In praise of the party jacket
Photography: Claire Pepper
Sometimes you have to go all out. Take the festive season by the reindeer horns and make a sparkling statement. Believe me, this Party Jacket attracted a lot of attention when we stopped for a sandwich at Pret a Manger (living the high life…). Slipped on over a jumpsuit, cargo pants or favourite pair of jeans, the snazzy jacket is an instant game-changer. Immediately whooping up a pared-down outfit to make it Christmas party-ready.
This silver metallic Lurex number (full title the Silver Queen Blazer) is by the Dutch designer Fabienne Chapot, just one of over 30 brands available from the website The-Bias-Cut.com. With the slogan ‘Ageism is Never in Style’, this online boutique is committed to age-inclusivity and diversity, which obviously we’re all on board with. Founder Jacynth Bassett started the business when her 60-something mum had trouble finding clothes that said fabulous not frumpy. Committed to featuring women over-40 of different shapes, sizes and ethnicities, Jacynth has also recently started ‘Advocates For Ageing’ a collective of industry experts and activists who support the cause – as well as launching her own collection of cashmere sweaters. Model Alexi Bruni has worked with the company and I like what she has to say:
“As an older woman, a model, fashion activist and writer, I applaud founder Jacynth Bassett’s initiative. The-Bias-Cut.com is a great place for women of all ages to shop, without judgement. Individual style is key and the commitment to fighting ageism is very genuine.”
Photography: Claire Pepper
The-Bias-Cut.com only sells sustainable clothes from small independent labels, the indigo cotton jumpsuit beneath the Party Jacket is from Scotch & Soda, another cool Dutch label. I am particularly enjoying the cropped, barrel leg shape and the way it draws attention towards my favourite, old silver pumps. For me, the go-anywhere Party Jacket and jumpsuit combo has much more mileage than a once-a-year glitzy dress. The bling-tastic blazer is great when you’re going out-out, and transcends seasons, adding a sprinkling of decadent luxury to any outfit. Wearing sparkle and shimmer away from the festivities gives the Party Jacket a second chance to shine.
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Discussion (21 Comments)
Carolyn Triance says:
I love this outfit, Alison and you look really good in it: such a clever way to wear the silver jacket too, choosing the denim jumpsuit instead of the more obvious black trousers. Your hairstyle, earrings and silver shoes are all ‘spot on’, as my husband would say. Hurrah for ageless fashion!
maudie says:
Whoahh! This looks fantastic, Alyson. Your hair looks very chic in an updo. The jumpsuit shape is gorgeous – I love barrel leg trousers. I wore my Cos jumpsuit at the weekend – also navy with THE fuschia pink velvet jacket and some big fun magenta earrings. Only problem was that the short sleeves of the jumpsuit got a bit (a lot) scrunched up under the jacket and so I had to keep it on!
RC says:
Wow! One of your (many) best looks! Love your hair pulled back, too. Happy holidays to you!
Kirstie Masson says:
You look amazing! Love your hair up, the silver with your hair colour and the trouser shape.
Gorgeous! Dress like this everyday!MaureenC says:
The jacket is divine and you look gorgeous wearing it. It also fits with your killer jacket for big occasions strategy, such as your very posh black tuxedo jacket, great that you’ve found another one!
Sue says:
Loving your cool and funky look. Reminds me of the Robert Palmer video ‘addicted to love’?
Anyway I follow your style and it gives me the courage to be who I want to be. Thankyou AlysonGillian says:
Fabulous! Pared back and then the superb jacket and accessories. All combine to make a look that is elegant and stylish. I am in love with your earrings.
A real bonus of this kind of outfit is that it looks super chic whilst being comfortable. Dare I say that it reminds me of the effortless style of chic Frenchwomen or some Hollywood icons.
K says:
Another home run. And just so you know, my notifications are working again! Thanks to you teckie for that!
Thanks for alerting us to The-Bias-Cut.com – what an incredible collection of wearable clothing, jewellery and accessories are featured. I would never have know about them if not for TNMA.
Oh my gosh you look beautiful. And, and, what? Wise? Ah, I know, powerful and magic.
All the best for the end of 2019 and then for 2020 as it approaches.
Ramit says:
Agree with every word and love the look! Especially with the graceful hairstyle. Thanks for the tip on The Bias Cut – will check it out. I’m out of blazers – all are too small… :-/ My first plan is to see what I can find in mum & dad’s closet. I’m almost 59, never thought I’d do it at this age, but after all, isn’t it vintage? 😉 However, if that and vintage shopping don’t yield anything good, I may treat myself to a new one.
Isobel says:
Just came back to check out Alyson’s outfit again, but love the thought of you raiding your parents’ closet! Any luck?
Esmeralda 
Julie Player 
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Good to know about the Bias cut website and the type of clothes it sells.
Lurex jacket cool and dressy at once and looks good in a mixed dressy way. As you know, and as featured in my profile photos for TNMA, I too have a trusty Lurex jacket. Mine is made by German brand Oska, collarless, longline, as symmetric what’s not to like. As good with lurex striped top, as you styled me, or over a pale grey crew neck cashmere jumper. With jeans or dark trousers. With or without dressy earings like you wear here.
Best wishes to you Alyson and to all readers of TNMA for the festive period and the new year, new decade coming soon.