The key to pulling off this romantic, slightly swashbuckling aesthetic without looking like you are heading to a fancy dress party is all about balance. You want to mix the soft and the structured, the romantic and the grounded. Here are a few ways I am styling this trend for the season ahead:

The Statement Blouse and Denim

This is perhaps the easiest and most chic way to dip your toe into the trend. Find a blouse with a beautiful lace-up neckline, a ruffled collar, or voluminous sleeves. Pair it with your favourite, perfectly worn-in straight-leg jeans. The ruggedness of the denim instantly grounds the romance of the blouse, making it perfect for a Tuesday coffee date or a casual dinner.

The Slouchy Boot

If there is one accessory to invest in this season, it is the slouchy boot. We are moving away from the ultra-tight, restrictive footwear of the past and embracing boots that have a bit of give and movement to them. Pair a soft, suede slouchy boot with a midi skirt or tuck your trousers into them for an effortless, slightly undone look.

Layering with Purpose

This trend is all about creating depth. Try layering a delicate, vintage-inspired lace camisole under a slightly oversized, structured blazer. Or, wear a lightweight, ruffled dress and throw a tough leather jacket over your shoulders. It is that friction between the hard and the soft that makes an outfit truly interesting.

Keep the Colours Grounded

To keep the look sophisticated, stick to a pared-back colour palette. Think ivory, charcoal, deep navy, olive green, and rich chocolate browns. When the silhouette of the garment is doing the talking, the colour can afford to whisper.