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.)

20.11.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #8: Zooey Deschanel

I've been a fan of Zooey Deschanel's style for as long as I can remember. She's perfected a look which is unmistakably her own, consisting predominantly of cute, vintage inspired dresses, often with a nod to a classic 50s silhouette. As well as having a serious case of hair envy, I love her approach to fashion as it's unashamedly girly- she's a big fan of cute accessories, flowers and bow details, and her style borders perfectly on the conservative side of kooky...

 

This look is all about the dress. Anything that emphasises the waist and incorporates an A-line skirt is a sure fire way to evoke some of Zooey's sartorial charm. Colours are simple and sophisticated, and a cute flower detail here and there keeps things youthful and fun. And, if you're a fan of Zooey's music, be sure to complete the look with a copy of A Very She and Him Christmas!

What do you think of Zooey Deschanel's style? Are you a fan?

(Image credit: Look, Google Images, Topshop, Accessorize, Warehouse, Miss Selfridge and Rokit.)

16.10.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #6: Florence Welch

Less than a fortnight after emerging from a giant seashell to sing at the Chanel SS12 presentation, Florence Welch is gracing the cover of every magazine from NME to Interview as she promotes her new album, Ceremonials, which is released next month. Since the release of her debut album, Lungs in 2009, Florence has not only become one of the most recognisable voices on the radio, but has also worked with a succession of designers including Givenchy, Valentino and Gucci to cement her status as a style icon:

From floor sweeping couture gowns for red carpet appearances and performances, to a laid back street style which incorporates lots of quirky little touches, Florence's signature looks are always beautifully co-ordinated. Embellishment, lace and metallics are all key players here, as are vintage accessories and statement jewellery. I love Florence's look predominantly because she's such a style chameleon- from ethereal dresses created by the best design houses in the world to a simple plaid shirt accessorised with a ribbon neck tie, she takes a fun, fearless approach to fashion which works so well and compliments her music beautifully.

What do you think of Florence Welch's style? Are you a fan?

(Image credit: Look, New Look, River Island, Miss Selfridge, Dorothy Perkins, Accessorize, Topshop and Rokit.)

10.10.2011- Monday Must-haves

Another week has flown by, and I hope you all had lovely weekends. It seems like I say the same thing every Monday, but I really can't believe how quickly the weeks are flying by...before we know it Christmas will be upon us! With this in mind, this week's Monday Must-haves features some suitably festive items...

As soon as I saw these shoes from very.co.uk, I fell in love with them! They really remind me of a Miu Miu pair, but at £38 are a fraction of the price. The chunky heel is the perfect antidote to falling over and looking like a wally, which, if you're anything like me, you'll be very thankful for (especially at a Christmas/New Year party!) This Pins & Needles Blouse from Urban Outfitters really caught my eye as I love the colour, and I think it'd be perfect for layering as the weather turns chillier. Although some might say featuring two blouses with a bow detail in one post is overkill, after I spied this New Look top on Sarah's blog, I couldn't resist including it...it's so cute and I love the scalloped edges on the collar and cuffs. The sudden change in weather over the last week has also made me realise that I need to stock up on jumpers, and this vibrant pink number from River Island would be a beautiful bright addition to my wardrobe over the winter. I adore this vintage tea dress from Rokit- the floral print is stunning, the style is so flattering and the peter-pan collar is perfectly on trend, plus you know it's the kind of piece that would never really date. Finally, these earrings from H&M are amazing value for £3.99 (there's something a little Mulberry about them too, don't you think?), and I've been after a ring similar to this one from Accessorize for ages- an early Christmas to myself present perhaps?

Have you bought anything over the last week? And what do you think of my choices?

(Image credit: Rokit, New Look, H&M, very.co.uk, Urban Outfitters, River Island and Accessorize.)

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.)

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.)

27.06.2011- Monday Must-haves

Happy Monday! I hope you all had lovely weekends and made the most of the glorious weather, it's boiling at the moment but looks set to bucket it down later on (typical!) Here's another selection of Monday Must-haves to kick off the week:

I saw this gold tee in Dorothy Perkins a while back and have been umming and aahing over it ever since. It does remind me of the sequinned tee from last week's mega-expensive post, and I think it would look great teamed with some skinny jeans. I've seen a lot of people out and about wearing maxi skirts, and this black one from New Look would be really versatile for the summer. I'm still trying to track down the perfect maxi skirt (most of the ones I've tried on have been ridiculously unflattering on me), so this one looks like a contender. I'm in love with these patent River Island loafers, and think that they're the perfect transitional pair of shoes- they'd look great with thick tights and a cute tea dress for the winter. I've also been trying to track down the perfect Breton top for what feel like ages (again, everyone I've tried on to date has made my upper body resemble a rectangle), but this People Tree version may just be the one. Made with Fairtrade organically grown cotton, it's also really great value for an ethically created product. I love this vintage black and white floral top from Rokit, and have been lusting after the satchel since it arrived at work a few weeks ago, I think I might just have to treat myself (although my collapsing wardrobe would beg to differ!)

What do you think of my picks for this week? Did you buy anything nice over the weekend?

(Image credit: People Tree, Rokit, River Island, New Look and Dorothy Perkins.)

