TIE-UP ATTIRE

Alexa Chung, hailed as a style inspiration to the masses and all round fashion icon recently claimed 'A bad outfit can really get me down. If I'm wearing something really normal and boring, it's like torture'. Now, while what Chung confessed boasts nothing of profound meaning it is a quote which I find resonates with myself - as I'm sure it does with many others. Typically, I aim to style myself in such a way which excites me almost, in order for me to feel good in a particular outfit it has to be what I would consider 'aesthetically pleasing' - something which I am sure is subjective yes - but ultimately, I find myself seeking to evade the ordinary. 

With that said, as of late I've taken to accentuating my attire with something simple, something reusable and rework-able into just about any outfit (or so I've found) nevertheless, such a simple accentuation results in a more elaborate ensemble - all thanks to the effortless tie-belt. Taking inspiration from the current trend of lace-up garments which I have developed a vast fondness for, one day I decided to pair an unloved patterned tie-belt with a customary crochet top and embroidered skirt combo and needless to say I've become quite accustomed to the accessory. So much so I am set on a quest to find and gather anything which can be used for this such purpose and so far I have discovered thus - vintage scarves and even that old dressing gown belt you never use will do the trick - reuse and recycle seems to be the common motto in tie-belt attire. 

| Top - Primark | Skirt - Topshop | Belt(Or scarf rather) - Oxfam | Shoes - New Look |

Tie-belting (yes I am going to coin that nonsensical phrase) does not just apply to tops at the waist although a focal point for autumn/winter, think belt-loops of jeans and skirts galore - a la Pandora Sykes - a patterned scarf in placement of the typical belt can work wonders, such detail moulds the 'plain t-shirt and jeans' into something a little more me.

| Jumper - The Vintage Corner | Jeans - Topshop | Belt/scarf - Oxfam | Shoes - New look | Sunglasses - Topshop |

70s-esque patterns are my go to when searching for suitable tie-up attire, check charity shops for a bargain (or two), old lady vibes galore serve as apt inspiration.

| Top - ASOS | Jeans - ASOS | Necklace - Topshop | Sunglasses - Topshop |

When in doubt, the mustard tile print number works well with most whether it be adorning daytime or evening wear, the once unloved trouser tie-up has a new lease of life in my wardrobe. 

| Cami Top - ASOS | Jeans - ASOS | Belt - Next | Shoes - New Look | Sunglasses - Topshop |

Stripes are a fail-safe, monochromatic colour schemes work well with this universally loved print, such has seen this dressing gown tie-up become a staple in everyday wear.