Two polar opposite experiences occurred during my trip to London. At one point in my trip, I was dressed to the nines causing heads to turn and people to ask me what I got all dressed up for. At another, I attempted to enter a restaurant only to be denied entry for my footwear choice. (I had been exploring the city all day and was wearing sneakers.) My two contrasting experiences prove my point that the people of London are neither too dressed up nor too casual. They've found the perfect in-between.
While American girls might gravitate towards sneakers for a day spent on their feet, London girls are more likely to be found in ballet flats or loafers. Hoodies are replaced by cashmere, and the list goes on. I took quite a bit of inspiration from London girls on my trip to the UK and am walking away with a brand new shopping list of items I'd like to acquire to steal their look. Keep scrolling to find out what made the cut.
1. Wide-Leg Trousers
American girls love wide-leg trousers too, but I hadn't seen more pairs of the Instagram-viral pants until I stepped off of the plane in London. This is the perfect example of an item that is both functional and fashionable, so I'm definitely going to buy it for this fall.
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We have to start with a classic black pair.
These are next on my list.
What a color combination.
Just the right amount of high-waisted.
2. Ballet Flats
When it comes to flats, London women love a good ballet pair. I saw this style worn a lot more often when I was overseas, and since it's trending there, I'm sure it will hit our shores next.
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It's not a want, it's a need.
I'm telling you the cost per wear on these will be pennies.
I'm speechless.
The square toes make this pair feel more futuristic.
3. Waistcoats
While most Americans call it the "tailored vest," I've heard the English refer to it as a "waistcoat." If you're tired of wearing T-shirts and blouses, pair this with any skirt or pants in your wardrobe. You won't regret it.
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I love her.
So classic.
The colorway of my dreams.
My desire for a variety of lengths drew me to this one.
4. Anything Retro
From brands like Wales Bonner to Burberry, London designers are loving retro, footballer-inspired pieces. Think jewel tones, graphic tees, vintage sneakers, and more.
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I think I just found the perfect sneakers.
The stitching and colorway make this feel very retro.
I won't tell anyone that you didn't find this in a thrift store.
Collegiate behavior.
5. Midi Skirts
While miniskirts are trending all over the world, most London girls know the power of wearing something with a longer hemline. The elegance of a midi skirt will never leave the British vocabulary.
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This screams "London girl."
When I think about packing for a trip to London, I think about slip skirts.
So cute.
This color is just wow.
6. The Party Dress
Last but not least, let it be known that London girls know how to have a good time. The party dress is a staple in an English wardrobe so pay close attention to the below.
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I just wore this dress and felt like Kendall Jenner.
When London girls go out in Mayfair, this is the kind of dress they'd bring with them.
It's the cutout for me.
Nothing says "party" more than taffeta.
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