Studio Shoot: Wardrobe Staples For Every Season

By Charlie Colville

3 weeks ago

Viva Forever


Stuck in rut when it comes to your style? Then it might time to tab back into the classicsC&TH‘s Fashion Director, Nicole Smallwood, takes us through the wardrobe staples everyone should have.

The Country & Town House Responsible Buyers’ Guide

Through The Seasons: Wardrobe Staples


Tinker Tailor

‘Whatever the season, you can’t go wrong by investing in great suit,’ says Nicole. ‘Look for one that can not only be worn day through night, but can also be used as separates to maximise your wear.’

The Look

Jacket & Trousers – Stella McCartney

Shoes – Manolo Blahnik

Watch – Aikon Automatic Rose Watch by Maurice Lacroix

Earrings – Juste un Clou Earrings in 18ct White Gold by Cartier

Woman crouched down in light grey suit

Woman in grey suit


Prints Perfect

‘This is a trend that reappears season after season, so it’s a good one to invest in and wear for years to come,’ advises Nicole. ‘The easiest way to wear animal print is by teaming it up with basic separates already in your wardrobe. The city short is a great way to update this look – why not even look to shorten a pair of trousers you already have in your wardrobe?’

The Look

Coat, Jumper, Shorts & Shoes – Dior

Bracelet & Earrings – Juste un Clou Bracelet and Love Earrings by Cartier

 

Woman wearings black top and shorts with leopard print jacket

Woman in leopard print jacket


Just Do Your Vest

‘There’s not much explanation needed here; a vest and wide leg trouser combo never goes out of style,’ Nicoles tells us. ‘Opt for good quality fabrics that wash well, so you can have your separates in your wardrobe for years to come.’

The Look

Vest, Trousers & Shoes – Michael Kors

Watch – Tank Française Watch by Cartier

Woman in dark vest and trousers

Woman crouched down in dark vest and trousers


Boho Chic

‘Boho is back as one of this season’s strongest trends,’ Nicole tells us. ‘A dress like this has so much wearing potential – a wedding, a day festival or even a night out. The key to wearing this look is the footwear. You can rotate a knee high boot for a gladiator flat, a loafer for a heel; the possibilities are endless.’

The Look

Dress – Chloé

Boots – Tod’s

Earrings – Macri Classica Earrings in White and Yellow Gold with Brilliant Cut Diamonds by Buccellati

Woman with boho dress

Woman wearing blue sheer top


Such A Pullover

‘Knitwear really can be the key to you AW24 wardrobe,’ notes Nicole. ‘Layering can transform an outfit and choosing a staple colour allows you to mix and match with everything in your wardrobe.’

The Look

Jumper, Skirt & Boots – Louis Vuitton

Earrings – Juste un Clou Earrings in 18ct White Gold by Cartier

Woman in grey jumper, sequin skirt and white boots

Woman in grey jumper, sequin skirt and white boots


The Sequin Dress

‘The ultimate party dress, sequins aren’t just for special occasions,’ says Nicole. ‘Wear over denim or with an over sized knit to bring it from evening to day.’

The Look

Dress – Alberta Ferretti

Pants – Commando

Shoes – Hermès

Close up of woman in gold sequin top

Woman in gold sequin sheer dress


Jean Machine

‘Denim will always be the backbone to any wardrobe. Keep your denim current by buying slightly oversized,’ emphasises Nicole.

The Look

Jumpsuit – Zimmermann

Shoes – Manolo Blahnik

Necklace & Earrings – Torsadé Necklace in Yellow Gold and Macri Earrings in Yellow Gold and Brilliant Cut Diamonds

Woman in denim jumpsuit

Woman in denim jumpsuit


Back To Black

‘Every woman should have an LBD in their wardrobe,’ says Nicole. ‘Or, in this case, an LBD in separates. What I love about this outfit is that it can be worn together, or spliced into entirely new looks. Tuxedo blazer, bralette, wrap skirt. Make you outfit work for you.’

The Look

Skirt, Jacket, Bra & Shoes – Dolce & Gabbana

Tights – Wolford

Earrings – Move Link Earrings in 18ct Yellow Gold and Diamonds by Messika

Woman in black blazer and skirt

Woman in black blazer and skirt


The Leather Jacket

‘The ultimate investment piece, leather only gets better with age,’ Nicole tells us. ‘Keep your jacket for years and then pass it down as an heirloom.’

The Look

Jacket, Top, Trousers & Ring – Hermès

Woman in leather jacket

Woman in leather jacket


On The Outside

‘Outerwear should last you several years – so make sure to opt for something you can see yourself wearing beyond this season,’ advises Nicole. ‘A classic silhouette, like a maxi or a thick trench, will always be a keeper.’

The Look

Dress, Coat, Shoes & Bag – Max Mara

Woman in brown coat

Woman in brown coat and grey dress

Shoot Credits