Baby It's Cold Outside - An Exclusive Sneak Preview Of The New AW14 Collection From F&F True.

Last week I was lucky enough to be invited to the F&F head office where I got an exclusive first look at the brand new AW14 collection from F&F True.

Set to be launched in mid-September, the range which spans across UK sizes 16 - 28 is much more than the typical wardrobe staples normally expected in a plus size capsule collection. Filled with bold prints, sparkle, colour and stunning embellishments, many items walk the line between day and evening creating an exciting, cohesive and adaptable collection.

It was interesting seeing how the final styles developed from key catwalk trends, with the range split into three stories - Left Bank, Duchess and Cabaret. 60s loving Left Bank takes it's cues from the likes of YSL and Gucci, with Beatnik inspired silhouettes, Peter Pan collars and eye-catching prints coming together in a range of well tailored separates. Key items included a longer length animal print bomber jacket and gorgeous, printed black joggers which were smart enough for the office yet cosy enough to still feel like you're wearing pyjamas. Plaids and prints were also at the forefront with Autumn ready layers prepared for the seasonal transitions.

Second story Duchess is very much inspired by the eccentric lady of the manor. Created with a quintessentially British style, it's heritage chic nodded towards the likes of Mulberry, Lanvin and Louis Vuitton. Imagine floral prints, smoky butterflies, lace, jacquard and plaid with texture coming by way of mohair, faux-furs and 3D embellishments. This isn't about being understated. With key items including a kimono / duster jacket hybrid and dazzling bejewelled collars, imagine the regal yet quirky glamour of Helena Bonham Carter on a countryside day trip and you're part of the way there.

As we shimmy ever closer to the festive party season, the final story Cabaret really comes into play. We're talking black on black dressing, with a mixture of textures pitting matte, shine and sheer fabrics against each other. Kimonos replace tuxedo jackets giving a masculine shape a more androgynous make-over. And there's the party ready lurex LBD affectionately nicknamed "the disco ball" which is destined to become a sell out for Christmas and New Year fun. Lace top sleeves, paisley prints and jacquard finishes merge with opulent art-deco jewell embellishments. Clear favourites include the super soft leopard print faux fur coat which comes in at an incredibly affordable price point and has already proved to be a sell out within their main range. Whether you choose to channel Liza, Madonna or Dita is up to you, but the influence of show stopping fashion from the likes of John Paul Gaultier and Yves Saint Laurent is clear in this wearable yet dazzling set.

The AW F&F True collection also contains several season spanning items such as a PU biker jacket with a detachable faux-fur trim. There's a stunning piece of kimono shaped knitwear which is softer and cosier than your duvet and they even have a whole range of coats going from bomber jackets to dusters as well as jeans and jeggings in a wide selection of finishes.

It's clear that this isn't just a collection thrown together. Prints and textures run throughout the collection in a cohesive manner, and every single detail has been considered. Whether it's the giant zips, mesh cut-outs, shell necklines or sleeve shapes, they all pull together to form a fashion conscious, trend led, completely wearable collection designed for the fuller figure. Whether you want a jumpsuit, shift dress, a bit of sparkle or a luxury print, there is something in the AW14 F&F Collection for everyone.

Some of the AW collection is available online now, but the full range launches mid-September and can be found here. And to think, we've not even mentioned the Christmas jumpers yet...

Until next time,

Diana xx

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