I've Been a Stylist for 20 Years—These Are the Key Buys on My Winter 2024 Wish List
You've probably heard of celebrity stylist Angie Smith from her work with household names like Holly Willoughby, Eva Mendes, Davina McCall and Rochelle Humes. Smith has a gift for making her clients look effortlessly chic, usually on an affordable budget. She's an advocate for shopping the high street, often mixing high and low pieces in her styling; and her own wardrobe and talent for uncovering the most expensive-looking finds is unrivalled. So I'm sure you'll be pleased to hear she's now aBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK columnist, here to share her expert shopping picks for the season along with some styling wisdom. Keep scrolling to see her key buys for winter 2024.
I’ve been a stylist and brand consultant for over 20 years now, and I'm a strong believer in buying less and wearing those pieces more. I've learnt from my experience re-working clients' wardrobes that after editing them down to a smaller capsule, it becomes a lot easier to pull outfits together because you can actually see what's in there.
When shopping for new pieces, it’s important to be practical and think of all the outfits you could wear them with from your existing wardrobe. But most importantly, you have to really love those new items to justify adding them to your rotation. When you wear them, they have to make you feel good—really good. They have to feel comfortable on your body; I’m a strong believer in buying the size that feels and looks the best on you, and in some shops that might be a 12, in others an 18—it really doesn't matter. The buys I include in my monthly edits can be easily styled in multiple ways and will still be relevant years from now. We're talking true wardrobe classics, and I’m showing you where to find them.
The temperamental weather has arrived, moving between cool winter evenings and milder sun-clad days, but having a wardrobe that’s ready to take on whatever the forecast decides to throw at us is easier than you might think. With a few smart additions, our wardrobes can be well equipped with buildable layers that can be combined for the cosiest winter looks or lighter ensembles. Wool fabrics are important for adding that extra warmth when required, and a great coat or jacket can be swapped in or out depending on what the weather calls for. Alongside, I’ve found a selection of very chic pieces that will work hard for you straight away before finding a place in your forever winter wardrobe.
These are the items that will keep you cosy this winter but with lightweight compositions for layering, wearable silhouettes for ease of styling and breathable fabrics for comfort. And just a note: I believe at this time of year, clothes look even better when you size up for an oversized fit.
Scroll on to explore my winter 2024 edit.
SHOP ANGIE SMITH'S WINTER 2024 EDIT:
1. The 'Nice' Top
Trust me, this is one of the best strapless tops I've come across. In terns of styling, I like how you can adjust it yourself with the tie-back detail, and the longer length feels like an elegant touch.
2. The Silk Trousers
I've noticed a lot of slinky trousers styles around at the moment in silks and velvets, ready to elevate our simple pieces for the coming season. Add a cashmere jumper in for a smart-casual mix for dinner at a friend's house or a low-key New Year's Eve house party.
3. The Smart Shirt
I've never been much of a smart shirt wearer in the past but I'm completely obsessed with this style. It's surprisingly soft and easy to wear, and the cuffs to most of the talking to instantly elevate the rest of the look. I'd style just like this for evening with black trousers.
4. The Black Maxi Skirt
For those who have a lot of nice tops in their wardrobes, or have a hard time finding dresses they like, I highly recommend adding a long silk maxi to your collection. The styling options are endless for both day and night, and if you pair with a matching black top you're able to emulate the look of a dress with this piece.
5. The Contemporary Shoulder Bag
No matter your look, this striking COS bag is sure to make it that much more interesting.
6. The Elevated Knit
I always find it amazing how something simple like a jumper with a great neckline can be so impactful. Add in a pair of jeans and an elegant shoe and you've got yourself a considered evening look with a cosy touch.
7. The Sequin Skirt
I've always found a sequin or embellished mini skirt is a versatile piece to hand on hand. I'd pair it with an oversized blazer, turtleneck or crewneck jumper and a big coat to bring a paired-back contrast to the dazzling skirt.
8. The Silk Dress
And let's not forget about New Years Eve. The neckline and slight flare to the train are just so '90s.
