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Wearing old clothes in a new way (revisiting the silk slip skirt)

— by Alyson Walsh

Photos: Claire Pepper

It is wonderful when two old items of clothing come together to create a new outfit. Old, old, new again. The black silk skirt in this photo was snaffled in the sales during my Fashion Editor Years, in the 1990s. As the slip skirt is quite zeitgeist-y, I’ve been practising different outfit combinations, figuring out how to wear my old clothes in a new way. Such a simple item looks great with a mannish jacket or a chunky cotton knit sweater and trainers. I’ve been racking my brains trying to recall how I styled the slip skirt first time round – quite possibly with a t-shirt or vest top and a denim jacket over the top. No matter. Blending something refined with something rough still appeals  – hence the slinky, silk skirt and the khaki men’s military shirt (not quite as old, Margaret Howell sample sale). Perked up with a pair of beaded earrings from Brixton Market and finished off with classic Tevas for running around in. Result. My style has evolved but it’s still feels like my style.

Earrings from Brixton Market

Tevas Forever

When I posted the first photograph on Instagram, I was asked where to find similar slip skirts; take a look at J. Crew,  Ghost and Reiss.

Have you found any new ways to wear old clothes?

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It is wonderful when two old items of clothing come together to create a new outfit. Old, old, new again.