Learn to describe clothes — then use them to talk about habits, values, work, leisure and personality. Move from controlled practice to your own story.
Read for meaning. Notice how clothes reveal routines and choices.
Maya usually wears colourful, patterned tops with loose-fitting jeans. Most of her clothes are second-hand. When an exhibition comes up, she dresses up in a tasteful dress and a designer necklace. Her wardrobe shows that she values creativity and sustainable choices.
Leo leads an active life. At work, he puts on a waterproof jacket, a cap, shorts and trainers. His clothes need to fit well but must not be tight-fitting. After work, he often gets changed into a tracksuit before cycling home.
Nora works in a formal office, so she often wears a plain blouse, smart trousers and a fitted blazer. Her belt and leather shoes always match. At home, however, she takes off her formal clothes and chooses a baggy sweatshirt, tights and slippers.
Open a drawer when you need more language.
belt, blazer, blouse, boots, bow tie, cap, cardigan, dinner jacket, dress, dressing gown, dungarees, hat, helmet, jacket, jeans, jumper / pullover / sweater, overcoat, raincoat, scarf, shirt, shoes, shorts, skirt, slippers, socks, suit, sweatshirt, swimming costume, swimming trunks, top, T-shirt, tie, tights, tracksuit, trainers, trousers, waistcoat
baggy, casual, colourful, designer, formal, long-sleeved, loose-fitting, pleated, second-hand, shabby, short-sleeved, smart, tasteful, tight-fitting, trendy, unfashionable, waterproof, worn out
checked, flowery, patterned, plain, spotted, striped • cotton, denim, leather, nylon, silk, suede, woollen
bracelet, brooch, earrings, necklace, pendant, ring • dress up, fit, get dressed / undressed, go with, match, put on, suit, take off, wear
Choose the word that makes the situation natural.
Complete each message with the most natural choice.
Make choices, then turn them into a connected description.
Use the ladder to move from notes to connected speech.
You meet a new classmate in a café. Describe your usual style and explain what it says about your lifestyle. Find one similarity.
Ask: How would you describe your style? What do you wear when…? Does comfort or fashion matter more to you? Why?
React: That sounds practical. / I can relate to that. / My style is quite different. / We both seem to prefer…
Plan, write or record a 60–90 second answer.
Describe what you wear in three parts of your life. Explain how your choices reflect your routine, personality or values. Mention one item you would never wear and why.