An outfit isn’t truly finished without crowning glories
Last week I popped along to the Next A/W 25 preview at The Dean Hotel and let’s just say it has really scuppered my plans to try and not buy anything new this season.
Next is always one of those places that I go to and I’ll always pick up one or two really lovely things. It’s such a one stop shop to kit out your whole family and with homewares too.
They stock so many great labels on top of their own main line and the next day delivery means if you’re stuck for a last-minute outfit, you know you won’t be waiting ages for delivery. It’s always lovely to get to see a taster of what’s coming into the shops and if you want to add a bit of glam to your winter wardrobe than Next is your go-to.
Now there were two things in particular that caught my eye and that was the coat and accessories offering. I am just always drawn to these, and I think that any outfit isn’t truly finished without the crowning glories of a great coat and some standout accessories. It takes you look from ‘meh’ to ‘superstyled’ in an instant.
I don’t want to wish cold weather on us but I’m itching to pop on a faux fur coat and embrace the winter glamour and it’s currently too mild for that, but I have the furs on standby waiting for a cold snap. There were some stunning pieces at the press day many of which are already available in store.
One of the highlights for me was a deep chocolate brown short length Afghan style coat (left) with a fur trim at the front and on the sleeves. It had a bit of a Charlotte Simone vibe to it but for an absolute fraction of the cost. This would look great really simply styled with a knit, denim and a pair of boots so you can let the statement coat really shine. I also noticed a little bit of a shift from longer or fuller length furs to more waist length styles in casual silhouettes that make them so easy to style for everyday wear.
A faux fur is an investment so treat it with care to get the most out of your pieces. Spot clean where possible and if you do have to pop it in the machine put it in a pillowcase and use a gentle cycle. Absolutely avoid the dryer at all costs and air dry your fur. Once dry I would give it a bit of a brush out with a wide tooth comb to maintain the lovely texture of the coat. I also find it very handy if a jacket has removable fur collar or cuff which makes cleaning a lot easier.
Next is also a real go to of mine for accessories and I particularly rate their jewellery, bags and for comfortable yet stylish shoes this is the place to go. For A/W 25 expect lots of gorgeous luxe accessories at a great price point that won’t break the bank. The shoes are top tier and I spotted a pair of burgundy, velvet ballet flats and a patent burgundy pointy flat that would give a nod to this season’s biggest colour trend as well as adding beautiful texture to your outfits.
With party season around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about a bit of sparkle and there are some beautiful, bejewelled handbags that would add the perfect amount of pizzazz to a simple black dress. Faux fur and sparkle equals the perfect party look.