Penelope Cross Stitch Jacket from Monsoon

As the weather improves, one needs a coat less and less, but it's still not warm enough to go out without some sort of cover up.  A lovely cardigan or jumper works wonders, but sometimes one needs something a little more structured.

The sale's just started at Monsoon and there are lots of great items with up to 50% off.  They have a selection of cropped, patterned jackets that will work really well for Spring.  I like this cotton-blend blue and burgundy version with floral details and a hippy/folk element.  It would be perfect with jeans and pumps but could equally be thrown over a dress to keep the chill at bay in the evening.  Originally £69, it's half price in the sale and is still available in sizes 8 to 16, 20 and 22.

Leggings from Boden

I remember when leggings appeared after a couple of decade's hiatus, I was skeptical.  My main thought was: how on earth can a bad fashion trend from the 1980's be relevant or fashionable again?  But I admit, I was wrong.  The latest rendition of leggings is (in my opinion) fabulous and a trend that's here to stay.

However, a key point I would like to make is - they are not, on the whole, trousers.  They don't look very good with a crop top, or even a top that doesn't go past one's waist, unless one is a child or super-skinny.  Or a gymnast or dancer - I'll give that one.  But on the average woman, they should really be worn as footless tights.  Think shorter dresses, mini skirts or tunics.  They look great under those!  A second point is that they should be good quality.  See through leggings are simply horrendous, especially when someone doesn't wear a long top as advised above.....  I don't want to see anyone's pants or worse.  Length is also important, as shorter, calf-length leggings can often make legs look stumpy, so I'd suggest ankle length ones on the whole.

The best leggings I have found are from Boden.  They are superb quality, being thick enough to not be transparent and they don't lose their shape, even when washed.  They come in a great range of colours - black, light grey, navy and a kind of bluey-grey.  The fit is perfect too.  Although they are £22, I have found that they are worth it as they last far longer than cheaper versions aside from the quality.  And for this week only, customers can enjoy 10% off plus free delivery and returns, with new customers receiving a free gift, with code W002 (expires 8th September).

If that is still too expensive, the next best leggings I have found are from Monsoon and are £15.  Again, they are great quality and the fabric is robust, but I find the fit around the waist isn't quite as good as the Boden ones and so they aren't as comfortable.

Terrific Top: Mia Butterfly Printed Top from Monsoon

There's still up to £50 off selected clothing at Monsoon and, as one can never have too many pretty tops, I have found this lovely butterfly patterned silk top which has been reduced from £49 to just £34.  Delicate and feminine, it can be worn casually with jeans or paired with a smart skirt or trousers for a Spring evening out.  For such a versatile, great quality silk top, I think this is a real bargain.  It's still available in sizes 8, 12-18 and 22.

Splendid Skirt: Rhonda Rose Skirt from Monsoon

When there is up to £50 off selected lines at Monsoon - one of my absolute favourite stores - how is it possible to pick just one piece?  I could go for some casual trousers, an evening gown or a pretty jumper.  However, I have gone for a classic, floral print pencil skirt.  I like the fact that it's a wardrobe staple with a twist, with its vintage rose pattern.  And pencil skirts are amazing in that they suit most body shapes, depending on the cut and what pieces they are styled with.  I'd team this skirt with a neutral blouse and heels for an understated but classy look, perhaps for a lovely lunch out?  It comes in sizes 8 - 22 and has been reduced from £59 to £44.