A/W 2012-13 at Yumi, Part 2: A Closer Look

A cosy but fun swing coat in mustard-tinged yellow.

What I love about this coat: the bold button fixtures are practical but they also add clout; the rose print is abstract enough to resemble polka dots from far away, which is more forgiving than a tight ditzy floral pattern; the contrasting collar works so much better than keeping things the same, and it makes the colour more forgiving for people like me who have a sallow complexion.

Ready for a close-up? 

The pink jumper seems to have a touch of mohair/angora, which I think makes it even more tempting. As for that big gold button, it's a simple vintage touch that helps to make this coat look extra special.

'Prints charming' with these bird designs.

The owl blouse is what I often refer to as Holbein blue: a bright teal shade that was often used by the artist Hans Holbein the Younger, which really stands out. The simple print isn't too complicated and it uses little bows in between the owls.

Inside the showroom

You can just catch a glimpse of the fashion film made by Fleur from the PR team. It was also vintage-inspired, with that sort of dreamy sun-drenched feel (think California or Carnaby Street).

Those finishing touches...

I love a good retro accessory, so you can see why I was drawn to the radio, satchel and case on the shelf above the new collection. I like how the satchel's floral print mirrors that of the coat and blouses with their black rose motif.

Chintz and knits

Having worked previously in White Stuff and been involved in creating window displays and visual merchandising in-store, I felt right at home with the china plates, old lampshades and woodland wallpaper used here. Everything worked well together and helped to show off the collection without dominating it.

Duck, duck, goose

I'm a little bit in love with this print. Not being up on my bird species, I want to say it's a mallard, but I have a feeling that I'm way off the mark. Birdwatching aside, this is a fun print that isn't going to make you look too girly as it has an arty edge.

Specs appeal...

A classic range of monchrome prints featuring glasses, bow ties and top hats was highly effective and made a great focal point. The whole Mad Men vibe is going to have that spectacle cardigan flying off the shelves.

Putting on the Ritz...

This shirt doesn't actually glow - it's just me playing around with photo effects. However, it really shows off the moustache design and I'm sure this will be another big seller.

Colour block corner.

Some girls are indecisive about colour, but this clutch does the hard work for you. Channeling Celine, it's a wearable piece that looks sturdy enough to survive a good few nights out.

Nailed it.

Nail artist Sophie Harris-Greenslade of The Illustrated Nail, whose work has been featured in Stylist, ElleUK.com and I.D Magazine, was on hand (excuse the pun) to provide amazing designs. Not only was she incredibly accurate and inventive, but she was also great fun to talk to. I came away with a beautiful set of nails featuring polish by Essie and Barry M alongside intricately painted heart and lipstick motifs. Stay tuned for the photos.