I don’t know about you, but I love a new winter work wardrobe! I recently went to Bicester Village where I found amazing bargains, including this great mac (a classic work wardrobe staple) and this buttery-soft leather shoulder bag, which can easily be transformed in to a squidgy clutch bag when the strap is tucked inside – perfect for Friday evenings from office to bar! Oh, but what to wear with them? Something new, of course!
This matching top and trouser combo is from high street giant, Next‘s autumn collection. Next’s collection of tailored pieces is really strong this season; think sophisticated colours (grey, navy, camel and black) punctuated by rich, autumnal hues of berry, teal and red with the odd colour block, floral print and checked fabrics (like my top/trouser combo, which also comes in a dress). The silhouettes are simple (tube dresses, fluted dresses, shift dresses, pencil skirts, a-line skirts, tapered trousers, capri trousers) while the colours and prints do the talking. It’s a wonderful combination of staple shapes made trendy with the clever use of fabric and texture.
I’m really into the trouser/top combo and the whole matching prints idea (who doesn’t love a bouclé skirt suit?). The Next trousers and t-shirt shaped top look smart for work thanks to the no-fuss silhouette, but the checked print takes it to an interesting, current level. Teamed with the mac and the berry accessories, it’s a great look for work this season, while the trees are golden but before the weather turns really cold! What’s more, each can be worn with other pieces from your existing wardrobe – so the trousers will look great paired with an aubergine or ivory blouse, while the top will look professional yet chic with emerald or navy trousers. Throw on a gentleman’s watch and carry a structured bag, and you’re good to go, whether you work in an office, a school or are simply attending a business meeting. A few clicks on Next.co.uk and your your AW13 workwear is sorted.
Top: Next
Trousers: Next
Coat: Bicester Village
Bag: Bicester Village
Shoes: Matalan
Beauty Note: Victoria by Nails Inc is one of my favourite colours for autumn/winter
