While most major cities have a clear uniform, the London look can be categorised as unapologetically offbeat. Crafty, quirky, and traditional all rub along in The Big Smoke, so expect everything from preppy West Londoners to Pearly Kings and Queens, and studded leather-clad rockers. The birthplace of fashion trends from punk to mod, and home to legendary designers Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, Paul Smith, and Stella McCartney, as well as fashion heavyweights Burberry and Mulberry, London’s style is experimental and boundary-pushing. Modern designers taking the helm – think Rejina Pyo and Jonathan Anderson – have continued to build on London’s position as a taste-maker capital. So while there may not be codes of style to follow, embrace eccentricity with prints and colour mixed with classic, old-world looks. One final tip – keep an eye on the skies; British weather can conjure rain and showers in a single afternoon so be sure to pack both sunglasses and an umbrella at once.
The jeans
You can’t go wrong with a good pair of jeans. Initially adopted by the Teddy Boys of the 1950s, it was punks in the 70s that made denim synonymous with London style. Avoid styles that look too polished or smart. After Kendrick Lamar’s Superbowl performance, all eyes are on Celine’s flared jeans in steel blue, a great cut somewhere between a boyfriend fit and a kick flare. Add detail with a turn-up or a belt, or for a bolder look for an unexpected twist on the classic, such as Loewe’s logo-appliqued wide-leg jeans or insider-favoured Riley Vintage’s patchwork denim.
The ballet pump
If last year was all about the ballet flat, 2025 is the year of the mesh flat. A sexier upgrade from the ballet pump, this shoe comes in a variety of colours and can be a fine mesh such as this pair from &Other Stories, or a thicker woven leather such as this hero pair from Jil Sander. These look great with a city look but can also be saved for your summer holiday.
The suede bag
Not the most practical of purchases, but the it-bag right now is the suede boho handbag. Popularised by Chloe and the boho chic tribe (we’re looking at you Sienna Miller and Daisy Edgar Jones), the suede shoulder bag is at once laid bag and bohemian, and smart and chic. Pair with a slim-cut suit or a cashmere knit for a more Uptown take on the trend or go for a frilled dress for a romp around Hampstead Heath.
The gingham dress
A picnic might be a staple of the British summertime, but don’t leave gingham on the matt – the tea dress gets a 2025 upgrade in preppy gingham shades. We love a feminine detail such as bows, or ruching. Pair with a denim jacket and some chunky sandals.
The trench coat
Recently-appointed Daniel Lee (who previously turned around Bottega Veneta) has put trench coats front and centre for his collections for British heavyweight Burberry. The house famously invented the coat style for the British army during the First World War, lightweight and waterproof, ideal for wearing in the – you guessed it – trenches. The style has been echoed by brands ever since. This year, opt for oversized or extra long, such as this version from Mango.
The layering necklaces
If there’s one jewellery trend that has dominated for the last decade, it’s the layering necklace. This jewellery trend is full of personality, as you can add pendants and charms, symbols and initials, to be displayed in one cascading cacophony. We love a heart-shaped locket, such as this piece from Missoma, or a slightly edgier t-bar pendant, which nods to the Prince Albert pocket watch design (the t-bar chain with connect the pocket watch to a waistcoat).
The chunky loafer
The loafer has lived many lives. Some credit the style to Norwegian farmers, others to American schoolchildren, and some even think it originated in ancient Morocco. The loafer we know and love today was first known as the Wildsmith Loafer, created for King George VI by London-based Wildsmith Shoes around 150 years ago. Characterised by its effortless, slip-on design, it’s a classic for men and women alike. Upgrade your footwear this season with a chunky sole, such as these versions by Prada and Gucci, or in statement suede by JW Anderson.
The barn jacket
We love a high-fashion take on a classic. Many will recognise this jacket style as a simple ‘waxed jacket’ or ‘walking jacket’, first worn by Scottish sailors in the Baltic, then popularised by British brands Barbour and Belstaff. It remains a generation-spanning wardrobe staple, worn by countryside ramblers and rain-braced city workers alike. This season, fashion favourites such as Miu Miu update the British staple, and Barbour teams up with Scandi darling Ganni for a modern take on the trend.
The umbrella
Is there anything more synonymous with London than an umbrella? The ‘rain or shine’ attitude can lean towards the former, so don’t get caught out. Brit-classic brands Paul Smith or Barbour are our go-to’s.
The knit
Anyone who has spent any time in England knows that a chunky knit is indispensable. The fashion item keeps us warm, but it’s also in our style DNA; cable knit is a heritage textile style originating from the Irish Aran islands but beloved throughout the UK, while Argyle has roots in Scotland. Likewise, cardigans originate from their namesake town in Wales. This year, opt for quirky prints and colourways with a preppy nod. We love the ‘black sheep’ knit from Rowing Blazers, made famous by Princess Diana.
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