I was toying with a tote, but that’s no good weather wise (rain!)as its not protected, and I love suede too - but it’s just out for the same reason.
I want to look smart and polished, and ideally it needs to be able to hold my laptop, or at least a lot of stuff…
My budget is around £300 (up to £500 if it’s good quality!)
I currently have a longchamp neo le pliage (the black one with black handles) which does the job, but I was hoping for something more stylish…
(Side note - has anyone found a stylish way of being practical for work that doesn’t involve a backpack?? I currently use a backpack for my work laptop, notebook etc - and then have my whistles cross body as my handbag (so I dont have to keep going between bags). A backpack feels the most practical but I feel like a teenage mutant ninja turtle with it on my back… 🙄)
Surely there’s one bag out there that will do the job, but I’ve not found it…!
This was my exact problem last year and on the advice of a colleague I invested in the Kaai pyramid bag and can vouch 100% worth it. It has a zip, laptop compartment and lots of other pockets, comfortable to carry but best of all still looks brand new after 1 year of heavy daily use (I don’t know what kind of magic they do to the leather but it works!)
This is me! I go between having a cross body bag and a smallish tote, or a huge tote! At the minute my favourite is a waterproof Stutterheim tote that is ginormous and has been much admired.
I'd say that your best bet is to find one secondhand. To find that kind of style I've had better success at searching for a 'black leather oversized shirt' rather than searching for a jacket or coat. I found these on Etsy:
Hi Anna I’m stuck in a cycle of wearing leggings and oversized jumpers as I mostly work from home then have a panic when I have to travel into London for work! What would you suggest to start wearing my clothes again and refining my style?x
I totally feel you on this! I think I'm going to have to do a post on this soon because I have so much to say on this topic! Here are a few things that might help:
- Start saving outfits that you see when you're scrolling that you love that you feel might work with things that you already own. I tend to screengrab and then every few days I go through my camera roll and move them into a folder called 'outfit inspiration' so it's all easy to find when I need it.
- Block out an evening to find some uniforms. Identify five-ish key events that you need to dress for and then find your perfect outfit for each one. Take a photo and save it on your phone so you have it the next time you need it.
- If you know you're going to London the next day then plan your outfit the evening before. Sometimes it takes time to find an outfit that you love and feel comfortable in so that way you won't need to rush.
Hope this helps and will definitely pop up a post on this soon!
Hello Anna, I’m looking for a bag that I can use for hand luggage and so also while I’m on holiday but not straw/raffia, I don’t want a beach vibe. Has to be roomy, not black, relatively hard wearing. I have a budget of no more than £400. Thank you in advance! Selina xx
Thanks so much for your question! I am OBSESSED with woven leather bags - they are just so good for holiday, but beyond that too. I wear my one all year round. This one looks like a good option - https://www.madewell.com/handwoven-leather-tote-99107272569.html.
Hi Anna, thank you so much! I’ve been searching for a woven bag for about 2 months, how did I miss this one? It’s perfect. It’s gone straight to the top of my wish list. I’m still not pressing buy until after it’s had a while on the list, although it maybe the shortest wish list entry so far 😂
Like Emily above, I’m also looking for a new work bag, but in my case I think a backpack would work best. I have been carrying a 28L Patagonia backpack for years and it’s got great organization and has served me well but it’s finally on its way out. For a new bag I’d like something slightly more dressed up that can go with a variety of outfits. Budget is like $250 ideally. Thank you!!!
Hi Anna! Like some others here, I’m on the search for a blazer. I have slightly broader shoulders and chunky upper arms and don’t want to look like my arms have been stuffed into sausage casing. I like the idea of a stronger shoulder silhouette but since I already have bigger shoulders/upper arms, I’ve tended to gravitate towards more drapey blazers in the past, partly because the shoulder seams in more structured blazers seem to either undershoot my shoulders (and make my arms look bulky) or overshoot my shoulders and jut out strangely. Is there something specific I should search/look for with fit?
Ideally searching for something not black, but still dark (brown, navy, could even do navy with subtle pinstripe). Very grateful for any advice!!
