20.12.2011- Festive Dress Guide Part Four: The Little Black Dress

The final edition of my Festive Dress Guide focuses on that classic wardrobe staple- The Little Black Dress. A versatile item which is a failsafe year in year out, and which is perfect if you're still stuck for outfit inspiration:

I spied this dress from Zara online a few weeks ago, and was amazed by the £25.99 price tag- the lace sleeves and collar detail make it look so much more expensive, don't you think? This 60s inspired flared design from French Connection is a real classic, and the empire line cut is a really flattering option (especially if, like me, you're prone to overindulging!) This polka dot number from Topshop could be a double for a Stella McCartney design, and I love the bow tie on the neckline. True Decadence's take on the flapper style is another standout design, and with the 20s set to be big style news for next season, it's the perfect frock to invest in if you want to stay ahead of the crowd. And last, but by no means least, this stunning design by Claudie Pierlot is my dream LBD- I adore the embroidered collar and the oversized shape captures an understated elegance which I just love.

Have you got your festive outfits planned? And have you enjoyed this feature?

(Image credit: Zara, French Connection, Topshop, Oasis and Urban Outfitters.)

13.12.11- Festive Dress Guide Part Two: The Christmas Treat

As far as Christmas Day dressing goes, for me comfort is key. I'd happily spend the day in my pyjamas (accessorized with tinsel, of course!), but this probably isn't the most appropriate of outfits when it comes to welcoming the family round- the sight of me in my dressing gown and slippers would be enough to make them run for the hills! The selection of dresses I've chosen for this second instalment of my Festive Dress Guide are perfect for the day itself, combining comfort with a touch of Christmas opulence:

This stunning beaded dress designed by Fearne Cotton for Very is Christmas personified- the deep cranberry colour and glittering details are simply perfect for this time of the year. I love the relaxed shape of this design from New Look, and think it captures a really effortless festive feel. The blush colour is a nice alternative to white, and I like that the embellishments are quite simple too. I adore the deep burgundy shade of this handkerchief hem dress from Dahlia, and think it would also make an amazing transitional piece- perfect for seeing you into the New Year in style. This forest green beauty from Oasis is also another really bold statement frock. The colour isn't something I'd ordinarily plump for, but it immediately makes me feel festive and I love the classic cut. Finally, this velvet halter dress from Topshop is sheer Christmas opulence- although the style is quite tricky to pull off I think it would look lovely if teamed with a few statement accessories. It also really reminds me of a certain purple festive chocolate, which can never be a bad thing!

Have you got a special outfit planned for Christmas Day? And what do you think of my choices?

(Image credit: very.co.uk, New Look, Dahlia, Oasis and Topshop.)

07.12.2011- Festive Dress Guide- Part One: The Showstopper

Christmas always throws up a whole host of dilemmas, doesn't it? How long to cook the turkey for, which presents to buy and how to move off of the sofa after eating your entire body weight in chocolate. One of the more crucial conundrums to arise at this time of year, however, is a perennial favourite- what on earth do I wear? The sartorial dilemma of what to put on for lazing around the house is one which presents no problems at all- pyjamas and a Christmas jumper of your choice become a 'go-to' option (and all the better for an elasticated waistband!) However, there are several instances where a slanket isn't really considered de rigueur- office parties, pre-Christmas drinks with friends and even Christmas Day itself- each occasion presents a minefield of seemingly endless wardrobe options. If you're stuck for an outfit this festive season (and I know I am!), never fear. Over the next few weeks I'll be posting my Festive Dress Guide, showcasing a selection of top frocks and attempting to prove that getting dressed up at this time of the year doesn't always have to mean competing for attention with the Christmas tree. First up, The Showstopper:

The Showstopper- an instant head turner. A tricky look to pull off- keeping things simple with minimal accessories is key. This dress from Topshop is probably the most fashion-forward of the pieces I've selected, but teamed with a pair of heels I think it would look amazing- I love the muted silver colour. You really can't get more sophisticated than this classic monochrome number from Rokit- a vintage design that would surely never date. I've also admired this dress from Whistles for ages, and although it's quite trend-led with the embellished collar, I think it's a piece you could pull out of your wardrobe again and again and never tire of. This beautiful offering from Oasis is ultra-feminine and perfectly subtle- the embellished bodice adds just the right sprinkling of sparkle to an otherwise really simple dress. Finally, this piece from Next is probably the most overtly festive of this little selection, but I couldn't resist the star details and 20s inspired shape- the classy combination of black and silver also saves it from being too over-the-top.

Are you struggling with a festive frock dilemma? And would you wear any of the dresses I've picked out?

(Image credit: Topshop, Rokit, Whistles, Oasis and Next.)

