Flick through the A/W 14 Next Directory and you’ll find awesome, editorial-esque images providing plenty of new season inspiration.

Who doesn’t want a hi-low trainer with smart coat ensemble?

A tousled pony tail with a wear-with-everything shirt?

To be able to look like Anja Rubik in a slouchy knit, pencil skirt and metallic flats? No one!

But flick a page or two and Next majorly loses the plot.

Had the stylist had an embolism at the point at which the outfit with the grey skirt had to be constructed?

And would you believe that culottes are actually bang on trend for next season after the frankly ridonc blouse and high heel combo?

This is the problem with a store like Next: it tries to appease so many women that it routinely lets down all of them. I have many stylish things from there, not least a pair of leopard print slip-on trainers and some slim-leg cuff trousers. I couldn’t live without either but when I go into their stores I’m left cold.

So much comes down to the edit of stock in individual stores, which is why I’m willing to forgive the various branches near me. But the directory? C’mon Next, you have some awesome stock and you ruin it constantly with weird, never-been-fashionable-and-never-will pairings. And you have Joan Smalls, Anja Rubik and Jessica Hart modelling for you. Jeez.

P.S. Have you seen the array of awesome flats they have ready for next season? Yummy. I think the oxblood patent brogue is calling out to me.

All photos (excluding the last): www.next.co.uk

Category: Style