I was one of the many eagle-eyed millennials swept in by Wendy McColm’s cinematography when And Other Stories first opened its doors back in the spring of 2013. ‘Rendez-vous’, an idiosyncratic fashion film, featuring the stylish Jeanne Damas, alluded to a narrative that set the tone of what was to follow. The subtext was the age-old fashion conundrum—having too many clothes, yet nothing to wear. To which its prospective customers answered with a resounding yes! From that moment onwards, I knew And Other Stories was a brand worth staying close to. Call me a slave to good marketing if you will, but ambiguity heightened the anticipation of its launch. It was also simultaneous with my foray into attainable wardrobe investments. Including staples, like jeans and t-shirts.
Since then, the brand has progressed becoming steadfast on the high street and their aesthetic is highly distinguishable, with an emphasis on timeless silhouettes. With creative ateliers from Paris to Stockholm, influences are heavily drawn from European styles of dressing. It release modest collections, with a core focus on the reintroduction of older season styles. You know the blazer you coveted two/three years ago? You may find it nestled amongst their newer collection and that’s a testament to its well-considered designs.
I’ve acquired some pieces I’m intent on having for years to come—like my open back puff sleeve dress. I also have a longline coat I purchased many moons ago, and a sweet gingham dress that comes out to play each summer. On my latest visit to the store, I was particularly impressed with their increased use of natural and eco-friendly fibres such as RWS certified wool, Naia™ (regenerated cellulose) and Lyocell.
It’s the place to start if you’re not quite able to invest with premium retailers but aspire for exceptional quality and pieces that will last. & Other Stories is doing colour brilliantly this season, whilst remaining true to its brand identity as styles are re-wearable and timeless. Look below for my edit, which includes jewellery, ageless dresses (like the aforementioned wrap dress in a different pattern) and a surprise pick for the upkeep of your clothing.
1. TOPS AND BLOUSES
A clever way to don Breton in the hotter months.
The tie detail enables you to pull the shape in and exaggerate the tiers even further.
The puff sleeve cemented its place as a firm fashion staple some years back.
The tie detailing and embroidery is summer in a blouse.
A statement Victoriana blouse never goes amiss.
A striped shirt is a must-have in every wardrobe.
It's very seldom you find a silk blend on the high street and this dainty floral print is very sweet.
2. KNITWEAR
Tuck this chic cardigan into high waist jeans for top tier Parisian style dressing. Plus, it's 100% organic cotton.
3. DRESSES
This orange is wonderfully vibrant in real life.
One to watch if you have an upcoming wedding.
The epitome of warm weather dressing.
An easy-wearing summer dress when you're short on time.
The ruching on the cut-outs makes this dress look all the more luxe.
Just look at the back detail!
From casual work attire to date night this is a truly hard-working piece.
A sundress with extra coverage is always welcomed in my capsule.
This modest hue is perfect for anyone wanting to dip their toe into colour.
This is truly a forever piece.
Ruching is a sophisticated take on a slimmer line fit.
I have a similar style I've had for nearly 4 years!
This full skirt was made for twirling.
The cover-up has elevated and now she's crochet.
On the hunt for black tie attire? Look no further.
Soft spring florals for the wedding season.
4. JUMPSUITS
This rigid denim seems like it'll withstand the test of time.
5. JEANS
They're favourites for good reason.
Beige jeans if you want a break from linen wearing.
6. TROUSERS
A lapis blue always works well with light bottoms. Add strappy heels and earrings and you're good to go.
Trousers are stepping into their own. You can wear this with trainers or heels.
7. CO-ORDS
We've been truly spoilt with these details.
My favourite pick at And Other Stories at the moment.
Just cropped enough to show the waist detail on the skirt.
A combination of silk and linen makes the softest slip.
The tie around detail makes this casual style much more interesting.
Ease of wear and comfort in this wonderful deep brown.
A smart way of wearing linen. Belt close and add pearl hoops for a touch of glamour.
Wear with the matching belted jacket or a white t-shirt.
8. SKIRTS
I would wear this with an oversized linen shirt to juxtapose textures.
A tie wrap around is an upgrade of the staple slip skirt.
9. SUNGLASSES
These oval shaped sunnies are some of the best I've seen on the high street. They're also available in white.
Futuristic, yet classic.
10. JEWELLERY
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I've had these earrings for well over a year and the condition remains intact.
Never underestimate the power of a gold hoop with a simple outfit.
This semi-precious stone goes particularly well with this season's green.
And Other Stories do statement earrings so well.
11. BAGS
A smarter way of wearing rattan and a style you can extend to autumn.
This small bucket bag is a subtle way of introducing colour into an outfit.
Sleek, sturdy, small and best of all - timeless.
The structure, or lack thereof means you can wear this for many different occasions.
12. FOOTWEAR
A chunky flip flop will see you through many a summer.
You can see the quality from the imagery alone.
When you want a little bit of height with your summer dress.
A demure shoe for any summer or evening outfit.
13. GARMENT CARE
To keep your garments in tip-top condition use this as opposed to frequent washing.
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