4-26-2026 MY INSPO: post-scriptum by plum

 i recently read a substack publication by plum sykes, author of bergdorf blondes, titled sloanes and the city. she describes a distinct "uncool" look of 80s britain, found on sloane street. i never set foot in the colonizer land, but i was eager to follow plum's guide on the 2026 version of sloane girls. thinking, ohio has rainy and glum weather more often than not, especially during this seasonal transition, why not take advice from across the pond?

here's how to get that chic undone-ness girls like alexa chung and jane birkin do so flawlessly

1. channel a character from a sloane book
to achieve this, plum suggests to find a classic scarf, not too trendy, but definitely with some quirk. i would choose this handmade gradient knit scarf, then color block with shoes, purse and top. classic straight leg jeans and a trench to put some balance with the color. 

2. carry unshowy bags
plum sets limits on the appropriate bag. monograms are fine, but no logos or prints that may be too distracting. i would go with a touch of color still, with sib's uniqlo bag. paired with khaki jeans, sib's vivienne westwood inspired blouse (anglomania right?), a touch of preppiness with heeled loafers, headband. not too much as i add a rustic ralph lauren aviator jacket. 

3. shop like a rural duchess
hunting or riding should be suitable in the following looks. some tweed and sturdy material, that still show one can be regal in all activities. i'd go with this j crew knit top, a curdoroy midi skirt, faux leather knee high boots with a sensible heel and a strudy denim khaki jacket. some sunnies and a touch of royalty with a gold bracelet and vintage purse.

4. embrace the flatties
nothing to worry about here, since loafers and flats have been continuously trending, and with young women rejecting the heel for the workspace, these elegant pieces bring comfort as well as style. i'd go casual with an old navy ribbed top, ripped jeans, and leather crossbody, then spruce it up with funky jewelry with a tartan print jacket and my horsebit slingback heels.

5. update the raincoat, or get a "new" old one
boyfriend's sister gifted me this sturdy yellow raincoat, which is very coraline-like. i'd really put some edge on it, and wear my "i told ya" tee, high waisted tied jeans, doc martens, oversized sunnies and leather calvin klein shoulder bag.