If heady blooms aren't your thing then there is another key summer trend on the summer catwalks to buy into and that is monochrome.

Made covetable by Coco Chanel in the Twenties, it's been a perennial favourite ever since due it's ability to make almost anyone look effortlessly chic and, in the hands of British designer Alice Temperley - a favourite of Princess Kate - and her Somerset Collection this strand of sophistication is taken to a whole new level.

Anna Easdale, personal stylist at John Lewis Glasgow sums up it's eternal appeal.

"Monochrome is easy to get right," she said, "and one that transitions seamlessly from season to season. Due to it's simplicity it can be dressed up or down to create a casual weekend ensemble, smart work look or dressed up to bring a wow factor to summer weddings and parties."

Wow is certainly the word that springs to mind when perusing the rails of the Somerset Collection, now in its third year.

The clothing line has been astutely augmented by bags and shoes this season, and 2013 saw the highly successful launch of a boudoir inspired lingerie line and the cuter than can be girls' clothing collection.

All in all, this is a dream collaboration between one of Britain's brightest design talents and the UK's most successful department store that only shows signs of going from strength to strength.

Somerset contains much of Alice Temperley's design DNA, a masterful command of sumptuous feminine pieces with vintage charm. She also has a winning way with floor length dresses that speak of grace and romance.

Factor in a renowned ability to structured, curve friendly tailoring and a hotly anticipated Somerset by Alice Temperley bridal lingerie collection and the future certainly looks rosy for this appealing cocktail of high fashion styling with high street appeal.

Model: Monica Dunbar

Make-up: Bobbi Brown at John Lewis

Hair: Jack Jamie Mackle at Rainbow Room, George Square, using Schwarzkopf

Pictures: Jamie Simpson

Photographed at Hotel du Vin at One Devonshire Gardens. Many thanks to all the staff for their help on the day. Go to www.HOTELDUVIN.com for further information.