Don’t save metallics for special occasions – fashion editors show you how to wear high-shine from day to night
WEARING metallics can feel intimidating if the dress code isn’t black-tie or cocktail party.
Plus, there’s something inherently festive about metallics, with silver and gold pieces frequently taking over our wardrobes as Christmas party season approaches.
But there is no denying that metallics are hot right now!
Last summer, Beyoncé led the silver trend with the release of her album Renaissance, encouraging fans to wear silver outfits at her concerts, so it’s no surprise that the trend took hold – and is here to stay.
At this year’s Met Gala, an array of celebrities shone in gold and silver, with standout looks from Kim Kardashian in a custom silver Maison Margiela look, Serena Williams setting the gold standard with a one-shoulder foil Balenciaga dress, and Sarah Jessica Parker who stunned in a silver embellished, birdcage-inspired number.
Whether you’re ready to dive into full-on metals or just want to test the waters with some shiny new accessories, here’s how our fashion team are styling their summer metallics.
Clemmie Fieldsend, 34, Fashion Editor
- T-shirt, £8.50, M&S Collection at Marks & Spencer – BUY NOW
- Necklace, £10, ASOS – BUY NOW
- Jeans, £85, Wrangler – BROWSE HERE
- Bag, £10, Primark – BROWSE HERE
- Bracelet, £16, M&S Collection at Marks & Spencer – BUY NOW
- Blazer, £86, Next – BUY NOW
- Bangle, £4.50, Primark – BROWSE HERE
- Shoes, £59, John Lewis – BUY NOW
If, like me, you’re not ready to go head-to-toe Goldmember then don’t worry.
While metallics are huge across all pieces this season, accessories are also all about being big, bold and bling.
I love chunky jewellery and have been welcoming the return of stocky and stacked bangles, like these two from Primark and M&S.
Plus, I love this necklace from ASOS, as it that feels weighty to wear (without being painful!) and gives it an expensive feel for just a tenner.
I like to wear neutrals with gold, as they make metallics stand out more – and are synonymous with summer.
Finished off with these Mary-Jane flats from John Lewis and gold hardware on my bag from Primark, the key to this trend is the details.
Abby McHale, 30, Deputy Fashion Editor
- Top, £125, Ganni – BUY NOW
- Skirt, £45, M&S Collection at Marks and Spencer – BUY NOW
- Bag, £39.50, M&S Collection at Marks and Spencer- BUY NOW
- Sandals, £95, Dune London – BUY NOW
- Sunglasses, £202, Ray-Ban – BUY NOW
When it comes to metallics, I’m normally a gold gal, but after spotting this skirt in M&S, I was instantly hooked.
I find this style of skirt so easy to wear, but this is the first silver version I’ve come across – and I love the wa it shimmers in the sunlight.
I’ve paired the skirt with an oversized collared shirt, flat sandals and my trusty Ray-Bans, but I’ve also added some glitz to my look with this oversized sequin bag.
Emily Regan, 24, Fashion Assistant
- Dress, £18, Rita Ora X Primark – BROWSE HERE
- Bag, £15, Primark – BROWSE HERE
- Shoes, £38, River Island – BUY NOW
- Sunglasses, £12.99, Pull & Bear – BUY NOW
Thankfully, I’m not afraid to wear metallics outside of the festive season!
I’m a true gold girl through and through, and am a perfectionist when it comes to co-ordinating all the metals in my outfit.
Recently, I picked up this gorgeous beach cover-up from Rita Ora’s latest summer collection at Primark (it also comes in a version with sleeves).
I’m blown away by its quality and fit – for just £18, it’s an absolute bargain and really versatile.
Here, I’ve paired it with gold heels from River Island and worn it over a bikini for a chic beach-bar look that I’ll definitely be packing for my holiday later this summer.
You could also throw it on over a slip dress for a garden BBQ with a pair of sliders, or style it like Rita and wow at a festival.
Tracey Lea Sayer, 52, Fashion Director
- Top, £85, Jigsaw – BUY NOW
- Earrings, £16, M&S Collection at Marks & Spencer – BUY NOW
- Trousers, £120, Jigsaw – BUY NOW
- Sandals, £75, Tkees – BUY NOW
- Bag, £30, Next – BUY NOW
Ever since I bought a pair of silver trousers nine years ago (Mango did a great Isabel Marant dupe), I’ve loved adding a bit of shine to my wardrobe.
Metallics are a neutral, so whether you just want to add an accessory or go head to toe – like me – they go with absolutely everything.
My top tip this year is: don’t be afraid to mix your metals.
Silver, gold and bronze can all sit side by side – whether you are stacking up jewellery or wearing a silver suit with gold accessories, you should just go for it and shine on!
I fell for this Jigsaw two-piece when I saw it at the brand’s press day, asI can wear it now with flat gold sandals, then ramp it up for Christmas with velvet mules and a smoking jacket over the top.
That’s what is so great about metallics.
You might think they are a bit of a, one-trick pony but they will really work hard in your wardrobe, whatever the weather!