Thanks so much for youe question! I feel you on this one - finding the perfect blazer is HARD! I like shopping for blazers on NET-A-PORTER (or at least using it as a starting point) because they have a really good size guide for each individual product. If you have a blazer that you like the fit of then lie it down flat and take a measurement from the top edge of each shoulder. Once you have that measurement you'll be able to compare that to styles that you like. I'd embrace the overshooting and oversized look and try and find styles that have a softer shoulder pad - if any - compared to ones that are quite filled out in the shoulders. It's tricky to tell online and going to be a lot of trial and error but Frankie Shop if a good starting point. https://www.net-a-porter.com/en-gb/shop/search/frankie%20shop%20blazer
I hope this helps and apologies for the late reply! x
Hey Anna, I’m looking for a spring jacket, preferably cotton that has a boxy, shorter fit in a pale neutral (sitting on the hip not going past)I live in Canada so preferably not something that is only available in the UK (huge import fees!). Max $300USD. Thanks! I love this idea.
Thanks for your question and greetings from across the pond! I think I've found some that fit your criteria and hopefully wouldn't smack you with delivery fees!
Hey Anna! I’m on the hunt for a blazer that can double duty for work and party wear. I have a couple of boxy boyfriend shaped blazers and want one that has the more current cinched waist peplum vibes. Maybe DISSH-y vibes too. $200 budget. Thanks! x
Hi Anna! Would love suggestions for what to wear to a drinks party. I’m a size 8/10. I think it could be something a bit special as think everyone will make an effort but I’d want to get maximum wear out of whatever I buy so ideally would like it to be pretty versatile so it doesn’t then sit in the wardrobe forevermore! I like the waistcoat trend but not sure what to wear one with (my usual go to trousers are jeans but think too casual). Or a dress? I prefer not to show too much leg! Budget is £250 or under. Any suggestions welcome :) Thanks in advance from a time-poor mum! xx
Thanks so much for your question! Really love what you're thinking here already...
- https://www.cos.com/en_gbp/search.html?q=waistcoat Waistcoats are such a good shout as it's easy to separate and wear again and you can really dress it up with things that you already have already. I love any of these and would go all black and just wear them with a wide leg trouser and any strap heeled sandals you have and a bold earring moment.
Hi Anna! I’m going to Paris in late April. I plan (hope!) to wear dresses and shorts. Do you have suggestions for shoes and a bag that can withstand 20k steps a day?
Thanks so much for your question! I second Mari on this one - just the most comfortable shoes that you own! Even in trainers 20k steps will knock you around, so stick with the comfiest shoes that you have. I like the idea of packing some ballet flats, or whatever you'd usually wear in the evenings so you have something to change into, but comfort is king for city breaks!! I usually end up either throwing everything in a tote bag - mainly because it weighs less than my leather bags and I don't want the extra weight if I have a lot to carry, or if I don't need a waterbottle I'd recommend something crossbody and with a zip - something like this - https://www.hush-uk.com/stevie-leather-crossbody-bag-black/010696-0456.html.
Hope this helps and apologies for the late reponse! x
Parisian here. TRAINERS! Hahaha ignore the French influencers wearing heels, hardly anyone wear something other than white trainers around here. Maybe pack some ballet flats for the occasional fancy dinner, but don’t ruin your trip with uncomfortable shoes. I feel that Paris is quite causal, I think people in London are more flashy than here
Hi Anna! Would love to know your thoughts on this Anine Bing blazer. I wear a neutral wardrobe - mainly black, white, cream etc. I know you’ve been incorporating some printed jackets into your neutral outfits so would love any initial thoughts you may have on this one. Thanks so much! Aja x
Oh Aja I LOVE this! I have a checkered print coat from ARKET and I've been wearing it tonne, it's just nice to break up the solid colours, even if it's still a neutral tone. It just adds some texture to your outfits. I love! x
Hi Anna, I’m early 40s mum of two, looking for a green waterproof for school run and ideally life. Size 16. 5ft11. Looking to spend £200 at most (ideally) xx
Am I the only one that doesn’t love my Rains? It’s not breathable nor warm, so if the day is cold is useless, and if it’s slightly warm I boil inside all that plastic! It’s good for waterproof and looks cute, but the fabric ripped around the button after just a few wears 🥲
I have a wedding coming up in April and would love an outfit suggestion. I am 5'10 and a size 10. I struggle with colours and patterns, and definitely prefer more neutral palettes. I also hate heels so something that works with a nice flat would be ideal :)
Thanks so much for your question and I totally feel you on this! I'm exactly the same! I plan on doing some wedding posts, but just incase I don't do them in time then here are some thing that I love:
Thank you so much, love all of the suggestions and I've just bought the satin dress from other stories in Pink - sorted :) funnily the dress you suggested from Ghost is my bridesmaids dress for my sisters wedding in June!
