I'm seriously worried. I have been reading a lot of the recent publicity marking the publication of Mr Blair's memoirs covering his time in office. In a tome numbering 624 pages he covers all aspects of his life and offers his opinions on everyone from his Cabinet to the Queen, all very fascinating I'm sure. The most alarming thing reported so far has to be his admission to being “.. clearly at the limit” with his alcohol consumption while in power. Goodness, was he sneaking off to the loo with a brown carrier bag, having a tot of vodka in his cornflakes, a shot of brandy in his coffee, sucking liqueur choccies with his elevenses? No, he had a giddy “whisky or a gin and tonic before dinner, then one or two glasses of wine, even a half-bottle." While I put the screw top back on, padlock the drinks cabinet and swallow the key here are some treats currently available online.
This fully lined, silk mix Innocent Dress from White Stuff is a sure fire winner this season. It's beautifully styled and comes in a lovely abstract floral print with a contrasting empire band and capped sleeves. A wonderfully smart dress which sits just below the knee.
This Snowdrop Knit Cardi from White Stuff has received rave reviews it's a must for this Autumn/Winter. The merino wool and cotton cardi has crocheted buttons and pretty pointelle detailing at the bust. A super versatile piece which will look equally superb over a flowery dress or trousers.
This lined, Ring The Bell Skirt from White Stuff is a stunning Indian dye print skirt with wonderful side pockets. The colours and styling are guaranteed to draw lots of admiring glances!
I adore this Antonia Twill Dress from French Connection in either Inkwell or Winter Grey. The button-fastening princess collar has a gorgeous self-tie bow. Other lovely touches include the button-fastening placket at the front, panels at shoulders with gathered detail, two pouch and side-slit pockets at front, roll-up sleeves with button-fastening tabs and a stitched hem. Golly it's a corker!
It's not often I'm lost for words but these Penone Boots from Pied A Terre's AW10 collection left me gasping for breath! I absolutely adore them - the military style flat boot not only has buckles but also fabulous low front lace up detail. Now I just have to decide between Brown or Black... As featured in Good Housekeeping Magazine, October 2010 issue.
Sometimes on a dark, dreary Winter's day when everyone else is in grey and black it's wonderful to pull on something bright which just can't help but instantly lift your mood. This Houndstooth Coat from Boden should do the trick every time! Choose between Gold Giant Houndstooth, Haze Giant Houndstooth and Rose Giant Houndstooth. As featured in Good Housekeeping Magazine, October 2010 issue.

Am I a bad mother? Last night I found myself seriously contemplating stapling or super gluing the Children's name tags to their endless pieces of school uniform. Every year I leave it until the last minute and this year was no different. By the end of the night my fingers were bleeding, I'd sewn the wrong name on 4 items and even managed to sew one skirt shut. Father of the Children commented that if I'd used a thimble my fingers wouldn't be so sore! I came very close to telling him what he could do with his thimble and also as he's such a leading authority on the matter what exactly was stopping him partaking in the activity? The most galling thing is that all the blood, sweat and tears that goes in to this whole process doesn't seem to ensure that no items will go missing. Eldest Child is the worst offender. She bought a new P.E. bag for this term and it was only when I commented on how small it was that I remembered she's lost most of her P.E. kit so there's really not a huge amount to go in it. There must be a gang of thieves roaming her school with un-pickers at the ready...... As a distraction from the monotony of this task here are some items that brightened my otherwise dull evening.
This Swale Womens Jersey Placket Top from Joules looks great with jeans or a denim skirt. The gold buttons and gathered frills at the 3/4 sleeves make it a big hit in the Must Get That office.
This Rayner Womens Denim Skirt from Joules is terrific. Great with pumps or boots and wooly tights this Autumn/Winter.
Get ready for all Winter has to throw at you with this rather snazzy Fur Trim Quilted Jacket from Oasis. A classy looking jacket!
These fabulous Oneill Boots from Pied A Terre's AW10 collection are so handsome! The calf high boot come in either tan or black high shine leather and have striking wingtip broguing detail. I quite simply love them!
The Cape is a big look this Autumn/Winter and this Duffle Cape from Oasis is a magnificent example. The toggle duffle features on this cape make it extra special and the hood is even removable giving it another look. Paddington and Batman would be so jealous if they were around today!
These Harry lace up smart leather brogues from Pied a Terre sold so well last year and are such a classic shoe Pied a Terre have introduced them again for this Autumn/Winter. The colours this season are Tan, Khaki, Brown and Black. Oh they're such a classic item which will never date so which colour to choose is an agony decision.....

