue to dominate the fashion landscape. But styling these avant-garde shapes can be more challenging than your average wide-leg jean. Whether you're embracing the horseshoe trend or opting for a more classic cut, achieving an effortlessly cool, non-sloppy look requires a certain finesse. We asked fashion experts for their advice on mastering the art of baggy denim, regardless of your age. Volume is the trickiest part of styling baggy jeans. 'If your jeans are exaggerated in shape, keep the top half sleek,' says fashion designer and podcaster Amanda Wakeley OBE. 'A fitted tee, a fine knit or a tailored blazer works beautifully. 'Conversely, if you love an oversized top, opt for a half-tuck to define your waist. And always consider your outerwear – cropped or cinched jackets add definition, while floor-length coats create a dramatic, elongated silhouette.' If you want to pair your favourite loose fitting tee with some baggy jeans however, the French tuck is your secret weapon. 'If you love loose-fitting tops, tuck just the front into the waistband and it creates shape without sacrificing ease,' says Seasalt Cornwall 's chief creative officer, Laura Watson. Mango Zlata Detachable Collar Jacket, £45.99 (was £79.99), John Lewis & Partners M&S The Wide-Leg Jeans, £35 What shoes to wear When it comes to casual, baggy denim – get the shoes wrong, and your whole look falls apart. 'A pointed-toe pump or heeled boot instantly refines baggy jeans,' says Wakeley. 'For something more effortless, go with a ballet flat or a luxe loafer.' A baggy jean slightly easier to style just so happens to be the barrel, according to Watson, 'since they taper at the ankle, they work with Chelsea boots for a surprisingly polished look. 'In summer, ballet flats or open-toe mules are perfect.' Depending on the look you're going for, 'a pointed-toe shoe elongates the leg, while ankle boots balance the volume,' says personal stylist and celebrity consultant Oriona Robb. If you're wanting a more casual look, Robb suggests opting for a chunky trainer over a slim fit, to add height. Schuh Brynn Kitten Heel Boots, £23.99 (was £40) Adidas SL 72 OG Shoes, £90 How to style if you're petite Any baggy-style of clothing can swamp you. And if you're on the petite side, it can make going near baggy jeans rather off-putting. 'Proportion is everything,' says Wakeley. 'A high waist is your best friend [if you're petite] as it lengthens the legs instantly. 'A cropped length or a rolled hem also keeps the look from overwhelming your frame.' If you veer on the petite side, 'a heeled boot or a sleek pointed pump adds height and keeps proportions in check when it comes to baggy jeans,' says founder of pre-loved boutique, One Scoop Store, Holly Watkins. H&M Straight Regular Jeans, £37.99 How to style the new trends: from horseshoe to barrel jeans While denim trends come and go, horseshoe and barrel jeans are certainly having a moment. 'They have this sculptural quality that's both modern and nonchalant,' says Wakeley, 'utterly flattering when done right.' Her tip when it comes to avant-garde silhouettes is to focus on proportions. 'Balance the volume with a sharply tailored blazer or a second-skin cashmere knit,' she says. 'A great belt helps define the waist and pulls the whole look together.' 'The fit [of horseshoe jeans] is surprisingly flattering,' says Watson, 'thanks to the way the seams curve inward. They work for everyone.' The important thing to bear in mind when it comes to barrel-leg jeans is to keep your top or outerwear structured to create contrast and balance proportion. Robb suggests a structured wool coat or cropped jacket. Arket Brushed Wool Jacket, £100 (was £169) Style mistakes to avoid In many ways, baggy jeans are easy to wear, but that also means they're easy to get wrong. 'Drowning in fabric is the number one mistake,' warns Wakeley. 'Baggy should look intentional, not accidental.' Watson agrees, noting, 'An oversized sweater over baggy jeans? It can swallow you whole. If you're not into tucking, add a belt – it defines your shape without looking forced.' Ensuring you find the perfect length is integral for baggy jeans. Robb's pet peeve is pools of denim at the ankle. She recommends nailing the length – then the fit is easier to style in any way you like. The secret to styling them throughout the ages While skinny denim jeans had a slight renaissance, it's clear that baggy jeans aren't going anywhere. And the secret to making them work is all about confidence. As Wakeley puts it, 'If you feel good, you will look good.' Fashion's biggest lie is that certain trends expire after 30. 'Forget that nonsense,' says Wakeley. 'Denim is ageless. It's all about staying true to your style DNA.' Wakeley's formula is simple. 'If you're going all in, lean into the contrast – oversized blazers, crop tops, chunky trainers. If you want a polished take, reach for a silk shirt, a crisp bodysuit, or a luxe knit with a sharp-shouldered jacket.'
