As every style guide will tell you, one wardrobe staple you can’t live without is a simple, classic silk shirt, and a silk shirt in a neutral colour (white, cream, grey or black) is often spotted in capsule wardrobe guides.

There is nothing quite like a silk shirt. It’s the symbol of effortless chic and it’s a timeless, completely versatile, always elegant addition to any wardrobe, which can be worn in all seasons and for all occasions.

Ten reasons to buy a silk shirt

Read on for more photos, details about this outfit, featuring this black, silk shirt from Lilysilk and ten reasons why you shouldn’t be without a classic silk shirt.

Styling a silk shirt
Styling a silk shirt
Styling a silk shirt
Styling a silk shirt
Styling a silk shirt
Styling a silk shirt
Styling a silk shirt
Styling a silk shirt
Styling a silk shirt
Styling a silk shirt

Outfit details

I chose to style this black, silk shirt from Lilysilk with a floral print maxi skirt from Promod and as always, I added a belt to complete the look and create an hourglass shape. My tassel earrings are from Nocturne, and finally, I added these fringed shoe boots from Maje (last season).

There is no wardrobe staple quite like the silk shirt, as how many  other pieces can be worn for all occasions and in all seasons? See below for :

Ten reasons why you should have at least one silk shirt in your wardrobe.    

Silk is a symbol of effortless chic

Silk has always been worn by style icons, past and present, such as Katherine Hepburn, Lauren Bacall, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Grace Kelly, Lauren Hutton, Marilyn Monroe and more recently Victoria Beckham, Angleina Jolie and Olivia Palermo, to name but a few.  

A silk shirt is timeless

A simple silk shirt never goes out of date and can be worn for many years! When investing in silk, opt for classic styles that will stand the test of time,  such as silk shirts, silk t-shirts, silk camis and of course, silk lingerie.

 Silk is comfortable and luxurious

Silk is a lightweight fabric and it feels so soft and comfortable next to your skin.  Not only does it feel amazing, but it is also deeply luxurious and sensuous. There’s a reason why Marilyn Monroe insisted on silk for her famous photoshoot ‘Nude In White Silk Sheet’!  Polyester wouldn’t have had quite the same impact!

Silk tops reflect a flattering glow 

The triangular prism-like structure of the silk fibre allows silk to refract incoming light at different angles, which create luminosity, and the end result is that any silk close to your face will create a flattering glow! Perfect for a date night!

Silk is good for all seasons and all climates 

Silk is one of the most breathable and absorbent fabrics and it’s natural temperature-regulating-properties make it a good fabric for all climates and all seasons. It keeps you warm and cozy in winter and comfortably cool in summer.

Mulberry silk is 100% natural and certified chemical free

Natural fibre clothing may be more expensive up front, but it is a better investment in the long term as it keeps its form, colour and style better than synthetic fabrics. It’s also a better option for the environment and the lack of ‘nasty’ chemicals must be better for our health!

Silk has numerous health benefits

Silk also appears to be associated with healing qualities that range from easing the symptoms of the menopause (due to its temperature-regulating properties), to anti-ageing (as the protein in silk can adhere to the protein in skin to form a barrier layer which retains water and has a plumping effect).

Silk is hypoallergenic

Because of its natural protein structure silk is the most hypoallergenic of all fabrics, and is therefore a great choice for anyone with allergies, sensitive skin and even eczema.

Silk is also a strong and robust material 

In spite of its delicate appearance, silk is a strong and durable fabric, which when cared for correctly can last for a long time.

And, very importantly, a silk shirt is also

One of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe.

One of the best things about a classic silk shirt is that it can be easily styled for a casual weekend brunch, the office and/or a date night. Here are a few styling ideas:

  • Tuck it into a pair of high-waisted jeans for an effortlessly chic weekend look, or for a more edgy look, try styling it with some leather shorts. Mixing luxury fabrics with your casual essentials is a great way to add smart pieces to your weekend wardrobe.
  • For an elegant, classic, work look, you can pair the silk shirt with a pencil skirt or tailored trousers, and for an ultra-smart boardroom look, add a structured blazer.
  • To transition to a date night look, pair the silk shirt with tailored trousers, a floaty skirt or a high-waisted skirt and add red lipstick and lots of gold accessories!

So, this black, silk shirt  is a perfect addition to my wardrobe, and I think I will be looking at adding a silk pillowcase next (anything that stops wrinkles and hot flushes has got to be a good investment!)

As always when buying on-line,  I would recommend paying attention to the sizing when you order, and their site includes a useful guide for how to take the measurements when you click on size guide.  Each page also includes photos of the item, details of the material and reviews, so don’t hesitate to check this out.

You can get 16% off the entire range of womens’ clothing with the code ‘thevelvetrunway16′,  and this codes is valid indefinitely.

Don’t forget to have a look here for more of our style posts.