THE STYLE: Oversized
As leaves are falling off the trees and mornings are getting frostier, cosy jumpers and warm coats are landing on everyone’s shopping lists. But even for a shopaholic like myself, there’s something uninspiring about shopping for a coat or jumper; it just feels like more of a necessary purchase than anything to get excited about. I’ve been looking for a way to still get the shopping buzz when buying essential winter items, and ‘oversized’ pieces seem like the perfect place to start.
One thing I immediately found when putting the ‘oversized’ style on trial is the multiplicity of ways oversized pieces can be incorporated into my existing wardrobe, an extremely positive factor when shopping on a student budget.
My personal favourite ways to wear the oversized trend are the classic oversized sweater and the blanket cape. Both of these items make an effortless statement, with the added bonus of being warm, practical and comfortable – perfect for winter! Team an oversized sweater with skinny jeans and boots to achieve an everyday casual look. Ripped skinnies will give you added impact. Alternatively, trade the jeans for an A-line skirt and tights for a more chic wintery style, my absolute fave! Meanwhile, the blanket cape is two trends in one, and a staple piece that can be thrown over any outfit, whether on the way to a lecture or keeping you warm in the Sugar queue.
There are still many more ways you can feature oversized items in your outfits! Oversized shirt-dresses (perhaps add a belt), culottes or palazzo trousers, cosy cardigans and tailored blazers to name a few, the choice is endless regardless of your existing personal style.
If you’re still slightly dubious, oversized accessories can be a more commitment free way to tap into the oversized style and still feel amazing, think chunky snoods, thick rimmed sunglasses and bags that would put Mary Poppins to shame.
This style has a greater effect when one oversized item is worn at a time, keeping all other items fitted. This also helps to balance your proportions. I have found this is a key way to avoid any fatal faux pas, such as looking swamped in your clothes or feeling frumpy. To prevent this happening to you, ensure every item you buy actually does fit you, limit your over sizing to two sizes above normal, and ensure sleeve lengths fit normally. I also found that thinner materials worked better when oversized.
Overall I feel that the oversized style is easy to get involved with, can suit everyone and can become a part of any outfit.
THE VERDICT: Winter cosiness finally meets fashion. Oversized pieces are a winter must-have!
