Spotted in London: The Two Chic Outfit Formulas That Look Elegant Every Time
If you want to look polished and put-together, these London-girl outfit formulas always deliver.
I’ve long been a proponent of honing a personal uniform—whether that’s a handful of trusted styling formulas, or familiar silhouettes and hero pieces you rely on throughout the week. Keeping things somewhat formulaic not only streamlines the morning routine, but also guarantees an outfit you’ll feel confident and comfortable in all day.
Beyond personal styling habits, I also believe that certain cities come with their own unspoken rules around dressing, and as a Londoner, I feel innately in sync with the capital’s understated, polished dress code. As winter settles in, I’ve noticed a few particularly chic outfit formulas dominating central London’s streets.
Wearing exactly what Londoners want to wear right now—not overdone, yet impeccably put together—Claire Foy’s recent outings have cemented her status as one to watch. Read on to discover the two chic outfit formulas that Claire, and the city’s most stylish, are leaning on this season.
1. Blazer + Red Top + White Trousers
Style Notes: Having spent the majority of my life in London, I’d say there’s a smart-casual sensibility that runs through the city. Come the New Year—when the capital slips into a collective “back to school” rhythm—outfits tend to edge slightly smarter, allowing elevated staples such as silky blouses and classic tailoring their moment in the spotlight.
Stepping out this week, Claire injected a vibrant hit of colour into an otherwise monochrome ensemble by way of a red satin blouse. The lustrous texture lent her look a sense of elegance without tipping into anything overly formal. Paired with a simple black blazer and crisp white trousers, the result felt easy, comfortable and naturally polished—exactly as London’s best outfits should.
Shop the Look:
Contrast these with white trousers or style them up with a black, straight-leg pair.
Add a pop of colour to your winter rotation.
Light cream and white trousers are such a chic alt to your average blue jeans.
Style these with white socks for a polished, preppy look.
2. Black Funnel Neck Coat + Leather Bag + Brown Boots
Style Notes: Until winter’s winds finally relent, there’s no layer chicer or more practical than a funnel-neck coat. With its high neckline concealing the neck and subtly elongating the frame, the silhouette imparts elegance and warmth in equal measure.
Claire styled hers with dark black sunglasses, a structured leather bag and tall boots in a rich shade of brown, creating a look that feels sleek and incredibly easy to emulate. It’s a failsafe formula that stands up to even the coldest winter days.
Shop the Look:
This high-neck wool coat will keep you cosy during the depths of winter.
Style this over your shoulder or wear it as a cross-body.
Reformation's Remy boots are a fashion person's favourites.
