There are hundreds of thousands of influencers in the social ether, but only a handful who we religiously stalk in order to virtually steal the clothes off their backs. Our primary target is Monikh—the London-based styling and shopping guru who seeks out the very coolest buys from every corner of the retail world. From her inspiring tips on re-wearing her well-chosen investment items to hunting down the coolest high-street pieces, her Instagram feed @monikh and website are a veritable hotbed of things you’re going to want to purchase immediately (and will never regret). Each week, Monikh will share her new picks exclusively for you…
I’ve been a freelancer for almost five years now, and the best thing I did was create a routine just as if I were still going into an office. Working at home, you can very quickly fall into a spiral of snoozing the alarm, staying in your pyjamas, eating rubbish. And, yes, I did that for the first year, and it wasn’t as great as you’d imagine. Getting ready and acting like you’re heading to the office still is key. My routine where I act like I’m heading to work (when actually I’m walking over to my kitchen) keeps me productive, and if you’re lucky enough to be able to work from home while we all navigate our way through this situation, I recommend you make this shift too. You want clothes that are comfy enough for the house but smart enough that if someone does FaceTime meeting you, you’re covered. This week’s shopping picks are dedicated to the best of the high street, and below you’ll find three under-£50 buys I love.
Still wanting to dress up a little? Have a video date coming up? Try this set from H&M—both also work as separates!
If you don’t have to wear a bra, should you? The answer is obviously no, but in case you do want a little support, why not go for the knitted bra under a slightly opened shirt? Very chic.
It feels like summer, and I’m one of those who likes to embrace it as soon as possible. While working from home, throw on these shorts and a light knit or open shirt for safari vibes.
I’ve posted a few shirts on here, but that’s because they always look so chic. When I’m trying to stay focused when sitting next to the fridge (and the wine), I throw on a shirt and pull my hair back for ultimate “casual business babe” vibes. This black linen beauty also screams The Row.
Buying flowers for a loved one on a special day or sending your sympathies is a tradition that has been around forever. It’s just such so lovely to receive flowers and, at times like this, it’s the small things that count. So while buying yourself a bunch might not change what is happening in the world, it might brighten up your home, or someone else’s, and therefore bring a little positivity that we all need right now. Bloom & Wild is a genius florist, posting bunches through your letterbox—no contact needed! Also, it’s just launched a few tulip bouquets, which are my favourite at the moment.
While working from your kitchen, make sure you change out of your slippers and straight into these. I promise your feet won’t even feel the difference.
Have you seen a chicer laid outfit than this? A linen two-piece suitable for your new office while comfortable enough to lounge on the sofa during your lunch break.
I love homeware. I probably do get the same joy from buying a new dress as I do from buying a new vase. Currently, my home obsession has gone up a few notches since I’m now home 100% of the time. And I’ve decided to make it a little softer in areas with a few more blankets and paintings etc. Blankets and cushions are the easiest way to make a sofa/chair a little homelier!
I’ve probably got 3/4 days left of these shellac nails before I absolutely have to remove them and attempt to trim and shape them myself. I’ve got all the gear, I’m ready, maybe not mentally prepared, but I’m excited to finally try this muted green I’ve been swaying toward for the last few months.
I love to throw on a jersey dress around the house, something loose and free, so I can sit wherever, eat whatever, while looking chic might I add.
Comfy, but sophisticated—I love them.
The perfect tank top.
I wore this dress over and over again last summer, so it only makes sense to grab it in black while there’s a 30% flash sale (use code FLASHDANCE). I’ll be wearing now with my boots and Musier leather jacket and then with sandals in the warmer weather.
What better way to encourage the sun than mimicking it? I tried on this coat two weeks ago and haven’t stopped thinking about it. (Actually, I haven’t stopped thinking about the entire Joseph S/S 20 collection.) One word: effortless.
We may still be mad about big sleeves, but now we love a big collar too. Horror Vacui creates vintage-inspired pieces in feminine shapes with a cool twist. Its dresses are wedding guest–worthy, so make sure you check them out.
Although the weather is still not cooperating, this week, I’m thinking about the essentials that will act as layering pieces now and wardrobe heroes once spring begins. My big three this week include the perfect spring trench and a practical but still chic anorak. Keep scrolling to see and shop my favourite new-in pieces this week.
This jacket is the perfect sports luxe item, and that soft orange shade is my favourite! I’d wear this with a pair of tailored trousers or oversize jeans. Maybe even a tailored blazer on top.
Sometimes, we just want to be cosy, and this shirt ensures that while showing the world you’re also doing your bit for International Women’s Day. Net-a-Porter has collaborated with some of its most popular brands to create a simple T-shirt with 100% of the profits going to Women for Women International.
