Although having a mismatched wardrobe is entirely a first world problem, it can be a very real problem. At least, it was for me before I adopted the ‘four ways‘ rule (part of my Wardrobe Rehab) – by attempting to make sure that everything I buy goes with at least 4 outfits in my closet before I pull out my wallet. For all you serial shoppers out there, it can also be a useful tool for post-purchase-justification, but that’s not really the point is it now… Although I give most of my closet the four ways treatment, I wanted to share with you one item that’s surprised me by becoming one of the most versatile pieces in my wardrobe – the backpack.
Backpacks are one of those things your mum always tells you that you need, but since the huge poo brown brick of a backpack I was made to wear throughout high school I haven’t really been able to go there. Skip forward a few years and I’ve done a complete 180, helped primarily by a black leather one from Whistles that has pretty much become an extra appendage since I added it to my cart. I must say, it has done wonders for my posture – my mother would be proud! And what’s even better is that when I wear it I get a sense of schoolgirl-esque nostalgia that adds a shine to the day (sans detentions and being constantly told ‘if only you’d apply yourself!’). Recently Whistles sent me this silver backpack from their new SS14 collection, and I thought what better way to test it out than to put it (as well as my own black backpack) to a classic four way?
Whistles Verity Rucksack (in stock in silver soon), Whistles Portland Rucksack
A few other fun options:
$$$: The Row, Alexander Wang. $: Topshop, New Look, Asos.
Outfit 1: Whistles Portland Rucksack, Witchery Sweater (like this), Whistles Silver Skirt, Madewell silk shirt (Like this), Chelsea boots, Asos fedora
Outfit 2: Whistles Verity Rucksack, Topshop white tee, Witchery Sweater (like this), DIY neoprene skirt, Zara booties, Asos fedora.
Outfit 3: Whistles Portland Rucksack, Whistles silver skirt, Macgraw blush blazer, Topshop tee, Asos fedora, Witchery flats (like these)
Outfit 4: Whistles Verity Rucksack, Topshop white tee, Witchery Sweater (like this), Witchery fluted skirt , Asos fedora, Witchery flats (like these).
Outfit 5: Whistles Verity Rucksack, Witchery Sweater (like this), Madewell silk shirt (Like this), DIY cut off denim shorts, grey fedora, Chelsea boots.
Outfit 6: Whistles Portland Rucksack, Whistles silver cami, Whistles silver skirt, Witchery Sweater (like this), Asos fedora, Chelsea boots.
Outfit 7: Whistles Portland Rucksack, Boda Skins leather jacket (another here), Witchery Sweater (like this), Whistles silver cami, DIY neoprene skirt, Zara booties, Asos fedora.
Outfit 8: Whistles Verity Rucksack, Boda Skins leather jacket (another here), Witchery Sweater (like this), Whistles silver cami, J Crew Jeans, Zara Booties, Asos fedora.
Interestingly the silver backpack appears just as wearable as the black one I have, although if you’re dipping your toe into the whole backpack shenanigans I’d probably choose a neutral tone to start with, then start experimenting with prints and intergalactic metallics.
On another note, I’m so looking forward to watching the Whistles AW14 show via their livestream, I love that you don’t have to actually go to the shows to get a touch of fashion week. Make sure you tune in next Monday 17th at 11.30 am GMT here to watch it!
