Party season might be over, but that doesn't mean a complete stop to dressing up. Whether you've got an event or a date night on the card, we're still looking for reasons to get dressed up, and this post-festive season can be pretty hard to tone the line on. But Helen Skelton has stepped up with the perfect inspiration when it comes to cold-weather occasion wear.
While presenting BBC Morning Live, Helen cut a striking figure in the Frank Paisley print velvet tailored blazer and the matching Richmond paisley print velvet flared trousers by Joanie. The bold suit delivered a polished, winter-ready feel, with a flattering silhouette that nipped the star in at the waist.
The black velvet fabric gave the look a luxe feel that was complemented by the rich Paisley pattern. Helen finished off her outfit with a pair of camel court shoes that tied into the tones of the suit’s pattern and ensured the elegant, put together look hit the mark for January occasionwear.
Recreate Helen's Winter-Ready Occasion Wear Look
This hip-length blazer boasts a classic, tailored shape, with crisp lapels and gently puffed sleeve heads creating a timeless and easy-to-wear style. The textured pattern brings a luxe touch to the black-on-black look, delivering an embossed-like finish.
A textured, flocked print offers an upgrade to these tailored trousers. With a slim fit, they're flattering and are easily styled with a black blouse and the matching Dusk blazer.
Helen's camel-toned court heels were the perfect addition to complement her black, patterned suit, and this Next pair are a great alternative. Available in both standard and wide fits.
Taking Helen's paisley-printed blazer and injecting it with some sparkle, this Joe Browns jacket is a statement piece that will certainly turn heads. Style it with the matching Boutique Sequin Embroidered Mini Skirt from Joe Browns, or dial it back with a pair of black tailored trousers.
A pair of velvet trousers like these from Nobody's Child is great to have on hand in the winter. In place of your go-to tailored trousers, the luxe fabric brings an elevated touch to occasion wear looks, and they're as easy to style as any black pair of trousers.
Shoppers can't say enough good words about these kitten heels, with one review revealing, "They look more expensive than they are", and are "Really comfy." With a slingback strap and sleek, pointed toe, they're super versatile too.
Velvet is the type of fabric that makes any occasionwear look feel more winter-ready. Luxe to the touch, and when crafted from silk, warming, yet breathable, Helen's tailored two-piece delivers a twist on classic tailoring for the months ahead.
Paisley remains a key print year-round, offering a bohemian finish to even the most polished of looks, and Helen's outfit is no exception. If you're looking to still get dressed up in the first half of the year, a flocked, velvet suit is an excellent and stylish option.
While a black court might have been a more obvious choice, Helen's brown courts prove that this neutral hue is just as versatile in a winter capsule wardrobe. Helen’s look shows that they can take the place of our go-to black heels and bring in a touch of warmth to occasion wear looks and smart casual outfit ideas.
The tone of her heels works beautifully with the colours in the suit, with mustard yellows, olive greens and rich berry pinks creating a striking, winter colour palette. Helen chose to let the pattern of her suit take centre stage by buttoning up her blazer and covering her choice of blouse underneath. This worked to keep the look unfussy and sleek, though a plain black or camel top would work as an extra layer when recreating her look.
