Three Ways to Rock Utility

Safari hues, military styles, earthy tints and utility tones are huge for the summer ahead. The classic style which involves khaki, tobacco, white, ecru and tan; and stiff cotton, light linen and masculine shapes; is not only a trend to touch for summer, it is a smart investment for a timeless wardrobe.

With a tonal colour scheme and basic, yet flattering pieces, this trend can be worn season upon season, simply because it’s so incredibly versatile.

For SS17, the paper-bag trouser was seen on the runways of Kenzo and Tibi, and have subsequently now been released by numerous brands. I’m a HUGE fan of these trousers, and think they’re so good looking, albeit on the right body shape. Unfortunately for me, the paper-bag style didn’t suit me in the trouser. I did however find a pretty good alternative of the style, but in a skirt (scroll to look three to see what I mean).

If the paper-bag waist ain’t your thing, don’t worry. There are plenty of other ways to rock this classic trend. Why not invest in a linen or khaki shirt? Opt for cargo pants or chinos? Or, find a military style dress that can be easily layered with a sculptural white shirt, a la Mulberry?

There are so many ways to play with the utility trend, and I have to say it is certainly one of my favourites to style for summer.

If you’re not yet convinced, here’s how I styled it three different ways.

E. Xx

Look One

Ruched bloused + wide leg pants + platform espadrilles + MUST-HAVE oversized tote.

I love this casual, ‘off to the organic market’ look. The blouse bellows beautifully, so it’s wonderfully comfortable to wear for summer. The wide leg pants are super stretchy and accentuate all the right places – AKA the bottom. The espadrilles provide you with a bit of height and are a summery alternative to sneakers. And the ochre coloured bag… well, that just screams statement.

Get the look: Next Wide Leg Jeans – c/o Next / Next Ruched Sleeve Shirt – c/o Next / Steve Madden Hamptn-S Espadrilles – c/o Steve Madden / Next Tassel Shopper Bag – c/o Next

Look Two

Military styled dress + pointed stiletto booties + mini handle crossbody bag

Yes, of course the utility trend can be sexy. The button detail dress screams power piece. You really feel like you transform into a confident and sassy women as soon as you put it on, I know I did. Team with some equally commanding heels and a minimalistic yet cute bag, to achieve ultimate power queen status.

Get the look: Zara dress – find similar here / Next heels – find similar here / Forever21 bag- find similar here

Look Three

Flare sleeve shirt + paper-bag waist skirt + embellished sandals + studded bag

Whether you’re off to the beach, enjoying casual summer cocktails or want to wear something chill for work, this look is for you. The linen flare sleeve top ticks all the SS17 trend boxes, and the round neck detailing makes the shirt a little different from the usual collared white shirt. The skirt – well babes, this is the skirt I was telling you about above. It’s pretty much the paper-bag waist trouser, but in a skirt, and way more flattering on a shorty like me. The embellished sandals create a bit of a unique twist to the look, and the red studded bag adds a summer pop of colour.

Get the look: Next Linen Shirt – c/o Next / Zara skirt – find similar here / Miss Pap Megan Charm Sandals – c/o Miss Pap / Dorothy Perkins Stud Bag – c/o Dorothy Perkins

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