Normally my birthday is sunny and clear even if a little crisp but this is truly a winter's day.
As I am off out tonight for my 40th, in my new dress, I am actually considering swapping it for some thermal underwear, pair of PJs and a thick chunky jumper!
I actually love Autumn for fashion, every year the designers impress me with the use of color and lines and this year has been no exception.
The success of LFW has shown that London is STILL very much a leader that influences the world and the High Street!Having to pick just five must-haves is so hard as I love clothes so much but with a few really good staples the outfits are unlimited and bang on catwalk chic.
From the Next AW12 collection I have chosen my wardrobe best buys, 5 items to use as a staple in your wardrobe that you can dress up/down mix/match and just couldn't get through this season without! This is part of Next Guest Blogger Competition which is offering a lucky Blogger the chance to win three outfits (up to £150 each) PLUS the opportunity to guest post about their style picks on the NEXT ourStyle Secrets blog!
I have chosen to answer this question:i. What are your five key pieces for the AW12 season and why?You can find details of the competition HERE - Have a go it's great fun! Just like fashion should be....
MILITARY
The Military look is still really popular with epaulets, structured jackets, gold button detailing and a 40s flair!
I've gone with this gorgeous Khaki/Grey Fit Flare Coat £90Great for those of us with a bigger bust as the fitted waist prevents the 'maternity' look you get from most double breasted or detail. The flare softens up the masculine discipline and panelling helps to bring the eye into your shape - perfect!
Team with 
Lift And Shape Skinny Jeans £45
Studded Collar Shirt £28
Black Wedge Ankle Boots £38
Mish Mash Print Scarf £12
METALLICS
This year saw the return of metallic materials including lame and embellishments, so as a closet compulsory I picked this gorgeous Metallic Shell Top at just £14 - dress it up or down
it is perfect for changing from day to
evening wear if you are pushed for time!I've teamed this up for a lunch date with
Berry Long Necklace £12
Ruched Leggings in Berry £16-18Mid Heel Peep Toes £28 - 36ANIMAL PRINTI always think you should be very careful with animal, too much and you are less feline temptress more Cat Slater! Keep the look to one or two items and you'll rock the fabric!
I love this animal print Oversized Sweater £35it looks really snuggley yet totally up to the minute and great with jeans and a structured jacket, boots or heels!
Grey Military Contrast Coat £70
Black Felt Fedora Hat £24
Premium High Blue Skinny Jeans £45Black Chunky Biker Boots £98
I absolutely had to put in a Fedora as this is one of my favorite pieces from this years collections, it softens the male influence and almost gives a 70s feel to the look. The boots have a slight heel to accentuate the leg length. This is my favorite look from all my choices and suitable of for all body shapes - although if like me to have short legs, a boot cut jean maybe a more flattering option.
BRIGHT COLOURS/ BOLD PATTERNS
There are two directions this season can take you the androgynous look or the flattering feminine. My bust size would never allow me to go for the first option so big bold prints with bright colours are the way I'd brighten my dark Autumnal days!
This beautiful Floral Tunic £18is just stunning and great for all times of the day/night with different accessories.I've chosen to put this together as an evening look but just with just changing the shoes and bag would suit a lunch date. This would suit jeans too as well as various tights and skirts so a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
Berry Bangle Pack £12
Beaverbrooks 9ct Gold Cubic Zirconia Pendant And Earrings Set £160
Get The Look Sparkle Bag £20
Get The Look Silver Sparkle Courts £32
Full Length Leggings £9
My final selection incorporates two of this seasons looks TWEED and PEPLUM
Celebrate YOUR waist-to-hip curve! You won't look skinny in this style but it has stamped a classic fun stance on the high street and you CAN pull it off!I love the 50s feel to this and so am running with the classy chic look. I've even included a little quilted detail with this style.
Taupe Quilted Pocket Bag £32
Dark Grey Faux Fur Trim Cape £24
Blue Mix Material Platform Courts £38
Perfect Shirt in Blue £35
And there you have my 5 a Season! A bit like your 5 a day but much more funand no juice running down your chin! So whether you love lace, animal print, quilting or even fancy trying a piece of tweed this season at NEXT there will certainly be something for you!
