Fashion
Nail your denim wardrobe with a little help from Abbey Clancy
ALL hail the mighty denim, AKA the hardest-working wardrobe staple around. Loved by the fash pack for its cool points and uber-versatility, the humble denim jean has been given something of a refresh this month, thanks to Abbey Clancy’s new F&F AW line.
The range is firmly inclusive, with styles built for myriad body shapes and sizes, empowering fashion fans to have fun with the latest trends, while wearing what feels – and looks – great on.
Abbey wears: Knitted vest, £14, teddy coat, £39, contour jeans, £22. Liberty wears: Cardi, from £10, dress, from £14
Fashionista and presenter Abbey is a recent convert to F&F clothing, she explains. “I started getting into F&F clothing last year in lockdown. My local supermarket is Tesco so I was popping in for my essentials and came across the clothing – I kept buying the kidswear and denim. Since then, I’ve become a fan.”
As well as looking great, F&F denim is made using sustainable materials, like BCI cotton. “It’s important for me to partner with brands that are mindful of this and are creating clothing that’s kinder to the planet,” says Abbey. “The quality isn’t compromised and the materials and finishes on the F&F denim are made to last.”
The shoot proved fun too, with Abbey’s youngest daughter Liberty Rose, six, following in her mum’s modelling footsteps. “I’m happy if she’s enjoying herself!” says Abbey, laughing.
“This shoot was so relaxed and for some of it we were out in the countryside, so the children were able to run around and play. They had so much fun, that’s the important thing to me. It’s special to share an aspect of your life with your children – we made some lovely memories.”
Don’t be afraid to experiment
We’ve all been there – about to pick up the same pair of jeans we chose last time. But with F&F’s new and improved denim fits for AW21, including the 90s Straight, Slim Mom, Slim Flare and The Vintage Slim, it could be time to try something different, suggests Abbey. “I would encourage people to try on each style. We are all different shapes and sizes, so what looks good on you may not necessarily suit someone else – and vice versa. What’s great about the F&F denim collection is that there’s something for everyone.”
Racer vest, £8, contour jeans, £22
Do invest in staples that last
“My style hasn’t really changed but I’d say I’m more conscious about investing in key pieces that I really love and feel comfortable in,” explains Abbey, who leans towards denim for everyday cool. “I love all the jeans in the range – I can’t believe how great the quality is and at such an affordable price.” Abbey’s go-to? “I couldn’t live without a good pair of jeans, and the F&F contour jeans are a great pair. I own every colour! They’re so comfortable and flattering for every shape and are available in sizes 6 to 22. A good pair of skinny jeans is a must.”
Top, £14, 90s straight leg, £22
Don’t rule out the kids
As Abbey knows well, shopping for the family can be an ambitious task. But thanks to F&F, it’s never been easier to pick up stylish, quality clothes for the kids that won’t break the bank – all while doing the supermarket run. Abbey’s own brood are big fans, she says. “I worked closely with F&F to curate their looks – Liberty loves dressing like me, so we created some really cute ‘mini me’ looks. Her favourite piece from the collection is the denim dress and cardi. It’s one of mine too – I can’t believe you can get these styles at Tesco!”
Shirt, £16, contour jeans, £22
Do mix high and low
When it comes to putting outfits together, it’s time to throw out the rule book, says Abbey, whose own wardrobe is an eclectic mix of pricier investment pieces and more affordable basics. “My go-to style is mixing supermarket or high street fashion with designer clothing,” she explains. “Fashion doesn’t have to cost the earth.” The right pair of jeans can work seriously hard in your wardrobe too. “On a normal day I’ll wear a pair of jeans with a plain T-shirt and layer with a cropped cardi or shacket. If I’m going out, I like to style jeans with a white shirt and pair of heels for an effortless, but dressed up, look.”
Contour jeans, £22