Saturday 21 December 2013

Timeless Tailoring

Suits and smart tailoring are no longer worn solely by men entrapped in the corporate world, paired with a yawn-worthy white white shirt and tie and overly shined leather brogues. Tailoring is something which can be appreciated by all, and has become a real artistry of fashion designers. There is no better way to clearly display the complex skills of design and craftsmanship by producing a beautifully sewn suit, nor will any piece ever be as timeless as a perfectly fitting piece of tailoring.

The trade has feminised over the years, with softer shapes and curved silhouettes, allowing the previously masculine dominated market to be equally appreciated by us girls. It's not just a look to be worn by ball-breaker business moguls, tailoring is now both practical, functional in business but most of all stylish and chic. A blazer can smarten up almost any look, and elevate a casual jean and shirt combination to a far greater fashion level of effortless elegance.

Many designer dabble within their collections each season with a couple of tailored pieces here and there, but others are specialists and clearly stand-out as the well-known, fashion names when looking to tailoring and quality design.

The name Helmut Lang immediately springs to my mind, and cannot be considered any less than a God in the female tailoring realm. His designs could happily grace any upmarket cocktail party, with others fitting perfectly into any high-flying workplace. I struggle to think of any occasion  in which a Helmut Lang piece could not be the ideal 'run to' in order to turn heads and evoke immediate jealousy.





This Cubist Print jacket is a personal favourite of mine. It combines both a classic assymetric, feminine wrap around shape to compliment almost any female figure with a modern, bold print design. It would look fabulous in a serious business meeting, or worn out to dinner with a killer pair of heels. Both versatile and functional - a girl's best friend!



Have no fear when you're faced with the need to suit-up and look smart, thanks to the fashion Gods of Helmut Lang we can still look sexy, stylish and sensational. I'm desperate to get in the boardroom just for the excuse to buy another luxury Lang design and discuss the most important business debate - fashion.

Wednesday 11 December 2013

Cowboy Chic

The catwalks are already brimming with style delights we can look forward to wearing this Autumn/Winter 2014. It may seem early, but I certainly appreciate being aware of the upcoming trends well in advance. My finances need several months notice before I am even able to contemplate the purchase of any of the designer pieces gracing the fashion world, so the earlier I start saving the better!  

Chanel's Autumn/Winter 2014-15 Ready-To-Wear collection is no exception, offering up some amazing Texan inspired looks, full of fringing, plenty of leather and more hats than you've got days in the season. I particularly love the patterns and mix of textures in the collection, with a diverse range of pieces perfect to mix and match, layer and keep yourself warm for the inevitably chilly coming winter. These two looks particularly stand out to me, with the patterned wraps and gorgeously chosen accessories.





















We're still wrapped up in this year's wintery warmers but I am already excited at the thought of throwing on one of the Chanel's wrap-arounds and keeping out the cold. They're effortlessly cool and wonderfully enveloping, perfect for the season. I am so intrigued by the fur dress as worn in the left image, I would love to see how that could be worn as a smart workplace look or dressed up for a evening occasion. I think it could look spectacular, and be a fabulous talking point if worn well. It's so unusual and you can feel pretty confident that you would never be caught short and bump into someone similarly dressed when you're wearing that furry number. I'd love to have an event to wear it at!

It seems we should be planning ahead for the coming Autumn/Winter, so get saving and I'll see you next year all tassles and leather in keeping with the trends of 2014!

Sunday 1 December 2013

Christmas Crackers


It's a big question everyone asks themselves, well anyone who gives a damn about fashion!, "What am I going to wear on Christmas day?" Many of us take hideously over-organised and awkwardly formalised family photos, usually complete with Christmas themed accessories or garish Crimbo jumpers, so it's important to consider at length how you want to be seen in this year's picture.

At this time of year your fashion needs to allow for practicality and comfort. It's the season for indulgence, so an elasticated waist is always welcome, and temperatures are plummeting so there is simply no space for anything cropped or mini in my wardrobe over the winter period! Heavy knits and a fabulous fur are welcomed with open arms, along with the plethora of adornments from hats, scarves and gloves galore. I have to admit that I'm a little hat obsessed, annually requesting a new winter warmer to add to the collection.

