Somerset by Alice Temperley Tipped Shirt Dress from John Lewis

Despite the fact that Christmas is not all that far away, there are still plenty of offers to be found.  John Lewis currently has quite a few gorgeous women's fashion items on sale and I love this Somerset by Alice Temperley shirt dress, which is half its original price.  It's 100% silk, so will feel luscious and luxurious.  I love the delicate, contrasting Peter Pan collar flowing into the same coloured lace placket, giving it a vintage feel.  It's perfect for work or a daytime formal lunch, but at the sale price it's worth wearing as much as possible!  It's still available in sizes 6 to 18 (except 10) and is £80.

And for an extra special treat, I give you the John Lewis Christmas advert!  So sweet and touching, as ever.

Jaeger Metallic Stripe Breton Jumper from John Lewis

A cute Breton striped shirt or jumper is a classic.  However, I do find that the standard black and white stripe is a bit clichéd and looks a bit like it ought to be paired with a beret and a necklace of onions.  So it's often good to go for something a little different, in varying colours, like this Jaeger jumper available through John Lewis's clearance offers.  I love the sparkly, metallic stripes which are quirky and attractive - but not too obtrusive.  I'd wear it with skinny jeans, a scarf and flat pumps for a chic, Parisian look (without any onions or berets!) but it could be smartened up with a blouse underneath and skirt.  Still available in all sizes (small to extra large), it's been reduced from £120 to £75.

A Great Cause: Bobbi Brown French Pink Blush with Brush Set for The Breast Cancer Research Foundation from John Lewis

I've mentioned before that supporting and raising money for cancer charities is a big part of my life and one of the closest causes to my heart is that of breast cancer.  October is Breast Cancer Awareness month so please can I urge everyone - men too - to check your breasts and get anything you're not sure about checked out.  I believe (what we thought was) being overly cautious saved my life - please, please, don't be blasé about it.

So I am not going to apologise for promoting any products I find this month in support of Breast Cancer Awareness month, even if they aren't on special offer.  I posted about Neal's Yard Remedies yesterday and today, I've found this gorgeous Bobbi Brown French Pink Blush with brush set from John Lewis.  It's a beautiful colour which should suit most skin tones.  It's £35 but £5 from every sale will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.  Perfect.

Putting my money where my mouth is: Havaianas

The best flip flops on the market, in my opinion, are classic Havaianas.  They are well made, comfortable, durable and perfect for the summer.  They come in a huge range of colours and styles - and prices.  The really basic, slim ones shouldn't cost more than about £15 - and should be found for less.  But, as ever, with a bit of canny research, one should be able to find a fabulous pair or two for no more than about £20.  They shouldn't cost more than this.

My sister and I took advantage of a 20% off offer at Office a few weeks ago and managed to get these wonderful versions for just under £18 which go well with our pedicures I think!  I love the colours and the sole is quite thick and sturdy.

As much as I adore the pink, I'm now searching for a more neutral version that will match a few more outfits.   There's a sale on at USC at the moment which includes these, so I am tempted by these silver and white ones, reduced from £24 to £18.

Other sites worth looking at, that often have deals include:

• Amazon - need to have a good browse to get the colour, size and price that's required.
• Matalan - there's some really basic ones for just £10.
• John Lewis - slightly more pricey but a lovely selection.

Terrific Top: Jaeger Embroidered Blouse from John Lewis

The John Lewis sale is always phenomenal; with up to 70% off designer brands, it's the perfect place to pick up a high quality, fabulous bargain!  And unlike some other stores, John Lewis seems to retain the tradition of having proper seasonal sales - and it's now time for the summer sale.

As ever, it's been tricky to pick just one item that stands out, so today I have focused on finding a smart and pretty but versatile top that I can't find elsewhere on the web and that has been discounted massively.  With that in mind, I found this embroidered, Peter Pan collared Jaeger blouse that's been reduced from £150 to £60.  It could be worn with jeans or cropped trousers for a smart but casual look, or it could be teamed with a smart skirt and heels for the office.  I don't think it would need much extra accessorising - maybe a lovely watch or bracelet?  It's still available in sizes 8 and 12 to 16.