AllSaints Spring Summer 2011: Sombre, Still Chic.

Yesterday: 23°C and a beautiful lakeside picnic in the outskirts of Berlin. Today: 15°C and that grey hue the city can’t manage to shake until the height of Summer (or so I’ve been told…) rears its ugly head again, which means it’s the perfect opportunity to plan for the heat ahead…

^ AllSaints SS ’11

I know what you’re thinking; “AllSaints for Summer?! Do you spend sunny days in a velvet-lined coffin recuperating from the previous night’s orgy of blood-sucking?”. Well, no, but I do make a point of not selling out just for the sake of sun. The British brand has a lot to offer even if it might not be the first you’d plump for in the hopes of scoring pieces that scream Summertime. 

And don’t get me wrong, I wear more brights, pastels etc. during the warmer months, but deep and dark hues are at the foundation of my wardrobe and are the colours that I opt for anyway – who says your AW staples need be radically different to your SS styles?

^ Squire Cardigan. This 100% cotton cardi offers both coverage against those evening breezes and adds that signature dark romantic flourish AllSaints does so well.

^ Division Polo. Granted, a tee or vest is probably more appropriate for when the real heat sets in but this is an ideal staple to prevent a SS look from being that bit too casual.

^ Chalk Richardson Denim Shorts. Love these, though not sure my translucent Irish complexion is the perfect accompaniment. HELLO sunbed LOL jk I don’t want cancer.

^ Marlin Damascus Denim Shorts. Much more appropriate for fellow pasties

^ Mix Flex Brogues. Did you know that the holes in brogues were invented to allow the shoe to breathe? Sandals are the obvious option for the SS season but I’m not sure your boss is all that hot on them as footwear for the office. Try these instead.

^ Valour Scarf. A no-fuss, final-touch accessory.

And if you find my choices somewhat too sombre, then look to the SS11 look-book as an alternative source of inspiration…