To mis-quote Dean Martin, the weather outside is frightful, but in my head it’s quite delightful.

I am in deepest Denial-shire and looking forward to warmer weather, longer days, and some spring additions to my wardrobe that will be available soon.  In my deluded state I have found these three reasons to be cheerful:

1. A gingham trend for spring and summer 2015. I’ve always loved checks, as long as the look ends up more Hepburn/Kelly than Baby Jane.
2. Flats, slides and sneakers are still cool. Because they are COMFORTABLE.
3. Whistles are making a small version of their big hit ‘Verity’ backpack. A happy combination of practical and beautiful in one very useful bag!

With this in mind, I’m hatching plans for weekend sightseeing in European capitals – Paris and Rome, please! – and have already assembled an outfit that is adaptable, chic, and fashionable.

 

Black/white is a trend for the spring too, so this Hobbs Twitchill dress (super comfortable and just below the knee) is a double winner. Last summer I hankered after bright fluorescent trainers, but this year these New Balance gingham & mint 996 shoes are perfect. Boden’s cropped cashmere is a wardrobe staple. And to carry around my Euros, guidebooks, sunglasses, and perhaps a change of shoes for the evening – the Whistles backpack.