SALES SUCCESS

I don't know actually whether this is a success or more an utter tragedy for my bank account. With the January sales, I've kept it simple with only the odd tangent (/tasselling) that found its way into my basket. I don't have a good track record with online shopping – things have arrived nothing like I've imagined them and I'm often guilty of buying things too big. Massimo Dutti, J.Crew, Topshop and Finery have all done well out of me this year (though, true to form a couple of over-sized items were quickly sent packing back to their respective warehouses).

A few things are still en route/clearing customs, but three of those that have arrived have already found a firm spot in my wardrobe.

BLACK ANKLE BOOTS

I was in dire need of updating the black ankle boot department of my wardrobe and have been waiting to leap when I saw a) something I could wear with EVERYTHING b) something classic with a twist c) something that wasn't going to unnecessarily break the bank. Enter this pair by Massimo Dutti featuring a cowboy-style detail and delicate gold toe-cap. Mine have been worn everyday since they arrived and have, as hoped, become the I-don't-know-how-I-lived-without-them staple I was looking for.

STRIPED JUMPER & SKINNY BROWN BELT

An antidote to all my big baggy jumpers, this fitted one by Finery slots neatly under coats and jackets and has uber long sleeves, while the belt (also Finery) is helping sort out jeans with saggy crotches and seems to pull outfits together easily. A dress may have also been added to the mix, but that's for another time.

I'm currently carrying out a freelance stint at Harvey Nichols and have temporarily moved in with my Maid of Honour (meaning I can shave an hour off my commute and have a bit of fun while I'm doing it). So hopefuly posting will continue as planned but please do bear with me...