Sometimes I feel like the preparation and packing for a holiday takes as long as the trip itself. Anyone else?
It's a bit easier when you're just taking swimwear and summer dresses, but I'm off to chilly New York next week, and when searching for inspiration on what to take, I came across Carey Mulligan, who clearly knows a thing or two about putting together a winter capsule wardrobe.
These three outfits - all worn in New York - prove she's got an incredibly stylish way of elevating everyday basics like jeans, trainers and ankle boots. It's really quite formulaic as well - smart coats, blue denim in various cuts, ankle boots or trainers and knitwear. It's an effortlessly stylish approach that makes deciding what to wear each day that much easier.
woman&home's Fashion Writer Molly Smith agrees with me, saying: "Carey Mulligan is someone to study if you're looking for the ultimate city outfit formula—she reaffirms that combining elevated basics is the way forward.
"Reach for a tailored coat, denim jeans, and sleek leather boots (or your favourite trainers)—oh, and to top it off, reach for some luxe sunglasses and you're good to go."
So with Carey in mind, I've been on a cold weather wardrobe shopping spree. Thank me later!
Copy Carey: Outfit 1
The exact Bottega Veneta coat Carey is wearing here will set you back a whopping $5,800, but this Karen Millen coat could easily be mistaken for designer. With its smart double-breasted design it won't date. Buy it now, wear it for years to come, whichever side of the pond you're on!
I'm so fussy about denim, but these Next jeans have to be up there amongst the best wide leg jeansfor me. The wide hemline is really similar to Carey's leg-elongating style. Wear yours with a turtleneck knit and gold jewellery.
Carey's Bottgea Veneta Gemelli bag will cost you £2,870, but for a fraction of that price, this shoulder bag will win you loads of compliments. The rich red-brown colour is spot on for this time of year, and it's really roomy.
Copy Carey: Outfit 2
Zara have a real skill for making coats than look infinitely more expensive than they are. The longer length and lapels really set this one apart from others I've seen on the high street.
When in Rome, right? La Ligne is a New York-based label, and this is the exact knit Carey is wearing. Meghan Markle and Olivia Wilde are both fans of the Marin sweater too.
Carey's wearing a pair of Gucci x Adidas trainers, but with a rare 25% discount, these Gazelles will do the trick nicely. When you're a tourist walking round New York, the most comfortable trainers are a non-negotiable.
Copy Carey: Outfit 3
You wouldn't believe that this coat was from Amazon, would you? At just shy of £32, this probably won't last as long as more expensive options, but it's an easy and affordable way to channel Carey's dreamy Celine coat without the nightmare price tag that accompanies it.
These are really similar to the diamond Jessica McCormack earrings that Carey's is wearing, only they're thousands of pounds cheaper. They're from Heavenly London, a label loved by Kate Middleton, so it really is a win win!
Oh, so the perfect pair of winter boots does exist. Between the pointed toe, kitten heel, classic black colourway and reduced price, I'm am running to the checkout with these beauties.
-
Bye skinny jeans, hello palazzo trousers - Meghan Markle nails New York spring style with her ultra-wide leg lookJeans will never fully be replaced in my wardrobe but I’ve been finding myself drawn to wearing trousers more and more recently.
-
Dr Amir Khan reveals the 5 'sneaky' bad habits that may be damaging your health without you realisingThe doctor took to Instagram to discuss the unhealthy habits to break for better work-life balance, sleep, and wellbeing
-
Everyone in New York is wearing a trending colourway that will elevate your everyday wardrobe, including Naomi WattsSpotted head to toe in a rich, warm tan at the Ralph Lauren show, Watts shows us exactly why we should be investing in these classic hues
-
I thought my swimsuit shopping days were done - then I discovered this must-have H&M optionPriced at just under £25, the H&M padded-cup swimsuit outshone my designer style
-
Adidas Sambas have been trending for months now - but Fearne Cotton just wore hers in the most refreshing wayWe’re still a few months away from sandal season and Fearne Cotton has inspired us to reach for our Sambas so much more.
-
Helen Skelton's layered look is giving me plenty of country chic style inspiration this Earth DayShe paired a mocha-coloured jumper with a blue shirt and a pair of wellies by Kate Middleton's favourite brand
-
Helen Mirren's go-to accessory is a royal favourite that makes your outfit wedding season readyIf there’s one accessory we associate with Dame Helen Mirren it surely has to be this - and it’s the perfect piece for special occasions.
-
Clodagh McKenna’s olive green Zara trousers are under £60 - this springtime essential will get you ditching your jeansJeans will always have a place in our wardrobe but a great pair of tailored trousers makes a lovely change and can be equally versatile.
-
Sarah Jessica Parker's diamante bag is giving her iconic Fendi Baguette a run for its money - and it costs far lessA crystal-covered accessory is a surefire way to add some wow-factor to your outfit
-
Ruth Langsford's bold cricket jumper is convincing me to wear yellow long after Easter is overHer knitwear is an easy way to work the butter yellow trend into your wardrobe
