26.12.2011- Monday Must-haves: Sale Steals Special

We're just one day after Christmas, and it can't have escaped your notice that the sales are already well underway. Call me a traditionalist, but I'm a firm believer that Boxing Day should be reserved for seeing family, tucking into turkey sandwiches and devouring a selection box of chocolate, and after working in retail at Christmas over the last two years, I can think of nothing worse than battling my way to the bargains currently on offer on the high street. However, I've been browsing online and have come across some amazing finds, so thought I'd share the cream of the sales crop in a special Monday Must-haves post:

The Mulberry sale kicked off online on Christmas Eve, and there are still some bargains available. I've long admired the Tillie from afar (even my Mum's a fan!) and can't quite get over how good the reduction is on this style- I might just give in and treat myself. I adore Alex Monroe's jewellery, and this heart design ring has been on my wish list for ages. At virtually half price, it really is a bargain that has to be snapped up (especially as I've still got a £50 Net-a-Porter voucher to use!) This blouse from Boutique by Jaegar is a beauty, and a real investment buy as it looks like collars are going to continue to be big fashion news as we move in to 2012. Paul & Joe's lipsticks are lovely, and I really like this vibrant pink shade- the perfect injection of colour for a gloomy January. You might remember I featured this lace blouse from Warehouse in a post back in September, and since then I've been waiting for it to be reduced- I eagerly ordered it in blue and pink as soon as I saw it was on sale! I adore this Mavala nail varnish trio from Debenhams, and at under £10 for three shades you really can't go wrong. Finally, this Michael Van der Ham design for Topshop is stunning, and ideal if you're looking to treat yourself to a designer item at high street prices- the sorbet pink is perfect for SS12 too.

Have you treated yourself to anything in the sales? And did you brave your local shopping centre today?

(Image credit: Mulberry, Net-a-Porter, House of Fraser, ASOS, Warehouse, Debenhams and Topshop.)

19.12.2011- Monday Must-haves: The Christmas Countdown

With less than a week to get those last minute pressies, this final installment of my Christmas themed Monday Must-haves focuses on gifts which are at the more luxurious end of the spectrum. Extra special presents for extra special people, if you will (or indeed if you're feeling guilty about leaving everything so late!)

Mulberry's book, created to celebrate their 40th anniversary is the perfect present for a fan of the label, and is a great coffee table title. This clutch bag from ASOS is a lovely shade of Christmas cranberry, and the ideal gift to complete any festive outfit. I adore this wall light from Habitat, and it's a really unusual present- if you're buying for someone who has just moved into a new house or flat, it'd be fantastic. Alternatively, I think it's a great option for someone who wants to redecorate or add that special touch to a room. Patrick Demarchelier's recently released book, Dior Couture, showcases some stunning images, and would be a dream present for anyone looking for some fashion inspiration. I've only just come across this amazing Christmas gift set from Liz Earle, and with the cold weather here to stay it's a really lovely treat to pamper someone with- it's certainly one of the items I'm hoping to find under the tree on Christmas morning! This Sonia Rykiel scarf is an instant classic, and the star print keeps it feeling festive. I've included the Westfield gift card as it would make a brilliant stress-free last minute present- they can be ordered and delivered up until Christmas Eve, and can carry any amount you choose. I was lucky enough to win one myself after entering the Westfield Style Notes Blogger Competition, and it can be used across the majority of luxury and high street stores in any Westfield shopping centre, so is perfect for someone who wants a splurge in Topshop or who might be saving up for a luxury treat. Finally, this gorgeous star ring by Swarovski is a stunning keepsake, and I think it's a really special present to give someone who deserves to wake up to a bit of sparkle on Christmas morning.

(Image credit: Mulberry, ASOS, Habitat, Amazon, Liz Earle, Net-a-Porter, Westfield and Swarovski.)

18.12.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #11: Keira Knightley

I've posted before about my love of Keira Knightley's style, and I think she's one of a select few modern film stars who embodies a really vintage inspired elegance on the red carpet. As the face of Chanel's Coco Mademoiselle fragrance, she can take her pick from Karl Lagerfeld's creations, but the thing I really admire about Keira is her support for upcoming British designers- she wore Erdem back in 2007 and sported a stunning Mary Katrantzou dress at the Venice Film Festival earlier this year. Her street style is relaxed, cool and comfortable, and her model-like proportions are perfect for showcasing stunning couture pieces on the red carpet:

This look was inspired by the autumnal Erdem printed dress which Keira wore to the Olivier awards in 2010, and by a look she put together back in 2008. I love the floral pattern on this blouse from Miss Selfridge, and the black bow detail ensures it co-ordinates perfectly with this Topshop skirt. These boots from Zara really remind me of the Isabel Marant Dickers, and I think they toughen the outfit up perfectly. This satchel from ASOS also matches the blouse beautifully, and the gold buckles make it look like a designer piece. Finally, this ring from Cheap Frills is the perfect statement accessory to finish the look off.

What do you think of Keira Knightley's style? Are you a fan?

(Image credit: Look, ASOS, Miss Selfridge, Topshop, Cheap Frills and Zara.)