9. The Subtle Sparkle Top
Subtle sparkle is the perfect addition to your wardrobe to cover you when you want to feel comfortable and look cool. Pairing with dark indigo jeans, cords or slouchy velvet trousers is my go-to for dressing for a casual party.
10. The Tailored Trousers
I can confidently confirm that With Nother Underneaths’s black tailored trousers are actual perfection. My styling tip would be to size up if you want to wear them a bit slouchy like the image above and if you're tall, don't worry there is a generous hem. You can also get 20% off with code ANGIE20.
11. The Evening Poncho
A touch of warmth, flair and movement all in one, I can imagine styling this with the silk skirt above, especially as a chic eveningwear option.
12. The Show-Stopping Dress
Another strong New Year's Eve contender is this dress by Staud. The tone of the sequins is so beautiful it needs little styling, I'd simply add an oversized blazer over my shoulders to toughen this up a touch.
13. The Printed Skirt
St Agni’s map skirt is a recent addition to my wardrobe but I've already found that my favourite way of wearing it is with trousers and a shirt, or a sheer long-sleeved top and a nice bra. It's ideal for dressier occasions when you want something a little different with a laid-back yet chic feel.
14. The Puffer Coat
With the sudden flurry of snow, many of us will be looking to cosier outer layers. As a stylist, I've always kept a warm coat in my kit on set and this is the best quilted jacket I've come across.
SHOP MORE OF ANGIE SMITH'S SHOPPING PICKS:
A Fair Isle jumper in this season’s hottest shade—what's not to love? Run, don’t walk, and size up.
Not only will these work for so many occasions, but they're also so comfortable. The wool adds a little extra warmth and they can be easily styled for day or night. For evening, add a nice top or simple black roll neck and either boots or heels. At the weekend, simply tuck in your favourite jumper for a relaxed yet put-together feel.
The good ones go quickly when it comes to suede jackets, so I predict this will move fast. It's definitely an investment piece, but I think it's worthwhile for how often you'll want to wear it.
I do not know where I would be without a few of these in my wardrobe. Gone are the days when a cosy co-ord was saved for long, chilly flights or easy days at home. Right now, I'm wearing mine with a white tee and leather jacket.
Of course, you can wear the pieces separately, but I love the ease of the duo, and a leather jacket adds a nice contrast which toughens up the overall look.
There's nothing nicer than wearing a super-soft coat over a simple T-shirt and jeans. Simply tie a cardigan around your waist in case the chill factor increases.
The soft toe shape and easy height of this pair immediately caught my eye.
I’m a sucker for anything resembling a lumberjack shirt, and this colour would be the perfect way to inject some personality into your winter wardrobe. I always size up for a relaxed fit. This will quickly become your new favourite weekend jacket.
"Nice top" alert! A simple style that can be worn for multiple occasions and styled in a variety of ways will always get a yes from me.
A cotton crew-neck T-shirt that is ever so slightly sheer always looks great popping out from under a crew-neck knit or a V-neck sweater.
The 70s is an era that always inspires me when it comes to dressing at this time of year. These trousers will bring an instant polish to your looks, and the colour will go with every other wintery shade. Right now, I really like brown and red together.
A light wool top will be so useful as temperatures continue to drop.
If you have a sunshine getaway planned to tide you over during the chillier months, then resortwear brand Ilio Nema is well worth a look. I recently packed two of its dresses for a trip and wore both of them twice.
You wouldn't believe how many DMs I get about investing in a black wool coat. Jigsaw's City Coat now comes in black, and it's quite possibly the best on the high street when it comes to winter coats.
This jumper is the most incredible shade. It adds warmth to the skin and looks great worn with all of the earthy tones that are around at the moment.
The right shade of stonewashed denim contrasts dark or bright shades (see the red jumper below) in such a chic way.
The texture and shape of these high-rise mules will instantly update any outfit for the new season.
Whether worn as the main event or used as a styling accessory (tied around your shoulders or waist), a pop of red can make your look feel instantly more considered.
