Style Rules: Amy Appleton Dreyer
My number one style rule is don’t let your age, shape or gender define the way you ‘should’ dress. Fashion should be a creative outlet, and it should allow you to be whoever you want to, depending on the place or occasion.
'Less is more’ is a phrase to live by. If you try to combine too many statement pieces, you can get lost under it all, and to me, fashion should be about the person wearing the clothes and not the other way round. Remember, balance is important, so you don’t need to wear your ‘best’ pieces all at once.
Don’t be afraid to take risks. My favourite outfits have been the result of fashion choices that were a bit different to the norm. My only style regrets have been when I’ve held back in certain situations, mainly because I felt insecure. Life is too short to feel that way, so be brave.
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The pieces every woman should own are a good quality matching tracksuit, the perfect LBD, a pair of chunky boots and a long coat in a neutral colour. I love the Frankie Shop and Les Tien for tracksuits at the moment, the Attico for dresses and Totême is a favourite for outerwear. In my view, a great coat and boots are all you need to see you through autumn/winter.
Don’t drastically change your style when you become a mum. Instead, just adapt what you normally like to wear. I have two young kids and the only difference now is that my look has become more streamlined and less fussy. There’s no time to change outfits multiple times a day or decide between five different blouses in the morning. Shop for pieces that you can mix and match so you can look put together easily, even when you’ve left the house in a hurry.
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A few high-end pieces are usually worth the investment. Even if it’s just one or two items like a great pair of shoes or an amazing coat – they have the power to elevate the rest of your wardrobe. If you choose timeless designs, you’ll wear them forever.
Going oversized is always a good idea. The key to getting it right is balancing out your proportions with slimmer fitting pieces and the right hem lengths. For example, if you’re wearing an oversized piece, roll up the sleeve or hem to show off a smaller part of your body like ankles or wrists. Likewise, a larger sweater or blazer looks great with a tight pant or mini skirt, and vice versa.
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Don’t underestimate the power of accessories – especially when it comes to simpler outfits. A great bag, hat or jewellery can make a look much more interesting. I’m loving a beanie hat at the moment, especially with a long coat and combat boots or even a skirt and t-shirt.
Where possible, spend a bit more on shoes and handbags. While you wouldn’t wear the same skirt or blouse every day, the perfect shoe or bag can be worn on repeat. Plus, you can always sell them as they tend to hold their value. My most used handbag is my Bottega Veneta pouch. I almost didn’t get it because it felt like too much of an “it” bag, but it turns out there’s a reason why it’s so popular. It was my birthday present two years ago and I still love it.
When it comes to fashion, never say never. I couldn’t possibly rule out wearing something – I’ve changed my mind about so many things, especially when they’ve been styled well or interpreted differently by a designer I love. At the moment, I don’t think I’ll ever go back to low rise denim, but who knows? Anything is possible.
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Shop Amy’s style below…
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