I just scored your Dear Frances boots on TheRealReal and am thrilled with the recommendation…so comfortable for city walking. Could you share how you most often style them? Which of your pants do you most often pair with them? Also, I would love to know your thoughts on the Agolde pinch waist in terms of their 2 length styles and general sizing considerations. Thanks
Ooooh well done for scoring the Dear Frances boots - SUCH a classic. I really loved them most with a slightly cropped denim, but because of their height they work well with any trouser that feels like it needs hemming too!
And for the AGOLDE. I'm 5"7' for reference and find that on me the usual size is the perfect length and hits right on the top of the foot, whereas the longer length bunches up if I'm wearing flats, but works if I'm wearing a mid heel boot. In terms of sizing I would go one size down from your usual denim size.
I hope this helps and apologies for the late reply!
Hello from Australia, Anna! I would love your thoughts on some options for an everyday use handbag. I would like this to be minimalist, ideally leather, and can be worn crossbody or over the shoulder - and it must be able to fit a water bottle! If I had the means, I would buy a Loewe puzzle bag, a Toteme T-Lock, or the YSL slouchy hobo shoulder bag, but alas I do not! I love your emails, thank you!
Hi Anna, I need a bag for work, please!
I was toying with a tote, but that’s no good weather wise (rain!)as its not protected, and I love suede too - but it’s just out for the same reason.
I want to look smart and polished, and ideally it needs to be able to hold my laptop, or at least a lot of stuff…
My budget is around £300 (up to £500 if it’s good quality!)
I currently have a longchamp neo le pliage (the black one with black handles) which does the job, but I was hoping for something more stylish…
(Side note - has anyone found a stylish way of being practical for work that doesn’t involve a backpack?? I currently use a backpack for my work laptop, notebook etc - and then have my whistles cross body as my handbag (so I dont have to keep going between bags). A backpack feels the most practical but I feel like a teenage mutant ninja turtle with it on my back… 🙄)
Surely there’s one bag out there that will do the job, but I’ve not found it…!
Thank you!
Hi Emily,
Thanks for your question and boy was this a tough one! It sent me down a right ol' rabbit hole and to be honest I don't know if I've found the best one! I actually think Sarah's suggestion of the one from KAAI is really good - looks like a great choice that ticks all of your boxes. For a cheaper style - https://www.johnlewis.com/john-lewis-anyday-sia-triple-flap-tote-bag-black/p110947370?s_ppc=2dx_mixed_fashion_BAU&tmad=c&tmcampid=2&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwn7mwBhCiARIsAGoxjaKmq_uNANHIkqUhRGLgVzd3aa_qRbbV840258cgKZxGMGz4xrA8fBIaAqNEEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds - this is cute and has a good zipped pocket in the middle, but for a zipped tote that fits a laptop - https://www.aspinaloflondon.com/products/zipped-regent-tote-in-smooth-tan?utm_source=RakutenMarketing&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_content=TnL5HPStwNw&utm_campaign=10&ranMID=50405&ranEAID=TnL5HPStwNw&ranSiteID=TnL5HPStwNw-zhCWfwtUuP_z5l8qXiiMQQ - this is a nice option, looks chic but it feels like we could do better. I'm going to have to keep an eye out for you and will let you know if I find anything that feels perfect!
Thanks again and apologies for the late reply to this!
