Aaaah September. Whilst promises of an Indian summer tempt us to linger longer in lightweight clothes, really it’s time to ‘spacebag’ the summer wardrobe and unpack the autumnal essentials. Thankfully, we’re not talking coats quite yet (although I will earmark a few faves), but we are paying attention to the new knits, trousers, accessories and other heavyweights that are perfect for this time of year. Excitingly this also means that the stores are unleashing new stock, new trends, new ways to wear. What better way to celebrate the onset of the season than high five THE STYLISH STUFF must haves from the high street? If they’ve not hit the shelves yet, bookmark them for a week or two weeks time. These will be sure fire sell outs. On your marks….
Bravo to Zara for a stylish new addition to their online offering. Meet ‘Join Life’ – chic, modern classics, all made in sustainable fabrics. Materials such as organic cotton, recycled wool and Tencel are used, not to mention the packaging, yes, it’s all recycled. This is the future. Click here for more and to shop the collection. The Stylish Stuff LOVES.
Noteworthy for AW16 is the all new and updated Warehouse. Under the talented design direction of Emma Cook, the collection delivers a thumping homage to the modern urban woman. Yes there are classic pieces, but not as you know nor expect them. Great fabrications, bolder silhouettes and new ideas on how to wear. My favourites? The wildly cool, floral silk PJ separates, oversized tan coat and the slouchy, lilac tailored suit. Get in store/online fast. These pieces will shift as the price points are definitely something to celebrate. Visit Warehouse.co.uk.
COS – Burnt umber teamed with navy and black. Hell yes. Meet the Rounded wrap skirt £79 , coolly understated worn with a layered boxy high neck knit jumper £59 and knitted sweatshirt jumper £89. all COS.
THE STYLISH STUFF LOVES:
From left; Khaki green ruffle front funnel neck top £24.99, New Look; loose jumper with chequered motif £209, Maje; button front A line skirt £120, Karen Millen; chain detail shoes £150, Reiss; camel and faux tortoiseshell clutch £35.99, Mango.
The thoroughly modern ruffle from Zara. The shirt that gives a little more than a gentle nod to a particular catwalk favourite of mine. Oversized blouse with frill £59.99, Zara.
THE STYLISH STUFF LOVES:
from left; lace frill top £59, Monsoon; black smart buttoned blazer £65, River Island; pewter brogues £90, Dune London; drop earrings £13, River Island; wide leg, crop denim jeans £75, French Connection.
Betwixt seasons you’ll be needing a lightweight jacket. How about this little bit of beltable bliss, the Kimono coat £145, & Other Stories.
Funked up denim? Great bits to wear with it? Here you go. From left; patchwork dungarees £64.95, Gap; brocade and denim cold shoulder top £35, ASOS; graffiti jeans, Pepe; flared sleeved top £89, Hobbs; checked shirt £35, Miss Selfridge; bag £32, Accessorise; ‘Superstar’ trainers £80, Adidas at Schuh; embellished denim jacket £70, River Island.
“See it, Buy it, wear it” – celebrating the onset of london fashion week, last Friday ‘A’ by Jigsaw launched it’s latest collection with a catwalk show that was live streamed through the brand’s website and Facebook pages. Refreshingly shoppable at a time when media channels are awash with images of spring fashion that you can’t actually buy for six months. This is a Stylish Stuff favourite, affordably luxurious, British-designed and the chic, wearable go-to for discerning women. Check it out at Jigsaw-online.com
Need an evening-wear bag that won’t break the bank? Fancy something a little different? How about THIS. £40, Topshop.SWOON.
THE STYLISH STUFF LOVES:
And finally, the bomber is STILL fashionably favoured for the season. Here’s a few of the best on offer. From left; cream embellished bomber £59.99, Mango; L’Amour jacket £44.99, New Look; geometric embroidered bomber £260, Maje; Chinese embroidered jacket £65, Oasis; special edition embroidered bomber £89.99, Zara; two in one reversible bomber £79, Topshop.
PS. We’re extremely excited to hear that Kat Von D beauty is finally launching in the UK. The celebrated tattoo artist launched her collection back in 2008 but it’s taken time to cross the atlantic. It’s 100% cruelty free, vegan where possible and has high pigment content. It’s also VERY long-lasting. The packaging is as iconic as the woman herself. You can lay hands on it exclusively from Debenhams from the 5th October. I’ll be in the queue.
By Shelly Vella