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.)

28.08.2011- Sunday Style Spotlight #2: Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld is one cool kid. Oscar nominated for her performance as Mattie Ross in True Grit, recently revealed as the new face of Miu Miu's AW11 ad campaign and LOVE magazine cover star. And, as if that wasn't enough, Hailee has also developed a signature style, showcasing an understated elegance on the red carpet, and even designing her own gown for the Oscars. The thing I love about Hailee's approach to style is how classic it is- simple dresses, sleek hair and makeup and co-ordinated accessories all play a part in creating the effortlessly ladylike look which she's honed over the last year or so:

Miu Miu has become a firm favourite for Hailee on the red carpet (talk about perk of the job!), and the swallow print dress from their AW11 presentation has become one of the most covetable items for the coming season. At a fraction of the price, this gorgeous red version from Warehouse is perfect for channelling some of Hailee's demure style. Embellishments, detailed collars and feminine colours are also key, as is that beautiful smile! I can't wait to see how Hailee's style develops as her career progresses- she's soon set to star in a new adaptation of Romeo and Juliet which I think will be amazing. Watch this space!

What do you think of Hailee's style? Are you a fan? And what do you think of her collaboration with Miu Miu?

(Image credit: Vogue, Look, Warehouse, Topshop, Miss Selfridge and French Connection.)

24.08.2011- Brighton Rock

If you've been shopping over the last few weeks, then you can't fail to have noticed the arrival of a slew of 1960s style designs on the high street. And if you've been inspired by what you've seen of the mods and rockers vibe so far, then you'll love this shoot from the September issue of US Vogue:

Natalia Vodianova and Sam Riley by Mert & Marcus, US Vogue September 2011, styled by Grace Coddington.

I love the sharp tailoring, bright colours and graphic prints, and Natalia rocks a beehive and smoky eye like no-one else can. Plus it's great to see Sam Riley (who was so good in Control) hitting the big time in America, as the adaptation of Brighton Rock in which he stars is released over there. Definitely a must-watch if you need a further dose of 60s inspiration.

What do you think of this shoot? And have you been inspired by any 60s fashion you've seen on the high street so far?

(Image credit: fashiongonerogue.)

22.08.2011- Monday Must-haves

Hello lovelies! I've just about gathered myself after my earlier post! Hope you're all having a beautiful start to the week. Here's my round up of everything I'm currently coveting (and trying to make space for in my wardrobe!)

I've posted about these paperbag style skirts from New Look before, and, after picking up the dusty pink version for a bargain price of £15 in the sale, I've now got my eye on these other colours- the deep red one is edging ahead at the moment. Another coat from Oasis after last week's post (sorry for being so predictable!) but when I saw this gorgeous 60s style mac I couldn't resist including it. I've posted before about my hunt for the perfect Breton top, and after a few unsuccessful purchases, I stumbled across this one from French Connection, which I've got very high hopes for! Inkeeping with the rather Parisian flavour, I've included these pale pink French Sole ballet pumps...a girl can dream, right? And after seeing this beautiful ring over at the Temporary:Secretary store, I had to feature it- so cute. Finally, this Tesco tote is too much of a bargain to refuse and this lovely lace top from Urban Outfitters has been on my 'to buy' list for ages.

Did you have a good weekend? And what items are you coveting at the moment?

(Image credit: Urban Outfitters, Temporary:Secretary, New Look, Oasis, French Connection, French Sole and Tesco.)

22.08.2011- The Look Show!

Hello! A quick post before I combust with excitement- I just arrived home to an email from the lovely Look team telling me I've been shortlisted as one of the Top 20 bloggers in their blogging competition! I'm honestly speechless! I loved putting together my entry and am so so chuffed it's been picked as one of the top 20. Massive congratulations to everyone else who was shortlisted, let's all go and have some cake in celebration! Also best of luck to everyone for the next stage and thanks so much again to Look!

P.S Fear not, I have a Monday Must-haves post waiting in the wings for later and normal service shall be resumed when I've recovered! :)

(Image credit: Look.)

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.)

