As February's chill sets in, finding the motivation to dress with style can feel like an uphill battle. The days remain short, the temperatures low, and the prospect of looking fabulous often gives way to the simple need for warmth. However, fashion expert Jess Cartner-Morley offers a curated selection of essentials designed to inject joy and practicality into your winter wardrobe.
Valentine's Day Treats and Layering Staples
While February may be bleak, it brings Valentine's Day – a welcome festival of joy in the calendar's darkest moment. Cartner-Morley champions the good kind of cheesy, recommending heart-shaped boxes of chocolates as a classic love token. For those seeking a stylish layering piece, she highlights a shirt with a jewelled collar from Boden. This versatile item, reminiscent of a past J Crew favourite, offers a special touch without being fussy, perfect for wearing under sweaters or knit vests.
Wellness and Accessories for Daily Life
The latest wellness trend sees functional mushrooms going mainstream, with lion's mane formulations praised for focus. Cartner-Morley notes Superoom's clinically tested, organically grown tinctures, appreciating their beautiful bottles that encourage consistent use. For accessories, she points to the Spanish label Mercules, which fills a gap in the market with quality, minimal leather bags at sensible prices. The Foxy bag, with its dual straps and sleek design, is a standout.
Cheerful Knitwear and Flattering Basics
To combat the winter blues, a landscape scene zip cardigan from Next features jolly sheep and cotton wool clouds, offering a smile-inducing, if not forever-lasting, piece. When it comes to foundations, the new formulation of Armani Luminous Silk provides a natural, better-skin look with added skincare benefits and an extensive shade range. For earrings that suit an active lifestyle, Orelia's mini chain huggie hoops are recommended for their comfort and practicality, staying secure through activities like pilates or long flights.
The Ultimate T-Shirt and Thoughtful Gifting
Addressing a common fit issue, Cartner-Morley praises Me+Em's slim fit raglan tee for its elegant line and comfort, thanks to raglan sleeves inspired by baseball uniforms. For gift ideas, With Nothing Underneath offers a personalised touch with embroidered initials on cuff shirts, making for a chic and thoughtful present. Additionally, Whistles' Frida leather jacket in olive green is highlighted for its ability to instantly elevate an outfit, returning to stock after selling out.
These selections aim to provide both cheer and functionality, helping you navigate February with style and a lifted spirit.