It's funny how one small remark can ruin a day! I read this morning that scientists have discovered the ratio which, they say, makes for the perfect figure. A woman's attractiveness seemingly relates to the size of her waist compared with her hips, the perfect waist-to-hip ratio is 0.7. Although I know you shouldn't believe everything you read in the papers I dashed off to find the measuring tape praying that my hunt for the illusive perfect body may not be required, I may already have it! Much to my complete amazement my result was the much sought after 0.7. I rushed into the kitchen and told Father of the Children the happy news - 'I have the perfect figure!'. He spat his coffee across the table and said "you're joking - really?" OK I admit it is slightly bizarre that the chest measurement isn't included in this equation but I don't make the rules. While I commence my analysis/interrogation of his response here are some lovely items currently available online for you to enjoy whatever your size/ratio!
Miu Miu's trend of bird inspired fabrics seems to have spawned a craze on the High Street. This Midnight Storks Flared Dress from French Connection is a wonderful example. The feminine frock comes in Wilderbeast/Havannah or Burgh Blue/Black...ooh decisions, decisions!
I'm adoring this Flight Of Fancy Shirt Dress from French Connection. The 100% silk dress is so stylish and chic. Wear with or without a belt with pumps or heels - the looks are endless.
Wow, this Erno Wool Long Military Coat from French Connection is something else! The fully lined double-breasted coat has a button fastening bib at the front and long sleeves with button detail not to mention awesome flap detail at the button-fastening pockets. It's a winner!
This Lotty Workboot from Oasis is a serious boot which will easily see you through this Autumn/Winter. Wear with wool 3/4 peg trousers or a ethnic style floaty skirt for a stylish look.
This online exclusive Nancy Knits Jumper Dress from French Connection is a beautiful cashmere-blend soft knit jumper dress which will look fabulous with knee boots and chunky tights this Autumn/Winter. Choose between Black and Tomberry.
This Shakira Silk Dress from French Connection comes in Black, Ellie Grey or Tanya Blue. The stunning creation has a flattering high neck with three covered button fastenings and cut-out detail at the back. It also has feminine ruffle waterfall panels at the sides, cap sleeves, side-slit pockets and a self-tie sash. A positively dreamy creation!

It's seemingly no longer de rigueur to say 'thank you'. 'Cheers' is now the word of choice to bestow gratitude on those around us. Forty percent of those polled said that 'thank you' was too formal, they preferred 'fab', 'lovely', 'ta' or 'wicked'. Call me old fashioned but I think I'll stick with 'thank you' rather than 'wicked' or heaven forbid 'ta'. So I guess it goes without saying that I've got to drop the bobbing curtsey too....While I rethink my entire vocab here are some marvellous new finds from the AW10 collections at Oasis and People Tree.
Wow, this Nancy Drape Dress from People Tree is a work of art! The dress comes in berry or black and white and has a fabulous contemporary pattern with wonderful layered ruffles around neckline. A top look!
You'll look a wee bobby dazzler in this stupendous Isabelle Cummerbund Dress from People Tree! The black and grey striped dress oozes style.
This Laura Skirt from People Tree looks like a creation from the great 'drip and splash' abstract artist Jackson Pollock! The swishy knee length skirt with it's graphic black and white brush print has a black border on the hem and waistband and two side pockets. It'll look swell with a pretty crisp black or white blouse and kitten heels.
These Carmen Lace Ballerina Pumps from Oasis are divine! They'll look out of this world (and rather fun) teamed with black trousers.
This Sergeant Pepper Military Coat from Oasis combines all the trends for AW10 to perfection. The military style, the double buttons, the piped edging - all fantastic touches - straight to the top of the class Oasis!
This stunning Velvet Dress comes in Iris or Black and is a timeless classic which you'll reach for time and time again!