14.12.11- What I Wore Today #5

These posts have been a little bit neglected of late, but with it getting dark so early at the moment it's proving tricky to take any photos which don't make me look like a long lost relative of the Addams family- put it this way, flash is not my friend! Anyway, I managed to catch my outfit for today on camera first thing this morning, before I headed out to meet Sarah for lunch and a spot of last-minute Christmas shopping (apologies in advance for the bad quality pictures!)

 Jumper- Zara

Blouse (worn underneath)- Sister Jane at ASOS

Jeans- Topshop

I got this jumper from Zara and blouse by Sister Jane as birthday presents- you might remember I featured them in a Monday Must-haves post a few weeks ago. I was a bit cautious about the jumper at first, but after much deliberation (and advice on washing it from Mumma!) I popped it on my birthday list. I'm so glad I did as it's lovely and really comfortable. I'm also really happy I got this blouse from ASOS (purchased using one of their 20% off codes) as it's proving to be quite a versatile addition to my wardrobe- I can't wait to wear it in the warmer weather!

How are you finding dressing for the cold?

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

14.11.2011- Monday Must-haves

Monday again! I really can't get my head around how quickly this year has flown by- and, with only a few weeks until my 22nd birthday (aaah!), this week's Must-haves post is dedicated to lots of lovely things I wouldn't mind receiving as pressies!

I was browsing ASOS over the weekend (whilst cheekily snapping up some lovely pieces as part of their special 10% off promotion!), and came across this beautiful blouse by Sister Jane. I adore how simple it is, and the embellished collar detail is the perfect touch of sparkle now we're heading into 'party season'. This ring from Accessorize is so cute, and the shopper from Warehouse is just about big enough to fit all of my essentials in- I love the metallic touches too. I spied this jumper in Zara last week, and fell in love as soon as I tried it on- the photo really doesn't do it justice. The only thing which put me off snapping it up on the spot was the 'wash factor'- I think one blast in the machine at 30 degrees and it'd be finished. I'm happy to be proved wrong though, so if you've bought one and it's survived a spin in the wash then please do let me know! These ballet pumps from H&M are very reminiscent of Chanel, and a complete steal at £12.99. Finally, this beautiful burnt red beret was another item I spotted in Zara last week, and I think it's the perfect festive touch as we head into December.

Have you bought anything in the last week? And what items are on your wish list at the moment?

(Image credit: ASOS, Accessorize, Warehouse, Zara and H&M.)

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.)

25.09.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #5: Alexa Chung

Alexa Chung's style is quintessentially English. Part school girl, part granny (her words, not mine!), Alexa's look has become extremely sought after and much replicated since she made her breakthrough hosting Popworld back in 2006. I remember tuning in to an episode and being amazed to see her wearing a smock from Primark identical to one I had hanging in my wardrobe (needless to say I was a very cool sixteen year old!) Alas said smock has now bitten the dust, but Alexa's appeal has not abated and she's now one of the most sought after faces in fashion, regularly appearing in Vogue, ELLE and Harper's Bazaar to name but a few. It's thanks to Miss Chung that Mulberry gave us the Alexa, and this week her second collaboration with Madewell proved so popular that it crashed their website. In fact, Alexa's come a long way since that bargain Primark smock:

Alexa's signature style has spawned a myriad of copy-cats (how else do you explain the sudden popularity of loafers?), but the thing I love about her look is its simplicity. She knows what suits her and she sticks to it, which is why she's regularly seen in mini-dresses, chunky knits and 60s inspired shapes. The 'school girl meets granny' vibe is the perfect thing to keep in mind whilst trying to emulate a slice of Chung style, so be sure to incorporate opaque tights, school uniform shades (charcoal greys, plum reds and navy blues) and of course the now globally famous satchel. Even if you can't stretch to the eye watering expense of a Mulberry original, there are plenty of cheaper alternatives about. My standout item from this 'Style Steal' is this gorgeous navy military coat from New Look- it looks so much more expensive than the £49.99 price tag, and the swing shape, cute collar and bright gold buttons all scream Alexa. Happy shopping!

Are you a fan of Alexa Chung's style?

(Image credit: Look, style.com, Google Images, New Look, Jane Shilton, Topshop, River Island, Mulberry and ASOS.)

19.09.2011- Monday Must-haves: ASOS special

Hello! Hope you all had a lovely weekend- I spent mine catching up on all of the action from London Fashion Week, and am already struggling to whittle down my favourite collections. In celebration of all things LFW, ASOS are running a special promotion- just enter the code 'HAPPYLFW' at the checkout for 20% off all full-price items (offer runs for a limited time only). With this amazing promotion in mind, it would be rude not to dedicate this weeks Must-haves post to my current pick of the ASOS crop:

I've loved this cream swing dress since I spied it as a possible back up graduation dress (I hate last minute outfit panics!), and the detailing is beautiful. This faux-fur collar is the perfect way to update last season's coat for this winter, and the ribbon tie is so cute. I've chosen this pleated maxi skirt as I'm desperate to find one which suits me- the colour of this one is lovely and perfect for autumn (although I'm not too sure it would withstand the blustery weather so well!) I adore this ladylike blouse, and again the colour is gorgeous. Finally, I never really take much notice of ASOS jewellery, but this necklace and ring are really different and unlike anything I've seen in the shops, so I might just take the plunge and purchase!

