Well, at least a classy Edwardian Lady. This autumn’s vintage inspired trend is all about the era that welcomed in the 20th century. Edward VII was on the throne, the Pankhurst's were busy founding the WSPU and Beatrix Potter was drawing cute little bunny rabbits.
Whilst all this is terribly interesting, the really interesting bits are about what they were all wearing. King Edward VII’s regal garb aside, the Edwardian era was the last historical period that saw women dressed in corsets and floor-skimming skirts. The necklines were high and the merest hint of an ankle was considered terribly risqué.
Hats were also a big deal, with fancy feathered numbers being very much de rigueur.
Giles Deacon, Marc Jacobs and Christopher Bailey at Burberry have been plundering the Edwardian dressing up box for their autumn/winter collections. Buttoned-up tweediness reigns supreme, with cinched-in blazers, long skirts and frothy high necklines. And let's not forget the hats – flat caps for the country and over-sized feather confections for the lady about town.
Vogue has decided that the trend has very little to do with last year’s Downton fever, with Harriet Quick stating that it would be “a) derivative and b) costumey”. Ahh, yes, of course fashion designers are totally above costume dramas! Instead, I like to imagine that they watch back-to-back episodes of The Joy of Painting with Bob Ross whilst stroking their pet ferrets and nibbling on a raw turnip. Now that’s non-derivative.
Just to clarify: this trend has NOTHING to do with Downton Abbey, OK?
It is quite possible to achieve a non-derivative and not at all costumey Edwardian look on the high street. River Island and Miss Selfridge have some great pieces that reference the trend, whilst French Connection and Biba at House of Fraser have nailed the hats.
Colours are rich and fabrics range from whisper-soft silks to heavy weight tweeds. Add an element of punk to the look with some heeled lace up Dr Martens. Don’t fancy the high-neck and long skirt combo? Make a more modern nod to the trend with a tapestry mini dress teamed with jewel-toned tights and brogue boots. Throw on a hacking jacket and flat cap for an androgynous twist.
From left to right: Feathered fedora – Biba at House of Fraser, Blazer – Aubin & Wills, Ruffled blouse – House of Fraser, Long sleeve blouse –Vivienne Westwood, Tapestry dress – River Island, Maxi skirt – Just Cavalli, Mini skirt - River Island, Trousers – Topshop Unique, Boots – Modcloth,Bag – House of Harlow, Boots – Dr Martens.
Main image via jinterwas' Flickr