Alice Catherine

My current outfit inspiration has basically been anything that makes me feel like I’m still in bed – pieces that are oversized, but still manage to make me look like a functioning human. With this in mind, you can imagine how happy I was when I stumbled across this oversized scarf – it basically doubles up as an actual blanket, and covers a multitude of sins (toothpaste stains). I’ve seen a lot of these kind of scarfs around lately, and I couldn’t be more thankful for it’s arrival in my life. It means I can pretty much wear whatever I want underneath my coat/jacket, and still have the option of an extra layer when wandering from place to place…

It’s definitely the lazy girls answer to winter dressing, especially if you find one in your preferred colour way – you can then coordinate it with some fancier shoes, and trick people into thinking you spent more than ten minutes getting dressed. I picked this one up from The Frankie Shop, and it instantly makes a simple jeans and jumper combination look chic and cool. It’s been ideal for when I’m shooting multiple outfits in a day too – I can throw it on in-between shooting, and it keeps me from turning into a block of ice. I definitely think a scarf is one of those pieces worth investing in – you can utilise them year after year, and they also double up as really great travel companions. I never travel without one – they can act as a cosy blanket to snuggle up with, be morphed into a makeshift pillow, or even lie perfectly flat on top of your suitcase to project any delicate clothing…

There’s something about throwing this scarf on before I leave the flat that makes me feel very ‘fashion’ – it’s one of those conversational pieces that grabs peoples attention. I don’t often feel that way when I’m out and about – I tend to think my personal style is quite safe most of the time, so owning a few statement pieces is a great way to add personality. I’m also considering using it as a throw for the new place too – I don’t think anyone would notice if I arranged this on the sofa somehow with some fancy cushions. I’m not sure if that’s a good or a bad thing, but I’m all for multipurpose attire… 

I’ve never been one to steer away from an oversized piece once I’ve fallen in love with it – sometimes I’ll try things on and think ‘wow this makes me look ten times bigger‘ – but so what? Fashion to me isn’t always about picking out whats the most flattering, or the most traditional – it’s about building up a wardrobe of pieces that make us feel good. It might encourage the odd sarcastic comment from someone on the street, but why should that stop us from wearing what makes us happy? I own a fair few coats that make me resemble some sort of giant sheep, but they keep me warm, and allow me to be less weather appropriate with what I choose to wear underneath – I am therefore, thankful that these types of coats exist! I guess what I’m trying to say is – don’t give in to that inner voice that tries to steer you away from pieces you love, and definitely don’t always feel like you need to ask the opinion of others. I became so much happier in myself and the way I dress when I stopped seeking validation from those around me – sure, I’ll still ask Sam if I look nice sometimes, but a wise man will never tell a woman that she doesn’t now, will he?…

To cut a long story short – dress for yourself, wear pieces that are fun and flamboyant, wear pieces that make you excited to get up and get dressed in the morning. These are the gems that get us through the winter months, and make us feel like we can take on the week ahead… 

Alice x

Photographs taken in Paris, by Adriana

Coat – 12 Storeez (sold out/similar here) | Jumper – Topshop | Jeans – vintage via Beyond Retro | Shoes – Vagabond | Scarf – The Frankie Shop | Beret – Topshop | Bag – Sezane

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