I am lying down in a darkened room recovering from my latest trauma. If I think I suffered though I have to spare a thought for the Pool Man who is probably currently looking for a counsellor, he's so traumatised. I was sunbathing by the pool and as all was quiet on the western front, and as it's secluded here, I decided to partake in a touch of topless bathing. I got such a fright when the Pool Man walked round the corner that in my alarm I screamed (I actually think he may have too!) and in an effort to cover my modesty managed to rip my latest Ian Rankin book in half to cover each offending item. I then scrambled inside and have been lurking here ever since too scared to go out.... On reflection I am also rather hurt that the Pool Man screamed but Father of the Children thinks it was as a result of me screaming rather than due to anything he may have seen! While I attempt to piece my novel/modesty back together here are some terrific new finds from the new AW10 collection at Jigsaw.
I had to have a lie down when I saw this sensational Luxury Leather Side Stud Bowler Bag from Jigsaw's new AW10 collection. If I shut my eyes and dreamed of my ideal bowler bag I think I'd create this! The vintage effect stud detailing and 2 handle options makes it a heavenly creation!
Jigsaw have hit the jackpot with this phenomenal Leather Tabard Pocket Dress from their new Autumn/Winter 2010 collection. It's a classic and it's pretty safe to predict it will sell out fast.
These Tweed Knot Peep Toe Shoe from Jigsaw are so cute! They'll look perfect with a simple dress or pencil skirt this Autumn/Winter.
This Wool Boucle Dogtooth Jacket from Jigsaw is SO smart - team with the matching pencil skirt for a fabulous co-ordinated look.
As the good people at Jigsaw quite rightly state leather skirts are a key catwalk trend this AW10 and their Exposed Zip Leather Pencil Skirt is a cracker. The exposed zip feature gives it a fantastic contemporary edge and makes it stand out form the competition by miles!
Add instant confidence and glamour to your Autumn/Winter wardrobe with this marvellous Wool and Leather Trilby from Jigsaw. Now do we go for Grey or Navy? It's a hard one.....

This holiday seems to lurch from one scary event to another. Today I had to drive! Not an unusual occurrence you may think for someone who has had a licence for longer than she hasn't, but it's the wrong side of the road thing that gets me every time. On our first holiday many years ago I remember driving through a Greek town to meet Father of the Children who in the distance was gesticulating furiously telling me to come over to his side of the road and pick him up. I had driven through this exceeding busy town with everyone waving and shouting at me, what a friendly place I thought, how welcoming everyone was, had they mistaken me for someone famous I wondered? No, I'd just driven for 2 miles right through the centre of town, past oil tankards, lorries etc. on the wrong side of the road! I have moments in the U.K. of absent-mindedness but always remind myself of the old saying "ABC from the door". You know Accelerator, Brake, Clutch....everyone I recount this superb piece of knowledge to seems to look at me with alarm especially when they're beside me in the passenger seat! Today it all sort of flooded back to me but hold on, it's not "ABC from the door" is it as I'm on the wrong side of the car? Yikes, it's "CBA from the door"... admittedly not as catchy as "ABC" so in desperation I resorted to slamming the beast into 2nd (it's hilly here) and just keeping my foot flat to the floor until I reached my destination...Whew, so without further ado here are some delightful finds from the new Joules collection to help lower my blood pressure and my co-pilot's heart rate.
This Mariel Womens Beaded Necklace from Joules new AW10 collection is a guaranteed best seller. Choose between Caramel, Emerald, Maroon or Soft Grey for a fantastic addition to any outfit.
This Gayle Womens Shirt from Joules is a stunning fine woven voile top which comes in Antique Cream, Purple Rain or Smokey. It is semi-fitted with gentle gathers to the yoke providing a stunning floaty shape. The open collar and gathered 3/4 sleeves are lovely touches to this corker of a top.
This Dulwich Womans Leather Bag from Joules new AW10 collection is perfect! It comes in Jewel, Purple Rain or Saddle and right now I want all 3! Everything about it is just heavenly, I actually will go so far as to predict I'll dream about it tonight!
This Erin Womens Short Sleeve Tunic Top from Joules looks gorgeous with beads and leggings or chunky tights. The cotton empire line tunic has cap sleeves and is fitted in the bodice with chic matt finish poppers on one shoulder. A dreamy look!
These Womens Lace Up Jamboree Pumps from Joules come in Light Grey or Wisteria and are the nicest leather pumps with contrast grosgrain laces I've seen today!
I'm rather liking this Edina Womans Tweed Waistcoat from Joules new AW10 collection. The fitted tweed waistcoat in herringbone weave comes in Toad Green or Saddle and has a floral print lining, side pockets and button hole detail. I'm thinking of pairing it with a crisp white blouse, a cheeky wee scarf at the neck and jeans, what do you think?

