IT’S THE ALL-SEASONS SUIT

EVERY SO OFTEN fashion throws you something you never knew your wardrobe needed – but suddenly can’t do without. Something that whets your fashion appetite, but also manages to fill those tricky gaps in your wardrobe. A do-it-all – but not a basic. Right now that piece (or pieces to be precise) is the muted checked suit. Last week, checks were out in force at Copenhagen Fashion Week, which is always a barometer of trends that are on the cusp of going stellar. And this is the week the new season stock hits high street stores, meaning you can get in on the action with looks-more-expensive-than-theyare suits at Mango and Zara. For right now, gingham is a nobrainer. Looking to invest? Tibi’s excellent Pre-fall ’18 one – a slim cady version with an oversized, singlebreasted blazer – has also just landed online. It’s picnic blankets and Brigitte Bardot, alfresco tablecloths and wholesome Dorothy pinafores. It is, in short, the ultimate summer fabric. But in a suit, it is more unexpected, less twee than a dress, with the sharpness of the tailoring adding sass to the inevitable sweetness of the fabric.

The checked suit’s real appeal lies in its versatility – it is the ultimate transitional item (especially in monochrome). Wear now with a basket bag, simple sandals (or flip-flops if you want to tick off another trend) and a white vest, then switch up come autumn with ankle boots and a fine knit – just think of it as an aperitif to winter’s tartans and heritage checks.

And it doesn’t just have transitional seasonal appeal. Worn with boxfresh sneakers and a vintage tee? Day. Platform heels and a slinky cami? Night. You’ll wonder how you ever did without it.