Cassandra Connolly For Lewis & Irene - Squirreled Away

'Narrative is very important in my work and the story behind 'Squirrelled Away' came together very quickly. Early on in the design process I knew I wanted to create a playful Autumn collection and the cheeky squirrels in our local park were the perfect inspiration. Watching their antics as they prepared for winter during the chilly autumn days, I wanted this range to encapsulate an autumn day with the animals playing whilst foraging for food. Providing much entertainment on our dog walks, 'Squirrelled Away' was born from a poem I wrote, about the squirrels and their friends.' - Cassandra Connolly.

Under dappled skies and autumn sun,
dwell woodland creatures having fun.
Squirrel rogues and berry thieves,
play hide and seek beneath the trees.

As the crisp chill settles on the breeze,
the wind whips chasing dancing leaves.
Yellows, reds and golden brown;
twisting, twirling, tumbling down.

A tireless eternal game,
they momentarily set the ground aflame.
Camouflaging foraged treasure,
a last conserve for colder weather.

On slender branches bending low,
jewels of berries brightly glow.
Plucked and gathered fallen fruit,
mice conceal their cherished loot.

Cheeky squirrels run and leap,
preparing for their winters reap.
Shaking boughs until they drop,
gathering seeds then off they hop.

A mushroom marker to hide their stash,
no one to see the hidden cache,
except a spikey, snuffling friend,
who’s little paws will soon descend.

A worthwhile way to spend the day,
to find the riches squirrelled away.