We adore this coat but it’s an interesting one as although it looks good in the pictures, I’m not sure that they convey just how lovely it is. This is something that I find extremely frustrating about online shopping; we, as the consumer (and as the retailer) are reliant on how well an item photographs rather than how well it is designed and made. When an item photographs badly and when it photographs well, the garment is mis-represented. It is one of the main reasons why I would always make it to a shop when possible, you never really know what something is going to be like until you touch and feel it.

The weight of this coat is excellent, it is heavy to hold. The herringbone fabric is thick, it has lovely design details and is a good, generous length. It also has great sustainability credentials being made from over 80% recycled fabrics.

I have a herringbone coat, similar in style to this one, which I have had for a few years now. I find it extremely versatile as the black and white fabric compliments all colours. The only time I would avoid wearing it is if I have alot of pattern in my outfit underneath.

I’m sure that I have spoken about burgundy accessories before but for those of you that have recently joined us (hi!) I believe that burgundy shoes and handbags are as versatile as navy, black and tan. As versatile, but more interesting. This handbag is a case in point. It is an old Jigsaw one that mum has had for many years and it goes with just about everything.

As an aside, just whilst we’re on the topic of handbags, if you can’t afford a designer one (which mum and I sadly definitely cannot) then go simple. A simple, classic design will always look smart and won’t date. Also, buy leather and avoid pleather. Although there are some great designs in pleather out there, the bag will look tired so so quickly and therefore represents false economy in my opinion. Better to buy one really good bag, than three cheap ones.

But back to burgundy. The scarf is one that mum has had for a long time and comes from & Other Stories. It wasn’t expensive yet it looks really good. Don’t think that scarves need to be silk (obviously silk is wonderful) but there are some great man-made fabrics that look equally good. The burgundy handbag with matching scarf, paired with the black and white herringbone and cream looks so chic.

It’s also worth noting here that ballet pumps are back in a big way!

This look is a bit of a uniform for me. It is as easy as throwing on a pair of jeans and jumper but the end result is a bit more interesting. This shirt is from Uniqlo and at £29.90 it didn’t break the bank. H&M do even more affordable shirts as do Zara but check the label and make sure that they are made from 100% cotton. A stripe is an excellent pattern as the base layer of an outfit.. In terms of the shape of the shirt, the trick is to buy a ‘roomy’ fit so either look for a ‘boyfriend shirt’ or an ‘oversized shirt’. For the jumper, it is important that it is ‘A-line’ or ‘boxy’, otherwise it won’t sit right.

Good, stylish, well cut trousers are always worth investing in because anything that goes on top will be made to look great. This pair are high-waisted, loose in the leg and tapered at the ankle. If your socks are showing then they MUST be given some consideration. As a rule I will always go for a plain sock in a bold colour. Arket have a great range as do Uniqlo (particularly in the men’s department).

The neck scarf is actually a menswear hankie (or pocket square). It’s a neat trick as not only do you find a lot more choice (than the scarves in the women’s department) but it is often more cost effective.

Last, but by no means least, the waistcoat - which are back with vengeance. Perfect for this ‘is it’/‘isn’t it’ cold weather.