Wardrobe Staple: Toms Shoes

Toms Shoes is an ethical shoe company; when they sells a pair of shoes, a pair of shoes is given to an impoverished child, and when Toms sells a pair of eyewear, part of the profit is used to save or restore the eyesight for people in developing countries.  For this reason alone, I'm happy to say that a pair or two of Toms shoes should be a wardrobe staple.  The fact that they are simple, classic and comfortable is a bonus extra!

Having said that, the style of the shoe does seem to divide opinion somewhat.  I've heard them called 'dull', 'ugly' and 'boring'.  However, I don't think this is the case - and anyway, they've expanded their collection significantly and there are loads of lovely versions available.

There are two on which I'm going to focus, which I particularly like.  The first is in the classic style, but a crochet material which should cost no more than £45.  Amazon's a good place to find a selection of different colours for reasonable prices.  I like the cream, but they're also available in navy on sale for just £30 at Box Clothing (but only in a size 3).

The second is a fairly new, ballerina flat pump.  They tend to retail at around the £65 mark but this is far too much!  Get them on sale at Soletrader for just £39.

Toms are also available for the standard prices (i.e. not inflated) at Office, Schuh (some are on sale) and Footasylum (again, some are on sale).  And, of course, there is the official Toms UK website!

Wardrobe Staple: Sun Dry Cotton Blazer from French Connection

A decent, good-quality, well-fitted blazer is an essential.  It can be thrown over anything and looks especially good over jeans and a simple top or with a maxi dress.  I've also seen them looking fab with shorts and, of course, they can be worn with more formal skirts, dresses and trousers for the office.

There's loads of blazers out there, and I've already posted about this one from Wallis.  However, I think it's worth thinking about investing in one that is going to last and for that reason, I often to go for those that contain quality materials such as wool, linen or cotton.  A bit of stretch is often helpful also.  Colour-wise, anything works - plain or patterned - and it's all down to personal taste.  The current style seems to be the boyfriend blazer which is single-breasted and longer, skimming the hips.  It compliments most women's shapes, especially the V-neckline which lengthens and flatters the upper body.  I'd also go for a single or, at the most two, for a more casual look -  a greater number of buttons tends to look more formal and office-y.

I've chosen this red cotton and elastane red blazer from French Connection, which is currently in the sale.  I think it would look amazing over indigo skinny jeans and a white top and I have some amazing red shoes from Schuh (bought ages ago - sorry!) that would complement it perfectly!  It comes in sizes 6 - 16 and has been reduced from £120 to £90.