27.11.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #9: Kirsten Dunst

Kirsten Dunst has long been a fashion inspiration of mine. I've loved watching her films (Marie Antoinette is one of my all-time favourites), and, after randomly bumping into her in the shoe department of Selfridges a few years ago, I've been an avid follower of her style. Whilst I'm yet to catch her performance in Melancholia, it was great to see Kirsten on the red carpet again during the promotion of the film over the summer, wearing stunning dresses by Chanel, Chloé and Rodarte. If I had to summarise her look in one word, I'd probably choose romantic- pretty details, classic shapes and a touch of whimsy all come together to create a much-coveted signature style:

My interpretation of Kirsten's style is all about taking classic pieces and adding to them- this shirt from Miss Selfridge is a perfect wardrobe staple with an added element of sparkle thanks to the embellished collar. The same goes for the Oasis skirt- the lace overlay captures the sense of romance which makes Kirsten's look so recognisable. The embellished touches on this Topshop dress evoke a couture feel at a fraction of the price, and I think these shoes from Zara could be mistaken for a Miu Miu pair. Finally, these earrings from Whistles are both simple and cute, capturing the essence of Kirsten's approach to fashion.

What do you think of Kirsten Dunst's style?

(Image credit: Look, Miss Selfridge, Whistles, Oasis, Topshop, and Zara.)

03.11.2011- My Month In Pictures: October

It feels like I say the same thing every time I put this post together, but I can't believe the year is almost over. There's just under a month to go until I turn 22 (scary stuff) and shortly after that Christmas will be upon us...and I haven't even started my present shopping yet. Before I start panicking too much about that, here's what I got up to in October:

 3rd October- Made the most of the unexpected heatwave at the start of the month by going for a lovely long walk and picnic.

 13th October- Made these cupcakes after watching (and being very inspired by!) the final of The Great British Bake Off.

14th October- Received these lovely goodies in the post from Cheap Frills as a thank you after posting about their collection.

 19th October- Caught this beautiful sunset on camera.

 19th October- Ate far too many of these macaroons at the Oasis Event.

23rd October- Was amazed to find this fox enjoying the sunshine on my neighbour's shed!

How did you spend your October? 

(Image credit: Sarah Farrell, please do not reproduce without permission.)

30.10.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #7: Elizabeth Olsen

I've been a fan of Elizabeth Olsen's style for a little while now, and she's been steadily making a sartorial impact at events and premieres over the last few months. This week she attended a screening of her film Martha Marcy May Marlene at the London Film Festival, gracing the red carpet in sparkling Chanel Couture and cementing her status as an up-and-coming style icon:

I love Elizabeth's style as it's really simple and sophisticated. Unlike Mary-Kate's penchant for vintage and Ashley's attraction to all things minimalist, Elizabeth seems to prefer looks which are feminine, classic and youthful. I adore the dress by The Row (who else?) which she wore to the Cannes Film Festival back in May, and, as we saw at the SS12 presentations, this 20s inspired look is set to be big news for next season. Throw in some statement accessories and a touch of sparkle and you're well on your way to emulating Elizabeth's sophisticated elegance.

Are you a fan of Elizabeth Olsen's style?

(Image credit: Look, Google Images, Warehouse, ASOS, Oasis, River Island and very.co.uk.)

25.10.2011- Midnight (well, half 7!) at the Oasis

Last Wednesday, Sarah and I were lucky enough to be invited along to a blogger's party thrown by Oasis to celebrate the launch of their recently revamped Argyll Street store. The event started in their beautiful Regent Street Press Office, where we enjoyed cupcakes, champagne and were offered a sneak preview of their new collections before heading over to Argyll Street to collect a goody bag and have a look around the store itself. Here's a little snapshot of the lovely time we had:

Sarah enjoying a drink.

Samples in the show room.

The beautiful view over Regent Street.

Sarah fell in love with this limited edition coat, very Chanel!

There was also a little dressing up area where we were welcome to try on our favourite pieces, cue me pulling the most awkward face ever!

To celebrate their 20th birthday, Oasis have also reworked a selection of classic pieces from their archives, including this lovely white blouse.

The amazing fitting rooms in the Argyll Street store- I wish my house looked like this!

Inside the amazing Argyll Street store.

Overall, it was a really lovely evening. I loved the chance to see some of the new products up close (I've already drawn up a lengthy shopping list!), and the opportunity to have a good explore of the Argyll Street store was fantastic. A massive thank you to the lovely people at Oasis for the invite (and is there any chance you could come and decorate my room?!)

Also, apologies for the cringe-worthy title of this post, I couldn't resist!

(Image credit: Sarah Farrell, please do not reproduce without permission, and Oasis)

05.10.2011- What I Wore Today #2

Am I the only one finding it really hard to decide what to wear in this unpredictable weather? One minute the sun is shining and temperatures soaring, the next it's pouring with rain! For a day of window shopping (and buying a lot of new baking goodies after watching the final of The Great British Bake Off), I opted for a suitably weatherproof outfit:

Dress- tba

Mac- Oasis

I picked up this velvet dress by tba in the Urban Outfitters sale last year and it has become one of my favourite purchases. It's really versatile (I practically lived in it last Christmas!) and I love the cut-out collar. Worn with thick black tights and this Mac from Oasis, it's perfect for a changeable autumnal day.

What are your go-to pieces for the autumn? And did you watch the final of the Great British Bake Off?