Anna x
This was my exact problem last year and on the advice of a colleague I invested in the Kaai pyramid bag and can vouch 100% worth it. It has a zip, laptop compartment and lots of other pockets, comfortable to carry but best of all still looks brand new after 1 year of heavy daily use (I don’t know what kind of magic they do to the leather but it works!)
https://shop.kaai.eu/collections/pyramids/products/pyramid-black?_gl=1*1hkvu1i*_up*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAiAuYuvBhApEiwAzq_YidSUc9PkTlCcavitCd4fyBRsuAK6hhchtLE6yOnX_aTmQjl5Ov71uBoCRVkQAvD_BwE
This is me! I go between having a cross body bag and a smallish tote, or a huge tote! At the minute my favourite is a waterproof Stutterheim tote that is ginormous and has been much admired.
So much fun trying out this format! I'm not sure if you have shared before, but do you have any dupes for the Whistles leather jacket? xx
Thanks Maria - and thanks for your question!
I'd say that your best bet is to find one secondhand. To find that kind of style I've had better success at searching for a 'black leather oversized shirt' rather than searching for a jacket or coat. I found these on Etsy:
- https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/1630535736/alberta-feretti-black-oversized-leather?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=black+leather+oversized+shirt&ref=sr_gallery-1-36&pro=1&etp=1&sts=1&content_source=c7454b88c0702138348a5d2b8f3f198a46f0bed0%253A1630535736&search_preloaded_img=1&organic_search_click=1
- https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/1559199198/oversize-leather-jacket-handmade-90s?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=black+leather+oversized+shirt&ref=sr_gallery-2-10&frs=1&content_source=c2542dc007498bfa1db59dc879986e4fdfbbd1b3%253A1559199198&organic_search_click=1
I hope this helps and good luck in your search!
Anna x
P.S) Apologies for the late response! x
THIS. I can’t bring myself to spend the price they’re charging for it in the US, but I’ve had it saved on my list for like… eons
Same 😭
I was going to ask the same thing!
Hi Anna I’m stuck in a cycle of wearing leggings and oversized jumpers as I mostly work from home then have a panic when I have to travel into London for work! What would you suggest to start wearing my clothes again and refining my style?x
Hi Victoria,
I totally feel you on this! I think I'm going to have to do a post on this soon because I have so much to say on this topic! Here are a few things that might help:
- Start saving outfits that you see when you're scrolling that you love that you feel might work with things that you already own. I tend to screengrab and then every few days I go through my camera roll and move them into a folder called 'outfit inspiration' so it's all easy to find when I need it.
- Block out an evening to find some uniforms. Identify five-ish key events that you need to dress for and then find your perfect outfit for each one. Take a photo and save it on your phone so you have it the next time you need it.
- If you know you're going to London the next day then plan your outfit the evening before. Sometimes it takes time to find an outfit that you love and feel comfortable in so that way you won't need to rush.
Hope this helps and will definitely pop up a post on this soon!
x
P.S? Apologies for the late reply! x
Hello Anna, I’m looking for a bag that I can use for hand luggage and so also while I’m on holiday but not straw/raffia, I don’t want a beach vibe. Has to be roomy, not black, relatively hard wearing. I have a budget of no more than £400. Thank you in advance! Selina xx
Hi Selina,
Thanks so much for your question! I am OBSESSED with woven leather bags - they are just so good for holiday, but beyond that too. I wear my one all year round. This one looks like a good option - https://www.madewell.com/handwoven-leather-tote-99107272569.html.
Hope this helps and safe travels!
Anna x
P.S) Apologies for the late reply! x
Hi Anna, thank you so much! I’ve been searching for a woven bag for about 2 months, how did I miss this one? It’s perfect. It’s gone straight to the top of my wish list. I’m still not pressing buy until after it’s had a while on the list, although it maybe the shortest wish list entry so far 😂
Thanks again Selina x
I keep checking back for answers from Anna. Did I miss something?
Same here! Were there any replies?
Apologies Ceire - just responded now. So sorry that it's so late! x
Thanks so much! Apologies, I think I read things wrong and thought your closing dates for comments was the reply date so my bad :)
I don’t think so?
Sorry Samantha! Just responded now. Huge apologies that it's so late! x
Like Emily above, I’m also looking for a new work bag, but in my case I think a backpack would work best. I have been carrying a 28L Patagonia backpack for years and it’s got great organization and has served me well but it’s finally on its way out. For a new bag I’d like something slightly more dressed up that can go with a variety of outfits. Budget is like $250 ideally. Thank you!!!
