Something Got Your Goat?

PETA don't come running after me as a result of this post please! I would never say I'm a pro-fur fanatic, looking at any wildlife as a source of clothing and imagining any creature I see as a potential pair of boots or a warming, winter coat. However, I do believe that fur has it's purpose and that there are ethical ways in which we can manufacture it, so why not?

When we eat a cow, we should use it's skin for leather too. Otherwise that would surely enrage our eco-warriers in the world for how wasteful that clearly is. The same goes for already produced fur coats which were manufactured decades ago. It would be such a shame to keep such a beautifully crafted piece of clothing hidden away at the back of a wardrobe purely because you think so many people would disapprove of it nowadays. If you consider it a crime, it was one which was committed years ago, so there's no need to let it effect whether you wear it now.

When an animal is killed humanely and then sold for consumption, it's hide should be equally valued and put to good use. It's not a crime, unless it's thrown away and wasted in my eyes! However, if you do hold differing views to mine, the middle ground is always wool. It's equally warming and practical for winter attire, but requires no little lambs to be harmed in the process.

You can't deny how beautiful this goat-paneled wool-blend sweater from the genius that is Alexander Wang is. It's luxurious, chic and undeniably stylish. Seeing as it's wool, it won't offend any animal lovers and you can walk around guilt free knowing you look fab and fresh off the A/W 13 runway.

It's a shame I would most definitely have to take out a second loan or sell every item I own, along with a few from my parents', in order to afford it. It comes in at a pricey $1,300, but I suppose what price can you put on pure, unadulterated style? $1,300 apparently!

Paired with a simple, slim skirt it looks sleek and effortlessly cool. If you can afford it, I say run out and get it! It would be perfect for a winter's day out to the Christmas markets, glass of gluhwein in one hand and a cheek piece of stollen in the other. What more could you want?! 

Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself

Any opportunity to channel your inner lumberjack and throw on a checkered number should be encouraged. I’m not a die-hard check fan, but every now and again there’s no harm.

It should, of course, be worn with caution and I would always live by a ‘one piece’ rule. Never double check. NEVER! I can just about cope with a double denim outfit, but that’s at a push as long as it’s done well. I worry that the sight of a double check look may just offend me on so many levels that it would completely shatter my restraint to shout fashion-fueled profanities. That’s a situation I never want to find myself in.

When styled correctly and the pattern is given the appropriate respect, it can make for a really classic and understated look. Whether you’re giving a gentle nod to your Scottish heritage, or you just simply love a glass of whisky on a weeknight so you basically qualify as an honorary Scot, it’s a great fashion choice to go for the check.

Take this quality Stella McCartney Tartan Crew Neck Sweater. The light pastel colouring evokes a truly wintry feeling and teamed with the mohair and virgin wool it’s sure to keep you well protected from the chilly weather. Over-sized and seriously soft, two adjectives you always want to hear when it comes to your winter wardrobe and they really encompass this McCartney gem.

It's definitely going straight on my Christmas list, it's just a shame I'll have to wait so long!