Trench coats never go out of style. They’re classic and practical and will last you a lifetime. But this isn’t just any trench coat, this waistcoat/trench hybrid is a two-for-one dream. Wear together, separately or maybe even halfway if the weather is acting up. The styling opportunities are endless. (Not to mention how in waistcoats are going to be this year!)
Created by the ultimate Parisian babe Anne Laure-Mais, Muiser Paris is a collection of staple dresses, leathers and cropped knits that will last a lifetime in your wardrobe. French girls are effortless and chic, and this brand has bottled that and made it available worldwide. I had loved this leather since I met Annelaure last year and she wore it so effortlessly (obviously). Lucy Williams also had it, which fueled my need to add it to my wardrobe.
A jersey slip dress? Yes, my prayers have been answered! I’m all about comfort, and this slip will be a layering essential as well as a strong stand-alone item when the summer finally arrives.
I’m not really one for jewellery, but every now and then I see a statement piece like this, which will dress up even the plainest of outfits. Imagine super minimal all neutral spring looks, teamed with these bracelets and chunky sandals.
After a weekend of battling Storm Dennis, today’s slight sunshine has given me hope for the days, weeks and months ahead of dresses. Ganni actually bought out the same print in a ruffle dress about 2 years ago and I wasn’t quick enough, and, yes, I still think about it. This time, I’ll be first in line.
We all love chunky boots. I find that they go with everything and can still be surprisingly chic. I’d team these with a big tulle dress for the ultimate “fashion week” vibe.
Oliver People’s sunglasses. One of my favourite sunglasses brands Oliver Peoples is so simple and chic. This style is truly timeless and will go with anything.
These are already packed in my suitcase for my next trip. I’m totally obsessed with everything by The Row, and I have had my eye on these for months. Thirty-one feels ever better with these now by my side.
Rick Owens makes the prettiest dresses, and this beauty I will wear again and again over wedding season.
I think I’ve finally found the dad trainers for me. I can mix them with my other neutrals for a casual, easy look.
“My favourite outfit of the entire week was the white Cecilie Bahnsen dress I wore. Her pieces just make me feel incredible! Layered with a roll-neck underneath and chunky boots, it was instantly transformed from a summer outfit to a winter-appropriate look.
“One that I love purely for practicality, quilted coats! Think actual duvet style jackets, warm and cosy but outside.”
“I met some absolutely incredible people last week in Copenhagen, one being the founder of Currated. A young, friendly and inspiring young Dutch women who kindly invited me into her group of friends. Her designs are simple and chic—real staples that you need for your forever wardrobe. This one shoulder is calling my name, and I’d wear it with leather trousers.”
There’s nothing like a sea of new-in from Zara, and recently it’s even started to upload items that are to be in stock soon. Meaning you can enter your email to be notified as soon as it’s available to ensure you have it before everyone else in the office.
Statement jewellery has helped to dress up my pared-back style since I can remember. I wear the same thing day to night most days, but with a little bling, I’m suddenly transformed into a going-out look. This jade stunner is from the Net-A-Porter Net Sustain collection, where designers have created collections which consist of vegan-friendly, locally made, animal-friendly and considered materials pieces. Fashion for the future.
Continuing the theme of pre-sales, Moda Operandi is one of my absolute faves! It sells straight from the runway, meaning what you see each fashion week is no longer a distant memory after the show. Simply buy from its trunkshow, which is uploaded a few days after a show, but note they are only up for limited periods. You pay part of the payment on order and part closer to the time of delivery. Yes, you might have to wait months for the order to be made, but by the time that season is upon us, you’ll already have that sold-out wardrobe knocking at your door. And this jumper is one that will sell out: the Rosie Assoulin Thousand-In-One-Ways dream vest/jumper/shoulder wrap. It’s everything! I’ve looked at it online 20 times already today.
Wonder woman Laura Jackson has been busy designing a collection of cosy knits for LabelMix. Where she finds the time I’ll never know, but, of course, they are all incredible and are forecasted to sell out like hotcakes. This monochromatic beauty is my favourite thanks to the balloon sleeves.
Okay, so I’m counting this Zara set as one item. I mean, did you see the Jacquemus show?! I need a full-beige wardrobe ASAP, so I’m starting with this outfit.
I need to speak to you guys about Emma Willis, the brains behind the simple blue shirt. Her designs are chic and easy and something worth investing in. A good shirt is made with fabric that will last a lifetime. Also, this has been dubbed the one brand to watch by Net-a-Porter.
If you’re like me and are eager to wear this dress now, try pairing it with a thin roll-neck underneath with chunky boots and a thick pair of tights.
Polo shirts are the shape of S/S20. A collared jumper is what I’m using to update my wardrobe this season.
The spring boots are already here! And they’re gingham.
