Nadia Phillips Shares Her Style Dos & Don’ts
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@NadiaPhillips
DO find your ride-or dies.
For me, good jeans are something I can always rely on. Right now, I’m wearing a straight-leg charcoal-coloured pair from Agolde that work for nearly every occasion. Next is a good tank for layering. I always opt for something simple and high quality – the invisible strap style from Y/Project has become my favourite. A well-made leather jacket is another essential. My Ducie Opal Leather Jacket fits perfectly oversized. Everyone needs a cosy, well-fitted knit, whether it's a classic crewneck or a turtleneck. My current go-to is a chocolate brown piece from Himalayan Cashmere, but I also love The Frankie Shop. Finally, if you need a versatile autumn shoe, loafers are a no-brainer.
DO embrace the right trends.
One of the trends I’m loving right now is oxblood. This rich, deep red tone can be styled in so many ways. For everyday, I would recommend incorporating it via your accessories, like a bag or shoes. Alternatively, a classic oxblood sweater or dress paired with neutrals like beige or black is another way to look polished without feeling overdone. I recently added an oxblood Bottega Sardine bag to my collection – it’s been a great addition to my winter wardrobe.
DO give 80s-inspired tailoring a chance.
I’m thinking particularly of the oversized, extra-wide shoulders we saw on the Saint Laurent runway recently. This dramatic silhouette is a bold choice, so the key to making it wearable day-to-day is balancing it out with subtler pieces. I love pairing a structured, wide-shoulder blazer with a simple t-shirt and high-waisted jeans for that mix of power dressing and casual cool. You could also try this look with tailored trousers and sneakers to make it more relaxed.
DON’T ignore the new look.
The high-neck trend is another favourite of mine this season. Seen at brands like Bottega Veneta, Proenza Schouler and Coperni, this trend is perfect for layering. Try wearing a high-neck sweater or a fitted turtleneck under a blazer, for example. I would pair one with jeans or trousers and a casual jacket for a chic yet relaxed look. They are a great way to add a bit of classic elegance to an otherwise casual outfit.
DO play with texture.
Liquid leather brings an almost futuristic vibe to any look – especially during party season. It can be a bit daring, but it’s surprisingly easy to incorporate into your everyday wardrobe. I would start with something like a liquid leather jacket or skirt, paired with a white tee or knit to balance out the glossy texture. Liquid leather works especially well with neutral tones, so allow the fabric to be the focal point. For an evening look, try a miniskirt with a fitted high-neck top and boots.
@NadiaPhillips
DON’T overdo it.
While trends can be fun to experiment with, you shouldn’t feel the need to follow every single one. Pick the ones that resonate with your personal style and incorporate them in a way that feels authentic to you. It should never be the case that the clothes are wearing you.
DO understand your body type.
It’s key to find a good fit that flatters your body shape. Just because a certain style of clothing is trending doesn’t mean it will work for you. Dressing for your shape and accentuating your best assets is key to feeling confident in your style. While I love an oversized fit in coats and jackets, this can make others feel like they’re drowning in their clothes. Similarly, some people don’t like accentuating their waistline. The key here is to find what works for you.
DON’T mix too many patterns at once.
While mixing prints can be fun, it’s easy to go overboard. Stick to one dominant print and pair it with subtle patterns or solid colours to avoid too much clashing.
DON’T over-accessorise.
Less can be more when it comes to accessories. Overloading yourself with too many necklaces, bracelets or rings can make the outfit look cluttered and lose its overall impact. Also, don’t match your accessories too perfectly. Wearing accessories that perfectly match your clothes can look dated. Mix up your accessories for a more dynamic and modern look.
@NadiaPhillips
DO invest in the right undergarments.
VPLs or bras that don’t fit properly can ruin your outfit. Invest in well-fitting undergarments that provide support and ensure a smooth silhouette.
DON’T get stuck in head-to-toe black.
While it’s a personal preference, many people default to all-black outfits instead of experimenting with prints, colours and textures. A simple way to break the monotony is by adding a pop of colour or print through an accessory. Start with a statement bag or a bold pair of shoes to add interest and dimension without overwhelming the look. This small touch can have a big impact, and give your outfit more personality. Once you’re comfortable, consider introducing larger colour elements, like a vibrant jacket or a patterned top, to create depth and show off your individuality.
DO understand proportions.
Getting the proportions of your outfit right is key to looking balanced and stylish. Avoid pairing oversized pieces with other oversized items, as this can overwhelm your frame. For example, if you're wearing an oversized jacket, balance it out with more fitted bottoms, and vice versa. Playing with proportions, like tucking in a voluminous blouse into high-waisted pants or adding a more fitted top with a balloon/wide trouser can create a more flattering, well-balanced silhouette.
@NadiaPhillips
DO know what’s worth investing in.
I tend to splurge the most on bags or shoes that I know I can wear frequently. The cost-per-wear approach is my metric for justifying any big purchase. When you invest in something that can be styled with multiple outfits, it feels much more justified than, say, a dress that you'll wear only a few times. Jewellery is usually a smart investment. I have a gold wheat chain necklace and bracelet from Lauren Rubinski, as well as rings from Shay and Anita Ko that I wear so often.
DO refresh old looks with new details.
For example, a belt can completely transform an old blazer, giving it a new silhouette, while updated shoes or bags are a great way to breathe new life into a classic look. Layering is another easy way to make older items feel new. For instance, try layering a classic button-down shirt under a sweater, or a fitted turtleneck under a shirt.
DON’T be afraid of animal print.
I’m a fan of zebra but the AW24 collections favoured leopard print. While I’m not giving up on zebra, I’m definitely planning to add some standout leopard pieces to my wardrobe. I love that there’s so much incredible vintage leopard print out there too – my current mission is to find something mega and one-off. I also recently scored a pair of Bottega Veneta zebra-print square-toe mules that I missed out on when they were first released – and I’m obsessed. They’ll work with so much in my wardrobe.
DO keep a catalogue of inspo to refine your personal style.
Start by saving outfits, items, new brands or editorials that resonate with you in folders on Instagram. This helps you build a collection of looks and ideas that align with your evolving style. Whether it’s just for personal exploration or for styling work, gathering these visual references is invaluable. Pinterest is another fantastic tool for mood boarding.
DO master that high-low mix.
The trick is to balance something laid-back and casual with a touch of luxury or something unexpected. For instance, pair a cosy tracksuit with a sleek trench or maxi coat, a stylish cap and cool sneakers. This approach even works for evening looks – think a cropped hoodie with leather shorts and a long coat.
DO clean out your wardrobe regularly.
It’s the best way to get out of a style rut. My wardrobe is at full capacity right now, which means I’m gravitating toward the same few pieces, making my outfits feel repetitive and, honestly, a bit boring. To avoid this, I try to have regular closet clean-outs, ideally at the start of each season. Another tip is to give yourself enough time to get dressed. It might sound trivial, but trying to pull an outfit together in a rushed 20 minutes after a shower isn’t always enough if things aren’t quite clicking. Allowing yourself a bit of extra time to think about a key piece or even a trend you want to try can make all the difference to your final look.
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