SMART SUMMER JACKETS

Now the heat wave is coming to an end in England it is time to start wearing jackets again, but lighter ones that give a nod to the summer that might just be coming back.  I am not sure we have experienced such a long period of sun and heat for a long, long time and we are not complaining that the garden is finally getting some water.

Anne H hit the sales in John Lewis recently and purchased this striking cream and grey striped Reiss Rodeo blazer, which she thinks is reminiscent of a deck chair albeit a very stylish one. There were matching trousers (shown here)  but she drew the line at those thinking that was just a step too far.  She likes Reiss for their jacket styling and finish with jackets that are a flattering length and well cut.  Sadly this one is no longer available on line but the Reiss site is worth a visit to see what is coming through for the Autumn season.

Her Levis jeans are also a sale buy and are the 712 slim style  that she is favouring at the moment. They are in dark indigo and to her delight they come in a range of leg lengths including 32 and 34 which are perfect for her long legs.

Her navy sandals are from John Lewis and are the Jessie block heel design at the mid height which is so easy to walk in.  Her blue satin finish top is from COS and includes a concealed zip at the back of the neck, short sleeves and a relaxed fit.  The sheen of the finish adds a touch of dressiness to the outfit and makes this a very versatile piece for the wardrobe.

Anne C's woven cream jacket was a holiday purchase from Greece, which she absolutely loves!  It is a Chanel-lookalike style with patch pockets - they only thing she is not keen on is the press-stud fastening, but these can be unpicked, leaving an edge-to-edge style. The 3/4 sleeves are a bonus since most jacket sleeves are far too long for her short arms!

She has gone for a coffee-and cream look, with taupe skinny jeans from Primark, a cream chiffon floaty top (not visible) from TKMaxx, and finished off with a taupe and white scarf which came from the same Greek shop as the jacket.

Anne loves to mix and match budget buys with more classic, expensive items to create an overall look, particularly is she is looking for a specific colour, although to beware that often a larger size is needed if the fabric is not so generously cut.

The pretty suedette shoes were from Next a while ago, but perfectly complement the overall outfit.