Nostalgic. Classic. Timeless
Aimee Lou Wood, the BAFTA Award-winning star of cult Netflix comedy Sex Education, takes us on a style journey with her forever favourite uniform: jeans and a nice top.
British actress and the face of Levi’s® SS22, Aimee Lou Wood, is no stranger to throwback style. Starring in Netflix phenomenon Sex Education, the high school comedy-drama filled with a mish-mash of nostalgic film and fashion references, her turn as the affable and endearing every girl, Aimee Gibbs, saw her serve up looks straight out of the history books.
In her frank and funny portrayal of a teen trying to navigate the trials and tribulations of growing up, Aimee handled topics ranging from sexual assault to friendship fall outs with whip-smart wit and a relatability that not only made her a BAFTA Award winner but had us all wanting to befriend her off-screen too.
Beyond her character’s charm, with her '70s movie star curls and a uniform of high waisted flared trousers and pinstriped blazers, Aimee’s on-screen style was an effortless blend of ‘70s-meets-’90s cool. It’s not hard to see why the actress feels at home in another nostalgic style pairing that’s been a hit since the early 00s: “The ultimate. A classic. Can’t go wrong,” she says. “Jeans and a nice top: they’re famous for a reason.”
Moving beyond being simply a reliable answer to a sartorial question, this enduring duo is all about turning your trusty denim into a never-ending wardrobe of style possibilities. With a nod to the iconic movies of the '00s, to celebrate the SS22 collection Aimee steps into our digital outfit-generator, showing us all the ways in which your Levi’s® - when paired with a statement or staple top - can switch up your style time and time again.
For Aimee, the trusty combination sees her through from working days and disco nights to long, lazy Sundays. “For the first day of rehearsals, you never know what to expect,” she says. “You could be sitting around all day or you could be doing a mad team-building exercise - for a script read-through [my outfit] has got to be comfy. I need something that’s going to let me move around without flashing anyone…”
Pulling out the Norma Sweater Cardigan and Bralette co-ord in the shade Iced Coffee, she creates a thoroughly ‘90s pairing with the iconic Levi’s® 501® 90’s jeans in Firestarter black. Throwing on the matching ‘90s Trucker Jacket and a pair of LS1 kicks made from sustainable cottonised hemp, she’s ready for whatever the day throws at her. “Double denim? I’m not afraid of it.”
Next up: “Karaoke is on the cards,” Aimee says. “You know, it’s a night out, but I don’t want to look like I’m taking myself too seriously - even though I will be…” It’s a sweater vest kind of style up for a night in the karaoke booth, with the Shelly Sweater Vest layered over the cotton Classic Fit Tee teamed with a pair of the cult favourite Ribcage Straight Ankle in bleached-wash shade Ojai Shore. “Classique!”
The look isn’t just reserved for nights spent belting out your favourite tunes, though. The weekend brings a more low-key take on the look, and Aimee pays homage to a classic British rom-com. “It’s Sunday brunch with the pals. I’m thinking rom-com vibes – Notting Hill. You know, Sunday in London.” Enter: the Rey Smocked Blouse, all puff sleeves and ruched detailing. Worn with the 501® 90’s in true blue hue Mad Love, it’s a feminine get-up that just shouts spring.
Embodying the ethos of ‘Buy Better, Wear Longer’, the beauty of this classic pairing is building a capsule wardrobe around your favourite pair of Levi’s® jeans. Whether you go for a hyper-feminine ruffled blouse or a sleek and sophisticated cami, your choice of top stays on rotation depending on the mood and moment.
“If my mum taught me one thing, it’s that you need jeans and a nice top - and that’s basically it.” A girl after our own hearts.
The full SS22 collection worn by Aimee Lou Wood can be purchased at Levi.com, via the Levi’s® 247 App and in-store. Shop the edit now.