Hi Megan!
Thanks so much for your question! My best backpack pick is always this one from Whistles - https://www.whistles.com/product/verity-backpack-30339.html#q=backpack&is=false&sz=60&start=0&isSecondPage=false&pid=154869&pos=1. Just the chicest backpack I've seen!! Plus it lasts well too.
Hope this helps and sorry for the late reply!
Anna x
Hi Anna! Like some others here, I’m on the search for a blazer. I have slightly broader shoulders and chunky upper arms and don’t want to look like my arms have been stuffed into sausage casing. I like the idea of a stronger shoulder silhouette but since I already have bigger shoulders/upper arms, I’ve tended to gravitate towards more drapey blazers in the past, partly because the shoulder seams in more structured blazers seem to either undershoot my shoulders (and make my arms look bulky) or overshoot my shoulders and jut out strangely. Is there something specific I should search/look for with fit?
Ideally searching for something not black, but still dark (brown, navy, could even do navy with subtle pinstripe). Very grateful for any advice!!
Hi Bec,
Thanks so much for youe question! I feel you on this one - finding the perfect blazer is HARD! I like shopping for blazers on NET-A-PORTER (or at least using it as a starting point) because they have a really good size guide for each individual product. If you have a blazer that you like the fit of then lie it down flat and take a measurement from the top edge of each shoulder. Once you have that measurement you'll be able to compare that to styles that you like. I'd embrace the overshooting and oversized look and try and find styles that have a softer shoulder pad - if any - compared to ones that are quite filled out in the shoulders. It's tricky to tell online and going to be a lot of trial and error but Frankie Shop if a good starting point. https://www.net-a-porter.com/en-gb/shop/search/frankie%20shop%20blazer
I hope this helps and apologies for the late reply! x
Hey Anna, I’m looking for a spring jacket, preferably cotton that has a boxy, shorter fit in a pale neutral (sitting on the hip not going past)I live in Canada so preferably not something that is only available in the UK (huge import fees!). Max $300USD. Thanks! I love this idea.
Hi Chelsea,
Thanks for your question and greetings from across the pond! I think I've found some that fit your criteria and hopefully wouldn't smack you with delivery fees!
- https://www.aritzia.com/en/product/little-cropped-jacket/95337.html?dwvar_95337_color=11420
- https://www.madewell.com/cropped-cargo-jacket-NO904.html?dwvar_NO904_color=NA0231&cgid=apparel-jacketscoats
- https://www.everlane.com/products/womens-barn-jacket-cornstalk?collection=womens-outerwear barn jackets are having A MOMENT!
- https://www.everlane.com/products/womens-denim-barrel-jacket-cocoa-brown?collection=womens-outerwear
Hope this helps and apologies for the late reply!
Anna x
Hey Anna! I’m on the hunt for a blazer that can double duty for work and party wear. I have a couple of boxy boyfriend shaped blazers and want one that has the more current cinched waist peplum vibes. Maybe DISSH-y vibes too. $200 budget. Thanks! x
Hi Lauren!
This could work for you - https://aligne.co/collections/coats-jackets/products/mariah-curved-sleeve-hourglass-blazer-black. A subtle hourglass shape, but feels timeless! I wore it for an event and LOVED it.
Hope this helps! Anna x
P.S) Apologies for the late reply!
Hi Anna! Would love suggestions for what to wear to a drinks party. I’m a size 8/10. I think it could be something a bit special as think everyone will make an effort but I’d want to get maximum wear out of whatever I buy so ideally would like it to be pretty versatile so it doesn’t then sit in the wardrobe forevermore! I like the waistcoat trend but not sure what to wear one with (my usual go to trousers are jeans but think too casual). Or a dress? I prefer not to show too much leg! Budget is £250 or under. Any suggestions welcome :) Thanks in advance from a time-poor mum! xx
Hi Nicola,
Thanks so much for your question! Really love what you're thinking here already...
