Style Inspiration: Corduroy

I'm in a total back to work tizzy this week. The summer holiday over, autumn term at university has just karate chopped me in the kidneys. A new department too. And having spent all summer writing The Book, I have a ton of work to do. Is that the sound of the world's smallest violin playing in the background? Or it could be the squeal of an urban fox, we get a few of those around these parts. Anyhow. I'm cooing over corduroy, again. Absolutely loved this Margaret Howell trench coat (above) when I saw it on the catwalk earlier this year and it feels just right for now. There's something quite cosy and comforting about this tactile fabric. The Charlotte Gainsborough X Current Elliott trench isn't any cheaper but it is oh-so chic and oversized. Cord trench, £1050, available HERE.

Obligatory photo of Charlotte in a boyfriend shirt:

Then there's the Charlotte Gainsbororugh X Current Elliot mid-rise straight leg red cord jean, £275, available HERE. As a teenager, I had a pair of red cords I thought they were a bit punk rock...

Could be good with the Toga Pulla buckle boots, non? Suede boots, £325, available HERE.

On a more purse-friendly note, J Crew's regular toothpick cords come in a range of colours and are reduced to £38, available HERE.

Or how about some kilt action from Boden? Jumbo Cord Kilt, £49, available HERE.

Also available in navy HERE. This would look lovely with a black cashmere roll neck.

As would a chic pair of navy cord jeans from Paige. Mid-rise skinny cord jeans, £190, available HERE.

Then there's the soft cord tunic top from Toast in darkest navy, £95, available HERE. Double cord anyone?

And the cinnamon soft cord shirt dress, £115, available HERE.

But I guess what I really need is an old-school academic jacket with leather elbow patches.

Onwards and sideways.