When speaking to anyone from Laura Ashley about the latest Autumn/Winter collection, they emphasised the joy of working with the Laura Ashley archive. The Portrait of Laura line was all inspired by the archive of old photographs and sketches in Wales and used the 1970s as a very on-trend touchstone. It’s filled with bell-sleeves, floaty tiers and tiny bows.
I consider myself a vintage fashion aficionado. Mostly based on the fact that I firmly believe that many classic designs and silhouettes just suit my figure better. I don’t think anyone will ever see my in bodycon dress, for example, even though there are some gorgeous ones out there.
Which is why I was so excited by the Portraits of Laura collection in the Autumn/Winter showing. It was filled with pieces that I could see in my own closet. Vintage-rooted whilst still feeling modern. Though I’m definitely a summer-baby, I still prefer Autumn fashion to that of summer. It’s one of the things that gets me over my post-summer ennui: the thrill of autumnal clothing.
I was absolutely torn when narrowing down pieces from the collection. There’s a particular suede pinafore and suede waistcoat that I still have my eye on. In the end, I went with high neck lace bib blouse and a lace collar jumper. The lace collar jumper felt very dainty and girly, so I wanted to balance out the sweetness by pairing it with a pair of always comfortable boyfriend jeans. I would consider this the perfect outfit for relaxing on the weekends. And with the lace bib blouse, I decided to embrace the full 70s collegiate vibe and pair it with a high-waisted skirt and chunky oxfords.
In both cases the lace managed to feel unfussy and it was very easy to pull outfits together. Laura Ashley prides itself of a history of “natural romanticism” and I think they totally hit the nail on the head with this collection.
I’ve gotten so many compliments on them both! They serve as the perfect transition numbers; light enough to still handle some lingering warmth but perfectly appropriate for Autumn as well.
Laura Ashley totally knocked it out of the park, and I honestly can’t wait to see what they might have waiting in the wings inspired by their archive!
You can check out my post on Laura Ashley here.
Outfit 1: c/o Jumper || Jeans || Sunglasses || Watch
Outfit 2: Blouse || Bag || Shoes || Skirt
What fashion are you inspired by this season?
