Hi, Who What Wear UK readers! The new season has now officially kicked into action, but with some daring new trends translating from the runways and onto store rails, it's made me think about not only what I'll invest in but how I can wear key items differently depending on whether I'm in the Los Angeles heat or the slightly less predictable UK climate. So here's how some of S/S 16's most important pieces can work intercontinentally!
Alexander Wang S/S 16
Key Buy:
In Los Angeles: The L.A. ladies looove a maxi dress! This one is silk so feels quite dressy. I’d work against that with tan suede sandals and a straw tote to make it farmer’s market–ready. Don't forget your sunnies!In London: I think London girls are a little edgier, so I’d toughen this dress up with chunky Balenciaga boots and my favorite biker jacket.
Isabel Marant S/S 16
Key Buy:
In Los Angeles: The sun is going to do nothing for these—I'd be blinding people by day—so I'd keep them strictly for the night time with a great pair of heels and a strappy little top. Very Hollywood night club.In London: Rock 'n' roll is the only way! Messy hair, a vintage band tee (roll those sleeves up!) and some of Christian Louboutin's So Kate pumps.
Gucci S/S 16
Key Buy:
In Los Angeles: These would be great shown off with a pair of high-waisted cropped flares. In L.A. I’d make them red carpet–ready by adding some drama with a caped cami top.In London: I’d keep the jeans in the UK, but dress them all the way down with a simple white blouse and a '90s style velvet choker.
Rag & Bone S/S 16
Key Buy:
In Los Angeles: It’s totally acceptable to be in your workout clothes all day in this city (think Kylie Jenner and Gigi Hadid). I favor all black top to bottom. For some reason, I’m also less afraid to get my midriff out in L.A. If you can’t beat them, join them! In London: The first time I owned a bomber jacket was when I was growing up in London and it was the '90s. I’d pay homage to this with a slip dress and some Adidas sneakers, and I’d keep it '90s all the way with a choker.
Proenza Schouler S/S 16
Key Buy:
In Los Angeles: I’d go California boho with a maxi skirt in a matching white and lots of gold bangles.In London: I think I’m braver to try strong looks in London, so I’d embrace how this was shown on the runway with a pair of super-high-waisted trousers. Killer heels complete the look.
Topshop Unique S/S 16
Key Buy:
In Los Angeles: One thing L.A. definitely has going for it is the gorgeous weather. I like to enjoy that as much as possible, so I’d wear this skirt bare-legged with some flat sandals and one of summer’s other key trends—a Bardot-style off-the-shoulder top.
In London: I walk everywhere in London so a pair of flat loafers is a must. I’d add a retro pussy-bow blouse for a preppy school-days vibe.
Do you know which way you'll approach the season? Let us know in the comments box below—and check back every month for Ashley's next column!
Be sure to stay up to date with Ashley via her blog, Ring My Bell, as well as on Twitter and Instagram.
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