Long Live the Queen: British Style Do’s and Don’ts

Kirby Marzec, Managing Editor September 23 at 4:47
Read More:Anna Wintour, Britain, L.L. Bean, Times Online, victoria beckham

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In opposition of an American list of essentials, the life and style editors of Times Online created their own set of style rules. This time, however, they decided to take their list abroad, mix in some fish and chips and create the ultimate British babe. Out of their list of 50 things every British girl should have, there are the obvious, the obscure and the absurd. Here is my list of the the blessed and bashed British must-haves. Remember to “Mind the Gap,” but please, for everyone’s sake, mind the crap.

The Blessed

TRENCH COAT- You really can’t go wrong with a trench coat. Leave your self-consciousness about looking like a spy behind and grab a trench with a dramatic collar and figure flattering belt. Trust me…Burberry invented the trench coat afterall!

LEATHER JACKET-Oh yes. Necessary. Grab a cropped coat cut at the waist and you’re in British business.

LEATHER DRIVING GLOVES- I think my dad may be the only person i’ve ever seen wear these, but they are vital for British style! Wear them with your trench or leather jacket and you’ve got a fierce way to dress up your hands. Even Victoria Beckham puts the petal to the metal in her driving gloves!

SILK SLIP-Definitely night time attire! A silk slip is just what any girl needs to contradict herself…sexy and innocent. Wear it out on the town or in for an evening with you man. 

TINY EVENING BAG- Leave the bulky address book, can of pepper spray and extra pair of heels at home! A cute little handbag or clutch is all you need for a night out! 

MEN’S BROGUES- Absolutely the first item on my list! You can wear them with virtually anything- straight leg denim, a skirt and textured nylons, even a vintage dress! 

TEA DRESS- If you can snag a vintage number, all the better! Flattering. Wearable. Never out of style. 

SILK SQUARE- Imperative accessory for the British appeal! The versatility makes it wearable as a scarf, a belt or a headband! 

WHITE CORDS- Classier than jeans. More elegant than white pants. Not exactly my favorite, but a more “Jackie O” alternative. 

CAMEO BROOCH- No need to go out and buy this, steal it from grandma! Wear it as a necklace or as a brooch on a chunky sweater or coat. Yet another subtle vintage way to spice up an outfit!

The Bashed

BERET- Oops! Looks like we threw a little baguette into our fish and chips! Yes, berets are cute but not necessary in the British wardrobe! 

FAKE EYELASHES- Two words. Um, NEVER.

SHORT, BLACK BOB WIG- What is this for? An Anna Wintour look-alike contest? 

A HIDDEN TATTOO- Of course! A shamrock tattoo you got on your ass while still in the 8th grade is so British. What’s the point if nobody can see it anyway?

GOLD LEGGINGS- Unless you’re trying to fit in at an M.I.A concert, I suggest you leave these at home. Or better yet, burn them.

SPANX- I’m sorry you have a big butt, but no. Not British. Not necessary. Maybe what you need is a gym membership. 

GOLD HOOP EARRINGS- Why don’t we just save these for Beyonce and Lil Mama? Too American pop-glamor.

WELLINGTON BOOTS- If I see another pair of rain boots, I’m going to drown myself in the nearest puddle. Please, these went out of style a LONG time ago.

GREEK SANDALS- I love these just as much as the next girl, but they are summer shoes! And they aren’t British…they are everywhere. 

KHAKI PARKA- I give all of you permission to kill whoever wears anything that comes out of an L.L. Bean catalogue.