Recently I bought one of the tops from the Geri collection at Next. A gorgeous Union Jack print that took me back to the Spice Girls days. But it was also perfect for the summer of 2012.
With the Olympics and Jubilee coming up Next is the place to go if you want something perfect for the summer. Check out their dresses. You'll see all sorts of gorgeous prints, cuts and shapes but what really blows me away is the London 2012 collection.
There are flag prints galore. You know that come the summer there will be a lot of people walking around showing their support for Team GB. The Primark in Westfield Shopping Centre near the Olympic site is teaming with tat such as huge hat with the St. George's Flag on it or Union Jack sunglasses.
But the items from Next are beautiful, understated and still give off an air of patriotism that I absolutely love.
Of course, Union Jacks aren't for everybody. I wanted to share an outfit that I think sums up summer 2012 perfectly.
The swallow tights speak of fields full of darting birds and the apple dress sums up fruit salads at street parties. Unfortunately I think it would've been better if I'd worn this with Hunter wellies. It doesn't look like this weather is going to let up any time soon!
I suppose the weather might give Britain the edge in the Olympics. At least we are used to all this drizzle.
I also think we are going to be seeing a lot of hats this summer. Big, wide-brimmed floppy hats that shout seventies poolside glamour. A big, pale hat teamed with a maxi dress with a bold print is certain to get you noticed.
The Jubilee and Olympics are sure to bring huge amounts of tourists to London and the rest of the UK. It'll be a brilliant chance to draw fashion inspiration from other cultures and to show off the British eccentricity in what we wear.
I would love to know what outfits you think really sum up the year ahead.
Disclaimer: Dress and tights were PR samples from Next.