I'm not a hat snob, I love pretty much every style from a flat cap to a beanie, but there are definitely a few which stand out and others which I would endeavour to avoid. On a 2 year old toddler, a novelty animal themed hat can look adorable and quite frankly it would be a shame not to force them into wearing such a thing when you still have a say over it! However, I seem to have missed the announcement that 30 somethings could get away with wearing the same novelty panda printed beanie and it be socially acceptable? It certainly isn't in my opinion!

Deviating from my usual expensive, designer fashion suggestions, this hat is both fashion, and purse, friendly at only £17. Available at Accessorize, this beanie would be sure to keep you warm this winter, and still leave you change for a cheeky trip to the pub for a liquid winter warmer too.

Gloves are also a seriously underrated accessory. I think they can really add a sense of style and glamour to a winter outfit, and it's well worth investing a little more money in a quality pair that are able to stand up to the ever-chilling winter conditions.

Asos have a great collection, making finding one single pair to purchase a seriously difficult choice. Although my ethos is life is, if in doubt, get them both. So in the instance, I'd reiterate that! If I really had to push to single out one stand-out pair, I'd have to go for these burgandy leather metal-plate gloves. They look far more expensive than their bargain price tag of just £22, especially considering they're 100% leather, making them a great value purchase.


Perfect as a Christmas stocking filler, or a gift to yourself, it's always wise to accessorise and there's no better season than Winter.

Tuesday 26 November 2013

Rain, Rain, Come Again!

We all get the inevitable feeling of dread when looking outside before leaving the house and seeing the oh-so familiar rainy drizzle poetically running down the window pane. Personally, I love rain (when I'm inside!), and preparing for it does not mean grabbing the nearest mac-in-a-sac or cag-in-a-bag. You can step out and face the elements whilst remaining perfectly dry and looking as fashion savvy as ever. It might require a little investment in a few key pieces, but it's worth it to feel comfortable and look great.

No-one can design a trench coat like Burberry. I don't think anyone can dispute that, and if they did I'd like to see them try when faced with their current collection. They manage to cover every coat base, from simple and understated to stand-out and seriously daring. Meaning that, of course, I want to own every single design they now have - wonderful for the purse strings!

This metal plate vinyl trench caught my eye straight away. Burgundy is one of my favourite colours anyway, and I think it flatters so many different skin tones, even the ghostly white colouring I've been blessed with! It may be pricey at over £1000 but you can't put a price on the exquisite tailoring synonymous with Burberry, nor the incredible sense of style and glamour that will immediately envelop you every single time you wrap this piece around yourself. It's a high fashion hug in a trench - who could ask for more?!



For those fashionistas who don't want to make quite such a bold statement as with the metal vinyl number above - shame, but I can understand that perhaps such an amazing piece of glamourous design may not be appropriate at every occasion - there is the short lizard detail piece from the collection. This is far more practical and practical for every day wear. In my opinion, it isn't as fun as the vinyl number which I know I would  never be able to prize away from my body once I first put it on, but it is unquestionably just as beautifully-tailored and the quality is second-to-none. No less than you would expect from the fashion legends at Burberry.



Don't be dismayed when you hear that rainy pitter-patter outside. Instead, prepare yourself with any one of Burberry's trench wonders and you'll be wishing the rain to come again today and everyday!

Tuesday 19 November 2013

Canyon Creation Sensation


Wow this winter in any one of Clover Canyon's amazing print designs. Their simply stunning, eye-popping patterns are so joyful and vibrant, you couldn't help but feel bursting with energy once you slip on one of their pieces.

Their designs could be described by an entire dictionary's worth of adjectives and synonyms for loud, I wouldn't know where to begin. They're fruity - literally! - as beautifully displayed in their banana print ensembles. It works fabulously as a pencil skirt, paired with a basic black tank. However, whenever I do print, I like to DO print, so I'm in love with the shirt and trouser combination. It's certainly a statement, and one which I think Jesse J would probably wear just to nip down to her local cornershop to grab a pint of milk, but I definitely think it's a statement worth making, and one people should want to hear.



This neoprene swirl scarf dress from their collection is equally stunning. The colour palette is divine, seamlessly bringing a softness to the piece whilst incorporating the daring and bold pattern to create some real drama in the dress. This would be wonderful worn in the summer with a pair of delicate sandals, or on a glamorous night out teamed with a pair of chunky, killer heels elevating the impact of this dress from eye-catching to attention-grabbing.

