Pretty Things

A collection of images that have made my heart sing lately.

Shorts, Shoes and Spikes are the order of the day.

*Disclaimer - none of these images belong to me.

30.07.2011- Holding out for a Hero (& Cape!)

There's no doubt that the classic white tee is a staple in any style savvy girl's wardrobe. There are occasions, however, when I find myself wishing for a more unique twist on this fashion essential- step forward Hero&Cape! The brand's debut collection, featuring the beautiful illustrations of Niki Lau, launched this week, and breathes new life into the white tee:

How cute are they? I'm seriously struggling to whittle down this pretty little lot to try and pick a favourite, but I think the Scalloped Peter Pan collar tee might just be winning- it's the perfect way to incorporate the collar micro-trend into any outfit and I adore the ribbon detail. I also love how versatile these tees are- perfect for dressing down with a pair of jeans or up with a cute skirt or smart pair of trousers. The full collection can be viewed over at the Hero&Cape website, and whilst you're there be sure to check out the jewellery, especially the stunning Skyline necklaces.

What do you think of Hero&Cape's capsule white tee collection? Are you impressed?

(Image credit: Hero&Cape.)

29.07.2011- Weekend Wishes

This weekend, I wish I could spend my time outside in the garden enjoying the best of the sun:

Julija Steponaviciute in Summer Breeze, shot by Nick Dorey and styled by Michelle Duguid, Goodwood Spring/Summer 2011. 

But first I need to track down a fantastic sun hat like the one in the first photo!

What have you got planned for the weekend? Will you be making the most of the weather?

(Image credit: NOIR FACADE.)

Sometimes you just can't resist...

Sometimes in life, you stumble across something that you know you should walk on past. Something that you know you should forget about. Something that despite these thoughts of rationality you just cannot resist.

I had one of these moments the other day. Innocently browsing the internet I stumbled across a dress. It seems wrong to call it just 'a dress' now because... well it quickly became 'the dress' the dress that I couldn't walk on from. The dress that I couldn'y forget. The dress that I absolutely, fundamentally, right right now needed to have.

I cannot begin to verbalise to you why this dress had such an impact on me. Truth be told I don't really think I know myself. I do know that it appeals to every tiny fragment of my being though - appeals to the long ago fairytale princess lover, the summery bohemian, the free spirit, the whimsical daydreamer and even subtly somwhere the rock n roll chick.

The dress was everything. I had to have it.
And I did.
In 14 days the dress will be mine.

 

 And I cannot wait.

My Vintage Feature

Hey everyone! I hope that you're all well and good and up for reading about something fabulous! As you all know fashionismyh2o is a little bit crazy about finding new and exciting places to shop and today I have a gorgeous site to feature that I'd love for you all to check out! http://www.myvintage.co.uk/ is an absolutely fabulous vintage website which is just loaded with gorgeous goodies that would be the perfect  treasure to add to any wardrobe! Run by the lovely Emma who you can find here on twitter, myvintage is the place to go if you're on the hunt for something beautiful and most importantly unique!

I'm super pleased to tell you that I've been having a browse around myvintage (ultimate torture having to resist snapping loads up) and I've compiled for you a list of my favourites which I've got for you here ... let the drooling commence ;) 

Firstly I've chosen this beautiful floral dress which in my eyes is the perfect retro summer frock! The colour is just the prettiest pale green and the floral patterning is uber cute. Perfect for hot days teamed with a cute sandal or a nude pump for an evening drinks look with a vintage twist. The halterneck shape makes this the perfect dress for all you pear-shaped lovelies but honestly it's so cute I think it might just tempt me too!
Myvintage £34.00

Next up on my Top Picks is this super elegant black dress. The shape of this beauty is just perrrfect - imagine how flattering it would be! Then you have the detail on the dress which keeps it from being a boring black dress and turns it into the perfect LBD to have in your wardrobe! This is definitely a versatile piece - formal enough for a wedding, cocktail party or posh drinks but then casual enough to team with some cute flats for a perfect summer shopping outfit.

Myvintage £42.00

Then we have this beautiful deep burgundy dress which I had to add to this list! I'm actually in love with the rich wine-like colour and I feel it'd flatter practically every skin-tone. The fabric is lovely and light and the length and cut of the dress make it a super flattering piece. On top of this the delicate gold detailing adds a perfect twist to the material and turns it into a showstopper. Again this is a piece that could take you from the side walk to the ballroom - gorgeous!

Myvintage £26.00

I literally squeeled when I saw this bag! I sat there for about 10 minutes saying to myself 'I'm sure this looks like a Birkin' it's classic, gorgeous and just looook at the material - mhmm! This baby would finish off any outfit to perfection and add a gorgeous vintage twist. 

Myvintage £38.00

Lastly we have this fairy-tale piece! Truly stunning it glitters like a mermaids tail and I for one would love to go for a swim (or you know... walk) in this! It seems the kind of skirt that would make you feel like a princess in the middle of the most mundane suburb and that is never a bad thing!

