In this green, pleasant and sometimes rather soggy land, we are always at the mercy of the weather. The seasons are getting harder to define and anything can happen; sometimes we get winter in summer and spring in autumn.  It is no wonder that we find it difficult to create the perfect capsule wardrobe.

There are plenty of sumptuous knits, trousers and coats to look forward to for winter, but whilst the season is still undecided, we can enjoy something of a transitional garment: the shirt dress. It has been around for a long time and even  when it’s not among the key trends, you can usually find one somewhere on the high street.  This season, it is back in the limelight  and with something for every taste.

You will find the traditional looks in denim and cotton but also a range of colours and prints, including floral and camouflage, or something as simple as a contrasting collar. Current styles include the neat cut with a belted waist as well as oversize and unbelted nightshirt looks.  Midi is the most stylish length. If you are looking for something more chic, there are some wonderful silk and chiffon versions which are perfect to take you from daytime to evening.  The smarter styles are easy to dress up with a simple change of shoe/boot, cardigan/jacket and jewellery.

The super-versatile shirt dress will be on trend for spring/summer 2014 too, so we recommend investing in a couple that you can layer up until the cold really bites then bring them out again next spring.