How to wear max impact

Words: Cayleigh Bright | Photography: Glen Montgomery | Styling: Mandy Nash

Thanks to recent campaigns from the likes of Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci, there’s no shortage of inspiration for those who want a little opulence in their lives, but the real beauty of the trend is in the ease of styling. When “more is more” is the attitude du jour, you can pile on pieces that would have needed careful curation in the past. The result? Luxe-look outfits that’ll have you feeling and looking like you’re living large – whatever your actual budget.

The bold bag

Statement handbags aren’t what they once were – they’re better. They’re also bigger and bolder, so grab yours in your favourite bright colour: it matches nothing, so you can wear it with everything.

Frank Ocean Orange

Remember when Frank made us wait four years for an album? While we refreshed our feeds waiting for new music, we got a little attached to the distinctive cover colour of Channel Orange, so it’s no surprise that the shade is popping up everywhere. Pair yours with printed pieces and softer, neutral shades now that you’ve gone Blond.

The frill knit

When choosing the knits that’ll update your wardrobe, choose styles with embellishments and unexpected design details – just for the frill of it. They’ll work well with the season’s simple staples, but why not channel your inner lady who lunches with pretty pumps and a knee-length skirt.

Printed bellbottoms

You know by now that this isn’t an article about how to dress demurely, so it shouldn’t come as any surprise when we tell you that the perfect partner for bold print is a standout silhouette? This isn’t the wide-legged denim pair you’d wear to a festival: keep the look polished with heels and touches of velvet and satin.

Faux fur

90s hip-hop or 70s rock? Genres and eras agree: touchable texture supplies instant luxe to any look. Choose one that you want to pull on over every outfit, because it’s about to become your trademark piece.

The bold loafer

If your feet have had it with heels, or grown tired of kicking it in athleisure’s favourite sneakers, here’s the balanced alternative. Loafers are standout staples for their ability to look formal with all the comforts of flats. Choose a high-shine pair with menswear-inspired details and you’ll be set to stay out all night, too.

Tonal dressing

Yeezy taught us how to wear multiple shades of the same colours or non-colours for high-impact style that never tries too hard. Next, take things up a level by playing with high-shine textures and bold prints and patterns for a considered yet carefree look.

The bold suit

Corporate culture hasn’t given us much to like, but whether or not you’re out into the world of water coolers and coffee on tap, the suit is a must-have this season. Power dressing: now in pink, now high-impact, briefcase still optional.

* Thanks to Harrington's for allowing us to shoot in their space