Pin-up Pumps

Let me present you with my latest purchase – these adorable black patent shoes by Hobbs. I’d been looking for something similar for a while, but couldn’t find any that satisfied my high expectations. These are leather and excellent quality. As a matter of fact, if you are looking for chic, feminine workwear, Hobbs is a great place to check out during the sales.

Black Patent Bow Pumps by Hobbs £139 £69

How To Wear Houndstooth

Yes, I know, this is not a Spring/Summer post. It’s been raining a lot and the weather has gone back to cold, so I feel like this is more appropriate. Anyway, moving on…Houndstooth is a great classic print, but it can quite easily make a look dated, especially if it is teamed with tweed or wool. So if you want to avoid this, yet  take advantage of the print’s instant chic appeal, I recommend you look for a modern take on the working wardrobe staple—be it with a slightly altered print or new colours and textures.

For example, these pieces from Jaeger have got it all right. The dress is not only red and white instead of the traditional white and black, but it also made of silk, and the pattern is slightly altered.  It looks feminine, chic, modern and professional.

This bag works because it’s in shiny PVC. I’m always a fan of printed accessories—they make a simple outfit instantly look chic. And this bag would look great with a black dress and houndstooth-print shoes.

Coral and White Houndstooth Silk Dress by Jaeger £225 now £149

The bag isn’t available online anymore, but you might be lucky if you visit one of the many Jaeger stores.

Cute Leather Bow Pumps

I love heels.  I wear them just about 90% of the time and I have to say that it’s rare for me to be drawn to flat shoes. So these fuchsia and black leather pumps must be very special because I find them adorable. The bow is probably to blame as I love bows maybe just about as much as I love polka dots. And of course, they make a perfect follow-up to my Fuchsia and Black post. £39.50 by Marks and Spencer.

The Smart Businesswoman’s Wardrobe Staple – The Pencil Dress

For those of us not lucky enough to go to the Oscars as part of our jobs, there are still some stylish dresses we can wear in the workplace. Granted, pencil dresses aren’t as exciting as red carpet gowns, but there are smart, flattering and very easy to wear.

All you need to complete the look is to add a pair of heels and—depending on the model—a belt. It doesn’t get any simpler than this! Professional and practical, the pencil dress belongs in every woman’s wardrobe.

Structured navy jersey pencil dress by Monsoon £55

Belted red pencil dress by Jaeger £220

Black pencil dress by Oasis £75

Paneled grey pencil dress by Oasis £65 now £30