The world might have had its eyes on the Met Gala over the last week or so, but when it comes to inspiration for outfits that most of us can actually wear from day to day, it’s always best to look at what the A-listers choose to wear when they are off the red carpet.
Anna Wintour wowed in her pale blue ensemble for the star-studded charity event, but it was her leafy print shirt dress that she wore in the run-up to the event that caught my attention. The fashion editor looked gorgeous in a red shirt dress covered in oversized white leaves, and she styled it to perfection with a white belt and a pair of patterned ankle boots. Oh, and of course, she finished her look with a pair of her signature oversized sunglasses.
Anna always gets it right with her wardrobe choices, and this timeless ensemble is a perfect example. It made a statement with pattern and feels very current with spring/summer fashion trends, but at the same time, it's totally wearable and thankfully very easy to recreate right now. There are plenty of similar pieces available to suit any budget, so I have rounded up some favourites below.
Get the Look
The combination of a fitted waist and puffed sleeves on this dress makes it very flattering, and will work particularly well to balance curvier hips on pear-shaped frames. Finish with nude heels for a fancy soiree.
This designer doppelganger looks just like Anna's but comes in at under £40! The drawstring waist means it's one of the best dresses to hide a tummy, and you can adjust it to sit loosely or cinched in.
This button-down piece comes with a waist tie, but you can try switching that out and replacing it with a belt for a more polished finish. Shiny gold earrings will sit well with this statement print, too.
Complete the Look
Take note from Anna, and try adding a print clash with a pair of monochrome heels. Her boots look great, but for the summer months, a pair of woven sandals like these will do the job nicely.
A neat and pared-back pair of ballet pumps will add a feminine footnote to any outfit. Use these Mary Janes to finish your dress or add them to a T-shirt and barrel leg jeans look.
A retro pair of sneakers complete with a matching red stripe like these will bring a modern and casual feel to your dress and will be super comfy to wear for a busy day of errands.
When it comes to styling a boldly printed piece like Anna's, I'd always recommend keeping your accessories to a minimum. Anything too busy will clash with the dress and leave your outfit looking a little OTT, so instead opt for understated jewellery and classic bags in a block colour or even sunny raffia textures.
Your shoes can switch up the vibe very easily, too - heels will take your dress to a fancy occasion, preppy pumps will work for weekend plans, and your best white trainers will give the leafy piece a casual spin.
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Duchess Sophie just shopped at one of our favourite brands - her wildflower ME+EM dress and espadrilles are a summer match made in heavenPastel blue is Duchess Sophie’s new favourite colour for summer and it looks sensational with her go-to espadrille wedges.
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Celebrities love these jeans - and Reese Witherspoon's espadrilles and light spring knit make the perfect pairingLooking for the perfect way to style your jeans this spring? We're taking notes from Reese Witherspoon after she expertly livened up the timeless denim staple with a sweet white knitted top and pair of wedge espadrilles.
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Helen Skelton’s way of wearing denim shorts has solved my summer style dilemma - and her chunky sandals are the perfect finishing touchI can be daunted by the idea of wearing shorts but I love how Helen Skelton made them look chic and provided more coverage too.
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I'm packing for 30 degree heat – here are the best linen staples I found on the high streetThese linen pieces not only feel amazing in the heat, but look far more expensive than they are
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Anne Hathaway wore the bag style we'll be reaching for all summer long – the mini bagThe ultimate occasionwear accessory, this bag style is a warm-weather essential
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This flattering bikini top is a great shape if you have big boobs - and it's currently 65% offThe Shapermint Essentials Halter Bikini Top will boost your confidence this summer
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Emilia Fox’s peony-print maxi reminds me why floral dresses are worth investing in for wedding and garden party seasonIf you’re going to invest in one occasion-wear dress for the season it surely has to feature florals.
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Katie Holmes is a master of comfortable casual wear - her deep red jumpsuit is ideal for springIt's such a simple but chic look
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Victoria Beckham's leopard print skirt is the chic staple every closet needsIf you only add one thing to your closet this season, make it a leopard print skirt
