Next

Next has defined itself around the working wardrobe and good basics. It has tended to attract people who are conservative in their fashion expression and are conservative with their budget, neither spending too little or too much.  However, Next is in the midst of a stylist overhaul. Spring /Summer 2010 looks to be pushing a bit more at the fashion boundaries and there are some cute little dresses that could be lovely additions to your wardrobe! Next are working towards a good ethical contribution to the world and for that reason we will continue to keep a close eye on them over the next few seasons and willing them to do well...but for now...

The Shopping List

• Shoes tend to have a healthy vibrancy about them,  although you will see some dreadful misfits in amongst some of the other more beautiful designs.  Be careful!  They seem to be much better at summer shoes than winter shoes!  Check out their T Bars, wedges and sandals.
• Cute little cardigans for S/S 2010 £22+ just ignore the styling!
• Cute knitwear pieces, we like the frill front sweater
• Well priced stripy tops just watch out for any annoying little details..for example the cherry cardigan is cute without the applique cherries...Oh Next...when will you learn!!
  

• Very well priced linen blend clothes.
• Cute ruffle dresses �55  available in petite..just be careful of cheap colour ways!
  
• The Signature range needs a careful approach because it can be a bit trashy.  However, sometimes there are occasional evening tops (£28+) and drape dresses that look fantastic for £50+.
• Trousers are great, especially for basics £28+.  With petites and plus sizes there is something for everyone. For those of us with no hips, some of these styles can come out quite generous on the hips.
• Leggings are cheap and cheery at £8+ a pop.
• The quality of the products tends to be quite good and wash and wear well.

Purchase With Care

Matchy Matchy Alert!

Whatever you do, don't buy a whole outfit from Next.  Mix and match with a multitude of other sources.

Dowdy Alert!

Drawstring trousers are best avoided, they are shapeless and dull.

Bling Alert!

Some of the sunglasses are a tad over the top on bling and diamante stuff...avoid at all cost.  Some of the plainer large shades are inoffensive and a cheap alternative to Accessorize!

Don't be an Advertisement

The bags can be a little bit over branded.

Avoid the Jewellery

Some of the jewellery unfortunately looks tacky and down market especially the plastic coated silver stuff...oh dear me no!