The AW16 Accessories Edit
This year, Autumn Winter shoes and bags are nostalgic in their classical form, with decidedly contemporary detailing. Here’s our pick of the upcoming season’s most timeless and timely accessories.
Photography by Sohrab Golsorkhi-Ainslie
Handbags and shoes are wardrobe staples worth investing in. Though some trends are short-lived, a wise choice of accessory can tide you through the flippancy of fashion for seasons, even years, to come.
Stellar accessories blend quality, versatility and style, and all three were abundant in the Autumn Winter 2016 collections. From 1940s-inspired ankle straps to statement mini-bags, these pieces are both timeless and timely. We’re literally stepping into the shoes, or rather the Mary Jane’s, of Marianne Faithfull and Françoise Hardy, and into the glove shoes of 1990s-era Calvin Klein. Our selected items are retro-revamped and guaranteed to form the backbone to even the most transient of wardrobes.
Tailored Satchels
These top-handle satchels have structured silhouettes with contemporary detailing for a refined but on-trend addition to your outfit. Proenza Schouler’s Hava tote has a fold-over front clasp with detachable shoulder straps and Valentino’s Rockstud handbag has a classic shape with turquoise studded detail for a modern take on traditional tailoring. These are school satchels through a modern lens.
Ankle Straps
The 1940s-inspired ankle strap brought an old-world romance to the Autumn Winter 2016 collections. Sassy and smart - single and multi-strap shoes flatter and accentuate the ankles. This Gianvito Rossi nude pair will have you stepping out like Rita Hayworth but with the added elegance and modernity of a slimmer, higher stiletto.
Micro Bags
Micro-sized bags were star accessories in the Autumn Winter 2016 shows, adding a pop of colour and panache to outfits. Think classic it-bags from bygone decades that have been scaled down into miniatures, these bags hold just the essentials. So like the traditionally tiny 1950s handbags, with these jazzed up versions you’ll be travelling light with nothing but a lipstick, notepad and phone! We’re especially loving Chloe’s suede Hudson baby sister.
High-Vamp Glove Shoes
High-vamp glove shoes are the newest addition to the “dressing-like-grandma” trend. They are comfortable but undeniably cute and offer a mature alternative to classic ballet pumps. The slim shape and low, block-heel on the Stuart Weitzman Stacked Heel creates echoes 1990s minimalism brought into 2016 with their beautiful suede fabric.
The Mary Jane
The Mary Jane is the perennial French schoolgirl accessory, reincarnated this season with chunky platforms, new materials (we’re looking at you, Marc Jacobs’ reptile-texture Mary Jane’s) and multiple, buckled straps. For an easy transition from day to night we love these Jimmy Choo chunky-heeled Mary Jane’s in metallic, which can be paired with both jeans and party dresses. For a bit of baroque flair, indulge yourself with this deep-red Stella Luna pair, complete with a round, gold buckle.