When lockdown began, some fashion commentators enthusiastically predicted that within a few months, we’d all be celebrating the end of the pandemic with a massive party – a sort of VE Day-meets-New-Year’s-after-match all wrapped into one – and that we’d step out in exactly the kind of party gear such an event demand.
Bright colours, feathers, sequins… in much the same way that the end of World War II heralded the sumptuous extravagance of Dior’s New Look, the dress code for Dawning of the post-Covid era would be nothing but fun, fun, fun.
The reality, of course, is that Covid-19 will be with us until a vaccine is found, and that there’s unlikely to be a sudden lifting of restrictions. Instead – thanks, Melbourne – it’s a two-steps-forward, one-step back shuffle towards partial freedom. Sadly, then, no party dressing required.
And yet after months of slouching around in sweats, many of us are gradually re-entering life and undergoing a reset of sorts – and looking for a wardrobe that reflects a fresh start and a new outlook on life. That’s why we asked three stylish fashion editors what’s on their to-buy list as we move out of iso.
Caroline Tran, fashion editor, Harper’s Bazaar and Elle
“In my past life, I bought for events,” says Caro Tran, whose job as a fashion editor involved regular invites to launches, parties and dinners. Now, post-Covid, she’s more interested in pieces that are “pared back and stylish” and can be worn in a variety of settings. “I just want to wear considered pieces that will last me and that I’ll wear over and over.”
This means pieces from brands like Khait and Frankie, which she discovered on Instagram. (Fashion editors – they’re just like us!)
She has her eye on this necklace from The Undone “you can wear a gold chain necklace with anything – t-shirt or jeans or in the evening” and these slides from Proenza Schouler, which could be worn with thick ribbed socks in winter. The dress from Damoy can be worn, open, with jeans or as a dress.
Lucy Woods, stylist, previously InStyle Australia
Throughout lockdown, Lucy stuck to a “work-from-uniform” of pyjama-style pants, leggings and simple knits. “But now that we’re out and about again, my interest in fashion and in getting dressed up again has been reignited. I want to put on something that feels a bit more tailored.”
Lucy, who describes her style as playful, bold and comfortable, chose this skirt for its classic silhouette and fun sequinned details. “I do love an evening skirt for daytime, worn with a t-shirt or simple jumper.” The ballet slippers have a modern edge thanks to the square toe, while the Ganni top can also be worn with denim or black pants.
Tara Morris, stylist and PRIMER fashion contributor
After weeks of mooching around in slouchy tracksuit pants and hoodies, Tara is looking forward to adding structure to her wardrobe in the coming months. “Nothing too tight or restrictive,” she clarifies. “But less slouchiness.”
The Oroton blazer Tara picked could easily be worn with a long-sleeved knit, t-shirt or turtleneck and jeans. “It’s not a ‘trend item’ and I think that, coming out of isolation, you want your purchases to last – especially if you’re spending $600!”
Tara admits she has already splurged on these Acne boots which she describes as the perfect heel and silhouette to wear with a boxy jean, and that these earrings have been on her wishlist for months. The white denim meanwhile is a new favourite. “I love the idea of a white jean,” she says. “Because after months at home, it feels like the time for something fresh.”
Ain’t that the truth.
BY Anna Saunders
Anna is the co-founder of PRIMER, and thinks it's about time she went shopping
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