Here’s a selection of items that have been unexpectedly good this season. It just goes to show that you never know where the next wardrobe winner will come from. Sometimes the most unexpected retailer surprises us, so don’t be too quick to cross them off your list.
1. SPANX Thinstincts Mid Thigh Shorts
These have been a revelation for many of my clients. Gone are the days of shapewear being uncomfortable, constricting and bothersome. Thinstincts are soft, easy to pull on and off, comfortable, and breezy. They create just enough compression to smooth out the silhouette without sucking the living daylights out of you. You forget that you’re wearing them. My clients who were dead set against wearing any type of shapewear are wearing them several times a week. They work best with skirts, dresses and tailored trousers. They also create a secure feeling under dresses and skirts that otherwise might leave you feeling a little exposed.
2. Talbots Marseille Topper With Lace
The quality of this top is mesmerizing, especially since it’s knitted jersey. The drape is architectural, and the fabric extremely luxurious. The workmanship and finish made me gasp. The inside of the neck is bound with tape so that it doesn’t stretch out. The lace insets are as neat as can be. It looks like you’ve ironed it after it’s been hung dry and machine washed. THAT is quality.
I bought the navy and have worn it semi-tucked with olive utility pants. It runs big so size down. If you wear a regular US zero, size down to PP in petites because the XS will be too big. I wear mine more fluidly than the model. Available in plus sizes too.
3. Boden Dresses
I rave about my own Boden dresses, so my clients tried them too. They’ve been equally impressed with the quality, silhouette, LENGTH, colour assortment and size range. The cuts work for an assortment of body types. Many of the styles are machine washable, come in solids and patterns, and are CASUAL. Sizes range from petite to plus, and they offer longer lengths too.
4. Halogen Ruched Detail Sheath Dress
Oh my word, I couldn’t believe the fit and silhouette of this $69 dress. I had the black on a 5ft 10 size US10/12 client in a Large, and it took my breath away. The fit and drape is WOW. It’s fitted but does not cling. It looks body-con, but isn’t tight. It looked amazing dressed down with a denim jacket and dressy ballet flats. Now I want one too.
5. Everlane Leather Street Shoe
A stunningly streamlined sneaker-oxford hybrid that’s made in Italy. It’s the first casual sneaker, slip-on shoe that stays securely on my feet. It works well for lower and higher volume feet, and feet with gentler bunions. Comfortable, polished and versatile. Fits an orthotic if you size up. Read the rave reviews. I’m thinking about keeping a pair in white since they are GREAT for travelling and city walking.
6. Alfani Draped Cardigan
An excellent topper for sleeveless dresses and tops when you want a breezy and elegantly casual cover-up. They’re on sale and run a size big. All the colours are nice, and read the rave reviews.
7. Tommy Bahama Two Palms Linen Raw Edge Jacket
Another great topper to wear over sleeveless or short-sleeved dresses and tops if you need the coverage. It’s soft and pretty, and much more feminine and breezy than a classic denim jacket. It runs one to two sizes big so size down. Nicely made, and you must be at peace with the crease.