I love the ethos behind this company, wanting to reflect the eclectic Calafornian spirit and working together to incorporate their collective love for travel and art. Their passion really shines through to their beautifully crafted designs which any modern woman with even the slightest interest in fashion would be jumping at the chance to wear. They're sure to brighten up any room, or 1 mile radius for that matter, so choose your favourite and make the wisest fashion purchase you've ever made by buying a Clover Canyon sensation!

Saturday 16 November 2013

Suited and Booted

I absolutely love being a girl, and I would certainly never wish to be anything else, but sometimes Men's fashion does make me a little jealous. The suave sophistication of a quality wool roll-neck, or the smart casual ease of a polo shirt just make life so easy for all you men! Us girls have to put in some real time and effort to look this good!

The most jealousy-inspiring piece of any man's wardrobe, for me, is a suit. Chic, classic tailoring, making even Mr. Average transform into Mr. Will you buy me a drink? I love the fun you can have with a suit, playing with each element to create whatever style of look you want. You can mix-and-match pieces, dressing it up or down by pairing a tailored jacket with a crisp, patterned shirt and jeans, or staying faithful to the classic look by matching a 2-piece suit with a block coloured shirt and tie. In my eyes, both are wonderful looks and appropriate for different occasions.

For me, Tom Ford is the perfect example of creating great design, tailored to what men want, and what they need. As well as keeping the ladies happy. Both these looks from his A/W 13 collection are a head-turner for me. They elude such class, style and elegance, I honestly wish I could wear them myself!





















It's the versatility of a suit which I truly love the most. As well as the fact you can go through life building on your suit attire, adding pieces and updating looks. Always evolving with current fashion trends, but never needing to throw anything out. It's a hoarder's dream!

So my advice to any guy would be suit up and watch the women fall at your feet. It's a winning formula if I've ever heard one!

Friday 8 November 2013

Something Got Your Goat?

PETA don't come running after me as a result of this post please! I would never say I'm a pro-fur fanatic, looking at any wildlife as a source of clothing and imagining any creature I see as a potential pair of boots or a warming, winter coat. However, I do believe that fur has it's purpose and that there are ethical ways in which we can manufacture it, so why not?

When we eat a cow, we should use it's skin for leather too. Otherwise that would surely enrage our eco-warriers in the world for how wasteful that clearly is. The same goes for already produced fur coats which were manufactured decades ago. It would be such a shame to keep such a beautifully crafted piece of clothing hidden away at the back of a wardrobe purely because you think so many people would disapprove of it nowadays. If you consider it a crime, it was one which was committed years ago, so there's no need to let it effect whether you wear it now.

When an animal is killed humanely and then sold for consumption, it's hide should be equally valued and put to good use. It's not a crime, unless it's thrown away and wasted in my eyes! However, if you do hold differing views to mine, the middle ground is always wool. It's equally warming and practical for winter attire, but requires no little lambs to be harmed in the process.

You can't deny how beautiful this goat-paneled wool-blend sweater from the genius that is Alexander Wang is. It's luxurious, chic and undeniably stylish. Seeing as it's wool, it won't offend any animal lovers and you can walk around guilt free knowing you look fab and fresh off the A/W 13 runway.


It's a shame I would most definitely have to take out a second loan or sell every item I own, along with a few from my parents', in order to afford it. It comes in at a pricey $1,300, but I suppose what price can you put on pure, unadulterated style? $1,300 apparently!


Paired with a simple, slim skirt it looks sleek and effortlessly cool. If you can afford it, I say run out and get it! It would be perfect for a winter's day out to the Christmas markets, glass of gluhwein in one hand and a cheek piece of stollen in the other. What more could you want?! 

Monday 4 November 2013

Step Out In Style

Where would you be without your feet? I’d guess pretty lost, and immobile. Not exactly an appealing thought, so they should never be overlooked nor taken for granted. Your feet deserve the best, and they should be dressed in gorgeous shoes on a daily basis.

Sophia Webster has a real talent for combining her artistic imagination with practical design. Her latest AW13 collection is spectacular. There isn't a single pair of her creations that could not evoke immediate awe and envy from anyone of your peers when they see you step out in such decorative and seamless designs. As with a lot of the other pieces I have blogged about in the past, Webster's shoes truly are pieces of art in their own right. They should not only be worn, but appreciated and respected. They're no average pair of sandals! 


