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DRESS CODE SOS

There’s no denying it – this season is a whirlwind. From office parties and winter strolls with the kids (and the dog) to festive Christmas markets and boozy brunches with the girls, your wardrobe is officially working overtime. Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry – we’ve called on the Style Collective, our fashion-savvy insiders from RI HQ and stores across the Island, to guide you through every occasion. Consider this your shortcut to effortless festive dressing.


Shop Their Looks

Christmas Market


Kat, Canterbury Sales Advisor


Heading to a Christmas market this year? Of course you are. Take a note out of Kat’s book, who suggests opting for something cosy and comfortable. Her go-to look? A faux fur coat layered over a chunky knit – the perfect pairing for warmth and that effortless balance between dressed-up and laid-back. “I love that even though it’s a throw-on outfit, you still feel put together and stylish,” she says. At 5ft5 (165cm), Kat usually wears a size XS or 6. She often sizes up in jackets for extra layering room, but this fur style is already super fluffy, so she stuck to her true size – “for once!” she laughs.


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Christmas Brunch


April, Styling Assistant


For a Christmas brunch with the girls, April recommends choosing something fun – and this year, that means the new RI Studio pink fringed T-shirt dress. “I fell in love with it the moment I saw it,” she says. “I love the colour, the shape and how playful the fringing feels when it comes to styling it up.”


Our styling assistant loves any excuse to dress up, and the festive season is her favourite time to do so. “Christmas is the perfect opportunity to add a little sparkle,” she explains. “But I wouldn’t say I’m the girliest of girls – I like to balance glitz with a bit of edge to keep things cool.” For her, an oversized pink T-shirt dress with fringing strikes that ideal balance – something that can easily be dressed up or down depending on the vibe.


At 5ft6 and usually a size 10, April opts for a size 12 to get that relaxed, oversized fit she loves.


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Winter Walk


Sim, People Operations Administrator


For a winter walk, Sim says comfort is always his top priority. “The weather can be so temperamental this time of year, so layering is key,” he explains. With that in mind, Sim built his outfit around earthy tones of brown and cream. He started with a sturdy brown boot – ideal for walking across different terrains – and paired it with cream wide-leg joggers. “They’re incredibly comfortable, and the length is perfect,” he says. “Being 6ft4, leg length is always important, and these in a size Large were spot on.”


To finish, Sim chose a brown faux suede overshirt. “The moment I saw it online, I fell in love” he says.


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Office Party


Emily, Wholesale Assistant Buyer


Office party in the diary? Emily’s advice: strike the perfect balance between sparkle and sophistication. “It’s Christmas, so we want to dress up, but I like finding an outfit that blends glamour with elegance”.


She chooses a satin lace skirt paired with a sparkly top and statement accessories. “The skirt brings a luxe touch, while the top and accessories elevate the look for a real party feel,” Emily says. She loves the versatility of the outfit: “It’s timeless and can be styled in different ways throughout the season – with a baggier jumper on Christmas Day, or a leather jacket for festive drinks.”


At 5ft5, Emily wears a size 8 or Small and finds this fit true to size, offering a more tailored, fitted look perfect for partywear.


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Out to a Show


Rachael, Womenswear Designer


When asked what she’d wear for an evening at the theatre, Rachael said she’d go for a statement jacket, voluminous trousers and a fabulous pair of shoes. “I love an outfit that’s chic but still comfortable,” she says. “Mixing textures in a monochrome look is such an easy way to add interest – I’m all about minimal effort, maximum payoff.”


For Rachael, the magic lies in balancing comfort with drama. “The ease of an elasticated waistband means I don’t feel restricted, and the statement sleeves on this throw-on jacket make it look like I’ve made way more effort than I actually have,” she says. “I also can’t resist a shoe with great hardware. It instantly elevates the look and helps me decide which jewellery to wear that day.”


At 5ft8.5, Rachael wears a size 12 at River Island, describing it as a perfect fit for her.


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