Word on the High Street is “Collaboration”

As a stylist and clothes designer, I obviously keep a keen eye on what’s happening in the world of style and fashion and that includes how the high street is evolving. Over the past few years I’ve seen many changes – some good (limited editions, new emerging brands) - some not so good (less quirky boutiques, too much choice and not enough quality). However, as I’m all about the positive, here’s a new and exciting development “brand collaboration”. Coast, Warehouse, LK Bennett and River Island are all launching collaborations this Spring (I’ll give you my view on these when they hit stores). However, one brand (Next) launched their collaboration last year “Label/Mix” and it has proved so successful it’s back for a new season with an even bigger list of designer names.

Label/Mix champions fashion’s rising stars, collaborating with them to create stunning investment pieces. The beauty of this is each collection is a limited edition which means you’ll own something unique that can be mixed and styled to create stunning looks. Here’s a sneak-peak at what I fell in love with and why…

Mix/Isa Arfen

Forget the traditional trench mac, bring on this beautifully chic summer coat by Isa Arfen. It has an oversized look which makes it effortlessly cool, with low slung pockets and large cuffs for flattering proportions. Oh and did I mention (for all those practical women out there) – it’s shower-proof !

Mix/TeatumJones

Staying with Spring coats – this is possibly my favourite piece from the current collection by Teatum Jones who are known for their striking fabrics and beautifully cut pieces. I love the fact it’s lined, it’s woven from textured cotton-linen (which gives it a vintage feel), it has ¾ length sleeves (so chic) and it’s red (what’s not to love?). Worn dressed down with jeans or with cigarette trousers and kitten heels – simply stunning.

Mix/Rejina Pyo

Rejina Pyo is a designer best known for effortlessly elegant collections (often with a playful twist). This trosuer suit says just that. It’s beautifully tailored, sleek design looks amazing worn together but equally stunning worn separately. I love the wide leg, cullotte trousers (a perfect wardrobe staple with a roll-neck and boots in winter or a t-shirt and strappy flats for summer). The suit jacket has a detachable belt so whether you want to nip in the waist or wear loose, it will remain chic and stylish.

Mix/J Won

Whilst I talk a lot about “teaming” (yep sorry about that!) oversized knitwear with just about everything, I appreciate it can be difficult to find a jumper that is just the right side of oversized! Problem solved - J Won designs beautiful knitwear in luxe merino wool and cashmere. You’ll see she does block colouring beautifully and with the longer length back, this jumper is pefectly slouchy yet wonderfully flattering.

Have a great week-end and feel free to share this post.