The fashion briefing

Look of the week
It is the final week of election fever, so let us come together as one and say: great belt work, Sarah Brown. Yes, we know there is more to the political wives than what they wear, but surely that doesn't mean we can't give credit where it is quite obviously due. The double-effect belt look is currently available on the high street (try Jigsaw), and is a modern way to break up a dress without looking overly styled. The political spouses fashion spotters' club – what do you mean you're not a member? – will remember that Sarah wore this purple dress for the manifesto launch too. It's a flattering neckline that clearly works for her. On both occasions she added a neat tailored jacket, giving the dress a modern spin, a technique you could easily try at home if you have an old frock requiring a spot of razzing up. Photograph: Guardian

The fashion splurge
Leather shorts are obviously a statement, one which may result in people talking about you behind your back. Oh let them! This latest shorts spin has been sparking fashion interest for a season or two, cropping up on the Chloé catwalk and then Chloë Sevigny. This pair from American label Rag & Bone’s pre-autumn collection are super soft and benefit from a belt and turn-ups.
£520, theshopatbluebird.com
Photograph: Guardian

New and very exciting
Prada is known for distinctive prints, which somehow manage to feel retro, modern and vaguely nostalgic all at once. In the middle of this month, the label launches a range that celebrates its marvellous print archive. Cue a patternarama. Highlights include this simple sleeveless dress, ballet flats (from £235) and shoulder bags with chain handles (from £355).
£475, prada.com Photograph: Linda Nylind/Guardian

Men's buy of the week
Don’t ever complain that this page doesn’t plug those gaping holes in your wardrobe. Who doesn’t need a parrot print short-sleeved shirt in his life? Here’s a secret, The Briefing may even wear this sassy French Connection number to shout at the telly during election night. It’ll look particularly smashing accessorised with a glass of rosé. Also, as has been previously discussed: short-sleeved shirts are totally back.
£35, frenchconnection.com Photograph: Guardian

Sandal of the week Black leather and gold hardware combine to give these Geox sandals a more expensive air than their price tag suggests. Like a new season spin on the gladiator, this is a versatile shoe, ideal for teaming with summery shorts. For chillier days experiment with grey socks and faded jeans rolled up around the ankle. £69, 020-7833 4895
Photograph: macpro/Guardian