If you ask fashionistas what they're excited about right now, two things spring to mind: the return of The Devil Wears Prada, and Tesco's F&F clothing range coming back online.
The supermarket's fashion line has been delivering style into stores during its digital hiatus, but, if, like me, you love the ease of 'adding to basket', you'll be pleased to hear that you can now add a midi dress next to your milk order when shopping online.
I have always loved F&F clothes, whether it's the stellar activewear range that stands up proud next to big-name brands, or the fashion-forward buys that have literally had people stop me in the street, this is directional fashion, but at supermarket prices, and you really can't ask for more than that.
This supermarket range is back online, get ready to add to basket
With over 20 years in the fashion industry, I like to think I can now easily spot a style bargain, and as someone who has had a sneak preview of the F&F autumn/winter collection, let me tell you, we're all in for a treat.
I'm not exaggerating when I say that I am waiting patiently to nab myself one of the best high street coats I have seen in some time. Retailing around £65, there are some seriously luxe-looking designs, and the team has also upped the quality of the fabric. With trending hues of chocolate brown, grey and cream taking centre stage, this is quiet luxury with an affordable price tag. The faux shearling and leather designs look like they've marched straight off the catwalk, and don't get me started on the tailoring. I still can't believe all the detail that has gone into the trousers for next season, with smart front creased styles, in flattering wide leg silhouettes; if you're looking to restock your capsule wardrobe, F&F should certainly be one of your first stops.
It's clear the F&F design team has focused on delivering luxury on a budget, and as someone who sees a lot of clothes, they have hit the brief. But of course, not only are you getting an absolute style steal at Tesco, but you can also collect Tesco Clubcard points, which means rewards for shopping. Essentially, it pays to treat yourself, and you'll look and feel good doing it.
New In, Now
While the big hitters for the season are yet to drop, we're slowly seeing key silhouettes sneak into the 'New in' section, these are four stylish basics that will underpin your autumn wardrobe.
Stay with me. Snake print is having a mighty resurgence, and these cotton printed jeans are a surprisingly wearable way to rock the trend. The slim leg fit and ankle-grazing finish present a super flattering silhouette that can be teamed with long-line blouses to wear right now, then teamed up with French-tucked, monochromatic knits as we head into autumn.
F&F has worked hard to up its tailoring, and I'm excited for the separates as we head into the new season. This timeless pair of wide-leg trousers with front crease will work all year through. If you're wondering how to style wide-leg trousers, the trick is to keep your waist highlighted, so tuck in those tops, or half-tuck blouses, to streamline your shape.
F&F make a great selection of denim, and I love these ankle-grazing jeans with a slim leg. The light blue wash is fresh for the months ahead and pairs beautifully with complementary pastel outfits or offers brightness to darker autumnal hues. Available up to a size 22, there are different leg lengths too.
Nailing how to style a satin slip skirt is a fashion hack that will help you put smart casual outfits together, whatever the weather. From autumn onwards, pair this silky number with a cosy sweater, but to get wear out of this gorgeous antique rose hue right now, team it with a fitted t-shirt and tuck it into the waistband to highlight your shape.
F&F summer sale
As we turn our attention to autumn outfit ideas - I'm not the only one excited about the season changing, am I? I can't wait to get layering up new looks, but it's not quite winter wardrobe levels yet, and as autumn can be quite warm (here's hoping), make sure to check out the F&F summer sale, it's a brilliant place to snap up some bargains, and of course, at the end of the season you can pack them away with your summer capsule wardrobe, ready to reap the benefits of your affordable style buys next year too.
Learning how to style shorts can be tricky. If this is your first foray into such a short hem length, my advice is to simply opt for a slightly longer pair. These denim cut-offs offer extra thigh coverage that's ideal for any holiday outfit ideas, or slipping on over your swimsuit around the pool.
When it comes to tummy control swimsuits, you don't have to spend a fortune, as this design shows. This black swimsuit comes with built-in contouring to help support your shape across your midriff, delivering summer confidence wherever you are.
I love a t-shirt dress; this throw-on-and-go style makes summer styling so easy. Wear now with your best white trainers and a denim jacket, before switching it up for autumn with a pair of knee-high boots, tights and a leather jacket.
If you're still struggling to find the best wedding guest dresses, then let this chic midi dress solve your sartorial dilemma. The creamy base colour helps to make the gorgeous blue floral print pop. Team with silver accessories to add a touch of sparkle to your look.
Shop savvy with F&F
If you're saving yourself for new season goodness, you don't have long to wait. Perhaps one of F&F's elegant winter coats, or sumptuous earthy-hued knits, will be dropping online and into stores before you know it. And while we'll be sad to see summer go, when autumn fashion looks this good, we're ready to pack up our shorts and t-shirts once more.
From the could-be-designer accessories - there are a couple of woven bags and studded styles I have my eye on - to the sharp tailoring that will make your work wardrobe feel oh-so-chic, be kind to yourself and your bank balance. I'll see you in the aisles, with my trolley at the ready.
-
Julia Roberts' jeans and blazer might seem unassuming, but it's the only outfit formula you need for this time of yearNo wonder Amanda Seyfried immediately copied it
-
I adore Reformation’s lace Tiffie dress for autumn occasions, but this M&S alternative wins on price and styleWhether it's an autumn wedding, a special date night look, or you just want to treat yourself, this M&S lookalike for the Reformation Tiffie dress is spot on
