Cropped Trench and Skirt Set

Every part of a trench coat — wide lapels, storm flaps, double-breasted buttons — cut off at the waist, with a matching mini skirt underneath. The proportions are the whole idea: all the formality of the original, at half the length.

It is the strongest thing we have ever stocked, and the set people photograph before they buy.

The fabric

A crisp woven with enough structure to hold the lapels and the storm flap. The skirt is cut asymmetrically rather than straight, which stops the set reading as a uniform.

How it fits

One size, in two colours. The jacket is cropped at the waist; the skirt sits high to meet it, which is what keeps the midriff covered when they are worn together.

Looking after it

Cold machine wash and hang to dry. It presses easily if you want the seams crisp; a warm iron on the reverse is enough. Wash it with like colours for the first few goes.

Among cute clothes sets it is the one with the most nerve, and the chic dress to impress answer for anyone who does not own a dress — the korean fashion for women piece people remember.