I was one of the many eagle-eyed millennials swept in by Wendy McColm’s cinematography when And Other Stories first opened its doors back in the spring of 2013. ‘Rendez-vous’, an idiosyncratic fashion film, featuring the stylish Jeanne Damas, alluded to a narrative that set the tone of what was to follow. The subtext was the age-old fashion conundrum—having too many clothes, yet nothing to wear. To which its prospective customers answered with a resounding yes! From that moment onwards, I knew And Other Stories was a brand worth staying close to. Call me a slave to good marketing if you will, but ambiguity heightened the anticipation of its launch. It was also simultaneous with my foray into attainable wardrobe investments. Including staples, like jeans and t-shirts.
Since then, the brand has progressed becoming steadfast on the high street and their aesthetic is highly distinguishable, with an emphasis on timeless silhouettes. With creative ateliers from Paris to Stockholm, influences are heavily drawn from European styles of dressing. It release modest collections, with a core focus on the reintroduction of older season styles. You know the blazer you coveted two/three years ago? You may find it nestled amongst their newer collection and that’s a testament to its well-considered designs.
I’ve acquired some pieces I’m intent on having for years to come—like my open back puff sleeve dress. I also have a longline coat I purchased many moons ago, and a sweet gingham dress that comes out to play each summer. On my latest visit to the store, I was particularly impressed with their increased use of natural and eco-friendly fibres such as RWS certified wool, Naia™ (regenerated cellulose) and Lyocell.
It’s the place to start if you’re not quite able to invest with premium retailers but aspire for exceptional quality and pieces that will last. & Other Stories is doing colour brilliantly this season, whilst remaining true to its brand identity as styles are re-wearable and timeless. Look below for my edit, which includes jewellery, ageless dresses (like the aforementioned wrap dress in a different pattern) and a surprise pick for the upkeep of your clothing.
1. TOPS AND BLOUSES
A clever way to don Breton in the hotter months.
I'm living for the exaggerated ruffled detailing.
The relaxed silhouette cemented its place as a firm fashion staple in my wardrobe.
The colour just screams summer for me.
A statement Victoriana blouse never goes amiss.
A striped shirt is a must-have in every wardrobe.
It's very seldom you find a silk blend on the high street and this dainty floral print is very sweet.
2. DRESSES
This green is wonderfully vibrant in real life.
One to watch if you have an upcoming wedding.
The epitome of warm weather dressing.
An easy-wearing summer dress when you're short on time.
A classic satin slip dress always looks more luxe.
Just look at this colour!
From casual work attire to date night this is a truly hard-working piece.
A sundress with extra coverage is always welcomed in my capsule.
This modest hue is perfect for anyone wanting to dip their toe into colour.
This is truly a forever piece.
The colour, the material, the length—I'm in love.
I have a similar style I've had for nearly 4 years!
This full skirt was made for twirling.
The cover-up has elevated and now she's crochet.
On the hunt for the perfect wedding guest dress? Look no further.
Soft summer yellow for the wedding season.
3. JUMPSUITS
I think I've found the perfect jumpsuit.
The cut-out detailing on this jumpsuit gives it a little edge.
Pair with some chunky black sandals and a crossbody for a cute summer brunch look.
A Corduroy jumpsuit is a must for a timeless wardrobe.
4. JEANS
They're favourites for good reason.
Beige jeans if you want a break from linen wearing.
A cropped pair is a must for those warm sunnier days.
5. TROUSERS
Add strappy heels and earrings and you're good to go.
Trousers are stepping into their own. You can wear this with trainers or heels.
I'll be wearing it with the matching blazer,
It doesn't get any similar than a pair of linen drawstring pants for those days when you want to feel cool and breezy.
6. CO-ORDS
We've been truly spoilt with these details.
My favourite pick at And Other Stories at the moment.
The creased material is so in this summer.
The organic silk makes it the softest slip.
This set would look so good on a beach holiday.
How good would a bright orange bikini look under it.
A smart way of wearing linen. Just dd pearl hoops for a touch of glamour.
For a more casual option wear it with some flat sandals.
7. SKIRTS
I would wear this with an oversized linen shirt to juxtapose textures.
You can't go wrong with this piece.
Did someone say beach party? Because this skirt is definitely making the outfit.
Wear with a white fill blouse and some sandals for the full summer effect.
8. SUNGLASSES
These round shaped sunnies are some of the best I've seen on the high street. They're also available in an array of colours.
Futuristic, yet classic.
9. JEWELLERY
I've had these earrings for well over a year and the condition remains intact.
Never underestimate the power of a gold hoop with a simple outfit.
This semi-precious stone goes particularly well with this season's green.
And Other Stories do statement earrings so well.
10. BAGS
Suede bags are all the hype right now, so why not add this to the mix?
It's giving me the same vibe as Loewe, but a fraction of the price.
Sleek, sturdy, small and best of all - timeless.
The structure, or lack thereof means you can wear this for many different occasions.
11. FOOTWEAR
A chunky flip flop will see you through many a summer.
You can see the quality from the imagery alone.
When you want a little bit of height with your summer dress.
A demure shoe for any summer or evening outfit.
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