Myvintage £24.00

So there we are lovelies! Please head over to myvintage and check out their gorgeous stock and check back here as I'm thrilled to say  I'll be torturing myself all over again next month and featuring Augusts favourites ;)

26.07.2011- First Look: Elle Fanning for LOVE

You may remember about this time last year, the fourth edition of LOVE magazine was available with eight different covers. Well, issue six of the magazine comes out at the beginning of August, with three different covers to choose from, and, a month after this, a second run of the issue with five special edition fashion covers will be available. I've just caught a sneaky peek at the first cover to be released- rising star Elle Fanning as photographed by Mert and Marcus:

Elle Fanning, LOVE Magazine August 2011 by Mert and Marcus.

If all of the covers are as lovely as this one, then it's going to be very hard to make a choice! Keep your eyes peeled for the rest as they are released throughout the week.

What do you think of Elle Fanning's cover for LOVE? Will you be buying the issue?

(Image credit: LOVE on facebook.)

25.07.2011- Monday Must-haves

Typical. The moment I come up with a knitwear themed post, we experience what feels like a mini-heatwave. I suppose it just serves me right for being uber-organised, eh? Anyway, this week's must-haves post features some of the gorgeous jumpers which are already making their way into the shops in preparation for winter:

A few years ago I bought some gorgeous jumpers which are now either a) too big for me or b) too small for me (having been shrunk in the wash). Whenever it's freezing cold in the winter, I go to reach for a cosy jumper only to discover pretty poor selection, some of which would even look small on Thumbelina! I've adored this River Island jumper for ages, and think it's a really versatile piece- it would look great with jeans or over a cute tea dress. I love the vibrant colours of these knits from Oasis, so refreshing to see something for winter that's not black or grey! This adorable pink number from Rokit has just shot straight to the top of my wishlist, it's a stunning colour and incorporates a big trend for the coming season- the collar. You can't go wrong with an oversize cardigan from Topshop, and I adore the chunky buttons on this mohair version. And whilst this embroidered jumper from Monsoon is a touch on the expensive side, I think it would look fabulous teamed with a blood red pleated midi skirt (dare I utter the phrase Christmas party outfit?!)

I'm off to evaluate my knitwear collection make space for some more clothes in my wardrobe.

Do you think it's too early to be looking at winter clothes in July? And what are your thoughts on my picks for this week?

(Image credit: River Island, Oasis, Rokit, Topshop and Monsoon.)

Monday Monday -sigh- OOTD

Hey beauties, I do hope you're all well and good, today has definitely been a typical Monday for me, not feeling too amazing ha-ha. I think after  a gorgeous weekend Monday always seeems crappy and even though I've been at home for the majority of the day it's just not been too fabulous.

Ahh well enough of my moanings ha-ha I have a little OOTD for you all today seeing as I was rather keen on this outfit and I haven't done one for a while again -slaps wrists-

Here we are :

What I'm wearing :
- Dress - New Look kindly brought for me by the lovely boyfriend  and fast becoming a favourite in my wardrobe :) so easy to team with anything + cute over leggings too
- Heels - Sisters ;) I think they're New Look too
- Belt - River Island mens (remarkably not my boyfriends for once)
Jewellery - A mix of my boyfriend, my family and my sisters.

So there we are my loves a really quick OOTD for you all, what do you think?
Hope you've all had a better Monday than moi!
<3

22.07.2011- Fashion in Motion: Yohji Yamamoto

At the start of the month, my best friend Sarah and I went along to the Yohji Yamamoto Fashion in Motion event at the Victoria and Albert museum. We'd been to the Kenzo show last November, and were very excited to see the work of another designer up close against the backdrop of the museum's breathtaking Raphael Gallery. Celebrating the retrospective of Yamamoto's work which had been housed in the museum until only a few weeks ago, the show had an entirely different aesthetic to the Kenzo presentation and featured a selection of both menswear and womenswear. Most endearingly of all, however, the looks were modelled by real life couples from London, mirroring the approach Yamamoto took to casting his Spring/Summer 1999 menswear show, where the models were handpicked from the streets of Paris. The designs featured in the presentation showcased Yamamoto's famous approach to cutting womenswear; loose, flowing fabrics and shapes were utilised to create a distinctly androgynous feel. The menswear featured was also quite unconventional, with suits in a riot of colours and longer lines used to play with proportion.

I really enjoyed this event, and loved the fact that the models were real couples. I'm now on a mission to track down a t-shirt with the slogan 'I am a deeply superficial person' on!

Have you ever been to a Fashion in Motion event? And are you a fan of Yohji Yamamoto's work?

(Image credit: Sarah Farrell, please do not reproduce without permission. Images edited using Picnik.)

Look for less - Rachel Bilson

Hey beauties, how are you all? So happy that is miraculously Friday already - wooo! And I hope that everyone is well and good and ready for some weekend relaxation! Have any of you lovelies got any amazing plans for the weekend? Mine so far basically are to chill with the boyfriend have a much needed catch up and watch some crappy TV ha-ha - not exactly top notch excitement but I cannot wait!


