A Guide to Classic Fashion Styles

Throughout the last century, there have been many classic fashion styles that you can call on to enhance your wardrobe time and again to create smart and sophisticated looks. Some trends such as neon in the 1980s come and go, but there are certain looks and fabrics that will remain classic no matter what period they originated in. Look for plain sophisticated colors and understated prints and you can't go far wrong.

The 1960s

• For the modern woman there are elements of fashion in the sixties that are best forgotten. There are some styles from this decade, however, that easily translate to the modern day. Jackie Kennedy was an effortless style icon from this decade. She chose highly tailored separates including fitted jackets nipped in at the waist, clean white shirts and high-waisted trousers. Jackie Kennedy also accessorised neatly, choosing simple statement jewellery and hats. The style of women's wear that she so effortlessly chose is still very relevant and current today.

The 1920s

• The 1920s was the first decade that women truly asserted their independence and with this came classic fashion styles that will never die. Before this decade, women wore far more conservative clothing, often unflattering covering cleavage and ankles. Many of the styles of this decade were born from the underground jazz scene. Dresses and skirts were pulled to knee length or even shorter, women began to wear flattering high-waisted belts and hats became more about making a statement than for warmth or covering your head. For the first time it also became acceptable and fashionable for women to cut their hair short.

Knitwear

• Women's knitwear is truly adaptable and there are many classic fashion styles that have emerged from the craft of knitting your own garments. The emphasis, however, is on the type of wool that is used to create the knitwear look, rather than the pattern itself. Knitwear should be all about luxurious wools and soft-textured garments. Whether it is scarves or other accessories, jumpers, sweaters or coats, by choosing a fine wool such as cashmere, will ensure that the clothing remains timeless.

Sportswear

• Finally sportswear shouldn't so much be about garments to wear when you are engaging in sports, than comfort and wear-ability. The classic fashion styles in sportswear are about separate pieces that can be worn on a casual occasion such as picking your children up from school, but should still be stylish and effortless. Good sportswear will always be an easy 'go to' piece in any woman's wardrobe.