Press Day, Day 2

I may be being a high street snob here, but I never usually go into New Look, half because I never find much I like and half because it means walking all the way down to the bottom of Oxford Street, and yes, I am lazy. But the promise of a £100 voucher for 10 minutes of browsing clothes drew me to the New Look A/W 09 press day. And it wasn't half bad. Held in a huge warehouse near Russell Square the press day boasted champagne, six different fresh juices, nibbles and goody bags, oh and some pretty decent clothes too.

Again, the Balmain influence was felt, but unlike River Island, New Look hadn't felt the need to get the Bedazzler out at every opportunity. Shoulder pads were added to blazers, soft wool sweaters and dresses, with only a few studs added for decoration. Mannequins wore some amazing soft leather skinny trousers with zips down the back that I intend to snap up when they hit the shelves. Perfect with the over sized jumpers also on the rails. There was also a gold sequin jacket reminiscent of Dolce and Gabbana teamed with worn jeans that looked very cool.

In the spirit of the high street ripping off designers there were a pair of sequin mid heel courts that were a dead ringer for the sequinned Miu Mius from a few seasons ago, except in black. There was also a Victorian feel evident, with cameo brooches adorning bows and hats. Black knee high lace up boots also fitted in this category, as did some black and gold shoe boots which had a military twist. I want.

However, it wasn't all good. New Look also latched onto the pleather hareem pants, but went one step further with full on sequin ones too. Now, I'm all for the comfort of hareem pants but the sequin pair were so shiny you'd look like you had wrapped tinsel around your legs. Not good. But overall ten times better than than River Island and, hey, it was worth the £100.