Closet Rebellion

Sick and tired of the dreary weather? So are my clothes. This morning I had to drag my coat out from the back of my closet kicking and screaming in protest – she's knackered from the long winter and needs to start hibernating. I haven't even attempted to touch my boots, given the filthy looks they shoot me every time the cupboard door creaks open. And so I am stuck in the confusing land of mid-season wear – the sartorial equivalent of purgatory, where clothes lie in limbo without knowing what their fate will be.

Around this time last year I made the mistake of swapping my summer wardrobe to the front of my closet in April, buoyed by the glorious early spring flowers and unseasonably warm temperatures. My foolish and over-zealous act was appropriately punished by the fashion gods with a summer of constant cloud, floods and - worst of all - sensible footwear.

So this year, I've decided not to be fooled by last Saturday's scorcher and have committed myself to finally learning how to do some clever layering until the weather improves (it just HAS to). Luckily, there are only a few things I need to purchase to mix with my current wardrobe:

1. Rupert Sanderson's Esther sandals. I missed the boat on these last summer and spent the whole winter regretting it, as fashionistas cleverly wore them with thick grey tights. Great with skirts and trousers.
2. Wide-leg jeans. No, I'm not getting rid of my skinnies, I just want to switch it up a bit. I'm pairing this brilliant Topshop pair with a white T-shirt tucked in and my leather jacket.
3. A tea dress. I'll wear this with black tights now and with peep-toe courts when the weather improves.
4. A boyfriend jacket. This mannish number is cool and practical. Throw it over a little floral dress or cigarette trousers for the evening.
5. A light-weight scarf. You can find these everywhere, in all different colours. My favourites are the stripy ones from Gap.

The sixth must-have item is totally free: a dash of optimism. This summer can't possibly be any worse than the last, so be sure to keep your favourite strappy sandals within arm's reach in your closet… here's hoping!