21.08.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #1: Karen Gillan

New feature alert! I've had this idea floating around my brain since the New Year (proactive, I know!) but it's taken me this long to get it down on paper (or Blogger, if you like). Anyway, better late than never, here is the first of what I'm hoping will become a regular post for your Sundays- essentially casting an admiring eye over the style of some of my current fashion favourites. Hope you enjoy!

Now, if you're anything like me (a bit of a nerd) then you'll be eagerly anticipating the arrival of the second half of the present series of Doctor Who on television next weekend. After a few massively confusing episodes at the opening of the series (too much for my tiny mind to handle!), I'm looking forward to seeing the direction the second half takes, and cannot wait for the return of James Corden as Craig. So, with this in mind, what better way to welcome back the Doctor than by celebrating the style of his most fashionable companion to date- Amy Pond, alias Karen Gillan.

I've admired Karen's style since she began making appearances when the series was re-launched last year. She's got such unique style and isn't afraid to embrace a bold fashion choice, but her look is still really accessible and easily replicated on the high street.

Think one-off vintage dresses, oversize boyfriend jackets, toughened up footwear and statement accessories and you're there. Karen is set to make even more of a fashion statement over the coming weeks, as she stars in the BBC Four drama We'll Take Manhattan, playing iconic 60's model Jean 'The Shrimp' Shrimpton. I can't wait to see it, and am sure the costumes will be amazing.

Are you a fan of Karen's style? And are you looking forward to the return of Doctor Who?

(Image credit: Glamour, Look, The Fashion Spot, ASOS, Dune, Rokit, River Island, Topshop and Missguided.)

21.10.2010- Luella's Guide to English Style

If your fashion tastes are anything like mine, you will have been devastated when the news broke about this time last year that Luella Bartley's fashion label was to cease trading. Have no fear though: Luella is back, this time with her Guide to English Style, a book which is hailed as a celebration of quintessentially English fashion and examines influential English style icons from throughout history, from the Duchess of Devonshire, to Kate Moss. The book also looks at significant moments in English fashion history, and explores the heritage of some of the English girl's best loved wardrobe items, including the tea dress and Fair Isle knit.

Not only does Luella's Guide to English Style promise to be a very stylish addition to your bookshelf, but I think it makes a lovely gift- I've already popped it on my Christmas list!

Luella's Guide to English Style is available from amazon.co.uk and is published by Fourth Estate.

 What do you think? Will you be buying a copy? And who are your ultimate English style icons?

(Image credit: amazon.co.uk and Stylist.)