Stay Trendy This Winter

• Rinelda MoutonWinter is creeping up on us and many are starting to plan their wardrobes for the season. The Weekender spoke to local fashion industry insiders about how to bundle up in style with the hottest winter fashions.

Gwen Smale of Curvy Couture believes one can never go wrong with a reversible coat. “Wear it with classy jeans and ankle boots,” she says.

“What I like about it is the fact that it can be worn again and look like a new coat. The next day, you can wear that same coat on the reverse.”

Smale particularly advises curvy women to wear reversible coats with a belt, as this will make them look slimmer.

Leah Misika from La Mode Fashions believes head gear can be the perfect accessory for winter. “I will be continuing with the beret line I started last year as they are great for keeping warm during cold days.”

Popular fashion designer Melisa Poulton believes leggings will never go out of fashion. So much so that every woman should have a few pairs in her wardrobe. “I would suggest them for a day when it is not too cold. A simple pair of leggings with a long-sleeved, loose chiffon dress or top with a pair of slip-ons and a jersey duster. I think everyone should have a jersey duster in their closet and at least one pair of slip-ons. Layering is always key for winter,” she said.

Scarves can be worn by both men and women, stylishly wrapped around the neck to keep warm while making a fashion statement. What makes them so versatile is the fact that they are available in different colours and patterns to complement various outfits.

“Scarves are always essential in your closet,” said Poulton, who is currently working on a winter line which ranges from jersey dusters, jersey tops and light chiffon tops to bomber jackets, silky trousers and silk dusters.

Smale said people often struggle to decide between a long or short jacket. She advises fashionistas to opt for both. “They are both great looking. Rock the short jacket with a pencil skirt or jeans for a more casual feel. Longer coats are a winner for curvy girls as they add an element of structure, making you look taller and slimmer. Long jackets with leggings will make any woman feel as if she is on the catwalk,” said Smale.

She says black coats in particular offer a slim silhouette while dusty pink creates a classy look. “Dusty pink makes you think that you are warm and comfortable. Nude and brown jackets are known for making the dullness of winter look brighter,” said Smale.

Smale said stretch over-the-knee boots will get you all the attention this winter. Also opt for stretch ankle boots and chunky ankle boots. “It gives that street style vibe. I personally love stretch boots because they slip on.”

Couture designer Cobus Möller says you can’t go wrong with sneakers. “They are great for men, women and even children. Sneakers will never go out of fashion. They are great. It’s about comfort. Generally it’s advised for social wear, but young people can even wear them to work. Simply pair them with a formal blazer. It can look formal.”

Möller said the 80s shoulder pad outfits are all the rage at the moment. “People want to feel empowered and be taken seriously.” He recommends padded jackets because they are warm and super comfortable. “I love them because they allow people to feel safe and sexy, but most of all, they hide those flaws we all feel we have,” he said.

Misika says denim may not be the warmest of fabrics, but a great pair is always in fashion. “I would recommend denim any time of the year. I think a great pair of jeans and a great coat go a long way to make anyone look stunning and fashionable. My current favourite denim is light blue. Yes, they are not easy to find, but look good on everyone. Next, I’m all about black and grey jeans this season, so I would certainly recommend them to anyone,” Misika said.

Many people are often scared of wearing shorts or short skirts and dresses in colder months due to the chill factor, but Misika encourages this trend and advises everyone wear it with confidence. “Skirts with a great pair of stockings and shorts with a good boot and the right length sweater or jacket can always look sexy and tasteful,” Misika said.

Claudea Marais, owner of Blush and Bling Dresses Namibia, says overcoats are the in-thing for brides at the moment. “They are really beautiful. What most brides buy from my shop nowadays are sequin overcoats. In them, any bride can confidently sparkle the night away. The only challenge with this look is to make sure that the overcoat complements the rest of the outfit. If not, the bride will really look odd.”

Poulton said dressing up for red carpet events during winter is tricky for most people. “Velvet dresses are the way to go. Dresses with different sleeve designs, and, if you do decide to wear a dress with thin straps, pair it with a glamorous fur jacket,” Poulton said.

Misika says during winter, it’s key to dress according to the theme of the event. “Just don’t look cold, even if you are freezing. Also, most events in winter are warm inside and cold outside, so just be ready for both,” said Misika.