(Image credit: Sarah Farrell, please do not reproduce without permission.)

26.09.2011- Monday Must-haves

Monday again! I hope you all had great weekends. I had a very busy day yesterday which involved being bombarded by sales staff left, right and centre at London Fashion Weekend, an impromptu picnic in St. James' Park and finally visiting the Glamour of the Gods exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery which I posted about back in July. You must go if you get the chance, it's wonderful, and every inch as glamorous as you'd expect (think Veronica Lake, Gary Cooper, Clara Bow and Cary Grant to name but a few). Anyway, back to business- my Must-haves for this week:

This week's selection is quite an odd mixture, but when I saw the bargain prices of some of the items I've had my eye on for a while I couldn't resist including them. I love this ring from Oasis as it really reminds me of the YSL Arty range, and at a mere £8 is a fraction of the price. I spied this Olivia Rubin top during London Fashion Weekend yesterday (their sales staff were lovely!) and really regret not buying it then and there. I've admired Olivia's work for a long time, and the print on this design is just beautiful and unlike anything I've seen anywhere else...thank heavens for online shopping! These boots from Office were at the top of my wish list this time last year, but as you can imagine I was reluctant to shell out nearly £100 for them. Now they've been reduced to £55 in the sale just in time for winter, so it would be rude not to snap them up! Talking of winter, how adorable is this jumper from Topshop??! I am thinking of getting it just to confuse my cats (and trust me, they are easily confused!) These Giles & Brother earrings are beautiful, and with the £50 Net-A-Porter voucher I got at Fashion's Night Out, would only be £15. Finally, this lace top from Warehouse is perfectly pretty- I adore the deep blue shade and doesn't it match the ring perfectly? Anyone would think I plan these posts!

What do you think of my choices for this week? And did you have a good weekend?

(Image credit: Warehouse, Oasis, Olivia Rubin, Office, Topshop and Net-A-Porter.)

18.09.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #4: Clémence Poésy

Clémence Poésy has long been on one my fashion favourites. With her effortless approach to red carpet dressing, Clémence has developed a signature style which is laid back and understated, but at the same time classically elegant and oh so French. I've always thought that French women have all the luck when it comes to nailing the 'Oh, I just threw this old thing on!' look- they somehow manage to look amazing in clothes which your average human would look ridiculous in. But, after looking at Clémence's style, I think I've cracked the Parisienne formula- she usually goes for black and navy outfits which are deceptively simple, but which often incorporate quirky details, whether it be a ribbon around the waist or a peter pan collar, and she always keeps accessories to a minimum:

If, unlike Clémence, you don't have a free pass to outfit upon outfit from Chanel, then her look is fairly easily to replicate on the high street. Cute swing dresses with collar details are absolutely everywhere this season, and sticking to a classic colour palette will help to replicate some of that effortless Parisienne magic. Less really is more in this case, so keep accessories co-ordinated, and incorporate a bit of monochrome to nod to classic Chanel. Perfect!

What do you think of Clémence Poésy's style? Are you a fan?

(Image credit: Look, Vogue, Zimbio, Google Images, Accessorize, Oasis, Warehouse, New Look, Rokit and ASOS.)

29.08.2011- (Bank Holiday) Monday Must-haves

Hello lovelies! Hope you've all had a lovely, relaxing Bank Holiday Monday. My productive morning slid into a very lazy afternoon, as I fell asleep watching The Incredibles (how rock and roll of me!)...but if you can't indulge in a mid-afternoon nap at the Bank Holiday than when can you? Luckily, I'm now wide awake and here with my must-haves for this week:

This week's 'Must-haves' is a bit of a dress fest, but as autumn fast approaches I'm going to be stocking up on versatile styles which I can team with tights, boots and woolly jumpers to keep the cold at bay! This swing dress from ASOS is at the top of my 'winter dresses' list, I love the shape and the lace detailing, plus the turn-down collar is oh-so trendy. I saw this leopard print drop-waisted dress in Zara at the weekend, and instantly fell in love with the colours...perfectly autumnal. As a rule I'm not a big fan of leopard print (I always think there's a fine line between looking stylish and channelling the first lady of leopard, HRH Bet Lynch) but I love that this print isn't too gaudy. I also picked this failsafe floral number from New Look, as I think it would look perfect with a chunky knit and is a definite keeper for the summer months too. I was really drawn to the muted colours of this top from Oasis, and love the cut too. I fell in love with this ring from Whistles after spying it on Vicky's blog a while ago, and am including it here as a reminder to myself to buy it soon...simply too cute. Finally, I got a little bit too excited when Topshop dropped their new season make-up online last week, as I'm a massive fan of their lipsticks (they have amazing staying power). This baby pink shade is perfect, and I've been after a similar colour for ages (can you tell I'm trying to justify adding to my rapidly expanding collection?!)

What bits and pieces have you got your eye on at the moment? And what do you think of my picks for this week?

(Image credit: ASOS, Oasis, Topshop, Zara, New Look and Whistles.)