If you’ve seen my Instagram recently you’ll notice that I’ve purchased a shacket (yes that means a shirt slash jacket), and I’m obsessed! The shorter length has me feeling free after months of long coats.
My big-sleeve obsession continues, but luckily this one is knitted, instantly dressing up pub outfits this weekend.
FYI, 2020’s new It bag is here, and the leather is buttery soft. It’s shaped like my favourite pastry and its big enough to actually fit your daily necessities in. Someone please note this for my birthday wish list.
What a cardigan. I’m so into this colour (if you’ve seen my post last night on the new sofa you’ll understand), but I also love that chic ballet wrap. I’ll wear this with straight-leg jeans and big boots.
Cue all the Ross Geller jokes, but bring them on because you will have the last laugh in these. All you need is a T-shirt and an open shirt and you’re ready day or night, for any occasion.
This beauty by dream dress duo Henrietta & Orlagh of Rixo is a total no-brainer. The dresses scream “look at me” but in the most subtle way. They’re flattering, fun and fresh. I’ll be wearing this with a pair of kitten heels and a matrix style leather coat.
Recently, I’ve been on the hunt for tops that are appropriate for the festive season with the family. I mean, no one wants to be too revealing or uncomfortable in front of their in-laws. So this season I’m leaning towards shirts. I’m going to team this with jeans and DMs by day and with leathers and heels for night. Effortless!
Its time for winter accessories. Yes, you need gloves, a hat and a scarf because frostbite isn’t chic. But you know what is? Gucci gloves.
I put this hat up on my Instagram Stories the other day and had so many messages about it. It’s from & Other Stories and the brand brings it out every year. Mine is actually two or three years old.
First up is this & Other Stories blouse. This top is a no-brainer as all you need to do is throw on a blazer for day and then by night let those shoulders out. The puffy sleeve is one of the easiest ways to make a statement with your wardrobe this season, and paired with your go-to jeans it makes the look oh so effortless. (It also comes in black polka dots too!)
This may seen a little basic, but it is the ultimate party staple. Team it with a cardigan, jumper, or shirt during the day, and then wear completely solo by night. It’s minimal and insanely sexy—very Katie Holmes.
These bags were everywhere during Fashion Month, and the style is going nowhere. After months of being sold out, the clutch is has finally been restocked but I guarantee it won’t be for long. Grab the hard-to-find burgundy in large, which is big enough to hide your flats in for the walk home.
A favourite of mine, I love how fun and care-free her designs are, and this dress is exactly that. It’s big sleeved, big bottomed and cut midi for a playful touch, a BIG contender.
A look I went for last year, and yes I enjoyed it so much that the same dress is indeed by back up dress for this year (I’ll change the shoes/bag etc, no one will notice) But if you’ve not got any feathers waiting in your wardrobe, have a look at this. 16 Arlington is the dream, they do the best feather creations out there, and shapes that are timeless.
Rethink the standard dress and go all out for these trousers! Zara created the most incredible sequin pair this season, and having already sold out once, they’re restocking soon so make sure you sign up for the alert to so you don’t miss out for good! Try and track down the matching top, or simply throw on a white tee and big gold hoops. Casual pub attire sorted.
This jumper is a dream—it’s soft and cosy, comes in a few different shades and has a scarf already attached to it. It looks insanely sophisticated on—just get practising with that casual shoulder-throw look.
A new brand to Net-a-Porter this week, and one I’ve already now ordered. I envision that this is more shirt than jacket and is perfect for those nights at the pub when you don’t want to seem too dressed up or exposed (pop a little silky cami on underneath in case your night turns wild).
The checked shirt never goes out of style. It can be worn in so many different ways, such as open with a roll-neck, over a cami, with a dress or just jeans.
This beauty is my winter version of an easy throw-on slip dress. This is perfect for a winter wedding or a Christmas or NYE party (actually, you should wear this to all three).
There’s a new It bag in town
This might be insanely basic, but what else are you going to wear under your new show-stopping coat? I’ve stocked up on basic sweatshirts to keep me going this winter.
A hybrid jumper/dress/jacket wonder that will give you styling moves you never thought were possible.
If you buy one statement winter dress this season, make it this one. Yes, it’s simple, but that’s where the beauty lies. This dress will come out every winter, styled casually with big boots or for a big event with strappy heels and a glittery bag.
I love blue shoes; there’s something that feels fresh about the hue. Paired with a simple white T-shirt and pair of leather trousers, this is the perfect “I made no effort but look fab” look for Friday night drinks.
Every now and then, a designer and high-street brand get together to create a hybrid of aspirational but attainable garments, and this season, I’m loving JW Anderson’s designs for Uniqlo. Throw on this fleece with everything.