I am currently on my European Tour and something rather alarming has happened since I got to my latest destination. No I'm not talking about the fact we were nearly robbed within 5 minutes of arriving at the villa by a man looking for his lost dog. Little did he know, when he followed us from the airport, that he was tailing the nosiest person in the world who doesn't miss a trick. No, we survived that unscathed, I'm talking about tonight when I walked into a restaurant 1,000 miles from home to see a woman at the next table in the same maxi dress as me!!! Not wishing to be catty but, what the hell I'm on my hols, hers was numerous sizes larger than mine, her chest had headed South and was completely unrestrained and the tattoo on her shoulder didn't really add to the whole look! Maybe rather than shopping for my dress in a supermarket I should have purchased something from the newly launched Boutique Collection from Jaeger - designed, in Jaeger's words, with the fashion fervent young woman in mind - hey that's me!!
These Leather Shorts are the first item that caught my eye from the newly launched Boutique range from Jaeger. A must for any stylish fashionista this AW10!
This Ruffle Shoulder Playsuit from the new Boutique range at Jaeger is a star creation. I love the shoulder ruffles and military-inspired pleats and buttons. Team with heeled shoe boots for an inspired look this Autumn/Winter.
My friend 'J' will currently be banging her head on her desk when she sees I've fallen in love with this Velvet Jumpsuit from the new Boutique range at Jaeger. She keeps telling me I have far too many black jumpsuits but au contraire I don't have a strapless one and this gorgeous creation is just too good an opportunity to miss - sorry! It's a must for the upcoming party season!
I love this Boucle Bomber Jacket from the Boutique range at Jaeger. The laminated tweed biker jacket has zip pockets, puff shoulders and a stand-up collar, why not team with either the matching boucle full skirt or pencil skirt for a top look?
This Boucle Full Skirt looks awesome when teamed with the co-ordinating Boucle Bomber Jacket from the Boutique range at Jaeger. There's even a pencil skirt available in the same fabric/range if that's more your style.
I just can't get enough sequins so this Sequin Jacket from the Boutique range at Jaeger definitely ticks all my boxes. This up to date trendy version with it's zip pockets will prove to be a welcome addition to many an outfit.

Well woop dee do, forecasters today announced that Summer is unofficially over with thunder and lightning due in parts of the country this weekend and damp weather predicted until NOVEMBER! For the sanity and well being of the nation there should be a mental health law against this sort of negative reporting. We're in August, the thought of this rain and drizzle continuing until November is positively desperate. While we wait to see what is going to happen in November to improve the situation at least we have all the Autumn/Winter Collections launching to cheer up our otherwise dismal existence. Here are some top picks from Isabella Oliver who are also offering a whopping 33% OFF all new collection items ordered before midnight on Sunday - now that IS good news!
This Hipster Jersey Dress from Isabella Oliver comes in Caviar Black, Dark Heather Grey and Pink. The mid thigh length jersey dress is loose fitting with a slash neck, half kimono style sleeves and an elastic waist with pleating detail. It's a wonderful chic find for this AW10!
This Cape from Isabella Oliver is a sensational piece from their new AW Collection. Choose between Winter White, Caviar Black and Pillar Red. The wool cashmere blend cape has great collar detail, a 4 dome button double breasted front and 2 front pockets. It's a winner in the style stakes for sure!
This 100% luxurious Merino wool Poncho from Isabella Oliver is sensational, it comes in Dark Heather Grey or Olive and can be worn loose or styled with a belt.
The Multi Wrap Dress from Isabella Oliver comes in Caviar Black or Scarlet. The side pocketed multiway evening dress is finished in liquid jersey and it's entirely up to you how you wear it! Simply wrap the ties however you wish for a variety of looks – try watching the Isabella Oliver videos for ideas on different ways to wear it!
The Everyday Blazer from Isabella Oliver is a wardrobe essential! Choose between Caviar Black, Grey Marl and Pink. The heavy jersey blazer has 2 dome buttons at the front and 4 dome button detailing along the cuff it even has contrast binding on the inside jacket seams. A top look with a skirt, dress or trousers this Autumn/Winter.
This Leather Jacket from Isabella Oliver is sensational! Quite the chicest, smartest jacket out there, positively oozing glamour and style!