Take these Eloise Hologram Slingback Sandals for example. They are the ideal way to show adoration to your feet and to simultaneously look sophisticated and classy whilst fun and youthful. The appliqué detailing is incredibly beautiful and intricate; making them stand out as a classic pair of sandals. They seamlessly marry together a 40s vintage vibe, along with a real sense of modern, fresh and fashion-forward design.

The colours add a wonderful vibrancy and would brighten up any outfit. They also exude a real sense of femininity and softness which I think makes them particularly special. 


They may not seem like an ideal form of footwear for this time of year, but these would look knock-out worn with a pair of freezing-fighting thick tights and a giant fur coat. They're certainly worth fighting the elements for, as long as they're kept pristine in the process. I'm not usually a fan of frills and fancy adornments on shoes or clothing for that matter, but the flower detail on this pair ties in so well to the overall look of the sandals that they simply wouldn't be the same without it. I love that they're understated, yet they make a bold statement at the same time. 

There may be frills, but there's certainly no fuss. That's my kind of shoe!

Sunday 27 October 2013

God Save The McQueen

Alexander McQueen is clearly a designer dream for most fashion lovers, and an inspiration to many other designers and brands within the world of fashion.

Thanks so the wonderful and talented Sarah Burton as creative director of the fashion house, McQ Alexander McQueen has continued to maintain its legendary place as a leader in innovation and design.

I am completely encapsulated by their shoe collection at the moment. If money grew on trees, I know where I'd run to after grabbing a suitcase full! They are always unmistakably McQueen - eye-catching, modern, beautifully sculpted pieces of art. They are pairs of walking architecture, being renowned for often reaching dizzyingly sky-high heights.

That's what McQueen has established it's strong, respected history upon. Creating quality stand-out pieces which appeal to the daring, super stylish fashionista who not only wants to make a statement, but wants to evoke envy from everyone around them. Fashion's cut throat, and wearing a pair of McQueen's incredible shoes is exactly that. They combining a sense of danger from braving the amazingly tall stiletto to demeaning anyone around who realizes how much better you look than they do!



It's easy to see why when you look at these amazing heels. There's no head that wouldn't turn on seeing these beauties, and you can count on the fact no-one else will be wearing them unlike those Primark pumps you throw on usually.


These incredible boots are more my personal style, and they're clearly more wearable day-to-day. They don't make quite the same 'wow, look at me!' statement, but you can't deny that they are effortlessly cool and seriously chic. They would be amazing to wear to keep your tootsies warm on a cold Winter day, and add a real sense of classic style to an outfit. Worn with a pair of dark, smart jeans and a blouse, you'd be the best dressed anywhere.

So whether you want to cause a stir, or ooze style and sophistication, with a pair of McQueens shoes you can do all three. They really are the shoes dreams are made of!

Sunday 20 October 2013

It's A Circus Out There

I revel in wearing a piece that others consider to be outrageous or just too colourful to be seen in daylight. There are limits, obviously, but it’s always enjoyable to push yourself and see how far you are willing to go in terms of self-confidence in trying to pull off a really daring outfit.






















These Paige Verdugo harlequin-print skinny jeans are a fabulous way to ease yourself in to daring a little more, and seeing how great they make you feel. They are by no means the most shocking pair of jeans nor are they smashing the norms of social acceptability, but they definitely show a strong sense of confidence and give of a fun, young vibe.





















The monochrome colour palette means they’re incredibly wearable and versatile. As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, they’re also a great wardrobe staple which could be transformed from day to night with the simplest addition of a ruby red lip.

They hit every spot in my book of jean requirements, ticking all the comfort, style and sophistication boxes. Too many idioms? Too late…

So when life’s feeling a bit tough or monotonous, grab a pair of daring troos for the perfect pick-me-up and you’ll instantly feel the effects. There’s no way they won’t put a smile on your face!   

Wednesday 16 October 2013

Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself

Any opportunity to channel your inner lumberjack and throw on a checkered number should be encouraged. I’m not a die-hard check fan, but every now and again there’s no harm.

It should, of course, be worn with caution and I would always live by a ‘one piece’ rule. Never double check. NEVER! I can just about cope with a double denim outfit, but that’s at a push as long as it’s done well. I worry that the sight of a double check look may just offend me on so many levels that it would completely shatter my restraint to shout fashion-fueled profanities. That’s a situation I never want to find myself in.