The Independent
22-02-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Styling baggy jeans can be tricky – here's how to do it at any age
From horseshoe to barrel-leg, unconventional denim silhouettes continue to dominate the fashion landscape. But styling these avant-garde shapes can be more challenging than your average wide-leg jean. Whether you're embracing the horseshoe trend or opting for a more classic cut, achieving an effortlessly cool, non-sloppy look requires a certain finesse. We asked fashion experts for their advice on mastering the art of baggy denim, regardless of your age. Volume is the trickiest part of styling baggy jeans. 'If your jeans are exaggerated in shape, keep the top half sleek,' says fashion designer and podcaster Amanda Wakeley OBE. 'A fitted tee, a fine knit or a tailored blazer works beautifully. 'Conversely, if you love an oversized top, opt for a half-tuck to define your waist. And always consider your outerwear – cropped or cinched jackets add definition, while floor-length coats create a dramatic, elongated silhouette.' If you want to pair your favourite loose fitting tee with some baggy jeans however, the French tuck is your secret weapon. 'If you love loose-fitting tops, tuck just the front into the waistband and it creates shape without sacrificing ease,' says Seasalt Cornwall 's chief creative officer, Laura Watson. Mango Zlata Detachable Collar Jacket, £45.99 (was £79.99), John Lewis & Partners M&S The Wide-Leg Jeans, £35 What shoes to wear When it comes to casual, baggy denim – get the shoes wrong, and your whole look falls apart. 'A pointed-toe pump or heeled boot instantly refines baggy jeans,' says Wakeley. 'For something more effortless, go with a ballet flat or a luxe loafer.' A baggy jean slightly easier to style just so happens to be the barrel, according to Watson, 'since they taper at the ankle, they work with Chelsea boots for a surprisingly polished look. 'In summer, ballet flats or open-toe mules are perfect.' Depending on the look you're going for, 'a pointed-toe shoe elongates the leg, while ankle boots balance the volume,' says personal stylist and celebrity consultant Oriona Robb. If you're wanting a more casual look, Robb suggests opting for a chunky trainer over a slim fit, to add height. Schuh Brynn Kitten Heel Boots, £23.99 (was £40) Adidas SL 72 OG Shoes, £90 How to style if you're petite Any baggy-style of clothing can swamp you. And if you're on the petite side, it can make going near baggy jeans rather off-putting. 'Proportion is everything,' says Wakeley. 'A high waist is your best friend [if you're petite] as it lengthens the legs instantly. 'A cropped length or a rolled hem also keeps the look from overwhelming your frame.' If you veer on the petite side, 'a heeled boot or a sleek pointed pump adds height and keeps proportions in check when it comes to baggy jeans,' says founder of pre-loved boutique, One Scoop Store, Holly Watkins. H&M Straight Regular Jeans, £37.99 How to style the new trends: from horseshoe to barrel jeans While denim trends come and go, horseshoe and barrel jeans are certainly having a moment. 'They have this sculptural quality that's both modern and nonchalant,' says Wakeley, 'utterly flattering when done right.' Her tip when it comes to avant-garde silhouettes is to focus on proportions. 'Balance the volume with a sharply tailored blazer or a second-skin cashmere knit,' she says. 'A great belt helps define the waist and pulls the whole look together.' 'The fit [of horseshoe jeans] is surprisingly flattering,' says Watson, 'thanks to the way the seams curve inward. They work for everyone.' The important thing to bear in mind when it comes to barrel-leg jeans is to keep your top or outerwear structured to create contrast and balance proportion. Robb suggests a structured wool coat or cropped jacket. Arket Brushed Wool Jacket, £100 (was £169) Style mistakes to avoid In many ways, baggy jeans are easy to wear, but that also means they're easy to get wrong. 'Drowning in fabric is the number one mistake,' warns Wakeley. 'Baggy should look intentional, not accidental.' Watson agrees, noting, 'An oversized sweater over baggy jeans? It can swallow you whole. If you're not into tucking, add a belt – it defines your shape without looking forced.' Ensuring you find the perfect length is integral for baggy jeans. Robb's pet peeve is pools of denim at the ankle. She recommends nailing the length – then the fit is easier to style in any way you like. The secret to styling them throughout the ages While skinny denim jeans had a slight renaissance, it's clear that baggy jeans aren't going anywhere. And the secret to making them work is all about confidence. As Wakeley puts it, 'If you feel good, you will look good.' Fashion's biggest lie is that certain trends expire after 30. 'Forget that nonsense,' says Wakeley. 'Denim is ageless. It's all about staying true to your style DNA.' Wakeley's formula is simple. 'If you're going all in, lean into the contrast – oversized blazers, crop tops, chunky trainers. If you want a polished take, reach for a silk shirt, a crisp bodysuit, or a luxe knit with a sharp-shouldered jacket.'
