Spot The Sparkle

This post is sponsored by JD Williams.

I don’t have much black in my closet but what I do have is timeless and chic. Every piece is a wardrobe hero that I can call upon for any occasion, safe in the knowledge that it’ll do exactly what I need. I prefer style over fashion and I’m drawn towards vintage shapes, the 1950s being among my favourite sartorial eras.

If I had to name a style icon, it would be Audrey Hepburn. This outfit reminds me of one she wore in the 1957 film, Funny Face. Black cigarette pants with ballerina shoes is an enduring combination; it’s smart, sassy, insouciant and effortless. Audrey wore hers with a plain black top. I wore mine with florals.

Little Black Wardrobe Heroes

These black cigarette pants by JD Williams are true heroes. They have structure, stretch and pockets. The perfect triad. They don’t crease or bag and they fit beautifully. (For reference, I’m 5 feet 9, 175cm and these are the long length). They are supremely comfortable and remained so even after a six-course tasting meal, courtesy of the stretch waistband. I love them so much that I ordered them in cobalt blue too. I’ll share photos when I wear them.

And, JD Williams have a hero style for everyone. My trousers are ankle-grazers but they come in a “full-length” version. the Kate. Or, (it’s a good thing I love the Royal Family), if you prefer a cropped trouser with a turn-up, then the Camilla is the style for you. All three shapes have a Magisculpt panel insert and a secret stretch waistband which allows the trouser to move with the natural contours of the body throughout the day whilst retaining the appearance of a flat waistband.

I squealed when I unboxed these black ballerinas. The multi-coloured glitter, the bow and the patterned sole give them wardrobe icon status.  They manage to be simultaneously cute and sexy, which is no mean feat for a flat shoe. I wear them with rolled-up boyfriend jeans and with maxis and each and every time, they make me smile.

The silhouette of my polka dot swing coat is perfect with the slim fitting black cigarette pants and it works both open and closed. It’s an excellent choice for a wedding or other formal occasion. But equally, it looks brilliant with jeans and trainers. And that’s the thing about wardrobe heroes. They can multi-task. They stand alone or work in an ensemble. They’re timeless yet current.  And most importantly, they always look fabulous.

The Perfect Pair

What is the perfect pair of glasses for a 1950s inspired outfit? I can think of nothing better than feminine, feline eyewear. This cat eye in gold, (Scarlett by ROAV eyewear), is elegant and sophisticated and, because it’s super-lightweight, it’s supremely comfortable. Purrfect.