Welcome to my first What to Wear post for 2020!

As regular readers know, this monthly fashion post is designed to provide some new season fashion inspiration for daily dressing, whether your day takes you to work, a meeting, running errands, catching up with friends, on a date and everything in between.

Also, to be clear, the idea of these posts is NOT to suggest that you need to buy more stuff.

Instead, it’s about thinking about new ways to wear what you’ve got, as well as suggestions – if you’re looking – for what new season statement piece or everyday basic might fill a wardrobe gap and enable you to get more wear out of your existing wardrobe.

Sounds like a plan?

Excellent.

Now let’s start with this first outfit, which features a beautiful dress from Elk’s just released – and completely fabulous – Autumn/Winter 2020 range.

ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

Sunnies, $79.95 from Witchery;

Abeline dress, $239 from ELK;

Bracelet, $49.95 from Mimco;

Sandals, $130 from Boden;

Navy Tote, $89.95 from The Iconic. 

I am besotted with this modern silhouette, which drapes in a super flattering and forgiving fashion but still has the smarts with its soft collar, folded sleeve and button front placket. Also available in striking fuchsia and copper colour ways, I opted for the navy here for a slightly more corporate look, although the copper would also do the job, paired with simple tan and tortoiseshell accessories. (I’d save the pink for a party).

As you can see above, I’ve paired this navy dress with silver and navy accessories, including smart flats for the commute or for all day wear.

For an evening or more formal look, I’d substitute the sandals for a tan or navy wedge or suede pointed flats, and add a statement clutch or earrings. (If you’re looking for some budget friendly silver earrings, check out these silver hoops, $14.95 from Decjuba or these pearl hoops, $39.95 from Witchery). Gold and rose gold jewellery pair beautifully with navy too.

This next look is a relaxed weekday or weekend outfit on a milder day. You’d find me wearing this on a day when I was working from home, having coffee with the girls, going to an appointment and running a few errands.

ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

Bangle, $49 from Elk;

Meshed Culotte, $189 from Gorman;

Sunglasses, $39.95 from Seed Heritage;

Slides, $149 from Elk;

Skye cami, $39.95 from Decjuba.

If you’re looking for an everyday cami with bra friendly straps and a soft, silky feel at a budget friendly price point, check out the Skye camis from Decjuba. They come in five colours (black, white, blush and bright pink, khaki) and are an excellent basic to wear tucked in with maxi skirts, under a cardy or with your favourite pair of shorts.

They are also great pieces to wear with your favourite printed pants, as I’ve shown above. I’m lusting after these fun Gorman pants which are lightweight and an interesting and flattering take on the traditional fisherman’s pant. I find printed pants like these are a great late Summer staple, particularly on mild days or the days before my next wax or spray tan.

This gorgeous, colourful also print also lends itself to lots of different outfitting possibilities, with several colours able to be picked up in accessories, shoes or tops.

Finally, add your favourite flats and shades and you’re good to go. If it’s cool at either end of the day, throw over a denim jacket for an extra layer.

This last outfit is super fun and flirty, and ideal for afternoon drinks, a picnic in the park or a date on a balmy Summer’s evening.

ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

Hat, $59.99 from Seed;

Dress, $180 from Mister Zimi;

Oroton sunnies, $149 (on sale) from The Iconic;

Tote, $49.95 from Sportsgirl; 

Espadrilles, $150 from Boden.

Full disclosure: I’ve got this Mister Zimi dress, in this print and it’s a total winner. Super flattering yet forgiving, it’s a great style for Summer as it’s so easy to dress up or down.

Size wise, the size 14 fits me perfectly and the straps are the perfect length and the sweetheart neckline is flattering but not overly revealing in the cleavage department.

Given the dress does most of the talking with its colourful floral stamp print, I’ve kept the accessories here pretty neutral, although a pop of colour – either thanks to a statement shoe, earrings or bright pink lip, will complete this gorgeous look.

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Which outfit could you see yourself in?