Today I have a gorgeous new eddition to my 'Look for less' section. This one comes all the way from California and curtesy of the beautiful star of the OC Rachel Bilson. I spotted this look whilst browsing the internet the other day and I just thought it was perfect for a casual Summertime look.

Heres Rachels fab outfit:

I absolutely love the pop of colour that the shorts add to her otherwise classic and minimal look. The boots are just gorgeous and the eddition of the elegant blazer meens the look is even UK weather friendly - miracle.

Here is how you can achieve this look for less:

 Firstly this gorgeous blazer that featured on this weeks WednesdayWishList. As I mentioned there I absolutely love the flattering cut of this jacket and the fact that it's just so elegant! It's also super versatile - it'd work with shorts a-la Rachel or skinny jeans for a casual chic ensemble but also look perfect teamed with a tailored LBD or work outfit. Beautiful.
Topshop £65.00

 Then there's this simple simple simple white tee which I have about 5 of in my wardrobe. They're just so key as you can team them with pretty much anything and look fabulous with minimal effort and fuss. I particularily love teaming them with a high-waist skirt for a casual-chic look but seeing Rachels fab styling above I may start trying them out with a cute pair of shorts.
River Island £8.99

Then we have these super fun and playfull shorts in a gorgeous berry reddy/pink colour (if that's even a word ha-ha) I love the shade - they're perfectly colourfull but not too OTT bright. Teamed with a simple tee or tank these would pep up any summer outfit to perfection.
Topshop £34.00

 Next up are these gorgeous ankle booties which I'm a little bit obsessed over I have to confess. I adore everything from the heel height - enough to give me a bit of height but not enough to cripple, the material - sooo soft looking and also the cute shape of the boot - very elegant and cute. And to top it off they're a perfect bargain at
H&M £14.99

To finish this look off we have this gorgeous black tote bag which is incredibly chic and elegant and would finish any look of brilliantly. I love the detail the gold chain adds so understated and glamourous and then the cute little padlock is just gorgeous.
New Look £15.99

So there we are babes - Rachels fab casual chic look for less!
Hope you like and feel free to drop any suggestions you have for who you want to be featured here next in a comment below!
Have a great weekend
<3

Wednesday Wish List 20/7/11

Hi dolls! Feels like absolutely ages since I tortured myself with a little Wednesday Wish-list so seeing as I had a free day feeling sorry for myself (hello crappy headache) I thought I'd get back on it for you all and have a little hunt. Well, I can certainly tell you I was not disappointed and now I'm stupidly excited about heading out shopping ASAP (oops - sorry bank balance!)
Here's my top finds this week:

 Firstly this gorgeous structured blazer with lovely turned-up cuffs (anyone else a total sucker for them?) I'd be wearing this over a simple dress in Summer for some structure then teaming with skinny jeans and boots in the Autumn for a real put together look. Absolutely love the cut of this beauty - not too tight but not sloppy enough to drown me - perfection.
Topshop £65.00

 Then we have this edgy little crop top which I would team with a black high-waist skirt, denim cut-offs or skinny jeans for a fab rock chick look throughout the seasons. Great unique print and I love the 'Free Spirit' motif - maybe it's my inner hippie but I love that idea ha-ha.
Topshop £18.00

 Next up we have this fab red skater dress that if you follow me on twitter  you'll know I've been drooling over. I just think it's so classy and elegant but also relaxed and not too formal so I wouldn't feel uncomfortable wearing it on a day to day basis. I'd team with flat patent black Mary-janes and a cropped leather jacket. And I'd be happy!
Miss Selfridge £37.00

Then we have these gorgeous studded boots which I'm a bit crazy about! Love the fact that they're grey not black (all studded boots seem to be black - so annoying) and that they're the perfect height - not TOO high but enough of a lift to elongate my pins a little. Perfect friend for an LBD I think.
Missguided £33.99

 Lastly I'm going ga-ga over this beautiful studded watch. Yeah, watch! How absolutely awesome is that? I love, love the studs (if you haven't guessed by now I'm a total studaholic) and I love how this is such a unique twist on traditional watches.
River Island £25.00

So there's my little wish list for you all I hope you love the items as much as I do (as long as you dont go out and buy them all before I can ha-ha)

Now as well as the wish-list today I've also got something really lovely to add to the post here :

Another blog award!
Absolutely thrilled and big thanks to the gorgeous Madeline who awarded it to me and please go and check out her fabulous blog!

Now here for 7 facts about me to brighten up your day ;)
- I'm a massive football fan which fellow fashionista's always seem to think is strange seeing as the two don't really mix ha-ha
- My favourite food is Strawberries and I can literally eat a whole punnet at a time = bliss
- I played tennis for 9 years giving it up about 4 years ago for my GCSE's
- I'm teaching myself Spanish at the moment and I absolutely love it
- I'm the biggest bookworm you'll ever find my house looks like an actual library
- I want to visit so many historic cities Rome, Milan, Paris, Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Porto and Berlin are just a few on my list

- I've been blogging for almost 11 months now and I'm more in love with it than ever thanks to all you lovely readers!

<3