Timeless style lessons from the world’s most fashionable cities

Years ago, I had to travel to Europe and the USA regularly to meet with top lifestyle media.

It was always a thrill meeting with the likes of Conde Nast in London, New York, Paris, and Milan. Naturally, I always enthusiastically made mental notes of what they wore as I was usually a season behind them. Knowing what was to come for my next winter or summer and deciding what I would adapt to my own personal style, felt quite powerful.

What I observed through all those years was the fact that classic pieces never date as those forever fashion gems would add a touch of class to any outfit, be it for casual, workwear, or smarter occasions.

In London, the editors and their teams would invest in a new coat to celebrate winter, usually with a signature scarf to complement the look.

In Milan, I found the editorial teams mostly in classy black, and always wearing stunning shoes to completement their style of the day. How could one resist beautifully crafted Italian shoes… mia culpa, and yes, my suitcase used to groan on my return flights, but I don’t regret one euro spent on top quality footwear.

I’m a Francophile and have French blood in my veins from both parents, however, I never found the travel media to be well dressed in Paris. I did happen to catch a glimpse of a fashion editor or two in the building at some stage and although they wore bespoke accessories, somehow it did not quite reflect the glamour and chic with the unmistakable sex-appeal of their Italian counterparts in Milan. Shhhh, don’t tell them I told you, hie…

However, according to Emily in Paris, this has changed, and I must admit, I’m smitten with the classic designs with a feminine edge worn by the senior editorial team in the show, whilst the younger fashionistas create fun, contemporary fashion statements.

New York was always interesting as it is such a multifaceted city. I’d see women dressed in timeless styles, looking like old money, and the younger women would be all about getting artistic with colours and edgy designs – so reminiscent of the young Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City! The editor I met with in Manhattan was usually casually attired and classy, whilst the colours she wore were vibrant and she was always beautifully groomed.

I saw incredibly chic women in Nice on the French Riviera, and I always noted their stunning shoes, quality coats and hats, and a look that reflected classy joie de vivre by simply accessorising with a gorgeous scarf or handbag. The look was mostly understated and classic in winter. Of course, they are more relaxed in summer but always fabulous.

Most of us have a classic pair of straight-leg jeans and pants, a good white shirt, not to mention that ageless little black dress in our wardrobes. Building an outfit around these basic pieces creates timeless chic.

Not keen on a tailored suit and white shirt look? Do not fret, as our personal style should never be compromised. I recently wore a simple burgundy summer-knit top and instead of pairing it with the obvious choices of white or black pants, I was in the mood for a relaxed vibe, so, I wore it with a pair of striped boho pants in earthy hues. I felt great. It was different, but still the mood was classic, with a dab of retro.

Whilst we are still in summer on most parts of our enormous island, a classic linen dress never dates. Add a blazer or a cardigan, and the look is fit for any office or lunch party.

I am a sucker for monochrome and simply adding a dash of colour if I’m in the mood, although a fussy look is not often preferable. Nonchalant chic conjures up a vibe of not having tried too hard, yet, we pulled it off and look sensational. Bingo.

A great shirt and denim jeans, accessorised with a sprinkle of glamour, never dates. Add pearls and accessorise further with fabulous shoes, and a mood of sophistication is set. It never gets old. Add a blazer or simply throw a sweater over the shoulders for casual elegance.

Not always in the mood for the little black number? Why not choose a simple dress in a colour you know enhances your mood and appearance…

Feeling a little nippy as autumn will slowly be sneaking in? Add a matching scarf to a classic shirt. The devil is in the detail of the accessories…

I love black cargo pants. I add cute heels, a white shirt, and as was the case last week on a cool day, I simply draped a big cardigan in a warm shade of tan over my shoulders. Timeless, yet the design of the pants added an element of fun.

Sequins are here to stay and if I should suggest one basic classic item to acquire, which will keep giving generously for years to come, I’d vote for a simple black sequin top as my hot favourite for a cool appearance.

So easy to style too! Wear it with a pair of black pants, or white pants for a more relaxed yet sophisticated look. It also looks fabulous with denim.

For daily style updates on my Instagram page, pop to @tilly_thegoodlife_style and for my monthly lifestyle blog, see https://tillythegoodlife.blog

Have fun finding classic gems in your closet of magic and never forget to add your own mood and personality to the look. Be unique, be you, gorgeous!