We’ll be doing lots on our latest find, Karen Cole – including a competition, and discount offer – but wanted to introduce you because her catalogue is hot off the press (call 020 7495 2665 for your copy). Her clothes give us the fun and fashion that makes them a joy to wear, but they’re also incredibly practical. Karen uses a high-grade New Zealand merino, that won’t crumple, and can be machine-washed an endless number of times. No wonder mums in the know love they way they can be taken on the school run, then straight to a meeting, and back again to play tag after pick-up. And even for a drink  when the children are in bed, if she’s got the energy. Karen Cole also has genuine ethical credentials, and works with farmers in New Zealand to ensure the quality of the wool and the life of the sheep who produced it (anyone who read horrific reports on mulesing, which have led some UK designers to stop working with Australian wool, will need no reminding of how important this is).

We like. We like a lot. Visit Karen Cole now to discover some slinky lace, chunky knits, and separates that will take you through Autumn and into winter. Not that we’re trying to get you all paranoid about the school gate fashion parade, as described in the Telegraph - but a bit of chic comfort never goes amiss.