Sometimes in life you have two appointments in the same evening that are so wildly divergent you're stumped as to what to wear. Think a work drink with your new boss, followed by a sweaty gig with your girlfriends. Or, as we've imagined in this case, a dinner date with your gran. And then drinks with your man. Whatever your tricky situation, here's how to do a duo-dresscode in one. You may thank me in cake and dollar bills.
Pair something fuzzy with fierce footwear
You can't move for suede over the knee boots right now. But they're not just for sultry smarts. Haul them into granny-friendly eveningwear by pairing with a fuzzy wuzzy knit (grannies love soft things) and a tartan skirt.
Your gran will love the kilt because it's retro and makes you look like a shiny-faced schoolgirl, whils your foxy new fella - if he's got even the slightest inkling about fashion - will appreciate the supercool 90s vibes and, most importantly, the sex-me-later boots. And even if he doesn't - you'll feel sexy. And isn't that what's more important?
Jumper and velvet jacket my own, skirt from a selection available in Urban Outfitters' vintage section and Highland Boots, £575 Stuart Weitzman.
Everyone loves a unifying flamingo
The kitsch clutch has become a brilliant talking point. This pearlised Edie Parker one - which might remain on my wish-list for quite some time due to it's price tag - is loved by both older ladies but quirky enough to get your friends talking later. Keep the rest of the outfit relatively simple (sawn-off jeans and a duster coat) - adding perhaps only a fail-safe leopard print shirt.
*Coat and shoes my own, customised Moto Vintage Jamie Jeans, £40 Topshop, Flavia Flamingo Box Clutch, £1, 220 Edie Parker at Matches Fashion and Kitten Leopard Print Silk Shirt, £277 Equipment at Matches Fashion. *
Look at the benefits of something wipe-clean
Sauciness aside, patent leather is having a moment - which is where you divide things. On the top half, you keep things safe-orientated with an aran jumper that will remind your gran about the time you went to Ireland and it pissed with rain but you sat by the fire and ate boiled toffees. (Wait - that was a Werthers Original advert?)
On the bottom half, you're keeping things a bit sexier. And those humbug striped mesh sandals from Christopher Kane? Well, they're just the stuff of dreams. PS: always include a few all-age neutralisers like a velvet scrunchie and quilted handbag. Tip: a Chanel bag via eBay is a good £500 cheaper than one from the shop, so hit up the auctions if you're looking to invest.
Vintage aran jumper, Patent Leather Flippy Skirt, £110, available in blue at Topshop, Striped Ankle Cuff Sandals, £570 Christopher Kane at Matches Fashion and a vintage Chanel bag.
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This article originally appeared on The Debrief.