The perfect time to invest...

... in something that you wouldn't normally buy.  Either as a Christmas gift for yourself or from someone else.  Or if you're thinking of buying something to wear for the big day itself or a party.  Invest in something that you will then be able to wear again and again.  

We're not talking sequins today, we're talking.. drum roll... leather.  And of the skirt variety.  Why?  As I have on one of my favourite items in my wardrobe that is genuinely one of the most versatile things I own.  Well - it's not versatile in that you can wear it in any other way than as a "skirt" (I can hear the husband now.. "so it's not that versatile is it?".  Insert all the eye rolling here... from ME that is). 

But versatile in that it works for so many different occasions.  For dressing down with any sort of jumper or sweatshirt.  Trainers or boots of any variety.  Party timetastic with a silk blouse or sequin top and heels.  I also wear mine into the Spring with a tee, trainers and fitted blazer.

And they last for years.  AND AND AND they don't even have to be expensive - you can get reasonably priced leather and, as I always say, the most fabulous faux versions. 

Iris and Ink Cynthia Pleated Leather skirt in navy £246

Midnight Blue again at Muubaa from The Outnet was £285 now £128




Jacron Leather Wrap Skirt in black from Maje was £420 now £252





Iris and Ink Monica Leather Skirt in Burgundy £246




Slightly longer - a cross between midi and mini...this is a length for most people.  Also perfect into the Spring with bare legs (as insane as that seems right now...) and sneakers or ankle boots. 

Hallhuber Nappa Leather Skirt with Suede Waistband was £179 now £143.20



Now I know not everyone has as big an aversion to their knees as I do, so I've found some shorter ones that I would definitely have worn a couple of years ago.   These with thick opaques, chunky boots and and an oversized knit would be sublime.

Short now in tan from La Redoute was £89 now £62.30



In black...again now £62.30



And then onto the faux leather bargains. 

FIrst up, I'm continuing with the black - this one has my name all over it. 

ASOS Leather Look Midi Skirt with Zip and Pockets £45



Black bargain of the day at Boohoo.  You're welcome.  Flame cropped top optional.

Montana Leather Look Skirt £20



ASOS Leather Look Midi Skirt £48



Faux leather mini at Mango in green with contrast buttons £29.99



Faux Leather A Line in Khaki at Warehouse £32



And here I am in mine... from M&S two years ago.  I have worn and worn and worn this.  I remember holding out for a 20% off code, buying it and then reordering it with the 20% off.  

I sooo wish they did it in a tan.  Or a dark green.  Or any other colour actually.  It really is the most perfect skirt.  Which you can't get anymore so I'll stop going on about it.




1970 jumper - Bella Freud (aw15)
Leather skirt - M&S (aw15)
Trench - Acne Studios (sale ss17)
Tools Bag - Balenciaga (aw16)
Nanette Boots - Grenson from Collen & Clare (new)

That is the hair of someone who got nailed in the rain and the face of someone who feels rough.  I fear I'm coming down with something so night out in London is cancelled and I have an appointment with the sofa and the remote control.  The 13yr old has also been off school today, sick and we don't know if it's a bug or coeliac related vomiting.  GAH!   Fingers crossed we're both better for Saturday as it's the Jingle Bell Ball and I am hanging out to see RakSu.... now what to wear? 

Yes - the eagle eyes amongst you will also note the new boots.  I chased after a ludicrously cool (young) lady at Southwark Tube Station the other week and asked where her boots were from.  And could I get hold of them?  They are sold out everywhere so I spent the best part of Sunday researching every stockist of Grenson online to see who had them and super spookily found them at my favourite Aldeburgh boutique - Collen & Clare.  Ordered immediately and am absolutely over the moon with them.  To be fair - everyone who saw them today hates them - bar... the husband.  WHAT ON EARTH?  "Are they Grenson's?" he asked.  Mind.  Blown.  Although to be fair, he loves Grenson shoes so it's not too much of a stretch but still...