It was an exciting evening a few days ago when I went along to the Norfolk Boutique Autumn preview. There is something really inspiring about entering the new season and going shopping for all the new pieces that will be added to my wardrobe over the coming weeks. This season it's all about the richer earthier colours with a good amount of black, white and grey thrown in. A good splash of red goes a long way.

I had a good look round the new season clothes and have to say it was thoroughly delightful; so many pieces that could have merrily come home with me! The fine knit jumpers were soft and warm - something I really need to get to grips with this year. Both the raspberry red and the houndstooth ones both catching my eye; to be worn with a pair of leather skinny trousers or some worn in jeans. The thicker cosy patterned jumper looked so warm I could maybe just hibernate in there 'til Spring comes back around and my favourites (not pictured) were the the thick cable knitted jumper dresses in cream as well as navy. Just give my opaques and a belt then I'm fit to go.

It wouldn't be right not to mention the pretty, pretty dresses. The black and white lace dress absolutely stole my heart with it's elegance and simplicity, I kept going back to have another look (we've all been there) and hold it up to the mirror with my hopeful face poking through. The red lace dress was a stunner if you're not afraid of a generous dose of colour, certainly one to lust after for sure. The twenties style dresses were quite the unusual pieces - definitely safe that nobody is turning up at a party in the same dress and perfectly modest. The Masato dress was a stunner, such a quality piece; someone is going to feel a million dollars wearing that number.

LOVE

Of course there were skirts and trousers too, with some gorgeous blouses and tops. The white lace top is a dream, isn't it?

And lastly, aside from the beautiful scarves which I shall continue to moon over, the handbags and clutches. What can I say? I'm turning into a handbag addict. The green one was a beauty and the LAMB bag I loved so much before is now down to under £100 - why didn't I just buy one and be done with it?! Such a love for it. I didn't leave empty handed but can you guess what I couldn't leave without?

The waterfall coat is such a classic, quality piece which would last a lifetime; looking good year after year so if you're looking to invest in a coat then this one is my top choice. The black jacket was another piece I couldn't resist, the details make it unique and it felt like such a warm comfortable outer.

If you want to feast your eyes on the new collections at the Norfolk Boutique then you'll find them on the High Street, Coltishall b near Norwich NR12 7AA

On Twitter keep up with all the latest @BoutiqueNorfolk or call for specific enquiries 07786 167724

Sophie

Although I rarely venture on to the high street for bulk buying of wardrobe fodder I do still fall into the trap of stocking up on cheap basics from the usual haunts. Vest tops are usually cheap as chips and unsurprisingly tend to last as long as chips too.

When I attended the launch of The Norfolk Boutique earlier in the year I took the opportunity to invest in a much higher quality Switcher vest top, which is made from gorgeously soft cotton. To be fair I've not worn it much yet (else you would have seen it before) but it looks and feels exactly the same after a few washes. This is the start of making more considered choices with basics, I want to feel comfortable in everything I own so a cull is called for of all the aged vest and long sleeved tops that have seen far better days.

I should point out to anyone fairly new round here that the vast majority of my wardrobe is filled with second hand buys from charity shops and ebay, mostly newish pieces and a few good vintage items.

Vest top – Switcher from The Norfolk Boutique, blouse, jeans and necklace – charity shops, boots – yard sale, belt - QD

Five years ago I would have been the very last person to shop at an independent boutique as I didn't really buy all that much to start with and the idea of spending any more than the bare minimum would have filled me with horror. These days I am all about trying to shop local, buying quality over quantity (it's a work in progress ok) and enjoying the good things in life. Would I rather have four roughed up, shrunken vest tops or a single lovely soft one? It's a no-brainer surely.

If you're looking for a piece that you want to be sure you wont see another woman out on the street wearing then head to a local independent boutique. They will have a range of fabulous exciting pieces, a beautiful store and first class customer service. Why? Because they CARE. It's their livelihood and they have a vested interest in making it a success. This is why the high street can only ever crawl in behind that.

Have you shopped in a local boutique before?

Sophie

On Wednesday I went along to the preview evening of the Norfolk Boutique over at Coltishall near Norwich. As the little billy no-mates that I am, I went on my own to have a jolly good peruse in store and report back to you lovely readers.

The boutique was beautifully furnished and laid out; it was so pretty with plenty of room to wander round to take a look at the collections. My eyes spied the amazing LAMB bags, which are still playing on my mind, with this one being my favourite. Maybe one day...

The stairway (the store is at first floor level) - What I wore (I dressed in a hurry!) - My favourite piece, the Kara navy lace dress. Oh it was gorgeous!

Some fifties style dresses, halter necks and flared skirts. The red one was fabulous! - Skinny jeans

More of the beautiful store

A rail of party style dresses; embroidery, sparkles and wow factors – This is a hell of a dress (it was really heavy too but such a standout piece – A flowing maxi perfect for summer

Some very cute blouses with my favourite being red with polka dots – I adored the printed maxi dresses

The colours of this scarf grabbed my attention – You can follow @BoutiqueNorfolk

So what did I buy, well I bought arguably the least exciting thing in store but something I do need; a good quality black vest top which I've been meaning to buy for ages. Here's hoping that investing more wisely reaps rewards!

I was given a goodie bag as a thank you for coming to the preview; a mini bottle of prosecco, a Lindt bunny, a pretty heart decoration and a bottle of local goat's milk hand and body lotion (review to come when I've used it). Looks like I didn't get lucky with the gift voucher, shucks!

The Norfolk Boutique store is opening to the public on 12^th April where you can shop their designer clothes and accessories to your heart's content.  I know that I'll be dropping by to peruse all the stunning pieces whenever I'm nearby!

Sophie