Here in Winnipeg, it can sometimes be tricky finding cool street-style pieces that are not watered-down versions, that make you want to yawn your way back to 2012. Luckily, TOPSHOP’s opening this past August at the Bay Polo Park, brings a bit of reprieve.
For me, the opening of the iconic London shop ushers is a much-needed option for street-style lovers to be on trend without breaking the bank. Being a former personal shopper, I know that you cannot compare the quality of fabrics and the fit of luxury brands, to that of fast-fashion, but the reality of today’s economics is that cool, on-trend options are part of the democratization of fashion. So, if you love following the shows from Fashion Week, you can find the strongest must-have trends, all compiled into their affordable counterparts-thank you, social media!
TOPSHOP started in the UK, back in 1964. The first shop opened in the basement of a Sheffield department store but has grown to over 300 stores in the UK and ships to more than 100 countries. Their eclectic British style is known all over the world, fronted by the flagship store on London’s Oxford Street, as a destination for global visitors. In 2009, TOPSHOP opened in New York and collaborations with Kate Moss, Christopher Kane and JW Anderson have proved highly successful by blending designer brands with high-street fashion. Influencing everyday fashion on the street.
According to Vogue.com, the most viewed runway shows from Spring 2017 were: Gucci, Chanel, Christian Dior, Saint Laurent, Dolce and Gabanna, Valentino, Balmain, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Alexander Wang. Thus, we will see the main trends from these brands filtered down into the TOPSHOP product offering, maximising exposure to fashionistas and maximising sales.
Some of my favourite Must-Have pieces for fall are below and are essential for building your wardrobe and maximising the street-style trends.
#1 The Little Black Leather Skirt
Everyone needs a great black leather skirt and this one is from the TOPSHOP UNIQUE collection. It can be worn from desk (although you might want to add dark tights) to dinner but it can also be worn with an oversized sweater, tights and trainers for an Editor’s street-style look. It’s not currently available at The Bay but follow the link to TOPSHOP’s website and it can be yours.
#2 The Sequin Top a la Gucci
This season, Gucci was the hit brand that blew up the runway. Alessandro Michele’s eclectic aesthetic mixes old and new, sport and luxe, making this top an essential item for your fall wardrobe. Again, it is easy to pair with a black leather mini skirt for an 80’s feel or amp up your sequin status with a sequin maxi skirt; otherwise, mix it with jeans and heels for an ultra cool day look. You can find this top at The Bay online or visit in-store.
#3 The Slouch Coat
This is another essential piece that you can wear now and take through winter.
As you can see, it is easy to wear with jeans or flannel trousers but it equally looks great with a skirt. Ramp up your layered look now with this versatile coat and team it with trainers or ankle boots.
#4 The Wide-Leg Trouser
This flattering 70’s inspired wide-leg trouser elongates the silhouette. The crushed velvet and green colour make it the perfect go-to item for Fall. Keep your look cool by wearing them with a simple t-shirt and trainers as shown above, or wear them at your next work event for visual impact!
#5 The Rock Chic Bodysuit
The Saint Laurent rock chic inspired bodysuit is another versatile item. Don’t worry about coverage, you can always add a cropped leather jacket or even a fitted blazer to add texture and warmth for those cooler Fall nights. I suggest wearing this piece with skinny black jeans and a mini shoulder bag, for an easy-breezy French look.
Happy shopping…
Style-Dock 