FASHION CONFIDENCE
Fashion expert Alyson Walsh shows how to nail the latest utility trend
I’m always looking for new ways to wear khaki, and this summer the cargo skirt has marched straight into my wardrobe. Discovered on the rail at a local charity shop, the vintage version from super-cool 90s brand Maharishi was an absolute steal. It did have a tear in the fabric around the last buttonhole, near the hem, but I had the damage repaired by one of the experts at The Seam (theseam.uk) – and my new-old skirt looks fantastic. If you are looking for a specialist maker to repair or transform a garment, I highly recommend this company. The repair is hardly visible, but I kind of like the fact that my cargo skirt has seen some action.
Army-green shirt dresses, silk-chiffon maxi skirts with webbing straps, apron-style tops and bustiers made the drill on the Max Mara spring/summer 2024 catwalk. As the Italian brand showed, utilitarian clothing looks best when its rough edges are sof tened. For me, it’s all about the contrast. Juxtapose a practical cargo skirt with a striking silk blouse to avoid looking like an extra from the Wes Anderson film Moonrise Kingdom. Try a new colour pairing: khaki partners well with hot pink, scarlet, navy or bright orange. And, Scout’s honour, going head to toe with a plain silk blouse is another sleek option; layer up a selec tion of gold chains and team with a pair of classic tan leather sandals.
Even if you’re not a fan of cargo pants, the skirt is a neat way to add a utilitarian spin to a summer outfit. Alternatively, try wearing the cargo skirt with a pair of retro sneakers, such as Adidas Sambas, and a plain T-shirt. Keep it simple with classic white or grey marl, then add a brightly coloured knitted tank top for an evening al fresco. Go for sporty, as opposed to Squadron Leader (I’m thinking Romola Garai as Eliza Russell in Vigil 2), and you’re on the right track. When you find
