Western ankle boots.
Did you have the lovely lace-up flats or heels for Winter? They still look pretty cool this season, but for a new twist and an instant trend hit just purchase a pair of simple block heeled ankle boots. These 'western' boots on the high street at the moment are a take on the classic Chelsea boot that I was loving for Winter, just with a stacked heel and more casual appearance. They are really simple and will last for a while, and their simplicity means you can spend a little and look like you spent a lot! They will work just now with your jeans and a blouse (I bought the Zara ones- a complete impulse buy- and this is my new favourite look!) or wear with a cute dress and opaques. They give a bit of a lift and a bit of height, while still keeping your toes warm! What's more? They will look phenomenal when paired with denim cut offs and fringing come summer.
Neutral Trousers
I am currently on the hunt for the perfect pair of neutral trousers- chinos, peg-leg, tapered- whatever you fancy!- and I think I may have found them in these Miss Selfridge ones, which I tried on today and can see becoming a pretty hard working item in my wardrobe. They require very little effort whether you plump for brick or khaki (the easiest to work- if you are feeling daring and want a really fresh and cool look, try Zara's cargo skinny trousers which I LOVE!). The easiest way to wear them just now is with simple ballet pumps or wooden wedges, a simple top, blazer and accessorise however you like- I think gold really makes these neutrals pop, but colour always looks so summery against a simple shade.
The Kimono Jacket
I know I have kind of raved about these for a while- since I saw the Oriental influence on the S/S catwalks from Louis Vuitton among others!- but with good reason! They are one of those "throw on and look chic" items that rarely come by, and they can be dressed up or down. I love the nonchalant look of a silky kimono, simple vest and jeans/shorts for a failsafe day look, but they also work as an evening cover-up: a look favoured by Florence Welch and Nicole Ritchie et al. I still have my heart set on this Zara number, but Topshop keep churning out some gorgeous ones from subtle paisley to snakeskin. They show you know your trends AND are easy to wear? Yes please!
Acid Bright Belt.
Fluoro splashes were everywhere this season, and if you want to be a little bit on-trend-without going all out Christopher Kane neon-leather-lace- the solution is simple. Just make like Burberry Prorsum and add some zing to your simple jackets and coats by belting with a splash of neon. This look is very simple, and works for everyone to give you that fashion-forward look without breaking the bank or blinding passer-bys with your highlighter-pen colour clashes! Neon really works with everything from muted colours to black, but my favourite way to wear it is with shades of blush or nude- try H&M for a beige blazer that is calling out for a lime or cyan belt!
... Just don't wear them all together!
