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Writer's pictureJennifer Chee

The Fashion Edit: The Frazzled English Woman


Images courtesy of Pique Magazine / Pinterest


As we enter into the chilling winter months, evenings are saved for snuggling up on the sofa and turning on your favourite feel-good flick. Slightly dishevelled, but hilariously loveable female leads are a comfort and staple within winter cinema, the leading lady being the one and only British icon, Bridget Jones. She is everything that encompasses the newly coined Gen-Z term, "The Frazzled English Woman", an aesthetic that radiates dishevelled-chic in both aura and appearance.

 

Oftentimes, we look to Hollywood for fashion inspiration, as we see on-screen characters throwing together fabulous outfits to go about their everyday lives. Whilst this put togetherness is great to watch, it is not however entirely realistic to embody, especially now that the temperatures have dropped. But are we at a turning point?

 

In the modern era of TikTok, where fashion trends emerge out of thin air and gain credibility like wildfire, winter fashion has become a much-discussed point of conversation. But where, you ask, is the latest viral fashion following emerging from? None other than our loveable leading lady, The Frazzled English Woman.

 

Dressing for comfort against the brisk British winter, The Frazzled English Woman is not your stereotypical leader of the latest trends, but instead a subtle coordinator of cool pieces with multi-layering practicality to dress appropriately for the turning weather. The type to be running for the next tube, or quietly enjoying a coffee and book outside her favourite café, there is a mundane romanticism that radiates from The Frazzled English Woman. Our guide highlights the fashion staples required when stepping out as The Frazzled English Woman.


Outerwear is a must-wear


Images courtesy of Pinterest


Outerwear is a key element to this formula, bringing together your favourite shirts, sweaters and scarfs, all layered snugly beneath a cozy jacket. Trench coats are a city girl's go-to, and for good reason—they’re timeless, versatile, and flattering. A classic trench ties everything together, letting you showcase your favourite pieces underneath without sacrificing warmth. You can stick with the classic belted style, opt for a soft wool button-up, or make a statement with a double breasted design and bold collar.


If long coats aren't your style, consider a peacoat, an oversized blazer, or the ever-reliable fitted denim jacket. The goal here is striking the right balance between practicality and style. In other words, layering carefully combined pieces to create an effortless look that gives the impression that the outfit has simply been thrown together—how ironic.

 

With so many colours and textures in play under the coat, a neutral palette can be a clever way to tie up an outfit in aesthetic coordination. Think darks like greys, blues, black, or essentially any shade of brown. Alternatively, a bold pop of colour can break up the neutrals and make a statement without overwhelming the outfit.


Ultimately, the beauty of this aesthetic lies in its chaotic charm. Dive into your wardrobe, layer up whatever feels right, and lean in to the carefree spirit of The Frazzled English Woman.



 




Burberry

Double-Breasted Belted Cotton-Gabardine Trench Coat

HK$23,500














Ralph Lauren

Wool-Blend Peacoat

HK$6,990










Layer your favourite knit


Images courtesy of Screen Rant and Instagram


For bracing the brisk British winter, fuzzy sweaters are the answer. Knitwear is a staple for the quintessential British woman's winter wardrobe, offering endless options—from classic cable knits to cozy fisherman-style sweaters. Turtlenecks, in particular, offer a perfect union of fashion and function, keeping you warm while elevating your outfit during the chilly months. Alternatively, cardigans have made a big comeback in 2024, and can be a great way to show off your favourite shirt, while staying cozy with a button-up knit. Knitwear is a core element of this look, creating opportunity for layering while adding comfort and a good base to build on your outfit.


When it comes to colour, the possibilities are endless. This look is all about expressing individuality, so choose shades that feel uniquely you. Pair your favourite knits with other wardrobe staples to complete the aesthetic. The heart of this style celebrates the beauty of the everyday, finding charm in the mundane.







LOEWE

Anagram Sweater in Mohair

HK$11,100














LOEWE

Jersey Turtleneck Sweater

HK$7,100










Accessorise, accessorise, accessorise!


Images courtesy of Pinterest and Maison Vivienne


To master the subtly maximalist style of The Frazzled English Woman, overhauling on accessories is an easy way to elevate your look.


Scarves are a great accessory to add extra detail to your outfit. Whether you opt for contrasting hues to bring a bold pop of colour, or a matching monochrome to create a more cohesive look, scarves bring both warmth and personality to your outfit. Beyond colour, scarves offer a variety of textures—think wool, cashmere, stripes, or solids—each adding its own touch of interest and individuality, helping to create that layered look that is central to this trend.

 

Hats are also a great way to add extra flair, with endless colour and texture opportunities. For those who hate the mess of hat hair, but still want to embrace the artsy dishevelled look, cute claw clips, hair clips or bows add subtle embellishments to your favourite up-do, whilst still sticking to the messy look of The Frazzled English Woman.


Winter doesn’t mean you have to stash away your favourite miniskirts. While not entirely practical, a miniskirt can still work, especially when layered under a long trench coat. Keep warm by pairing it with colourful or patterned tights in rich winter tones like maroons or greys. 

 

And, of course, you’ll need a way to carry all your winter essentials—lip balms, hand creams, gloves, and whatever else you might throw into your handbag. A slouchy shoulder bag in brown or black leather is a trendy option, adding that relaxed, draping look. To add flair to your favourite handbag, accessories aren’t just for your hair—they’re perfect for your bag too. A handbag is a creative way to translate your inner style and individuality with embellishments like keyrings, badges, bows, and all the bells and whistles. For reference, just take a look at the style icon behind

Hermès most sought-after accessory, Jane Birkin, and her chaotically chic personalisation of the Birkin bag.







Bottega Veneta

Large Leather Parachute Shoulder Bag

HK$37,500














CELINE

CELINE Large Hair Claw in Acetate

HK$4,100










Barely there makeup


Images courtesy of Pinterest and pagesix.com


For the makeup look, The Frazzled English Woman embraces her natural beauty. Subtlety is key, with a light touch of concealer paired with your favourite rose or red blush to give off that perfect "just stepped in from the cold" feel. A light flick of mascara, and a touch of eyebrow gel, and that is enough to complete the look. Add a neutral lip liner, and you’ve got a look that highlights your features effortlessly, with a no-makeup makeup style.


For those who prefer a darker vibe with a little more edge, go for a smudged eyeliner paired with a matching smudged lip combo for that messy, yet still pretty subtle effect.







Westman Atelier

Baby Cheeks Blush Stick in Petal

HK$380














Lancôme

Teint Idole Ultra Wear All Over Concealer

HK$250


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