Summer Staple: Copacabana Crochet One Piece Swimsuit from Free People

I can hear you now.  A swimsuit?  In this weather, in winter?  Are you mad?  Maybe, but I have been coveting this item since the summer and, now that it's come down in price, I am tempted to purchase it for summer 2014!

I adore this Lisa Maree crocheted one-piece swimsuit from Free People.  Obviously, it can be worn as a daring swimsuit, with its deep V-neck and crocheted pattern in the front.  But it could also be worn as a summer top, teamed with a sarong or fab maxi skirt to take one from the pool to the bar.   Originally £138 it's now £99.95 and is still available in sizes extra-small to large.

Delightful Dress: New Romantics He Loves Me Best Dress from Free People

I love the boutique Free People as its product range successfully combines femininity and romanticism with edginess and sass.   There are so many gorgeous items available in their sale, but my favourite dress is this cream coloured dotted chiffon maxi dress.  It's ruffle-y, delicate and light yet unconventional - I love the quirkiness of the asymmetric, tiered bottom and crochet trimming and studs around the waist.  This means it can be styled as in the picture, with Doc Martens and chunky, metallic accessories - or keep it floaty and light with some strappy flat sandals.  Originally £250, it's currently £169.95 in the sale in sizes US 4 to 8 (8 to 12 UK).

While I am at it, I'm going to throw in this fab twisted snake ring which is just awesome.  It's also on sale, reduced from £20 to £16.95.  It would go perfectly with the dress, I feel!

Fantastic Footwear: Miista Galaxy Oxford Brogues from Free People

Brogues have been a fashion trend for women for a couple of years now.  Since then, they've evolved from a basic flat shoe, found in simple brown or black, to one that can be found in all manner of patterns, colours and heel heights.  They are practical and comfortable, and a great alternative to a ballet pump.  Unless one is deliberately going for a mannish style, they work best when paired with more feminine outfits such as a floral tea dress, pretty skirt or cropped trousers.

I think these Galaxy Oxford brogues from online boutique Free People are a great version of the trend.  The fact that they're pastel and patterned counteracts the absolute masculinity of the traditional style; this means that they will balance well with most outfits, even if they aren't super-feminine.  So I'd not only wear them with skirts and dresses, but jeans too.  These shoes are leather and great quality, and were £158 - but have been reduced in the sale to £99.95 (with free shipping) and are the cheapest I can find on UK sites online.

What do you think about brogues?  Too mannish, or a practical, trendy and comfortable way to get through the day?  Let me know in the comments below!

Awesome Accessories: Eden Cuff from Free People

A gorgeous statement jewellery piece is always an investment and I love a chunky, funky bangle or cuff to enhance and enrich an outfit.  This Eden cuff from online boutique Free People is perfect for that.  I love the colour combination - either gold with orange and blue or gold with blue and yellow.  It nods towards this season's tribal trend, but it also has a hint of Native American style, making it unique and cool.  Originally £158, it's reduced in the sale to £59.95.