country road a/w must have's...

I always get quite excited when Country Road start to give us sneak peaks of the new season. The label has come a long way in the last couple of years, offering edgy, fashion-forward separates, gorgeous, soft leather bags, sexy menswear and great comfort pieces for lazing around (and still looking good). The first drop is in stores February. Here's a little taste of what to expect...

Country Road's creative director, Sophie Holt was thinking 'Parisian Street Chic' when she designed the latest collection. A camel knee-length trench anchors the collection, which includes relaxed, easy glam pieces like the rolled up pant, grey marle jersey pants worn with heels, a cropped leather biker-style jacket in either black or nude and flat over-the-knee suede boots. Metallics get a look in and so do mixing and matching textures, with faux fur, fringing and rope details on t's.

Edgier pieces include the Jegging - don't know what this is? Well, it's a jean, with jean stitching, etc, but fitting and tight like a legging, quite a scary thought to many of us! I am in love with the mid-blue and lavender print that is offered in a blouse with a strong shoulder and three quarter length sleeve and also a tunic dress - gorgeous. Another favourite is the nude tulle evening dress - so cute.

There are lots of classic wardrobe staples with a twist - cropped wool pants, a cropped blazer with tux details, a jersey skirt - perfect for the office or a night out.

So what to look out for this autumn/winter? Padded shoulders, metallic's mainly in knits, leather, the Jegging, nude shades and more check prints. First drop into Country Road is in February.