I can’t believe my time studying abroad in London has almost come to an end! Yes, Big Ben is indeed counting down the days until it’s time for me to pack all my bags and head back to the states. While I have enjoyed taking in all of what London has to offer, I have by far enjoyed observing their famous fashion and trends. And after almost five months of research, I think I can safely say that I’ve really grasped the style and vibe of London’s college Fashionistas and what in my opinion are their most popular trends.
This particular Fashionista is a classmate of mine at my study abroad school in London. She is the quintessential “British” girl, who always comes dressed for class wearing all of London’s most famous high-street brands. Her look is a perfect example of what you would see walking down almost any street in London; a mix of prim and proper with equal parts edge and roughness. It’s very “the Royals meet Amy Winehouse,” both very different but very British.
This Fashionista is mixing prints, fabrics, colors and details in a stylish, fashion forward way. Even though there is warm weather stateside, London has seen very little sun all spring. Because of this, black is a very popular and versatile color that’s worn year round, even in the summer months. This fabulous oversized tweed blazer is from Zara. Tweed is synonymous with the timeless elegance and sophistication of a Coco Chanel suit and Jackie-O. But this tweed blazer is anything but prim and proper. The stud detailing on the jacket is what really takes this jacket from a great basic to a killer, yet versatile statement piece. The contrast between the fabric and metal detailing really caught my eye. Her colorful printed blouse can also be found at Zara, both available now. By keeping the rest of her outfit simple with black skinny jeans, the color in the blouse and details in the jacket were really able to stand out. She accessorized with her Alexander McQueen crystal skull necklace, Louis Vuitton handbag and black-heeled booties to complete the look.
Achieving this look is actually very simple. If you’re like me and tend to be drawn toward more feminine, girly trends, try swapping out your usual pearl necklace for a gold spiked bracelet. Or try adding some gold studs from a craft store to an on-trend pastel blazer. If you can’t seem to get enough leather in your life, try swapping your usual go-to rocker tee for something chiffon and sheer. Little changes like these can go a long way when updating your wardrobe. But most importantly, have fun with your style, whatever it may be. That is definitely the main thing I picked up on from the ladies of London. You could tell that they truly love fashion, and love creating and experimenting based on their unique personality and style. It was truly inspiring!