Gucci Pre-Fall 2020

Fashion can be an infuriatingly fickle thing – and I say this as a woman who shops, adopts and drops trends with more fervour than Bella Hadid at an early-00s trunk sale. The reality is, Hadid and her contemporaries switch sartorial gears so fast that keeping pace is nearly impossible. You spend up on a few key items to see out the season, but before you’ve even signed for the shipment on those delicate thong sandals, the style set have moved on to lug-soled loafers (should I admit that they’re sitting in my cart right now?).

It’s one of the many reasons why here at GRAZIA we’re such staunch supporters of fashion’s new sensibility, which consolidates the age-old approach of investing in well-made designer wares with the revival of individual style. A gruelling initiation into the new decade has seen the cyclical nature of fashion finally spiral in on itself, resulting in a rejection of unconscious, imitative buying patterns and heralding a new era of smart shopping.

Prada Resort 2020

In 2020, sifting through the vestiary noise to find a true trans-seasonal staple is de riguer. Of course, that doesn’t mean eschewing what’s on trend altogether; rather it involves applying a discerning eye to the options on offer and finding the best fit for both your closet and your budget.

That’s why we’ve come to appreciate the enduring appeal of Estro. The luxury Australian retailer is a veritable treasure trove of haute hidden gems from an impressive edit of the fashion industry’s most sought-after designer labels. Think Versace, Valentino, Gucci, Prada and Yves Saint Laurent, all at a remarkably discounted price – it’s like sale season, but without the frenzy-inducing time constraints that often result in a regrettable impulse-buy.

Instead, Estro’s offerings allow you to take your time to find that perfect addition to your stylistic repertoire, either via the convenient online store or in person at the Pitt Street Sydney and Birkenhead Point outlets.

So in celebration of Estro’s incredible Black Friday sale – where everything is marked down up to 80% off – we’re sharing a few of the styles we’ll be seeking out and snapping up between November 22 and November 30.

 

Classic Loafers

Loafers have never really exited the fashion stage, and for good reason. They’re the AOC of the shoe section – smart yet quietly stylish. Once you’ve seen what they can do, you’ll wonder if anything ever really worked without them. Opt for on-trend chunky soles or stick with the classic almond shape. We love this printed pair from Salvatore Ferragamo.

LANA T LOAFERS, SALVATORE FERRAGAMO, $538, SHOP NOW

 

Wear-Anywhere Heels

Getting yourself a pair of reliable heels is hardly groundbreaking advice, but your options don’t need to start and end with a pair of black pumps. Experiment with mesh, cut-outs and ankle straps if you like – just make sure they’re a comfortable height. Our pick? These chic Prada Mary-Janes, which will look just good at drinks as they do at your desk.

MARY JANE PUMPS, PRADA, $271, SHOP NOW

 

Simple Coats

Keeping the colour palette neutral will ensure you get the mileage out of a well-constructed coat, season after season. Looking to inject a little more personality? Try out different textures, from wool to fluffy teddy or even suede. If indecision should strike, a camel Max Mara Weekend coat such as this one will never steer you wrong.

PARMA WOOL & ALPACA COAT, MAX MARA WEEKEND, $1,542, SHOP NOW

 

Versatile Handbags

Backpacks, clutches, belt bags and work totes – they’re all available at Estro. But if you have to invest in only one, we’d suggest considering your current harem of handbags and filling in the gaps. An unadorned messenger satchel is always a safe choice (especially when it’s Celine).

TROTTEUR LEATHER MESSENGER BAG, CELINE, $2,010, SHOP NOW

 

Structured Blazers

A good blazer is undoubtedly the foundation of any stylish woman’s wardrobe. Thrown on over a t-shirt and jeans or worn with wide leg co-ords, this is one investment that you’ll never regret. Go with the godfather of the entire category –  Yves Saint Laurent  – and pick up this versatile dinner jacket.

VelVET DINNER JACKET, YVES SAINT LAURENT, $2,490, SHOP NOW

 

An Eye-Catching Blouse

A printed blouse can inject a bit of energy into even the most uninspired ensemble. This leopard print iteration could’ve walked right out of Alexa Chung’s closet, so put it straight into yours.

LEOPARD PRINT SHIRT, YVES SAINT LAURENT, $1,290, SHOP NOW

 

Well-Cut Pants

You can never really have too many pairs of pants, but you can overdose on a single style – so don’t be afraid to mix it up. Wide-leg cuts are the style du jour right now, and this cropped pair will do double-duty.

OMBRINA WIDE CROPPED TROUSERS, MAX MARA WEEKEND, $397, SHOP NOW

 

Dark-Wash Jeans

Do we really need to sell you on this one? Probably not, but it’s worth mentioning that a solid wash will endure the many denim trends we see each season. Look for indigo or black, like these inky Yves Saint Laurent skinnies.

SKINNY JEANS, YVES SAINT LAURENT, $450, SHOP NOW

 

Neutral Knitwear

If there’s one thing we’ve learned about our clothing this year, it’s that comfort is absolutely king. And a cosy cashmere knit is the ultimate luxury, no? This beige number from Max Mara gets our vote.

ARAk WOOL & CASHMERE SWEATER, MAX MARA STUDIO, $766, SHOP NOW

Estro’s Black Friday sale runs from Sunday 22 November to Monday 30 November. There’s always new stock arriving too, so keep a close eye on their Instagram feed or Facebook page to be notified first!