It’s always a good idea to plan ahead. That’s what makes pleasant surprises valid.

While looking through the May issue of Vogue UK and España (I have my Vogue dealers, because yes, it’s a drug) I gathered one thing. It doesn’t matter what’s on trend, what’s important is the quality of the garments.

Now, I am not going to serenade how much I love designer brands, because, let’s face it, we all have a bit of vanity in us. What I think should be appreciated though is the labour before the fruit.

Cashmere, silk, satin – yes, but lest we forget a good stitch, a well thought-through cut and meticulous  tailoring.

Azzedine Alaïa, for example. It takes patience and precision to create his masterpieces.

It’s true, most of the time desirable brands mean good quality. So let’s get our organizers and smarties out and scribble down this week’s shopping agenda with an eye for quality: