5 Trends that are Back for Winter '14

Autumn/Winter 2013 brought us some lovely gems on the runways and on the high street. It was the best winter season for many years in general for the fashion industry. Although I certainly to not always follow the common trends and fads, it is clear to see that a few things have returned to A/W14. 

The cut-out boot was made very popular by high-end fashion house Balenciaga last year with those amazing patent leather boots, pictured above (first). With a product as loved and coveted by many, soon all the high-street shops took the idea and have run with it this year. Topshop, Missguided, and even Primark have made their own versions, all of which are indeed very impressive. 

It goes by many names, such as the polo and roll neck, but the turtle neck has come back again this year, bigger and better than ever! These high-neck garments have always been popular in one era or with one age group from one time to another, and it just so turns out the loved polo neck has hit the highstreets again this winter.

Tartan was probably the most remembered trend of winter last year, and it has returned for sure. Not particularly in the classic red and green print, but definitely in sister-pattern checks and gingham. I've seen many beautiful tartan skirts out and about, therefore, I would have to put them on the list of returning winter trends for AW14!

The fedora, wide-brimmed, and any felt hat in any form has come storming back this year. I am defiantly not a hat person, but I have seen many people rocking these classic hats, especially bloggers, this year after their rise to popularity last year. They're not particularly a winter item exclusively, but are good for the rainy weather here in Britain! 

This rather androgynous jacket, made popular in the late 80's and early 90's, appeared in some luxury's brands AW13campaign last year. This year, nearly every high-street shop has been selling their version, and not just in the mens departments. Check, floral, waterproof, leather - you name it, its out there! I'm sure every one can find their perfect casual jacket in this cool piece. 

September Favourites

1. Topshop  2.Rag and Bone  3.Vintage  4. Monki

1. Iosselliani  2.Topshop  3. Madewell  4.Skagen

Kindle Fire HD (2013)

As I said in my previous post about the lovely gifts I received for my birthday, my main gift was a Kindle Fire. I never ever thought I'd be the kind to buy want a tablet, let alone a Kindle, but I am most definitely converted! If you want a versatile tablet such as the iPad but want something more affordable, I'd recommend this brilliant item. 

       The Body Shop's Warming Mineral Face Mask

      If I am not mistaken, a few months I featured a Superdrug face mask in
      my favourites. All I can say, is that one has been thrown out the 
      window. This one is all together much gentler, kinder and 
      better for those with more sensitive skin. The consistency can be a bit
      unpredictable, but the mask itself is brilliant. It leaves my skin feeling 
      refreshed and extremely soft. Plus, being of such a reputable brand, 
      it's all natural. 

Primark Autumn/Winter 2014

It is nearing the end of August now, which means as soon as September comes, most of the high-street shops if not already, will be supplied with all the new autumn/winter stock.  Not all that many everyday fashion shops show their new stock until it's official release, or at a press day; especially not online. But Primark have gone above and beyond, and have released the official AW14 campaign on the web.  

Primark has a very shaky reputation. Especially after the recent bad press about the manufacture's working conditions after a worker sewed a message into a garment pleading for help. Although I believe they are working on the matter, I am here to talk purely about the clothes.

The SS14 had some very strong pieces which were extremely affordable and 'non-primarky', although as normal there were quite a few naff pieces which are still in store now, trying to be flogged for a quid or two.

This AW14 collection looks too, like it has quite a few strong pieces, especially in the shoe and outerwear departments. Here are a few pictures of Primark's newest collection.

This fluffy coat above has to be my favourite item of the whole range. It is a direct copy of Topshop's Tea Pea coat which was extremely popular last year. 

The whole collection has some very good individual items which are very impressive within itself, although in my opinion, the collection lacked unity and togetherness. The styling in the photos has many weaknesses, although quite a lot of the clothes were nice.

Quality is often the most common problem with Primark's clothing, which is completely understandable considering the cost of the clothes to make. Although, sometimes, the quality can be too low to even be worth buying. Its hard to tell if these clothes in the pictures are good quality, the only way you can really tell is when they come in store and see them for yourself.

Overall, this collection has some strengths and weaknesses'. What do you think? Let me know in the comments!

High-Street Spring Haul | Primark, New Look, H&M, & more