The spirit of summer

By Sarah Petitt from Jeanne Petitt, Hungerford www.jeannepetitt.com

Yesterday was a wonderfully balmy day in London with the temperature reaching twenty degrees giving a much needed hint that summer really might be emerging. As usual in the somewhat extraordinary world of fashion, I was there buying for spring/summer 2014, before I have received all of the collections in my boutique for this spring/summer 2013.

It is too early to know if next year will be as inspiring as this year’s collections with their wonderful vibrant colours including bright blue and Schiaparelli pink, and striking geometric prints reminding us of the sixties but as ever, fashion is constantly evolving.

This season hopefully will encourage everyone to have a little foray into colour. If the idea frightens you then why not start with jeans from DL1961 in a four way stretch guaranteed not to sag. In plain cottons they range from a more subtle cornflower blue to a vivid lime green. Cropped with a deep cuff it is one of the season’s key offers, fun and easy to wear especially when teamed with toning coloured fine wool or cotton knitwear.

If you are a keen follower of Pucci but would like something at a fraction of the price then look at Ali Roe, an American dress collection with striking prints in greens, purples and pinks.

Dresses continue to dominate. Collette Dinnigan, loved by the Duchess of Cambridge, has a particularly strong and varied collection. As ever she has used lace but has also added easy, versatile jersey dresses in sharp mid blue prints.

Always known for her chic designs but rarely for pattern is another of Kate’s favourites, Amanda Wakeley. If you love rich satin mixed with silk and cashmere knits in sophisticated colours then look no further. Expect to see her stretch scuba fabric suits in soft peach and worn by the most sophisticated of women at Royal Ascot this year.