The fashion briefing: high-street fashion

Outfit of the week People, it’s almost time to bust out some sunglasses. Any excuse to fashion up a look – not that this striped playsuit needs too much of that. It’s part of ASOS Africa, a range that creates employment in underprivileged ­communities in Kenya, and is full of cool bits. This season, the 20-piece ­collection includes a ­brilliant raw-hemmed cropped jacket in rusty hued silk, a print and ­patchwork maxi and ­jewellery by MADE, which is 100% fair trade. Photograph: Guardian Flower power The Briefing always agrees with the oracle that is Meryl Streep, particularly during the editorial meeting in The Devil Wears Prada where she sneers “Florals for spring? – groundbreaking.” However, this Cos shirt and the brand’s recent hook up with Clifton Nurseries is the exception. £49, cosstores.com Photograph: Guardian Maximal impact This page has spoken of the joyous nature of a maxi stripe: the ­concept that takes humble strips and ramps them up a notch for impact. It’s a look Mrs Prada had a proper old ­catwalk fiesta with for spring – and this Oasis sun dress does have a whiff of the Pradas about it. It’s still a bit on the nippy side so try ­throwing a navy jumper over it and some clumpy sandals. £65, oasis-stores.com Photograph: Guardian Hemline watch Maxi-length skirts went front row at the shows and longer skirt lengths were the biggest next-season ­talking point. Topshop ­Boutique have this midi-length number and its turquoise glory will also allow you to tick off the bold trend. £60, topshop.com Photograph: Linda Nylind/Guardian Waiting list The eighth collection of Pierre Hardy designs for Gap arrives in April and are ­ladylike without being prim. They come in a neutral ­patent or pinkish-peach. The ­fashion desk verdict is they look really rather good with a pair of old, loosely rolled up jeans. £79.99, available 5 April, gap.eu Photograph: Guardian