The Independent
20-02-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Independent
How to style baggy jeans at any age
As horseshoe and barrel-leg jeans continue to the lead the denim trend, knowing how to style the avant-garde shape proves trickier than ordinary wide-leg jeans. Whether you're rocking horseshoe jeans or leaning into a more classic cut – there's an art to nailing the effortlessly cool, never-sloppy look. So, how do you make baggy jeans work without looking like you raided your dad's wardrobe? We hear from fashion experts on their best tips for styling baggy denim at any age. Balance the look Volume is the trickiest part of styling baggy jeans. 'If your jeans are exaggerated in shape, keep the top half sleek,' says fashion designer and podcaster Amanda Wakeley OBE. 'A fitted tee, a fine knit or a tailored blazer works beautifully. 'Conversely, if you love an oversized top, opt for a half-tuck to define your waist. And always consider your outerwear – cropped or cinched jackets add definition, while floor-length coats create a dramatic, elongated silhouette.' If you want to pair your favourite loose fitting tee with some baggy jeans however, the French tuck is your secret weapon. 'If you love loose-fitting tops, tuck just the front into the waistband and it creates shape without sacrificing ease,' says Seasalt Cornwall 's chief creative officer, Laura Watson. Mango Zlata Detachable Collar Jacket, £45.99 (was £79.99), John Lewis & Partners M&S The Wide-Leg Jeans, £35 What shoes to wear When it comes to casual, baggy denim – get the shoes wrong, and your whole look falls apart. 'A pointed-toe pump or heeled boot instantly refines baggy jeans,' says Wakeley. 'For something more effortless, go with a ballet flat or a luxe loafer.' A baggy jean slightly easier to style just so happens to be the barrel, according to Watson, 'since they taper at the ankle, they work with Chelsea boots for a surprisingly polished look. 'In summer, ballet flats or open-toe mules are perfect.' Depending on the look you're going for, 'a pointed-toe shoe elongates the leg, while ankle boots balance the volume,' says personal stylist and celebrity consultant Oriona Robb. If you're wanting a more casual look, Robb suggests opting for a chunky trainer over a slim fit, to add height. Schuh Brynn Kitten Heel Boots, £23.99 (was £40) Adidas SL 72 OG Shoes, £90 How to style if you're petite Any baggy-style of clothing can swamp you. And if you're on the petite side, it can make going near baggy jeans rather off-putting. 'Proportion is everything,' says Wakeley. 'A high waist is your best friend [if you're petite] as it lengthens the legs instantly. 'A cropped length or a rolled hem also keeps the look from overwhelming your frame.' If you veer on the petite side, 'a heeled boot or a sleek pointed pump adds height and keeps proportions in check when it comes to baggy jeans,' says founder of pre-loved boutique, One Scoop Store, Holly Watkins. H&M Straight Regular Jeans, £37.99 How to style the new trends: from horseshoe to barrel jeans While denim trends come and go, horseshoe and barrel jeans are certainly having a moment. 'They have this sculptural quality that's both modern and nonchalant,' says Wakeley, 'utterly flattering when done right.' Her tip when it comes to avant-garde silhouettes is to focus on proportions. 'Balance the volume with a sharply tailored blazer or a second-skin cashmere knit,' she says. 'A great belt helps define the waist and pulls the whole look together.' 'The fit [of horseshoe jeans] is surprisingly flattering,' says Watson, 'thanks to the way the seams curve inward. They work for everyone.' The important thing to bear in mind when it comes to barrel-leg jeans is to keep your top or outerwear structured to create contrast and balance proportion. Robb suggests a structured wool coat or cropped jacket. Arket Brushed Wool Jacket, £100 (was £169) Style mistakes to avoid In many ways, baggy jeans are easy to wear, but that also means they're easy to get wrong. 'Drowning in fabric is the number one mistake,' warns Wakeley. 'Baggy should look intentional, not accidental.' Watson agrees, noting, 'An oversized sweater over baggy jeans? It can swallow you whole. If you're not into tucking, add a belt – it defines your shape without looking forced.' Ensuring you find the perfect length is integral for baggy jeans. Robb's pet peeve is pools of denim at the ankle. She recommends nailing the length – then the fit is easier to style in any way you like. The secret to styling them throughout the ages While skinny denim jeans had a slight renaissance, it's clear that baggy jeans aren't going anywhere. And the secret to making them work is all about confidence. As Wakeley puts it, 'If you feel good, you will look good.' Fashion's biggest lie is that certain trends expire after 30. 'Forget that nonsense,' says Wakeley. 'Denim is ageless. It's all about staying true to your style DNA.' Wakeley's formula is simple. 'If you're going all in, lean into the contrast – oversized blazers, crop tops, chunky trainers. If you want a polished take, reach for a silk shirt, a crisp bodysuit, or a luxe knit with a sharp-shouldered jacket.'
