Lots of people have been in touch to say they found the piece on creating a chic casual wardrobe from scratch really useful but that they’d like to include a skirt or two. So, buoyed by your enthusiasm, I’ve created another set. I’ve tried to make sure that the new pieces work with the ones from last time so that if you’re in the lucky position of buying them all, the combinations are endless! The sudden cold snap has seen me veering towards polo necked jumpers so I’ve made this a much more wintry selection. I’ve chosen two relatively short skirts, although for the Marks and Spencer version you have the option to choose mini or knee length. I’ve then added statement jumpers to brighten the neutral palette of Winter casual chic. Here goes:

Midlifechic Casual

 


winter casual chic

This Hobbs Sara Sweater is a lovely simple cut. It has pockets that add detail but not bulk. The neckline is quite loose so it won’t make you look as though you have a double chin – a key thing to look out for as jawlines become less firm.

winter casual chic

Uniqlo Cashmere Sweater – great quality at a great price in a festive colour to brighten Winter days.

winter casual chic

A gentle toned off white Seasalt Sweater in a flattering shape, again with a soft neck that won’t make you too hot – ideal for people who find polo necks irritating.

winter casual chic

Mint Velvet Skirt following on from the trend for ombre hair is this ombre skirt. The shade and texture with the zip detail make it a little bit special.

winter casual chic

M&S Short Skirt as I mentioned, this is available in 2 lengths. Sold out in most colours, it has just been released in black. I bought one of these last year and I wear it a lot – such a bargain.

casual winter chic

Mint Velvet Wool and Sequin Scarf I’ve chosen a luxurious accessory but made sure that it’s a very versatile colour so cost per wear…

casual winter chic

Jigsaw Grey Brim Fedora – the hat of the season. Buy one with a small brim for timeless chic.

winter casual chic

Boden Ingrid Coat – the lovely Ingrid coat, since I mentioned the blue one, lots of people have been in touch to say they have it in grey and love it. Because of the on trend cocoon shape it updates every outfit but it works especially well because it is single breasted and so hangs well if temperatures are fluctuating and you want to wear it open too.

winter casual chic

Boden Contrast Pocket Jumper – a quirky little jumper that makes me smile – chic but youthful

White Company Heart Pendant – a classic, heavy, high quality pendant. Put it on your Christmas list – you’ll wear and wear it.

casual winter chic

Hush Cashmere Fingerless Gloves – I’m really fussy about gloves and these are supremely soft but enable you to use your phone on the move without having to hold a glove in your teeth.

winter casual chic

FatFace Cable Tights – plain opaque tights are fine but a cable pattern adds texture and evades the frump factor.

Clarks Black Knee High Boots – I’ve chosen these because so many people were in touch after my last boots’ post to say they had problems with skinny / chunky calves. I saw these in store and they should cater for everyone because of the elastic panel at the back.

Clothes are important (obviously) but Winter isn’t really Winter for me without a fab pair of pyjamas to change into when you get home. Until this year I’ve always voted FatFace the best – the quality of their brushed cotton is outstanding and they add little details such as lace to the ribbon cord and pretty buttons.

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FatFace winter bloom pyjama pants

These Cath Kidston London pyjamas are sweet too:

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This year however Joules Fleur pyjamas are my winners and with 25% off until Sunday (code ND25) they are exceptionally good value. These are the ones I’ve ordered as my Christmas PJs.

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I like this top too and can actually imagine wearing it with jeans around the house when I’m cooking

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Although I’ll be wearing my pyjama bottoms with one of these gorgeous Johnnie B pointelle t-shirts, if you’re quick you’ll get onto the waiting list for the last delivery – sheer winter lounging heaven.

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So, I think we’ve conquered a casual chic wardrobe for Winter, soon it will be time to think about party chic – in fact I need to do that pretty quickly because we’re getting our hosting out of the way early and having one next Friday. And then, for the following week, I’ve been organising a Selfridges reunion in London which will undoubtedly be super glam as so many of our old team have gone on to work for really big brands – Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Victoria Beckham…what to wear – haven’t a clue! However there’s going to be a lot to tell you about.

Finishing off with a picture from today – sorry, it’s been such a busy week that I haven’t taken any others. This was just as I was rushing out for a meeting wearing the black M&S skirt featured above and look – it’s THAT coat!!! This has to be my last clothing purchase for 2014 (which presents me with a wardrobe challenge for my next two events but then I always like a challenge).

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Don’t forget there’s 25% off at Boden from Sunday 9th until Thursday 13th November using code F2J7. Our warm Autumn has left such a glut of product for most retailers – it’s going to be a game of chicken to see whether discounts continue to increase or the stock runs out. I’ll do my best to glean some inside information from my retail buddies when we meet up. Have a lovely weekend everybody, I know life’s getting busy but don’t forget to stay in touch.