- https://www.cos.com/en_gbp/search.html?q=waistcoat Waistcoats are such a good shout as it's easy to separate and wear again and you can really dress it up with things that you already have already. I love any of these and would go all black and just wear them with a wide leg trouser and any strap heeled sandals you have and a bold earring moment.
- Or for dresses these feel like two that you could wear again in the summer - https://www.stories.com/en_gbp/clothing/dresses/midi-dresses/product.cap-sleeve-satin-midi-dress-brown.1209445002.html. Imagine this with flat sandals for a nice dinner out. https://www.sezane.com/us/product/pearly-dress/black#size-2 This is fancier but could just become your go-to LBD for any summer occasions.
Hope this helps! x
P.S) And apologies for the late reply! x
Hi Anna, sorry only just getting round to saying thanks so much for the lovely suggestions and for your reply xx
Hi Anna! I’m going to Paris in late April. I plan (hope!) to wear dresses and shorts. Do you have suggestions for shoes and a bag that can withstand 20k steps a day?
Hi Samantha,
Thanks so much for your question! I second Mari on this one - just the most comfortable shoes that you own! Even in trainers 20k steps will knock you around, so stick with the comfiest shoes that you have. I like the idea of packing some ballet flats, or whatever you'd usually wear in the evenings so you have something to change into, but comfort is king for city breaks!! I usually end up either throwing everything in a tote bag - mainly because it weighs less than my leather bags and I don't want the extra weight if I have a lot to carry, or if I don't need a waterbottle I'd recommend something crossbody and with a zip - something like this - https://www.hush-uk.com/stevie-leather-crossbody-bag-black/010696-0456.html.
Hope this helps and apologies for the late reponse! x
Parisian here. TRAINERS! Hahaha ignore the French influencers wearing heels, hardly anyone wear something other than white trainers around here. Maybe pack some ballet flats for the occasional fancy dinner, but don’t ruin your trip with uncomfortable shoes. I feel that Paris is quite causal, I think people in London are more flashy than here
Hi Anna! Would love to know your thoughts on this Anine Bing blazer. I wear a neutral wardrobe - mainly black, white, cream etc. I know you’ve been incorporating some printed jackets into your neutral outfits so would love any initial thoughts you may have on this one. Thanks so much! Aja x
https://clothlifestyle.com.au/products/anine-bing-diana-blazer-in-cream-black-fishbone?variant=42654679859398
Oh Aja I LOVE this! I have a checkered print coat from ARKET and I've been wearing it tonne, it's just nice to break up the solid colours, even if it's still a neutral tone. It just adds some texture to your outfits. I love! x
P.S) Apologies for the late response to this! x
Love this blazer! I’m pretty certain Elena
https://www.instagram.com/the_closet_stylist?igsh=MWZoZWJiZ3Vyejk2ZQ== has one and she wears a pretty neutral palette.
Hi Anna, I’m early 40s mum of two, looking for a green waterproof for school run and ideally life. Size 16. 5ft11. Looking to spend £200 at most (ideally) xx
Hi Alex,
Thanks so much for your question! Here are some that I've found:
- https://hunterboots.co.uk/products/womens-lightweight-waterproof-parka-wro1402wap-lin?variant=46652141830444¤cy=GBP&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&tw_source=google&tw_adid=&tw_campaign=20582611632&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwn7mwBhCiARIsAGoxjaJcC57xosYXWXkuZK512EvOWGDI-HIOvPuEC4AmtTuBlt8cfeCvLhkaArMSEALw_wcB - just looks like a classic
- https://www.net-a-porter.com/en-gb/shop/product/rains/clothing/casual-jackets/hooded-coated-shell-jacket/43769801095243071 I've never tried Rains but people always recommend and I love that it's just really simple.
https://www.flannels.com/ganni-software-long-parka-coat-667108?cq_src=google_ads&cq_cmp=17598208254&cq_term=&cq_plac=&cq_net=g&cq_plt=gp&cq_con=138219814277&cq_med=pla&cq_pos=&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwn7mwBhCiARIsAGoxjaJiInjo2mJUXV1pP3gpblzFwBeperP-Ui9rCggAYlMPYh9D6aVGhb0aAofTEALw_wcB#colcode=66710815 - a bit of a wildcard, but I LIVE in my GANNI raincoat, plus it's on sale!
