As we head into the cooler months, the latest designer collections are gracing store shelves and filling our social feeds with their siren songs of swoon-worthy pieces we simply must have. But with the cost of living impacting all of us, it’s simply impossible to give in to every fashion impulse and still pay the bills. Fear not. We’ve put together a few key pieces that will instantly winter-fy your existing wardrobe and will guarantee maximum bang for your fashion buck for winter and beyond.
Statement Earrings
We love the chunky gold earring trend, and it’s here for the foreseeable. Bottega Veneta’s OG teardrop earrings sparked a million dupes but go your own way for winter with something that speaks to your individual style.
Bright and beautiful Australian brand Alémais carries a range of bold, gold jewellery with sea life and flower motifs that are sure to be conversation starters, from the unmissable lobster earring set, to smaller rose shaped studs.
Ankle Boots
Nothing says winter dressing like a new-season ankle boot, and the go-with-everything ECCO sculpted LX55 boots are a wardrobe workhorse. With an on-trend round toe and five-centimeter platform heel, they’re the perfect height for all-day comfort.
In a choice of soft, high-end ECCO leather finishes, this sleek style is leather lined and comes with removable dual-fit leather insoles to allow for a wider fit and roomier toe area if needed. The platform sole, leather heel and a slip-proof rubber tread give the perfect amount of height and length to wear with everything from jeans to dresses and winter’s essential wide-leg pants. Available in black, limestone and black mock-croc embossed leather finishes, $349.95.
Low-Slung Belts
A favourite in the early noughties, the low-slung belt is coming back stronger than a 90s trend, sent down the catwalk by the likes of Tom Ford and Louis Vuitton, and were even spotted creeping downward on Burberry trench coats.
On a cost-per-wear basis, a slouchy belt has plenty of versatility over skirts and sweaters, shirts and pants, dresses and more. But for a more cost-of-living friendly option, try the Australian owned, handmade in Italy range of luxurious leather belts (and seriously covetable bags) from Vestirsi.
The Boxy Blazer
Structured, cozy and effortless, the boxy blazer will be your best friend when the temperature drops. The generous cut allows for a chunky knit underneath but looks equally smart over a white shirt for work. Choose a timeless shade and the best fabric your budget will allow, like the charcoal wool blend Esti blazer from Sydney-born label Minima Esenciales.