Posts from August 2011

It's no secret that polka-dots are set to be a big trend for AW11 – and have been seen on the catwalk from designers such as Marc Jacobs and Diane von Furstenberg - but one designer that has got us going polka-dot crazy is Stella McCartney.

Stella McCartney’s A-List worthy one shoulder polka-dot dress from her AW11 collection has been seen on a host of stars from Liv Tyler, Kate Winslet, and Blake Lively, proving that polka dots are what you need to be seen in.

Multiple copy cat versions of this dress have now been seen appearing on the high street, like this Star by Julien Macdonald spot mesh dress, £45 from Debenhams.

Whilst most would consider polka-dots being more suited to little girls, this Autograph dress, £99 from Marks & Spencer proves there is definitely a grown up way to wear them.

The fabric, the cut and colour make this style a sophisticated option for evenings out for the coming season. Polka dot dress from Evans.

For a twist on the trend, why not go for this green version from Topshop? Polka dot dress, £120 from Topshop.

By Hayley Dewar.

This look marks the return of the well-dressed man. Interested in connoisseurship, etiquette and traditional grooming rituals, the rise of the modern-day dandy celebrates a dressy, more classical style with today’s lifestyle. Get a grip on your machismo, and do it like a dude.

We're loving the new Banana Republic store and this classic yet preppy outfit is just one reason. Black herringbone blazer £160, merino wool cardigan £59.90, stretch 2-pocket shirt £45, vintage ‘cadet’ heritage chinos £55, tie £35 and brogues £79.50 from Banana Republic.

Banana Republic

Hats are big news this season, so go on, you know you want to. Flat cap, £12 from Next.

Next

This navy and charcoal plaited waffle knit sweater, from Gap, would look just as good with your favourite jeans as smart trousers.

Gap

We love the tailoring at Ted Baker - it's smart without being too corporate. Maghera jacket, £229 from Ted Baker.

Not to everyone's taste admittedly, but these check trousers, £19.99 from H&M, nail the gentlemanly trend perfectly.

H&M

Take Gossip Girl's Chuck as your inspiration with this Red Herring bow tie, £9.50 from Debenhams.

Debenhams

Practical and smart, what's not to love? J by Jasper Conran navy trench coat, £105 from Debenhams.

Debenhams

Every man's wardrobe needs a stylish pair of brogues, start your collection with these Hugo Boss cerber toe cap derby shoes, £210 from John Lewis.

John Lewis

This leather bag, £139 from Marks & Spencer is a timeless classic so well worth the investment.

Marks & Spencer

By Catrin Bell.

This September, Coast celebrates 15 years as the destination for premium occasionwear. To mark the occasion Coast has created a capsule collection of seven limited edition dresses. We've been given a sneak peek and couldn't resist sharing these buy now wear forever pieces with you.

The first kiss dress, £150

the first kiss dress

This tunic style dress will see you through a whirl of social engagements, from lunch with the girls to a trip to the theatre.

The dream dress, £160

the dream dress

This is the dream dress for an hourglass figure. The sweetheart neckline, detail around the waist and little cap sleeves are just right for emphasising your curves.

The lucky dress, £160

The lucky dress

Red is the new black this season when it comes to dresses, so work the trend in this pretty number.

The danced all night dress, £195

The danced all night dress

If you're going to a wedding this winter, look no further than this beautiful prom dress in this season's must-wear berry tone.

The miracle dress, £180

The miracle dress

We think this neat shift could become the dress you don't know how you ever lived without. It's smart enough for the office, yet stylish enough for the bar too.

The forever dress, £175

The forever dress

This shift perfectly demonstrates this season's grown-up ladylike look. Polished and elegant and totally lust-worthy.

The love at first sight dress, £195

The love at first sight dress

Drawing on yet another key trend, the final dress in this capsule collection is a beautiful shade of sapphire. More interesting than black and yet more refined than red, this is spot on for chic occasion dressing.

All available from Coast from 15 September. Find out how Coast are celebrating in store here>>

By Catrin Bell.