For more than 30 years, Australian women wanting to look strong and confident have turned to Scanlan Theodore, purveyor of head-to-toe wear that is as comfortable as it is fashionable. To welcome shoppers to its third store in the U.S., the brand’s resident stylist - Regional Visual Merchandiser and Boutique Manager Susanna Venus - is here to offer advice for outfitting every aspect of your lifestyle (she recently worked with Australian model, Bambi Northwood-Blyth). Plus extra tips on how to stay warm, even as you stay stylish, throughout the colder months.
For everyday living...
This effortless but chic ensemble - silk low-rise trousers, camisole and drapey jacket - can take you to brunch with friends, the playground with kids or a Sunday stroll with your partner. Dress it down with sneakers or dress it up with a kitten heel. The jacket alone is endlessly versatile: tie the belt in the back to relax the look, tie it in the front for a more defined waistline. And tuck in the collar to create a more polished funnel neck.
For the workday...
First things first, this jacket is guaranteed to make you feel like a powerhouse. Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, wore it (in a seasonal bordeaux) during her first official royal tour with Prince Harry. For your big presentation, pair it with a skirt for a modern - and flattering - take on the workday suit. Or put a turtleneck underneath for a more conservative look. Looking for a pop of color? Tie on a silk scarf. For more casual days: slim charcoal jeans, pumps, cuffed sleeves.
For a night of play...
Next time you’re heading to TAK Room for cocktails, throw on this crepe knit, one-shoulder dress, a playful and extremely flattering update on the classic silhouette. If the occasion is more formal, pull down the ruffle to show a bit more décolletage. Once again, the knit belt is meant to be knotted in a variety of ways. Or add a bit of an edge with a leather belt.
For the long, cold days and nights of winter:
- Layering fine knitwear, like the brand’s baby wool turtlenecks, under cold shoulder or racerback dresses, makes spring and summer pieces wearable when the mercury drops. Knee-high or over-the-knee boots do the same.
- Jackets with slim sleeves and tight fits, like the drape jacket above, give you room to move in puffy coats and a strong silhouette once you get inside.
- Cinch oversized, chunky knitwear with a narrow belt to marry winter comfort with a still-flattering profile.
- Incorporate leather, especially slim pants. It’s comfortable and looks just right with a big sweater.