The fashion briefing

Look of the week We were a little reticent about giving Jessica Alba props for her printed silk Proenza Schouler dress ­because, in all honesty, someone has probably told her to wear it. But she does illustrate how to wear prints this season, so we may as well make an example of her. 1) Note how glossy skin and simple hair better showcase a bold print. 2) Mad prints demand a simple dress shape. 3) One piece of chunky jewellery is enough. Class dismissed. Photograph: Michael Buckner/Getty Images North America Boring chic Fussy bags – even ones with posh chain handles – are looking tired. Plain and chic is where it’s at now. As a rule, understated luxury does not come cheap, which is why this buttery-leather satchel is so brilliant. It looks and feels as though it might come with a four-figure price tag, but its cost is as modest as its appearance. Leather bag, £99, Mellow Yellow for La Redoute, laredoute.co.uk Photograph: Felix Clay Men's buy of the week Every male wardrobe should ­contain at least one M12 polo shirt because it is an absolute classic. But if you prefer your polo shirt with a twist rather than straight up, then this month’s collaboration between Liberty and Fred Perry, with its discreet floral print, is for you. Polo shirt, £85, by Fred Perry Liberty Blank Canvas, fredperry.com Photograph: PR company handout Buy of the week Roksanda Ilincic’s first collection for Whistles was lovely. But the truth is that the ­Briefing was a little worried that she needed ­something a ­little less bare, a little more structured. ­Happily, the second collection raises no such ­concerns and ­features a brilliant ­array of dresses for grown-ups in need of an event dress with a bit of an edge. In store now. Dress, £325, whistles.co.uk Photograph: PR company handout Photograph: guardian.co.uk Flash foot trend We were so distracted by the petite stiletto that we almost forgot to mention that ­fashionable feet have a new obsession at the moment in the form of wedge-heeled desert boots. They sound like a disaster, but under a rolled trouser hem they are the perfect embodiment of the utility trend. These ones by New Look are easy to walk in and easy on the purse too. Suede boots, £40, by New Look, newlook.co.uk Photograph: PR company handout Photograph: guardian.co.uk Splurge Right now, the entire fashion industry is going nuts for French label Carven. Now don’t start rolling your eyes; for once, there is good reason. It’s a heritage label from the 1940s that has just been revived by ex-Givenchy designer Guillaume Henry. But what is really fabulous is that these sharp and simple clothes are completely now and genuinely good value for money. Expensive yes; extortionate, not at all. Skirt, £138, by Carven, from net-a-porter.com Photograph: PR company handout