Style: The Jacket

I love jackets! I miss wearing them a lot, living in Dubai, as most of the time it is just too hot. This time, however, despite not knowing when I'd be able to wear it next, I just couldn't avoid purchasing this stripy number from Mango. It all about the style I love: simple, preppy but different.

What I like most about jackets is that they really finish off an outfit, particularly in the office. You can be wearing the most boring dress, and a jacket will just give it that extra lift, making you look just a little more like you mean business. Plus, slim fit jackets, particularly in darker shades, can totally slimmen you down. Although, it has to be said, the thick horizontal lines on this piece are breaking a few fashion rules...!

The ideas that came to mind when thinking of a location for this shoot were navy, preppy, marine, and block colours, inspired by the stripes and gorgeous golden buttons. I chose this sweet pair of shoes I bought recently from Kate Spade (love her stuff!) as I loved the fact that they were a bright colour contrasting the navy, but also loved how the style of heel matched the jacket. To finish off the look, I went for gold jewellery and classic leather belt.

I decided to head down to one of the marinas on Palm Jumeirah and get a couple of snaps by the boats, following the marine theme. What was actually even better on the day was the weather - the fact that it was overcast meant that the stripes and bright shoes really stood out!

Style Tip: If you're wearing a dress or shirt that isn't slim fit and is quite shapeless, add a tailored jacket to define and reduce your waistline! It's all about illusions!

Jacket: Mango
Shirt: Massimo Dutti
Chinos: Zara
Shoes: Kate Spade
Belt: Moo Moo Style boutique
Necklace: Accessorize
Ring: Mango