Hope this helps and apologies that this reply is so late! x
Have you tried Rains? I’d recommend!
Am I the only one that doesn’t love my Rains? It’s not breathable nor warm, so if the day is cold is useless, and if it’s slightly warm I boil inside all that plastic! It’s good for waterproof and looks cute, but the fabric ripped around the button after just a few wears 🥲
Seconding the Rains rec though mine is unlined which might not be ideal if you need something warmer.
Thank you - yes ideally a bit warmer. I had a Barbour I loved but it got left behind in a pub 🥲
Hi Anna,
I have a wedding coming up in April and would love an outfit suggestion. I am 5'10 and a size 10. I struggle with colours and patterns, and definitely prefer more neutral palettes. I also hate heels so something that works with a nice flat would be ideal :)
Thanks!
Hi Ceire,
Thanks so much for your question and I totally feel you on this! I'm exactly the same! I plan on doing some wedding posts, but just incase I don't do them in time then here are some thing that I love:
- https://www.stories.com/en_gbp/clothing/blazers/product.linen-blend-blazer-waistcoat-beige.1214222001.html I totally feel like this matching set could work
https://www.stories.com/en_gbp/clothing/blazers/product.fitted-linen-blazer-beige.1205577001.html - or just do this and this - https://www.stories.com/en_gbp/clothing/trousers/wide-trousers/product.tailored-linen-trousers-beige.1214329001.html, as a matching trouser suit and would be so easy to wear it again.
https://www.stories.com/en_gbp/clothing/dresses/midi-dresses/product.slim-satin-midi-dress-yellow.1118540012.html - so many good neutral 'colours' in this
https://www.stories.com/en_gbp/clothing/dresses/midi-dresses/product.cap-sleeve-satin-midi-dress-brown.1209445002.html OBSESSED with this brown
https://www.ghost.co.uk/delphine-satin-maxi-dress6-d07g022-g03 - just a good classic.
Hope this helps! x
P.S) Apologies for the late reply! x
Thank you so much, love all of the suggestions and I've just bought the satin dress from other stories in Pink - sorted :) funnily the dress you suggested from Ghost is my bridesmaids dress for my sisters wedding in June!
I just scored your Dear Frances boots on TheRealReal and am thrilled with the recommendation…so comfortable for city walking. Could you share how you most often style them? Which of your pants do you most often pair with them? Also, I would love to know your thoughts on the Agolde pinch waist in terms of their 2 length styles and general sizing considerations. Thanks
Hi there!
Thanks for your questions!!
Ooooh well done for scoring the Dear Frances boots - SUCH a classic. I really loved them most with a slightly cropped denim, but because of their height they work well with any trouser that feels like it needs hemming too!
And for the AGOLDE. I'm 5"7' for reference and find that on me the usual size is the perfect length and hits right on the top of the foot, whereas the longer length bunches up if I'm wearing flats, but works if I'm wearing a mid heel boot. In terms of sizing I would go one size down from your usual denim size.
I hope this helps and apologies for the late reply!
Anna x
Hello from Australia, Anna! I would love your thoughts on some options for an everyday use handbag. I would like this to be minimalist, ideally leather, and can be worn crossbody or over the shoulder - and it must be able to fit a water bottle! If I had the means, I would buy a Loewe puzzle bag, a Toteme T-Lock, or the YSL slouchy hobo shoulder bag, but alas I do not! I love your emails, thank you!
Hi Katie,
Thanks so much for your question! Ooooh LOVE your picks there. I'd always keep an eye on the secondhand market because you might be able to find a steal, but I really do love the St Agni bags. Plus home soil for you! The crescent bag could tick your boxes? https://www.st-agni.com/collections/bags/products/soft-crescent-bag-black, but I do love this woven tote too? https://www.st-agni.com/collections/bags/products/woven-mini-tote-black. If you want a Loewe dupe this a good one but might be a bit small for your water bottle - https://www.hush-uk.com/stevie-leather-crossbody-bag-black/010696-0456.html.
Hope this helps!
Anna x
P.S) Apologies for the late reply! x