Cath Kidston probably needs little introduction: the either-love-it-or-hate-it range of bright floral and patterned homewares, accessories and clothing has been around for almost 2 decades, and somehow it seems more popular today than ever. At the AW11 press day yesterday, the brand presented a slightly more serious collection called “Modern Heirlooms”, with its gorgeous floral and nature patterns, but in slightly darker shades than we’re used to, in a variety of bags and accessories.

There was a great display called “A 2011 Study”, which could only be viewed through small peepholes, a table piled high with Christmas decorations (the first Xmas spotting of the season!), tons of great kids’ stuff, and a surprisingly sober but exciting clothing collection. Sweaters and hats with gnomes, floral scarves, sheepskin coats and pretty tea-dresses. This is the collection for the girl who likes a little whimsical in her life!

I’d like to tell you we spent most of our time looking at the AW11 goodies, but then we found out there was a sample sale going on in the room next door and we went a little nuts. I’m a pretty minimalist girl normally, but I think I’d quite like to move into the Cath Kidston cafe, where we could relax after our frantic shopping…



Some snaps from the Sample Sale/Cafe