When styled correctly and the pattern is given the appropriate respect, it can make for a really classic and understated look. Whether you’re giving a gentle nod to your Scottish heritage, or you just simply love a glass of whisky on a weeknight so you basically qualify as an honorary Scot, it’s a great fashion choice to go for the check.





















Take this quality Stella McCartney Tartan Crew Neck Sweater. The light pastel colouring evokes a truly wintry feeling and teamed with the mohair and virgin wool it’s sure to keep you well protected from the chilly weather. Over-sized and seriously soft, two adjectives you always want to hear when it comes to your winter wardrobe and they really encompass this McCartney gem.

It's definitely going straight on my Christmas list, it's just a shame I'll have to wait so long!

Friday 11 October 2013

Dare To Play The Fashion Game?

It’s a Friday night, so a few drinks at the very least are a must. Even if it’s a cheeky vino at the pub, any occasion to dress up and flash your latest purchase is always welcome.

I always advise not to over think an outfit. The more time you put in to the decision, the more put-together and awkwardly matchy-matchy it can look. I go in with a ‘throw it on, and see how it looks’ attitude. Far easier, and always a lot more fun, creating a different outfit every time! Perhaps a little more stressful if the outfit attempt #1 has more of a fancy dress vibe from pattern overkill, and it might take a few minor tweaks to get to the final look, but with patience the outcome can look great.

Fashion is supposed to be fun, so it should never be taken too seriously. Whenever I see a dressed mannequin carefully dressed in a shop window, the thought of going in store and buying the exact outfit is one I immediately reject. If someone has thought of it before, think again and try something new. You don't have to be whacky and outrageous just for the sake of it, don't get me wrong I'm no advocate of Miley Cyrus's bizarre get-up, but it definitely pays to try and go against the grain of the masses.  

                               

Tonight, I’m taking a smart casual approach to my attire, inspired by my discovery of the awesome designer duo behind Aries. I absolutely love this navy silk polka dot shirt paired with a pair of bright red jeans, perfectly eluding chic style and nonchalance. It’s a great mixture of classic and modern style, ideal for both casual day wear, and easily transferable to a classy, smart evening look. They aim for their designs to transcend seasons and exist beyond time and place, their success in doing so is clear with this time-less piece. (Available online from: http://www.youngbritishdesigners.com/designers/arising/aries/)

It's not groundbreaking or going to change the rules of fashion, but it'll catch people's eye and certainly evoke a few compliments here and there. Why not try something new when you step out tonight, and dare to play in the game of fashion.

Monday 7 October 2013

Some Like it Hot

Winter is most definitely on its way, one of my favourite seasons, and the perfect excuse to update your wardrobe. I love wrapping myself up in a big coat and braving the elements. And with some of the latest fabulous high street offerings, I’d be more than happy to brave the inevitable onslaught of chilling winds and blustering snow. Especially with the thought of a warming glass of gluhwein waiting for me at home!





















This French Connection Salsa Faux Fur Coat is an ideal winter staple. It’s so demure and elegant, and shouts style in the bold shaded purple colour. At the price of £195, it’s no steal but with the amount of wear we can get out of a thick winter layer these days it’s still well worth the investment and would work out as fantastic value price-per-wear. I guess we can say a big thank you to climate change for that one!

Another big thank you can go out to my friend Cally and his team of tech-fashion experts. They’ve created ‘Mallzee’, the retail savvy’s favourite gadget to find what suits you and how to get it. Now getting the latest wardrobe must-haves couldn’t be easier. Mallzee is the ideal app which makes mobile shopping personal, effortless and fast – just how shopping in the modern world should be done. No need to turn to your friend and dread the inevitable answer to “Does this look good on me?”. Now they can let you know instantly through the click of a button, avoiding any fashion catastrophe or friendship disputes.


So grab your mobile, and with Mallzee you could be heating up this winter faster than you can say ‘another mulled wine please’. Fashion has just got seriously fast!

Saturday 5 October 2013

Hangover Hero

We've all been there, having woken up the day after the heavy night before and struggled to string a sentence together let alone put together a reasonable outfit. The desire to shove on whichever items are closest to hand and just accepting it’s a style offence is so hard to resist, but for the sake of fashion sanity it’s a situation best avoided.

Whenever I’m feeling unenthused to change out of my pyjamas, or most likely the clothes I slept in from the night before, at least we have a hangover hero in the form of Markus Lupfer. When the flashback to the fifth tequila you were forced in to in the early hours of the morning hits, all you want is a comfy jumper and a pair of extra-stretchy leggings to curl up in. That’s where a sparkly, sequin wonder in the form of Lupfer’s designs come in.


