As Christmas and the festive season approaches, it’s time to think of the topside of seasonal sparkle, when you’re on your way on Christmas Day laden with parcels and good cheer. Layering up with coats to match your poinsettias, with Fair Isle jumpers, fur-trimmed gloves and handsome boots and maybe the pooch in tow, you’re dressed for the weather inside and out. Leave Christmas jumpers to the jokers in the pack.
The key item in chilly weather, is the coat and in the current M&S collection there are at least 20 different styles at affordable prices; that is, if you haven’t already snapped up the faux leopard print, the 1940s flared tweed or the fashionable boyfriend shapes. This season the bright red wool numbers are mostly slim fitting while Per Una’s black Cossack style coat with gold embroidery (see it online) works well on the taller figure.
Fake fur cuffs and collars are everywhere and shaggy gilets are the answer to the ubiquitous quilted jackets and look best with short flippy skirts and woolly tights.
One of the best bargains is the faux shearling coat (pictured left) for €129. Real scene stealers – though high maintenance – are the cold blue car coats and oversize dusters for those who like sloping shoulders. One that straddles the divide is that below, which is embellished with – we hope hardwearing – sequins designed to reflect the season in every sense. Head out for a country walk in chunky tweeds and snug woolly collars – ear muffs optional.
