Meghan Markle has reignited my interest in preppy US brand J Crew

By Marie Kelly
22nd Oct 2018

It isn’t Meghan Markle’s early pregnancy style that has caught my eye this week on her official trip to Australia, but her fabulous black suede, block-heel boots, which she wore with skinny jeans, a white shirt and a blazer for the ultimate in masculine chic. They may not look like anything special, but believe me these style of boots are a terrific option for days when you’re on your feet a lot, but you don’t feel like being in flats. This heel will lengthen your legs, but it’s comfortable to walk in too. Plus the suede texture adds a little softness to any outfit that has a strong utilitarian or boyish vibe. I’ve been looking for just such a pair so on seeing Meghan’s I immediately visited J. Crew’s website to search for the boots (I couldn’t find them; they must have sold out already), and I quickly realised how much I like the brand and wondered why it had fallen off my radar of late.

Picture courtesy of @KensingtonRoyal

Scrolling furiously to see what sartorial delights I’ve been missing out on, I discovered this jacquard midi skirt. It caught my eye immediately. It’s beautiful and feminine, but styled with a denim shirt it looks utterly modern. This combination offers a really contemporary way to dress.

Wrap pencil skirt, €274.69 at J Crew

I’ve also got my eye on this Teddy coat. Teddy coats are a key look for this autumn/winter, but I’ve yet to find one on the high street that I really love enough to buy. This two-tone version is different to any others I’ve seen, though, and although it has a strong retro feel, it’s not a slavish throwback piece. Unlike many versions in stores right now, this won’t overwhelm a petite frame either. I would wear this forever.

Zip-up Teddy coat, €252.54 at J Crew

I’m a little obsessed with velvet blazers at the moment. I’ve bought one in blue, and I’d love to add this pink version to my wardrobe too. They add polish and texture to every look, which is exactly what we all need in the build-up to the party season. I love the button detailing on the cuffs too as it adds a nice point of difference to this piece.