My name is Briony (you may know me from A Girl, A Style), and I am thrilled to be joining you as your new Glitter Girl across the pond. In honor of my first post from London I thought I’d share my favorite things about English style that will make every girl’s wardrobe a little more fun.

Embrace feminine / masculine extremes. Channel your inner dolly girl by wearing an a-line mini skirt or lace dress with a topknot, pink cheeks and a ribbon tied around your waist. Alternatively, wear a men’s Oxford shirt with a bow tied at the collar and brogues. Even better, clash the two extremes! Wear your girlie outfit with a boyfriend blazer and ankle boots, or the Oxford shirt tucked into a skirt with a wrist full of jewels to top off the look.

Rebellious nostalgia. We English are terribly fond of our classics: the dandy gentleman, countryside pursuits, lawn sports, the Royal Family, James Bond and nostalgic children’s books. But none of these things would be complete without a little rebellion. So why not wear your grandmother’s pearls with your favorite old band tee, your prettiest lace dress with bed hair, or your most gorgeous heels with faded old jeans.

Serious irreverence. Though they may have a library full of literature, an in-depth knowledge of politics and Friday night theatre dates, English folk are a self-deprecating, sarcastic bunch who like to pretend they never take themselves too seriously. Don’t be afraid to have fun with your fashion; wear things that literally make you smile (pink glittery nails), are absurdly ironic (I live in Cambridge and like to poke fun at the preppy Oxbridge intellectual style by teaming my crested blazer with bright pink chinos and high bow heels), or just plain silly (hello, novelty Christmas sweaters).

Revel in sartorial details. A silk handkerchief in a breast pocket, bright pink socks poking out of turned up trousers, a tiny golden charm necklace, a perfectly constructed umbrella, or bright red lips on grey days.

Life’s simple pleasures. Drink tea out of your favourite pink china, buy a vintage-style bicycle and go for Sunday rides in your favorite dress (bonus points for flowers in the basket), read a classic novel, have a picnic on the lawn, eat cake for breakfast.

A few of our favorite English things: Mulberry bags, Burberry trench coats, Hunter Wellington boots, Oxford brogues, bow ties and tweed jackets. Pearls, lace, Prince William, James Bond, Paddington Bear, Alice in Wonderland, croquet lawns and afternoon tea.

Images clockwise: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

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