A peek at Primark's AW11 pieces

While some of us are still waiting for summer to arrive, retailers are busy knocking out their autumn-winter looks. And judging by the weather, it's not a moment too soon. Primark (or Penneys as it's better known to us Irish) has always been my go-to for layering pieces, but I was more than a little impressed when their lookbook landed on my laptop.

The shapes! The colours!

We're still seeing a very strong 70's influence -- which has carried over from spring-summer -- with high waists, glam dresses and fur jackets. But we're also now seeing a hint of the 60's coming through, which will be huge for autumn-winter. The little shift dress above, in particular, nails three trends in one -- 60's mod, colour-blocking, and Peter Pan collars. Make like the model and wear socks with chunky platforms to really stand out from the fash pack.

Knits are also big for autumn (quelle surprise), as are brightly-coloured tights. (Just ask Oscar de la Renta.)

Yes, some bold trends emerging, but if you're not totally sold on the look (mustard yellow blouse, cherry red skirt, plum tights combo, anyone?) and are purely considering experimenting, Primark, with its pleasing price points, is surely the way to go.

If you're still not convinced, the Primark peeps have put it all together for you in a high fashion-inspired video. Feast your fashion eyes:

Which looks are you loving?

Wednesday wantsies: Mawi jade and skull ring

I'm a sucker for most things green, so when I spotted this Mawi ring, I was instantly smitten. The gold-plated brass beauty features dyed jade, skull and faux pearls. The gothic feel is right up my street, and I'm a personal believer that a girl can never have too many statement rings in her jewellery collection.

Make this the star piece by wearing it with neutrals -- jeans and t-shirt for day, and a figure-flattering dress in a solid colour for evening.

Though it was on sale on the Outnet.com for the incredible price of €87 not so long ago (gutted I missed out on that one), you can currently pick it up on the Mawi site for €213 (reduced from the full price of €284).

Anyone for an early Christmas present?

Don't mind if I do...

Marchesa releases Resort 2012 collection

Though Marchesa can generally do no wrong in my eyes, their Resort 2012 collection -- inspired by Slim Aaron's legendary book of photographs "A Place In The Sun" -- failed to float my fashion boat. The reason for that may be the pared back, "sales driven" approach designers Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig were chasing. You won't see many of these looks on the red carpet, it's true, but I guess, when it comes down to it, Marchesa is a business. Making beautiful clothes is one thing -- selling them is quite another.

Nonetheless, there were some notable exceptions to my overall disappointment. This chiffon tunic was one:

The intricate symmetrical embroidery is a signature Marchesa look. Pair with nude ballet flats and tousled waves for effortless daytime glamour, and then go for sky-scrapers and a chic chignon when the sun goes down. Remember to keep accessories to a minimum to let the dress do all the talking.

Next on the list is this white silk crepe sheath dress:

All this elegantly embroidered number needs is a martini glass and it's good to go. Bonus points for the embroidered sleeves, which mimic the double cuff trend we're seeing all over the place at the moment. (Remember when Miranda Kerr wore them to the CFDA Awards? Divine!)

Last, but certainly not least, is this silk crepe dress, which is more what I would expect from the fashion powerhouse.

It screams all-out glamour, while the jeweled shawl ensures you look like you're leaving a trail of fairy dust behind you as you go. Now that's the Marchesa I know and love.

It's safe to say that most of the collection (which you can view in full here) would be perfect for pool parties and cocktail hour, but as for me, I'm holding out for spring.

Net-a-porter sale

Get on over to net-a-porter.com to bag some serious bargains. New items have been added to their international sale, and all sale items are now up to 70% off.

I'd be quick if I were you -- I tried to snap up some pieces earlier but they were sold out by the time I hit the checkout. Boo.