ON THE STREETS

Everyone’s go-to basic is not so basic after all.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Everyone’s go-to basic is not so basic after all.

Tousled hair and clean, natural-looking makeup add a carefree vibe to fancy denim

1. DENIM DOES TWEED

Everyone’s favourite staple gets a dressy update with floral embellishments. Even jeans come decorated in intricate paisley prints.

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From top: Necklace, $479, Swarovski. Double the gild effect with a pair of oversize earrings

2. TOUCH OF GOLD 

A chunky, gold chain necklace with oversize links toughens up a feminine dress or adds that bit of rich to a white-tee-and-jeans combo. Wear it tight over a turtleneck and add on more gold on the ears for all-out glamour to everyday basics.

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From top: Show your style credentials by adding a DIY veil to an existing beret; A mesh veil atop a denim hat adds a touch of feminine charm.

3. TOP IT OFF

Regularly worn by royalty around the world (the late Princess Diana was a firm fan), veiled toppers give an air of mystery plus quirk—as seen at Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs this season. 

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From top: A red lip seals the deal and adds a hint of sophistication; Boiler suit, Stella McCartney; Shorts, about $795, The Attico at MatchesFashion.com; Jacket, about $485, Marques’ Almeida at Net-a-Porter

4. ACID TEST

An ’80s favourite, acid-wash denims are back in a big way. Easily anchored by wardrobe staples, play up the rebellious attitude with a top-to-toe look. Or cinch it at the waist and slick your hair back for a modern-retro touch.

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From top left: Bag, Dior. Bag, $687, MM6 Maison Margiela at Farfetch. Bum bag, Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

5. HAUL OF FAME

Adding versatile durability to the equation, these denim bags are not shy on style. From roomy totes to chic bum bags, they’re perennial faves to hold on to for years.

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From left: Gucci fall/winter 2020; Etro fall/winter 2020; Dior fall/winter 2020

6. A FRESH TWIST 

Take utility to the head. The humble bandana now comes elevated in silk and the softest chambray, or awash in hot logos. Tie yours around the neck, fashion it into a headband, or twist it around your wrist.

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From left (2, 4): Marques’ Almeida fall/winter 2020; Jacquemus fall/winter 2020

7. NOT JUST THE BLUES

Adding pops of colour into your wardrobe is that much easier when denim comes in rainbow hues and washes to brighten your day.

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From top: Balance the Western vibes with a turtleneck top; Opt for classic accessories for a modern take on the trend; Take double denim to a new level with patchwork

8. PIECED TOGETHER

Patchwork denim has come a long way since the ’60s and ’70s. Be it with contrasting washes that play up the visual effect or subtle details such as snap brass buttons, let the fabric be your canvas to dress up or down with heels or a pair of cowboy boots.

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From top: Overalls, Moschino. Overalls, $99, ZARA. Overalls dress, $54.90, H&M

9. ONE FOR ALL

Equal parts playful and utilitarian, overalls are a trusty, seasonless piece. Elevate the childhood favourite with a turtleneck and jewellery, or go casual with a puff-sleeve top and a wicker bag for a day out in the sun.

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From top left: AirPods holder, Burberry. AirPods holder wristlet, Prada. AirPods holder, Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello. AirPods holder, $640, Bottega Veneta. AirPods holder, Fendi

10. TINY BUT MIGHTY

Get plugged in with the accessory that’s all the rage: Wireless-earphone holders. From Prada’s chic gold leather wristlet to the intrecciato-woven beauty at Bottega Veneta and Fendi’s gilded hard-case capsule, they ensure you’ll never lose your pods again.

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Watches, $70,500 each, Vacheron Constantin

11. IN GOOD TIME 

Worn by itself or layered with bracelets, a classic watch is a fail-proof way to elevate your look—and in gold, it immediately adds luxe. Vacheron Constantin’s Overseas watch is a great option with its interchangeable straps to match different looks and moods.

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From top: Balmain fall/winter 2020. Chloé fall/winter 2020. Tom Ford fall/winter 2020

12. DAY TO NIGHT

The fashion industry’s obsession with the ’90s and early ’00s has seen a resurgence of the denim skirt. A perfect transitional number, a midi-length staple will take you from day to night easily. Take your cue from Salvatore Ferragamo by teaming a dark-washed number with chic boots and a sweater. Or meet the girls in a feminine blouse and sleek brogues, like at Chloé.

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHOWBIT