As I’m soaking up the St. Lucian sunrays, you may think I’m crazy for fast forwarding a couple of months and searching the monthly fashion magazines to learn what’s in style for A/W18. But that’s what I have been doing and I like what I see.

I’ve known for a while that leopard print is going to be even bigger than it already is and that the gorgeous long, lilac, wool coat that I got for my birthday back in March from Marks and Spencer will not be hiding in the back of the wardrobe (lilac and leopard print, it’s a thing apparantly). I’m happy to see the fashion pages sprinkled with one of my favourite prints of all time; plaid. Checks, if you will.

For me, it has a strong 80s vibe and can make you feel strong, smart and like nobody’s gonna mess with you!

Here are a few of the pieces I have drooled over whilst around the pool – daiquri in one hand, magazine and smart phone in the other.

Oh my! I love this. It’s crying out for some black skinnies or cigarette trou for a sexy, sophisticated look.

This Zara blazer could replace the Primark one I had last A/W that I gave to a friend.

I’m a fan of culottes and I’d pair this cute baby pink polo neck together with the Zara blazer above and also with the culottes (not together).

This dress is new in at M&S and also comes in navy. I think I prefer the red, just because it’s brighter. You could wear it with white trainers for a casual weekend look or tights and knee high black boots in colder months.

I really like these M&S trousers for work but I’d put the pink top with them above to add a touch of femininity.

What a great find! M&S Collection again. Smart with heels, effortlessly cool with white trainers.

We all know I buy a couple of coats from M&S each year and this Autograph one is jumping out at me. The purple is gorgeous.

Want to pick up bargain checks???

Jump on the Zara website today and search ‘checked‘ to see all the great pieces they have in the their current sale that you can take into A/W18 with you. I’ve just picked up these two items and will collect when I’m back in the UK next week!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this blog. Have you seen any plaid that you would like to add to your wardrobe? Share them with me in the comments below or message me on Insta or Twitter.

Until next time folks, take care.

Natalie x

Image credits

Www.marksandspencer.com

Www.zara.com