19.08.2011- Weekend Wishes

This weekend, I wish I could get my hands on this lovely little lot from the Rodarte for Opening Ceremony Fall collection:

Beautiful! I love how this lookbook has been put together and the floaty, flyaway dresses are simply stunning. Operation bank balance we are a go...

What do you think of Rodarte's Fall collection for Opening Ceremony? And what do you have planned for the weekend?

(Image credit: fashiongonerogue.)

17.08.2011- Fashion's Night Out 2011

With less than a month to go until Fashion's Night Out here in London, a few details are emerging of some of the events which will be taking place. On September 8th (co-incidentally the same date as my graduation ceremony!), London will once again be transformed into fashionista central, and, after last year's antics, I'm really excited to see what this year will bring. Here are a few gems of information which have been released so far:

Rob Ryan has designed the official Fashion's Night Out tee for 2011, which will retail for £18 across the retailers participating in the event. All proceeds will go to Kids Company.

Mulberry will be offering manicures and photo booth sessions at their Bond Street branch, following which you can pop over to the Brompton Road store to have your fortune read. There will also be prize draws taking place.

Rupert Sanderson will be having a roller disco in his Mayfair store (amazing!) and will also launch an exclusive disco platform boot, with 10% of the proceeds going to Kids Company.

Matthew Williamson will be showcasing his new diffusion line MW at his Bruton Street store, where he will be joined by the face of the collection, Edie Campbell. An exclusive limited edition t-shirt will also be available in store.

Alexander McQueen will be selling these exclusive keyrings which will be sold at their Bond Street branch:

And that's just for starters! For more information about some of the exclusive merchandise which will be sold on the night and for more on the events taking place visit the Fashion's Night Out website. I can't wait to hear what else will be going on!

Are you looking forward to Fashion's Night Out this year?

(Image credit: Google and Fashion's Night Out on facebook.)

15.08.2011- Monday Must-haves

Happy Monday everyone! Hope you all had a lovely weekend. Here we are again at the start of another week, so once again I've put together my wishlist. To be honest, I'm in a bit of a style rut at the moment, but I put that down to the time of the year- jeans are becoming my 'go to' option in this ever changing climate of ours! Nevertheless, I've picked out a few pieces I've got my eye on:

A few months ago I picked up the blue version of this Topshop dress after hunting high and low for it- it's now fast become a favourite in my wardrobe and is really versatile. When I saw the pink version online last week, I was very tempted to order it but I think it's one of those pieces you need to see in store before buying. Every winter I'm always tempted by a new coat and over the last few years have accumulated a fair few. This camel number from Oasis is already a firm favourite; I love the cut, colour and the cute fur collar. Another few pieces from Topshop in the form of this lovely sequin tee (I love the contrast between the blue and gold) and these boots, which I love but am fairly sure would make my feet look even more enormous than they already are (I'm a UK 8!) This jumper from Warehouse is also really versatile and I can see it lasting from the start of autumn right through the winter, and the touch of sparkle is adorable. I'm also really tempted to invest in a denim shirt after seeing Michelle's post on how they can be styled, and these earrings from Urban Outfitters were too cute to resist.

Before signing off, I just want to say something about the terrible riots, looting and arson which hit the UK last week. Croydon is my local town and it was heartbreaking to see places that I know and love destroyed, and my thoughts are with everyone who has been affected. I realise it might seem a bit frivolous posting about shopping when there are far bigger things going on right now, but I'm a great believer in the 'Keep Calm and Carry On' mentality, so thought it best to post as normal. Just thought it couldn't go unacknowledged, and again massive love to anyone who has been affected ♥.

(Image credit: Topshop, Warehouse, Urban Outfitters, New Look and Oasis.)

12.08.2011- My entry to blog the Look show

I'm sure you've all read about the amazing competition that Look magazine are running, so here I am throwing my hat into the ring (so to speak!) So hello LOOK judges, welcome to my blog, grab a cuppa and some cake and have a read of my entry:



Why I should blog the Look Show

To blog the Look show is every girl's dream,

It’s amazing, stylish and far from routine.

The chance to sit in a glittering front row,

And perhaps even chat to Miss Palermo.

