Forever fashion

A good trench is a wardrobe essential that will never go out of fashion. This patent version from Jaeger's new Spring/Summer collection, with it's simple understated elegance, is the perfect example. Wear it over a dress and with heels for a smart look, or with a jumper and jeans at the weekend.

Patent trench coat, £450, jaeger.co.uk

Having a dress you can pull out for any occasion can be a style lifesaver. This navy, polka dot dress from Phase Eight is an alternative to the classic LBD. With a structured shape and clever cinched-in waist detailing, it'll flatter most body types. Smarten it up with a chunky belt, jewellery and a statement blazer for a party.

Pindot wrap dress, £120, phase-eight.co.uk

A staple bag can often make an outfit. This green tote from Radley is the only bag you'll need and just the right size for all your everyday essentials. It also has a strap for a more casual look or for when you need to go hands free! The fresh pop of colour will lift any outfit, but if green isn’t for you, it also comes in black, grey, navy and red.

Algate medium zip-top bag, £149, radley.co.uk

This cream knitted jumper from Jigsaw certainly earns its keep as an investment-buy. The neutral colour means it’s easily paired with jeans and flats on a casual day, or skirt and blazer for smart occasions.

Cream cable knit sweater, £159, jigsaw-online.co.uk

When it comes to a smart, wearable shoe, a low kitten heel is always a winner in the comfort stakes. These nude-toned leather courts from LK Bennett are the perfect forever shoe. Mum-to-be the Duchess of Cambridge is a fan. Did you know that the neutral, barely there tone works to elongate your legs?

Florina blush leather courts, £240, lkbennett.com

Our 2013 must-have gadget/handbag essential is as modern as they come: Apple’s iPad tablet. Easy to use and with a simple set-up, pop it into your handbag and use it on the go to send text messages to other iPad, iPhone or iPod users and make video calls using the built-in camera. And all over a latte in your favourite coffee shop!

Read our GHI review of the new Apple iPad Mini