To Buy or Not to Buy?

Investments. One can justify anything as an investment when you fall in love with it. Like these Miu Miu lilac shoes:

The ubiquitous camel coat however, I could justify, even from Gucci. When something is this classic and enduring, the expense is worth it.

The same goes for the always stylish and age-defying Chanel suit, for which I have already started saving!

I wonder though if the same can be said for the Burberry aviator jacket, heralded by many as this season's 'must-buy'.

As much as I love this jacket, I suspect that next Autumn's heroine will have become another model to adore and lust-after.

And then there are the things that are so unbelievably you, it is not fashion that is compelling you to buy them, but a sense that owning them only reinforces your own style. That is the case with this Miu Miu bag, which I WILL track down:

I'll be wearing this bag with a camel coat this Autumn and through Winter into Spring. Sometimes one person's disaster is another person's style.

Walking in Vogue

I've just returned from a trip to the Royal Deeside in Scotland, the first time back in four years. Lots of walking, bracing country air and a much-needed break from technology I love it when something becomes in vogue that I have always loved, and this is certainly true of next season's outdoorsy trend. Walking in Scotland is fulfilling, pacifying, and completely inspiring. I always seems to have my brightest thoughts and ideas when walking in the wild countryside, and nothing beats a four-hour hike around Loch Muick.

In total it's 7 miles around, but rather than tiring, I find this so energising.

I love the grey hues of this shot, and the waves of water against the shore where I was standing, which somehow emphasises the stilness of the scene.

Purple heather is everywhere on the mountains and valley.

The collections of many designers this year seem to reflect this shared interest in outdoor and country pursuits, most obvious in the heeled hiking and shearling boots on offer.

Burberry Prorsum shearling boots.

High-heel hikers by John Galliano.

Oversized tweed jacket, chunky polo-neck jumper, easy trousers and heeled hikers - perfect channeling of the Katherine Hepburn, outdoors look by Tommy Hilfiger. Bring on the crisp days, blackberry picking and apples, another season of fashion and a fresh start.