I have a love/hate relationship with car boot sales. I love the bargains and rummaging through other people's junk... you never know what you might find. But, I don't really like the traipsing through industrial car parks or fields element. Plus, you might turn up and really find that one gal's junk is not another's treasure. So, the very clever people at Westfield London have come up with the perfect solution, it really does tick all of the car boot sale boxes.
I'm quite upset about this little heatwave we seem to be having. I am over summer, I have been planning my Autumn/Winter wardrobe for months. I had big plans for oversized jumpers, tights and ankle boots. What can I say, I'm an AW girl at heart. Thankfully, the brands featured at the event are showcasing the biggest trends for AW11, as we all know that this sunshine won't be lasting long. Here are some of the key trends for Autumn to look out for at The Car Bootique:
Snakeprint
I think I have expressed my love for this trend many times. I don't plan on stopping either. It is the print of the season, so au revoir leopard print (for now). The collections were invaded by all things snake, and were featured at Prada, Chloe and Victoria Beckham. The print can be very soft and feminine, especially when worn in sheer fabrics. Key pieces for this trend are the sheer blouse and statement clutch bag in a coloured version of the print. Biba at House of Fraser and French Connection had some gorgeous pieces at The Car Bootique, and look out for shoes and bags in the print also, for a small way to include the trend in a look.
Fur
Autumn/Winter isn't complete without a spot of fur. It instantly transforms an outfit and can give even the blandest of knitwear some much needed drama and volume. Faux fur on the high st gets better each season, so take the time to look for a good piece as well as in your favourite vintage haunts. Burberry showed an array of delectable fur coats, whilst Fendi showed that fur stoles and scarfs can also elevate wintery looks. A fur jacket or stole with leather leggings and the most vertiginous heels is a great way to wear fur and transition into the new season.
Fetish
You can interpret this trend in any way you deem appropriate. Or should I say inappropriate? If being subtle is your thing, then follow Hervé Léger and look for details such as harness straps on body con dresses and buckles. If you want to play at being Little Miss Provocateur then look to Louis Vuitton for inspiration, with black sheer pieces, lots of leather and keep the word 'bondage' at hand. At The Car Bootique, Firetrap has some on trend pieces with their black dresses. Also, you can win 20% off in store if you guess how many bugs there are around the car. I'm not telling.
Androgynous
There are so many ways to ease yourself into this trend. Tailored pieces are a good starting point, and I spotted some good items at the event at Reiss, French Connection and Twenty8Twelve. Then accessorise with ties, ribbons and enviable shoes. I think it's important to keep the look refreshing with a strong balance of femininity/masculinity. So if you're opting for a very tailored look, then make it prettier with feminine make-up, high heels and a sheer blouse. Paul Smith's collections are always great inspiration for nailing this trend.
So, if you prefer purchasing from the boot of a Benz as opposed to a Fiesta then The Car Bootique at Westfield London is running from 27th September - 2nd October 2011. It also concludes with a fashion show on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd October, have a look on Westfield for times of the catwalk shows and more info.
Catwalk images: www.catwalking.com