September, you remind me of a teenager- one minute you’re laying it on thick with lashings of sunshine, the next you’re scolding me with a tantrum of rain. And, you expect me to put up with this behaviour? Well, I do because I love the way you bring me the start of autumn. Readers, I know you’re just as excited for the change of season as I am but are you finding this transitional period difficult to dress for? Because, I am.

 So, I reverted to my factory settings and wore a dress because ladylike dressing seemed apt for High Tea. I wore the beautiful Nancy dress by one of my favourite brands, Emily and Fin. I have loved this naval dress since the release of their spring/summer 2016 look book. When Nancy was reduced by 50% in Aspire Style’s summer sale, I took it as my signal to invest in September fashion Emily and Fin Nancy Dress

If you’re a regular reader of Polkadot Pink, you know that buying investment pieces is important to me- whether those investment pieces are brand new or second hand, it doesn’t matter as long as I love them. I want to build a wardrobe full of clothes to love. Last month, I was exceptionally lucky to find lots of pieces for my autumn wardrobe in north west charity shops. An added benefit of buying the Nancy dress meant I could wear the pieces I’d thrifted.

I was delighted to find this bamboo handbag as finding a retro bag had been on my summer wardrobe wishlist- one season too late but who’s being picky? Lined in red velvet, with an ornate golden clasp, it’s in immaculate condition and can you believe it was only £1.99? It is surprisingly roomy and fits my camera, mobile phone and keys in. It’s set to become a staple of my wardrobe.

// Nancy naval print dress :: Emily and Fin //

// Vintage Crimplene jacket :: Jospice //

// Tan Mary Jane heels :: Red Herring (Red Cross) //

>// Bamboo handbag :: No brand (Age UK) //

// Cherry brooch :: Luxulite //

Weeks later, I couldn’t believe my luck when I found this vintage Crimplene jacket in the Allerton Road branch of Jospice during a rare day of thrifting with Katie, from Life on Vista. I believe it’s from the 60’s but vintage enthusiasts may correct me. It’s a size 12 and fits like a glove, even though I’m petite. I’m certainly not in need of any more jackets, but at £3.99 I think it’s earned a place in my  wardrobe.

I’m also not short of shoes (I have an alarming amount of pairs), so why do I find it difficult to find a pair to complete an outfit? On the same thrifting trip, I also found these Red Herring leather shoes in a local Red Cross shop, in brand new condition. Tan is a colour that I always invest in because it’s so versatile, especially at a price of £1.99.

If you follow me on social, this week I’ve been seeking advice and talking about how I’ve started a Bullet Journal. Honestly, it’s been a revelation! In just one week, I’ve increased my productivity by managing to stay focused and on task. Next week, I am planning to pack away my summer clothes, start piecing together autumn outfits and donate/sell items that no longer fit me. It’s a task I’m looking forward to. Watch this space!