Hello again! I hope that your 2026 has got off to a good start. We’re excited to be back after a short hiatus. So without further ado, let’s get going!

If you have been on the fence about trying a new look for yourself or even just a different item of clothing to your usual choice, then this should be the year that you go for it! I think that we can get stuck in our heads about what we should or shouldn’t be wearing. I challenge you to step out of your head and try one new thing this year. Whether it be a new shape of trouser, a different colour or an alternative shoe style, mix it up and see what happens. Buy yourself a lovely magazine, have a browse on Pinterest or look around when you’re next in town, see what jumps out at you, makes you smile or gets you excited!

Slightly unusual coloured trouser can often be an interesting way of mixing things up. The pair that mum is wearing are by Beyond Nine. This slightly washed out salmon pink is gorgeous. Suitable for winter and summer, they would represent a good investment too. Beyond Nine are known for their comfort - the waist of these jeans is elasticated- but I also think that the quality of their clothes is extremely good. The sizing is very generous. For example, mum is a UK10 and wearing a 2XS.

I understand that this barrel leg shape won’t be for everyone but maybe look again, do you think that you could try? I believe the cut of one’s trousers to be the easiest way of keeping a look fresh and modern.

The vest that mum is wearing is by Scottish Textiles Showcase. It is made in Dundee from 100% un-dyed British wool with lambswool ties knitted in Glasgow. The wool is processed from fleece to finished yarn in less than 50 miles. The olive green side ties are such a lovely detail and look particularly great over a crisp white shirt. This vest would also work well over a t-shirt as the weather warms up.

Sleeveless knits in general are particularly useful for layering under a jacket to add warmth but not bulk.

I’m going to wear more fitted and full length trousers this year! This pair is by Arket. You can’t see here but they are very high waisted which makes you feel ‘held in’. The high waist and the full length elongate the leg. I will be wearing them again soon and you will be able to see the waistline, so if you like them - stay tuned!

I absolutely love that they are a true blue with no fading, it means that they can be easily dressed up or down.

A quick note, I am 5.6”. Anyone shorter would probably need to have them taken up to wear with flat shoes.

Mum and I both love this coat. Army green is such a fantastic colour for outerwear - less heavy than black, navy and dark grey but just as versatile. It has large side slits which provide a cool, modern detail. It’s designed to be worn oversized on the shoulders (think 80’s ladies) but I have sized down so that it fits more neatly. This is a UK6 and I am a UK8/10.

You will notice that both this coat and the grey jacket that mum is wearing have crisp, sharp shoulders. As we age, I do think that this particular silhouette is very flattering. It provides a sharp, cool edge to any look.

Lastly, the blue silk neck tie (tucked into my short collar) is a new label to us, Idle Kings. The scarves come in two sizes, 50X50 (this one) and 90X90. They are 100% silk and come in 8 colourways. All the colours are gorgeous so you may struggle to choose your favourite! As I’m sure you know, we love a neck scarf here at Graham St and Idle Kings rank very highly…