Ali Hall, Editor of
Look Magazine
It’s finally warm enough to ditch my winter coat, but I’m not quite ready to go jacket-free just yet. That’s where the bomber comes in. Championed by big catwalk names Victoria Beckham and Balmain, it’s the perfect buy to be new-season ready and beat the early spring chill. Check out my top three...
The silky fabric and ornate print on Boohoo’s bomber jacket lend the trend a serious dose of glamour. Team it with slinky drawstring trousers, a cami and strappy stilettos after dark, or try it zipped all the way up and wear as a top for an entirely different spin.
This classic G-Star Raw jacket ticks off three spring trends in one thanks to its bomber shape, colour-blocking and sports-luxe vibe. Either play on the casual feel by teaming with denim or create a cool contrast by wearing it over your LBD for an offbeat evening look.
Pastels make any new purchase feel extra spring-like, plus quilting is set to be a huge catwalk hit for autumn, so you know this Boohoo jacket won’t be a one-season wonder. Wear it with lace or embellished pieces for a plush texture clash, then top it off with a statement collar necklace.
You can tell festival and holiday season is here – I’m seeing bright pom pom details on bags everywhere. This feel good trim gives everything from cross bodies to chic shoppers an instant happy vibe. Check out my must-have bags...
A mini crossbody bag is perfect for city breaks, shopping or weekends away as you can go hands-free. Unclip the strap on this one and you’ve a statement clutch for nights out.
Straw bags are a beach holiday must-have, but this roomy number will work double duty for picnics in the park.
I’ve found my festival bag! I love how the bright pink trim, pom poms and embroidery totally transform the classic cross-body shape for summer. Try clashing it with a printed sundress or going all out with matching pom pom sandals.
I’ve had an inkling for a while now that asymmetric neckline dresses were due a big style revival. I’m a longtime fan and thanks to the likes of Fendi, Saint Laurent and Isabel Marant, the cold shoulder is firmly back in the fashion spotlight for spring. These are my high-street frocks to nail it...
Anything that ticks off two trends in one is a hit in my book, and Karen Millen’s mononchrome cocktail number is a very chic case in point. Not just asymmetric, it’s made from satin – a huge hit on the summer catwalks - and combines the hottest two colourways. The origami-style folds lend it high-end appeal – pair it with nude heels for a wedding guest outfit to remember.
Nothing says summer quite like a floral maxi. And Jameela Jamil’s number fits the bill nicely – a tropical print, thigh-high split and ruffle detailing make this frock look seriously high-end. Team it with wedges and fine gold hoops on holiday for that cool boho feel.
Zingy brights dominated the catwalks this season and lemon is one shade having a major moment. A floor-sweeping silhouette and glossy chiffon fabric and close-fit bodice mean this dress oozes glamour, but you could dress it down with sandals and a denim jacket. Add edge to the floaty fabric with a bold metallic cuff and a gobstopper ring.
You don't need me to tell you that leopard is a totally timeless print, especially on shoes. Snap up a pair of leopard wedges, courts or flats and I guarantee you'll wear them year-round and with pretty much everything in your wardrobe. Say hello to my must-haves...
You get a double trend with these Dune wedges thanks to the raffia espadrille sole, which is big news for summer. Team these with a glam floor-sweeping kaftan poolside, and use the peep-toe to show off a popping coloured pedi. Post-holiday, they'll look great given a '50s spin with a full skirt. Try a red one for extra kitsch.
Leopard-print courts may be vampy, but trust me when I say they don't have to be saved for evening. Worn with a chic, tailored dress and boxy jacket, they instantly become office appropriate. Then, just add some statement jewellery and a clutch and you've got an instant night-out look ready to go. For a fashion-forward spin, try them with a clashing frock.
In plush ponyskin and with a dainty ankle strap, these are glossier than your usual flats. I'd give them a Parisian spin by wearing them with ankle-skimming cigarette trousers and a boat-neck breton top. A jewelled necklace will top the ensemble off nicely. All the chic factor with none of the pain, what's not to love?