The rain is currently streaming down the kitchen window and the forecast for the next 3 days is a rather optimistic 'heavy rain showers'. It's not all doom and gloom though as apparently we could be in for "fantastic views" over the next two days as the Perseid meteor shower reaches its peak. According to Nasa, the shower could produce a display of up to 80 meteors per hour. I can hardly see the shed at the bottom of the garden through the driving rain so the likelihood of me seeing anything in the sky is pretty remote - no? I'm rather alarmed too on hearing that this meteor shower consists of debris from the Swift-Tuttle comet. What counts as 'debris' then? Is it just fine dust or are we talking big bits of rubble and stuff they wouldn't accept at the local tip. It sounds rather like this Swift-Tuttle is doing a spot of fly tipping in our atmosphere to me. I think I'll shelter indoors and peek through the skylight tonight to avoid injury. Whilst waiting for darkness to fall and the meteor spectacle to make an appearance here are some top 'dazzling' finds from the new season collection at French Connection.
This sleeveless Silky Sacha Dress from French Connection has a breathtaking plunge V-neck and back and has stunning silk and bead-embellished roses at the shoulders. It has been designed especially for the Vogue Night Out event happening on September 8th. Pre-order it online from August 25th - so set the alarms and get that date in your diary RIGHT NOW!
This Black Rose Lace Box Clutch from French Connection is bang on trend! The evening bag has a gold-tone frame with clasp fastening, a chain strap, concealed zip-fastening compartment and a beaded flower at front. Awesome with a black evening dress this upcoming party season.
These Tamarah Sandals from French Connection are a sensational pair of glamorous suede platform strappy sandals. Great for the party season.
This Senna Suede Jacket from French Connection is a wonderful feminine jacket with it's waterfall trim. Wear with tailored trousers or over a dress for a lovely chic modern look.
This Vintage Grace Lace Shirt from French Connection is such a classic cotton blouse. 1972 Vintage by French Connection is a capsule range of best selling styles originally designed and sold in 1972, the year the brand was founded. The in-house design team have translated the classic 70’s designs discovered in the archives into timeless style for Autumn 2010. The large scallop-edged collar, gathered panel at the bust, button half placket to front and lace trim fluted cuffs are stunning features.
These Frazer Blazer Trousers from French Connection are a marvellous pair of fine-rib wool and cotton-blend wide-leg trousers. Perfect with heels and a pretty silk blouse.

Yet another reason why it's good to shop online came to mind recently. A lady went into a fitting room to try on a dress at 3.30pm, on exiting the fitting room she found the shop in darkness and the doors locked. Now either they'd shut up shop early or she'd had a bit of a tussle with the zip and the whole exercise had taken slightly longer than expected! She pummelled on the door for half an hour before eventually the shop owner was contacted and returned to release her. The article omitted to mention if 'the prisoner' had actually ended up buying the dress! Why not have a peruse of these latest fabulous finds from Great Plains AW10 collection, order at your leisure and then try on in the comfort of your own home - any-time day or night! P.S. Due to the number of 'phone calls I've received I'd like to clear up a point from yesterday's blog - the Head of Human Resources who had a conversation with me whilst naked in the curtain-less shower was a female not a male - honestly, how some of your minds work positively shocks me!
Bring out your rock chick, party animal self with this awesome Chain Reaction Chain Vest Top from Great Plains! The scoop neck jersey vest in Black, Starling and Dusk has stunning chain fringing at the neckline. Team with skinny jeans, heels and a blazer for a top fashionable look.
These Gypsy Denim Jeans from Great Plains are a classic - perfect in every way!
This Love Letter Necklace from Great Plains will look wonderful with jeans a white shirt this season. It comes in Winter Teal/Dull Gold and Red Current/Dull Silver. Oh decisions, decisions...!
I'm rather taken with this Hoxton Flower Dress from Great Plains! The crew neck dress is styled beautifully with pleating to the neckline, a flattering waist tie, button detailing at the back and a divine floral print called Walnut Whip - yum!
This Charleston Weave Coat from Great Plains has a wonderful Peter Pan collar and comes in the most stunning weave. A perfect smart coat that comes in a choice of Cardinal or Black.
This Wild Orchid Dress from Great Plains wins the award for the prettiest dress of the day! The multicoloured floral satin dress has sensational frilled shoulders and a wonderful large print. It's a must for the party season.