L'ANIMALIER

This Givenchy-esque Zara top requires me to pay some homage to the inspiration. Riccardo Tisci has certainly seduced fashion lovers into embracing the wildlife ever since his collection for aw 2011. The much coveted rottweiller t-shirts and sweatshirts, the shark print and the panther adorned pieces from the previous season are certainly holding strong as fashion's favourites. I'm convinced that its appeal lays in the effortlessness it conveys and the edge it adds to outfits. In short, the otherwise 'Lazy' t-shirts and sweatshirts have now had a slight makeover but they tips for wearing them are still the same. Always think contrast. I chose to wear my t-shirt in the simplest way possible but with enough feminine elements to balance things out. 

mini tip: Pair with girly skater skirts or ankle length trousers and get your heels on.

A/W 2012 GUIDE

For most of us it's still summer and we're still pampering our sun-kissed or sun burnt skin. September marks the end of summer; the season we all wait to come and goes past as quick as saying ‘vogue’ but it also marks the arrival of a new season. As retailers have already unloaded, unpacked and hang up their new collections, it’s the perfect time for wardrobe reinvention. 

The main reasons I get excited for fall are venti lattes and fluffy things (faux fur). It’s undeniably the best season to play around with textures, use multiple layers and be creative with your outfits. Make good use of your winter staples and add a few season must-haves and you’re ready to face the cold in style.  Juxtaposition will be your best friend for creating your winter ensembles. Remember to be bold and stay warm.

The Jacket: Oversized.  Although oversized tops, knits, jumpers have been tried and tested, this season's focus is on the oversized jackets. The 'rules' of the oversize remain the same.

mini tip: Pair with sleek silhouettes to create a stylish fusion of opposites

mr newton for harper's bazaar, at Chloe, at Proenza Schouler

Camouflage. The fashion flock has certainly reclaimed the traditional military stable and has turned it into a fashionable must-have. 

mini tip: Camouflage looks at its best when it's mixed and matched. Think leopard, jewelry, chiffon fabrics. 

honestlywtf.com, tumblr

Trophy pieces: Embellishments, rich baroque and brocade. More is more this season. Gilded embelishments, adornments and brocade are the way to go to enhance your look this season.

mini tip: Mix with your usual winter staples. Balmain-esque vests are a subtle and wearable way to introduce this trend in your wardrobe. Match with black, navy and leather for maximum impact and to cancel out some of the bling effect. Best worn toned down.

wethepeople.com, style.com, fashionrising.com

Bags: Petite. Update your look with mini bags. Small satchels have been taking over designer collections for some time and now its the perfect time to invest in one.

PLEATS

Pleats, whether accordion, sun-ray or knife pleats, add such a feminine detailing especially when coupled with chiffon fabrics. The flowy silhouette and pale hues are alluring but since I'm not much of a girly girl I opted for chunky platforms and a basic t-shirt to balance things out with this ultra-feminine piece and wipe off some of the girly vibe. 

Mini tip for wearing pleats: Aim for a juxtaposed effect.

HI-LOW

There are somethings we always go back to..comfort and classics. Sometimes we find them rather boring or too ordinary and sometimes they just feel right. Silk shorts which almost feel like I'm wearing my pyjamas, an oversized shirt, necklace to lift things up and Chanel flats. This is my definition of 'hi-low'; otherwise dressy pieces worn with your comfiest attire. Comfort no longer equals Juicy Couture tracksuits and I couldn't  be happier.
What do you choose for comfort?

Giouli