What do you think of my picks for this week? Has anything caught your eye recently?

(Image credit: ASOS.)

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.)

05.09.2011- Monday Must-haves: Winter Coat edition

Hello my lovelies! Hope you all had wonderful weekends. I know I probably sound like a broken record, but I honestly can't believe it's September already- the year has really flown by. Whilst I'm not really looking forward to the winter (dark mornings are the creation of the devil), one thing I am excited about is shopping for some new season essentials. So, with that in mind, this week's Must-haves post is appropriately winter themed, and features my pick of the best new season coats I've seen so far:

I have to confess, I'm a bit of a coat addict. Every year I vow not to cave in and buy myself a new one, and every year, without fail, I fail! I love this mustard yellow swing coat from Topshop, the bright colour would be the perfect boost during the gloomy winter months and the 60s inspired shape is bang on trend. I've yet to be convinced by capes (the idea of being exposed to a draught is one which makes me flinch!) but this gorgeous brown version from ASOS might just convert me- it certainly looks lovely and cosy. The classic camel coat will be forever stylish, and the belt detail on this one from Diana Vickers' collection for Very creates the perfect cinched in shape, and the colour is heavenly. I love the aviator style collar on this Pins & Needles trench from Urban Outfitters, and the muted neutral tones make it a really versatile piece. Finally, I think this Darling coat may just be the perfect addition to any wardrobe for AW11; it incorporates three trends in one- the collar detail, princess shape and deep burgundy colour. Decisions, decisions...

Have you picked up your winter coat yet? And what do you make of my choices for this week?

(Image credit: Topshop, ASOS, very.co.uk and Urban Outfitters.)

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.)

06.02.2011- The Salon at ASOS

When the March edition of ASOS magazine landed on my doorstep last week, I instantly fell in love with their new capsule collection, The Salon, which 'draws inspiration from a treasure trove of vintage finds'.

(Warning: The following images may result in a serious case of frock lust!)

I love everything from the couture inspired detailing (the flowers on the bodice of the first dress just scream Valentino) to the classic shapes and muted colours. If you've got a summer party/birthday/wedding/graduation/christening or other miscellaneous celebration coming up, any one of these beautiful dresses would be perfect. They are set to land on asos.com next month.

What do you think of The Salon collection? Do you have any favourite pieces?

(Image credit: ASOS Magazine.)

12.08.2010- To Be Adorable

Regular readers will know that I love tba, a label created by British based stylist Binbin McNiven. For Autumn/Winter 2010, McNiven has come up with another beautifully kooky collection, which again features the trademark Peter Pan collar seen in previous collections, as well as incorporating pom-pom detailing and luxurious fabrics such as silk and velvet.

McNiven's approach to creating her collections, is, in her own words, 'to design clothes that make people feel special.' With an already rapidly growing fan base, tba looks set to go from strength to strength over the coming months, and, with a winter collection as cute as this, I can't say I'm surprised. I'm already writing my Autumn/Winter tba wish list!

To view the whole Autumn/Winter collection, visit tba on facebook, ASOS and Urban Outfitters.

(Image credit: tba on facebook.)

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.)

13.01.2010- To Be Adored

To Be Adored (or tba) is a label which has been on my radar for a while now, since I first became aware of their clothing after seeing it in Urban Outfitters last year. Their autumn winter collection fused school-girl chic which sophisticated scallop hem detailing and evoked a strong 60's feel, particularly in their swing coats and cardigans with contrasting buttons. Both on the red carpet and in fashion editorials last season, tba established a strong following...

Although I was sorely tempted to purchase the navy blue dress as worn by Ophelia Lovibond above, my indecision (and the fact that the dress sold out pretty much as soon as it was included in Urban Outfitters' Boutique sale) sadly meant that my wardrobe was minus a tba frock. However, having now seen the Spring/Summer collection, I am once again lusting after their beautiful pieces. Inspired by Mia Farrow and her onscreen performances (specifically in Rosemary's Baby and The Great Gatsby), the collection fuses together two of the season's key trends: nudes and metallics and feels effortlessly modern but simultaneously timeless. Here are some of my favourite pieces:

 

 

I love the combination of the romantic colour palette with the military buttons to give the shirt dress a harder edge, and the maxi dress would be perfect to wear on holiday. I may just have to treat myself this time!

To find out more about the collection and look up stockists, vist ilovetba.co.uk.

(Image credit: ilovetba.co.uk, Urban Outfitters and ASOS.)

29.12.2009- Retrospective: Rodarte Fall 2008

 

 

 

In the shops:

Knitted Fluffy Jumper, Topshop, was £70 now £20.

Online:

Stripe Loose Stitch Knitted Dress, ASOS, £40.

From my wardrobe:

Blush Knitted Fluffy Jumper Dress, Topshop, was £45, bought in the January sales for £20 and delivered to my doorstep this morning!

(Image credit: style.com, TOPSHOP, ASOS and Sarah Farrell.)