If further proof were needed that a Chanel jacket is the most timeless, cross-generational item of clothing of all time, then this outfit, worn by French model-cum-actor Lou Doillon at the recent Chanel couture show, will surely suffice. This look also rather wonderfully juxtaposes raunchy and prim in one swoop. There’s the nearly there, low-cut, neutral top versus the super neat lines of the wool pencil skirt. Her shoes, in lipstick red, provide a brilliantly sexy exclamation point and her hair is incredible. Thought for the day: how is it that all French people seem to have such amazing hair?
Photograph: Frederic Nebinger/Abaca
Can you feel the excitement mounting? The distant cry of fanfares? Well you should, because this Dolce & Gabbana dotty blouse isn’t just a bit next season - it is next season. And you can buy it right now! Further reasons to feel gleeful – leopard print with polka dots (seen on Dolce’s autumn/winter catwalk) is the fashion desk’s favourite new season clash. Fact. Second, Carine Roitfeld, editor of Paris Vogue, wore polka dots last week at the Jean Paul Gaultier couture show. Thought for the day part deux: are dots the new stripes?
£270, vanmildert.com, 0844 967 1028 Photograph: PR
T-shirt dresses are brilliant for holidays because you can wear them over a bikini with flat sandals or spiffy them up for night-time with tall shoes and a jacket balanced across your shoulders. This one by Passarella Death Squad – set up in 2004 and worth further investigation – is made from a slinky soft Japanese fabric and boasts one of its signature sexy prints. No brainer.
£90, coggles.com Photograph: PR
Useful needn’t mean boring. This duffle bag by Jasper Conran for Tripp features a very colourful Ikat print – as featured on various summer catwalks, including Dries van Noten. Even if you can’t quite get this authorised as hand luggage, it’s roomy inside with plenty of pockets, and it can either be carried by its handles or wheeled, thus making it a trusty weekend away all-rounder. If you like matchy-matchy luggage, there’s a co-ordinating tote for £39.99 too.
£79.99, debenhams.com Photograph: PR
Can a man ever have enough pairs of laidback, discreetly designed hi-top trainers? Probably not. These rather nice navy ones are by Veja, a label set up in 2003, and not only look good but also win ethical points too. They’re Fairtrade and made from ecological materials in Brazil: the suede is tanned using acacia extracts and is free from chromium and heavy metals, while the soles are made with wild rubber from the Amazon. Plus, they’re also available in classic shades of tan and brown.
£95, oipolloi.com Photograph: PR company handout