The Independent
06-02-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Independent
How to upgrade your wardrobe over 50
While many of us prioritise finding our signature style in our 20s, by the time 50 comes around, our day-to-day style can feel a little tired. While the term 'trend' has seemingly become a non-trend due to growing awareness of the fast-fashion industry and our overstuffed wardrobes – updating your style doesn't mean overhauling your whole wardrobe. Whether it's upgrading accessories, refreshing your colour palette or refining your silhouette – experts reveal their top tips for elevating your wardrobe over 50. Introduce statement pieces Changing up your style can feel like a mammoth task – but the trick is to start small. 'A wardrobe refresh doesn't have to mean a complete overhaul,' says fashion designer and podcaster Amanda Wakeley OBE. 'Start by investing in a versatile statement piece – like a beautifully tailored blazer – and then work out five different ways of styling it with your existing pieces.' Investing in a piece you've had your eye on can help you rework your wardrobe by injecting a new lease of life. Try not to go for the same neutral knit you usually gravitate toward – and opt for a different colour or texture. 'Start by introducing texture or print – think floral appliqué tops or dresses for a subtle yet chic nod to the latest trends,' says celebrity stylist and resident expert at Klass, Lynne McKenna. Boden Relaxed Wool Blazer, £230 Mint Velvet Cream Jacquard Blouse, £89 Create a mood board If like many of us, you may frequently see clothes you like, but aren't sure how to make them work as an outfit – start by sourcing inspiration. Create a folder of Pinterest or celebrity looks on your camera roll, then assess the common thread, whether that be shape, colour or print. 'It is generally easier if this person is similar to you in terms of colouring and shape,' says Wakeley. 'Hopefully some of the pieces they are wearing you already have something similar in your own wardrobe but perhaps they are wearing it in a more inspirational way. 'I would then suggest looking at the pieces in your wardrobe that you feel need updating the most – this may be your trousers, so try changing the leg shape. 'Always take a quick selfie of whatever you try on, and try to work out what you are liking and why?' says Wakeley, 'It is often easier to take the picture without your head so that you can be more objective about the clothes. Think about the silhouette and proportion on your body.' Pick one new colour It's easy to slip into a comfortable palette of creams, navies and greens – but if you want to branch out, the experts suggest incorporating one new colour. While you may not like it, introducing a new colour forces you to look at your wardrobe with a new pair of eyes, creating combinations you may not have thought already of. 'Start small through layering colours with bold jumpers and cardigans which are sure to match neutral clothes that you may already own,' says fashion buyer at Pour Moi, Charlotte Johnson-Smith. 'Rich cobalt blue or burgundy knitwear is great for layering darker pops of colour, whilst bright yellows and greens are great for bolder brighter hues.' If you don't want to start with clothes, 'Start with accessories and jewellery like scarves, belts, brooches and necklaces,' says fashion expert and founder of Modes and More, Susie Nelson. 'A cost-effective way to experiment is to purchase these items from charity shops, benefitting both the charity and yourself.' If you're reassessing your wardrobe during winter, Holly Watkins, the founder of pre-loved boutique One Scoop Store, suggests missing up your base layers. 'Base layers are a great way to add colour, I love a fine-knit roll-neck in a bold colour under a shirt or chunkier knit.' Aspinal of London Small Stella Satchel Cross Body Bag in Cardinal Red, £158 (was £395), John Lewis & Other Stories Relaxed Knit Jumper in Bright Blue, £47 How to quickly update your look with one accessory If you're not quite looking for a total overhaul of your current wardrobe – but are on the look out for an instant elevation – the experts suggest incorporating one trending accessory into your outfit. Perhaps this could be a slim sneaker in favour of your old chunky trainers – or suede-effect tote in place of your usual leather cross-body. 'This season is all about embracing metallics,' says McKenna, 'and nothing updates an outfit faster than a metallic mini bag or a mix of gold and silver jewellery. 'High-shine accessories are an affordable way to make your outfits feel modern and chic, simply pair a metallic bag with a jeans-and-jumper combo, or add metal bracelets and stacking rings to a simple summer dress for a trend-led way to update your look.' Another trending accessory, inspired by the recent equestrian craze, is a silk scarf. 'A simple silk scarf can drastically change the look of a whole outfit,' says Humes Outfitters managing director, Rachel Thomson. 'Drape it around your neck for a classic touch, tie it as a headscarf for a retro vibe or knot it to the handle of a handbag for a subtle yet stylish accent.' H&M Cuff Bracelet, £27.99 Joules Bloomfield Khaki Green Square Silk Scarf, £39.95
