Ooze elegance this winter!

Say hello to the chic winter style that imbibes the "First Lady" look. Timeless, classic and always in vogue, this look can be adorned everyday. Fashion stylist Shruti Kothari tells you how

Start by keeping in mind the timeless wardrobe basics. The designs, fabrics and colours are essential; if you have all these right, half the battle is won! Next, it’s all about putting it all together. Remember, a classic sense of winter chic is not about going out and buying all the fads possible. It’s about investing in the right winter wear!

The chic top coat!
A coat in black, grey or camel is a must have. You will be spoilt for choice in styles, designs and colours. Pick one that suits your body. It could be woollen, a long A-line silhouette, single breasted, of a solid shade and perhaps even with a dramatic collar or sleeve. Take this and team it with a scarf or a dignified string of pearls for a classy exemplified persona.

Pair it right
Team your classy coat with a black, cream or grey skirt or one that matches the colour of the coat. If you are going for a casual chic look, a pair of dark blue jeans, a pair of woollen trousers or even a pair of tweed trousers is de-rigueur in the winter wardrobe. Throw in sweaters or cardigans in browns, blacks, whites, reds and beiges. Silk or satin blouses in bright colours or in subtle shades of cream and beige help light up a dreary winter morning.

Sheath it
Another fashion essential is the sheath dress. It’s simple, refined and elegant! Preferably of the princess cut, pick up one in a bright colour - fire red, fuchsia, bottle green or cobalt. Make sure it’s of a flattering length and has an old-school jewel neckline. Try pairing this dress with a high black belt, a string of pearls and lace gloves up to the elbow or even just up to the wrists. You could also throw in a dark-hued cardigan and slick pumps. Tie a looped silk scarf and carry a stunning bejewelled leather clutch and voila! Keep in mind that the wilder the print or colour of the garment, the more classic the cut should be. The tension between a conservative cut and an edgy colour is what creates the style.

Don’t forget the frills!
Accessories play a vital role in attaining the ‘First Lady’ look, especially shawls, hosiery, gloves and scarves. You can either opt for a silk square neatly tied and tucked into a sweater or go in for a “knotted scarf sitting outside the collar” kind of look. Long cashmere scarves teamed with jackets and coats are stylish and sexy! With shawls, choose wisely and drape well. Add a brooch to keep the shawl in place; a beautiful brooch can change the look of an ensemble altogether. Keep in mind that the colours of both scarves and shawls must compliment your outfit. Gloves in leather, cashmere, lace or light wool add a touch of refinement to the entire look. Hosiery, if you intend to wear it, must be in neutral tones matching the skirt and the shoes.

To get this look right, attention to detail is a must. Combine different garments with “one-of-a-kind” accessories and up your individual style quotient. Take a cue from the elegant Mrs. O, even the colour of her coat’s lining or a belt that she has clinched over an unbuttoned cardigan oozes panache!