In an age when pop divas change outfits every three seconds and go to all manner of lengths to outdo one another with increasingly improbable get-ups, it’s refreshing to watch the glorious Sade elegantly deliver a two-hour set with just four outfit changes and some signature hoop earrings. This is how to make an minimalist entrance – all black: a polo neck (so next season), cropped trousers, slick hair and black, heeled sandals. This was classily followed by a white shirt, waistcoat, wide trousers and jazz shoes number, a long shimmery white gown with bare feet and a long slinky burgundy dress. Take that Gaga. Photograph: Rune Hellestad/Corbis
Never has there been such a hat-friendly summer. This black straw affair by Reiss is a wonderful mash-up of Joan Collins, the 70s, Helmut Newton and Taxi Driver. It’s gonna add snap to virtually any outfit this summer. Guaranteed.
£45, reissonline.com Photograph: PR
Tommy Hilfiger has joined GH Bass & Co for an autumnal collaboration and remix of the classic penny loafer. Bass “Weejuns”, as they are best known, are a preppy classic which, as any nerd will tell you, were even name-checked in the Tales of the City novels. This week the unisex Tommy collection goes on sale at Selfridges. There will be heeled versions, traditional plaids and brilliant polished leather styles in colours such as burgundy, bottle green and navy.
From £119, available from 9 June at Selfridges, 0800 123 400 Photograph: PR
The Briefing has had a crush on Ms Swinton for some time. But even without the influence of said crush, haven’t her last few looks been absolutely faultless in a new league of amazing? First, this shade of blond is gorgeous and that cut is how to do a pixie crop because it’s not elfin or irritating, it’s just short and a bit choppy. It also works slicked back, as seen in Cannes. Then to the clothes: TS has embraced what we are calling The New Separates. This is basically posh blouse + BTK (below-the-knee) skirt, which is very autumn/winter 2011. Hobbs has a brilliant BTK skirt called Union in black linen to get the look right now Photograph: Dave M Benett/Getty Images Europe
If you’re after a posh designer summer tote for under £200, this olive green Bally bag is surely the thing. And if you want to go a bit same-same, you can get co-ordinating ballet pumps. Said combo is also available in navy. High-fives to Michael Herz and Graeme Fidler, the creative duo at the helm of this 160-year-old Swiss label for the invention of this mini capsule range of wonder.
£175, bally.com Photograph: Sarah Lee/Guardian