20.01.2011- Rokit Designers Guild

I've written before about my absolute adoration for all things Rokit, and this month they are launching a really exciting project which, as well as nurturing new talent, pays tribute to the lasting appeal of vintage and classic design techniques. Rokit Designers Guild is an initiative established for new designers and craftspeople with a passion for vintage style to have their work showcased by one of the most reputable vintage retailers out there, as well as giving avid vintage fans like myself the chance to own one-off, handmade pieces which are either inspired by vintage techniques or created using recycled materials. And, with prices starting at as little as £6, the launch of this project really is an unmissable opportunity to own a genuine designer gem without breaking the bank. The range includes everything from jewellery to dresses, and if you're a massive fan of vintage like myself, is well worth investigating further. Here are some of my favourite pieces from the range:

This hand-made Alice band instantly reminded me of some of the costumes from Black Swan, with its beautiful beaded detailing and feather-like motif.

 This printed scarf encapsulates all things London.

This Bourbon brooch combines two of the things I love most- biscuits and cute accessories!

I can't wait to see more of the collection when it launches later this month.

What do you think of this initiative? Would you buy anything from the range?

(Image credit: rokit.co.uk.)

02.08.2010- Heading for the Fall...

It's only the second of August, but already some of the Autumn/Winter collections are hitting the high street. As usual, the British Summer weather isn't really up to much, and I'm already anticipating what I'll be buying to see me through the autumn and into winter. With that in mind, here's my list of top five must have pieces for your Autumn/Winter 2010 wardrobe:

The Burberry Prorsum show, where Christopher Bailey showcased a flock of shearling jackets, is surely the show that has launched a thousand high street copies. I've already seen a few good imitations online and on the high street, and the Topshop flying jacket, despite its hefty price tag, sold out in a flash online. I'm loving the look of the Warehouse aviator jackets, and the ASOS version has a really authentic feel to it, with functional zips a plenty.

Trousers are having something of a resurgence at present. Whether they be hareem, high waisted, chinos or peg leg, there are plenty of styles to choose from. Either stick to the neutral tones seen at Chloé, the sophisticated blacks á la Celine or, if you're feeling bold plump for a pair in a bright colour or with a printed design.

What better way to spend a winter's evening than curled up with a good book and a mug of hot chocolate whilst snuggled up in a chunky knit. From a practical perspective, if our winter is anywhere near as cold this year as it was last, I'll be investing in many a wooly jumper to keep the cold at bay! Whether worn with jeans, trousers, a midi-skirt or over a dress, a chunky knit is an extremely versatile way to see you warmly through until the spring.

The dress. A wardrobe staple that never goes out of fashion. This season's dress shapes paid homage to the 1950's (think the costume department of Mad Men), and baroque styles made a reappearance, as seen at Alexander McQueen, Mulberry and Balmain. Go for embellishment, beaded details and bold hues for a welcome escape from the winter blues.

The Mulberry Alexa, a sell out when it was first launched, has set the trend for Autumn/Winter's must have bag- the satchel. Whether you plump for a vintage bag, are lucky enough to be able to afford a Mulberry original, or pick up yours from the many available on the high street, the satchel is the key accessory for the coming season.

What do you think? What pieces will you be looking to pick up on the high street for Autumn/Winter?

(Image credit: style.com, TOPSHOP, WAREHOUSE, Rokit, mulberry, instyle.co.uk, ASOS, riverisland.com, Oasis and frenchconnection.com.)

01.03.2010- Vintage Treasures.

I love vintage clothes and shopping for vintage; there is something magical about finding a unique piece that fits perfectly and instantly transports you back to a bygone era, whether it be the glamour of the 40's and 50's, the kooky charm of the 60's, bohemian chic of the 70's, or the shimmering extravagances and punk attitude of the 80's. My favourite vintage shop to visit in London is Rokit in Covent Garden; it really is an Aladdin's cave of one-off vintage pieces, and is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the styles and stories of the past. Rokit, with four stores in London (the others being in Camden and on Brick Lane), is the longest standing retailer of vintage items in London, and, unlike other vintage boutiques, has a new delivery of stock every day, meaning there is always something new and exciting to snap up when you visit. Unlike a lot of other vintage retailers and concessions, Rokit's items are usually very reasonably priced; I recently picked up a lovely fluffy white jumper from there which has kept me warm all winter, which was a steal at £15. Each item is professionally dry cleaned and pressed before reaching stores, so no nasty smells or suspect stains to contend with!

This spring/summer, what better way to embrace the season's nostalgic trends for double denim, 70's retro romantic and underwear as outerwear, than to invest in a true vintage collectable? Rokit is also the perfect place to visit to get perfectly and practically kitted out for the festival season, with playsuits, floral dresses, vintage sunglasses and cropped jackets (perfect for the inevitable summer downpours!) Even if you can't get to a Rokit store near you, their wonderful website, rokit.co.uk has a fantastic collection of over 10,000 items to choose from. I'm currently lusting after this gorgeous 80's jumper, which I might have to cave in and buy:

Perfect for the transition from winter to spring I think and the ideal way to inject a little bit of sparkle into my wardrobe (not that it needs anymore!)

(Image credit: rokit.co.uk.)