Resolution one: I will trade my scarves for snoods.
Snood might be a ridiculous word, but what it lacks in diction, it makes up for in style. Previously popular with 19th century women and skiers alike, the snood has made a stylish comeback this year, making a statement on the catwalks. Fashion house Missoni used thick woollen snoods to create a soft, winter look, whereas Fendi created a more elegant, contemporary style with thin cashmere snoods in rich, deep colours in their Autumn/Winter collection. Cosy, comfortable and incredibly trendy this season: make sure you buy a snood to keep you warm this winter.
Resolution two: I will trade my psychedelic prints for dark shades and velvet.
Designers seemed to have tired of the eccentric 80s rainbow colour palette this season, and opted for something a little bit more sophisticated for the winter. Perfect for post-Christmas parties and chilly nights out, black is back and its favourite fabric is velvet. We’re not saying cast away the 80s look completely, however. Balenciaga’s A/W09-10 show included velvet and silk structured dresses with oversized shoulder pads, and Giorgio Armani’s collection featured sheer black velvet, partially off the shoulder cocktail dresses that had a strong 80s influence. So pay homage to fashion’s favourite era, whilst embracing the new gothic style of the Twilight generation.
Resolution three: I will trade my footless tights for socks worn with high heels.
Let’s face it: it is far too cold in Hull to have our bare feet exposed to the bitter weather, and so wearing socks instead of footless tights is not just a style-statement, it’s a New Year’s necessity. On the Autumn/Winter catwalks, designer Alexander Wang used knee-grazing socks with open-toe sandals to merge winter and summer fashion. Christian Dior went for a more sophisticated approach, matching bright wedge-sandals with sparkly, sheer socks. Team your platform heels with pop socks and bare legs in the evenings for opulent chic, and match peep toe shoe-boots with warming woollies to create a toned-down daytime look.
Natalie Lyall-Grant