Just add a black lace triangle bra and undo a few buttons on the jacket. Or consider a silk cami, vintage denim and kitten heels for a cool, low-key evening look.
Consider this the perfect cream silk midi skirt. It's a great piece to add contrast and lightness to the heavier fabrics around at this time of year. I’m wearing mine with loafers and an oversized jumper.
A wardrobe classic that has found fresh life this season. This trending piece isn’t going anywhere fast.
The quickest way to take an outfit from average to excellent is with a statement tote such as this. It's big enough to carry all your worldly goods, including a laptop.
Autumn brings so many fun textures to the fore, from leather to alpaca knits. Add contrast with these sleek corduroy trousers.
Just like the right bag, sunglasses have the ability to put a fresh spin on even the simplest looks.
Statement kitten-heel sandals are the quickest way to update your classic "jeans and a nice top" look.
If you like the idea of suede outerwear but a coat feels too bulky, then a button-down "shacket" is a brilliant option to get the same effect.
This is exactly what I'd want to wear with loose tailored trousers or leather jorts for an office look, or with the below jeans at the weekend. For a polished finish, add heeled sandals.
Let me introduce you to Ayla, the ideal cropped baggy jeans style in a relaxed vintage wash.
If, like me, you live in flip-flops during the summer, I highly recommend looking at this elevated pair. The little heel makes them easy to wear with trousers, jeans, jorts and more.
I'm a big fan of this baseball-jacket-cum-cardigan. The grey shade is so easy to mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe.
If you tapped into the Bermuda shorts trend for high summer, my hot tip for autumn would be this pair. The leather fabric makes these particularly versatile with a white baby tee and flip-flops for the day, or a sheer vest and heels for the evening. I’m a 12 and wear a medium.
I recently saw this pair styled with some cropped jeans and loved how they looked. They're the perfect way to smarten a simple jeans look.
Sweet and simple in perfect harmony.
Flared cords that stop at the ankle are ideal for showing off sandals or some glossy loafers. Layer under a dress or wear with a '90s-style tee and cardigan.
Lightweight and seriously soft. Just add sandals and a raffia bag through summer, or a cardigan on milder days.
Simple in tone but interesting in texture is something I look for in most items.
I reach for simple flip-flops every summer as a minimalist finishing touch.
You can't go wrong with a linen set. Try this oversized boyfriend button-down and add some boxer shorts for ease. Remember, don't worry about the creases—this is lazy dressing, after all.
Buy oversized and add a raffia bag and flat shoes. Keep styling minimal with loose hair and little jewellery.
No matter the season, a pair of classic shades will always come in handy.
This simple neckline has the ability to update your whole wardrobe.
This easy silk tunic-style gown by Taller Marmo is my ideal look when getting dressed up.
This slip dress is the perfect length and fit for me. I wear a size 3 and am a size 10-12. I always like to allow a little room for any possible shrinkage when washing my clothes because I can't stand anything too tight.
I'm a big fan of Leset for various staple pieces, including this easy-to-style midi skirt.
This jersey drop-waist dress is possibly one of the comfiest finds of the summer. Plus, it also featured in Lucy Williams' edit for Free People.
This easy pyjama set from Arket is giving major vintage '70s vibes. It comes up large, so I ordered the size down for a comfortable fit. For a casual evening look, add a simple racerback vest, cute bag and flip-flop sandals with a slight heel (St. Agni has some great options). For daytime, wear it open as a light jacket for a beachside cover-up.
My Alighieri necklace is worn on repeat, so much so that my child calls it my "little fish", so when I spied this one by Kirstie Le Marque it was love at first sight. I haven't taken it off and find it adds a playful touch to all my holiday looks.
Dôen is always one of my first stops if I’m looking for something classic with a romantic twist, and this delicate silk top is pretty perfect.
Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for theBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing brand.
Emily has worked forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely withBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, teamBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.
Prior to joining theBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.
When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.
Emily is currently on maternity leave.
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