Of course I’d love to post about the event,

For my lovely followers to read and comment,

But most of all I’d really love to go

To experience my first proper fashion show.

I’ve posted about fashion weeks in the past

But blogging the Look show would be a real blast.

Seeing the best of the British High Street,

All from the comfort of a front row seat.

I blog about the catwalk, designers and shows,

What’s hot, what’s not and much lusted-after clothes,

My highlights of fashion week showcase the best

Of Paris, New York, Milan and the rest.

I write about shopping, new collections and style

In posts which I hope amuse and beguile

I share my must-haves, wishes and thoughts,

And season to season my own catwalk reports.

I’d love to win the Look competition

To help me fulfil a lifetime ambition-

Of blogging a fashion show from start to end-

Spotting the looks, the labels and the next biggest trend.

From Mulberry to Marc, Chanel to Valentino,

That must-have new dress or great pair of chinos

I write about the things I love and admire-

Essentially anything I hope will inspire

My blog may not be hip, ultra-trendy or swish

But winning this contest is my biggest wish

So come on, Look judges, pick me to blog the show

Set me on the way to becoming a pro.

A bona-fide fashion blogger, the new Tavi, Susie, Garance

The role I’d aspire to if I won the chance

To post about this fantastic occasion

Me + Look = the winning equation!

And that's it! Thanks for reading.

(Image credit: style.com.)

08.08.2011- Monday Must-haves: tba edition

I was all set to put together a 'Must-haves' post for today, but as soon as I saw these lookbook images for tba's AW11 collection, my planned post went out of the window! Back in April I blogged about having a sneaky press day preview of the collection, and have since been waiting with baited breath for the lookbook showcasing the full range of designs for AW11. I fear like I'm starting to sound a bit like a broken record where my love for this label is concerned, but I can't help but adore every collection they produce. So, with this in mind, this week's 'Monday Must-haves' post is dedicated to these gorgeous pieces which have firmly cemented themselves at the top of my wishlist for the new season:

Eva Dress

Gemma Dress

Ivana Blouse

Katya Dress

Yina Dress

Aimee Coat

So cute, right? You can have a look at the whole collection on tba's facebook page. I'm off to start saving my pennies!

What do you think of tba's AW11 looks? Are you a fan of the label?

(Image credit: tba.)

07.08.2011- My Month in Pictures: July

Another month has flown by...where is the time going? My July was lovely, and here are my best moments of the past month in pictures:

1st July- The very exciting news I blogged about a little while ago! At the start of the month I received my final results from university...and I got a First-Class Honours Degree! I'm so happy that all my hard work paid off.

 1st July- Spent a lovely sunny day at the V&A for the Yohji Yamamoto Fashion in Motion show.

 2nd July- Spent a day I had off work at Marwell Wildlife Park in Hampshire. I used to visit all the time when I was younger so it was lovely to go back and see how things have changed. It's such a tranquil place to visit and was a really relaxing way to spend the day. 

4th July- Went to see One Man, Two Guvnors at the National Theatre- I have never laughed so much! Will post a review soon.

 6th July and 25th July- Baked up a cupcake storm!

 28th July- Picked up this beautiful lace blouse from French Connection's sale...£75 reduced to £25!

31st July- Spent the day in the garden enjoying the sunshine, the flowers have gone bananas!

What did you get up to in July?

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

06.08.2011- Weekend Wishes

As much as I love living within a stone's throw of London, there are times when it's nice to escape to some peace and quiet (especially when your next-door neighbours are having a DIY marathon!) I'm quite lucky as I live in quite a 'countrified' area (as my mum calls it), so I'm not surrounded by concrete, but this weekend I wish I could really get away from it all...

Rachel Alexander by RomanLeo for Vestal Volume 6, 2011.

This editorial is stunning- just looking at it makes me feel more relaxed, and the location is idyllic. Now to invest in some earplugs to try and block out the drilling/crash-bang-walloping/general racket from next door!

What have you got planned for the weekend? Are you longing to get away anywhere?

(Image credit: NOIR FACADE.)