Turning Up The Volume

Turning Up The Volume

Mum is wearing such a pretty little blouse. It’s good to invest in something that is versatile but with a twist. This shirt could be worn as you would any white shirt but because of the broderie anglaise detail and the grid pattern, it instantly elevates any outfit into something more interesting - with no extra effort! This is particularly helpful as we head into summer and outfits are simplified. There is only so much interest that you can add to chinos/shorts and a blouse.

Many trousers at the moment have an elasticated waist. While this is very comfortable and largely practical, an elasticated waistband is not always the most aesthetically pleasing. So finding a shirt/blouse that is designed to be worn out and sit on the hip bone, is a great choice.

The shirt and jacket with the trousers works really well, but the shirt and trousers on their own present quite a stark contrast. So we added the neckscarf to tie the contrasting colours together and add a bit more interest.

This outfit would also work equally well with a more tapered trouser leg. This pair for example, worn with these slender pumps by Penelope Chilvers would channel your inner Parisian chic beautifully!

The basket bag is from Marks and Spencer. I really would encourage you to take a look at their bags at the moment, there are some gems to be found!

This dress is by our friend Frankie at Charl knitwear. It is designed to be over-sized so if that’s not your thing, then this won’t be the one for you. However if, like me, you love a voluminous number then this is a gem. If you have ever worn as a child, or put a child into OshKosh B’Gosh dungarees then you will recognise the material that it is made from. It is a heavy weight cotton that holds its shape beautifully - you can get a proper twirl on in this dress!

I’m wearing trainers here as I love the contrast of the feminine dress with the more masculine shoes but a simple thonged sandal would look lovely, as would a ballet pump - maybe in red?!

Brown has come back with a vengeance over the last few seasons, so if brown is your colour, now is your moment! It can be thought of as a ‘winter’ shade but it goes beautifully with cream and white - the contrast is so satisfyingly fresh for summer.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX MOONEY

SUE WEARS…

Short-sleeved blouse, £155, Sideline

Trousers, £165, TOAST

Jacket, £115, COS

Neckscarf, £25, Sézane

Shoes, £199, Penelope Chilvers

Basket bag, £85, Marks & Spencer

Glasses, £150, Cubitts (colour, dark turtle)

HANNAH WEARS…

Dress, £265, Charl.

Jumper, £285, Charl. (around shoulders)

Sunglasses, £150, Cubitts

Trainers, £94.99, Adidas

Jacket, as above