His jumpers are so comfortable it’s almost a hangover cure in itself when you slip one on. Forget paracetamol and a greasy fry up, designer jumpers are the way forward! They make any accidental glance in the mirror which would usually evoke immediate regret and a groan of disgust, almost a pleasant experience. The sequins and quirky designs are an amazing way to distract from the look of sleep-deprivation and poorly removed make-up.



I love the classic “lips” design which is immediately recognizable, but his other garments are equally as interesting. They’re so simple and chic, easy to wear even when you’re feeling a little fragile, but elude such a sense of style.  


Markus Lupfer, I salute you. You are my hangover hero!

Thursday 26 September 2013

Head Over Heels

Yes, shoes are essential in life and a practical item to get you from A to B. But that in no way means they should be ordinary. If your aim is to always step in style, a fabulous heel or killer pair of pumps is the way to do it.

It may give you chronic neck pain, but walking around looking at what shoes the people around you are wearing is fascinating. From one person to the next, you may witness heavy, leather biker boots encrusted with studs and various weapon-like details all the way to dainty ballet flats complete with bows and feminine jewels. They may be worn on your feet, but they’re still a great way to make a statement and attract attention.




These Dolce&Gabbana mosaic shoes are on the top of my current hit list. They are walking pieces of art, beautifying the ground they walk on with each and every step. There is such detail and glorious design, they'd be worthy to hang on a wall let alone wear on your feet. With such vibrant colours and delicate artistry, you can't help but fall in love for this pair. (Photo courtesy of: flannels.com)

I'll be saving up every penny out of the student loan to try and fund these heavenly heels. It may take some time, but let's face it - they're so worth it.

Sunday 22 September 2013

Fashion Week Favourites

London Fashion week was, yet again, a huge success. With a total of 58 catwalk shows over 5 days, it was a fashion-filled week of modern creations and emerging talents. Over 5,000 visitors were expected to attend, creating an energised and exciting atmosphere for all fashion lovers to unite and indulge in the fresh new offerings to the industry.  

The pair of designers who caught my eye were the fresh-thinking and award winning, Edward Meadham and Benjamin Kirchhoff. The Meadham Kirchhoff catwalk show was something of a spectacle, with a feeling of almost Downton Abbey thrust in to the 22nd century.

























These pieces from their Autumn/Winter 2013 collection are certainly talking points. PVC was a clear key material in their garments, and never before have I seen a piece made from such a fabric which I've then seriously considered wearing. It may be a little more difficult to find an occasion in which to wear the apron, although I would love the opportunity to turn as many heads as you know that piece surely would! The PVC ruffled crop top, however, but be an amazing statement garment to wear on a night out. Bravery would most definitely be required, as well as an attitude worthy of pulling off such a piece, but I think it could look no less than incredible if worn in the right way.

If the likes of Lady Gaga or Miley Cyrus don't already have this daring designer pair on speed dial they had better move fast. You can see this collection being worn by attention grabbing celebs everywhere. Their garments are a sure fire way to cause a stir, and life's too short to stick to fashion boundaries. 

So here's to breaking those unwritten fashion rules and long live PVC!   

Wednesday 18 September 2013

What You See Is What You Get

Another sheer blouse? Yes please!

You can never have too many in my book. They are the perfect addition to a pair of jeans to transform an outfit from daytime casual to sassy afternoon chic. They can suit any number of figures and shapes too. As a self-deprecating ironing-board chested woman, I embrace the beauty of the chiffon shirt and its ability to make me feel feminine and girly. It's such a fresh fabric which flows over any unwanted lumps and bumps, as well as being so luxurious that you can't help but feel fabulous.






















This Miu Miu plaid silk-chiffon blouse is the perfect example. It works really well paired with a basic black a-line skirt, but equally thrown over a pair of dark blue jeans or worn with a pair of simple high-waisted shorts and it would cause a stir. (Available at net-a-porter.com)

Half the fun of a sheer blouse is the visible bra/no bra debate. I'm pro bra all the way! If you're young and stylish, why not add that little cheeky element to your outfit? As long as you consider the underwear as closely as the blouse that is, ensuring the 3 year old elastic-less comfort bra is left at the back of the drawer!

So button up your favourite blouse, and dare to bare this winter!

Sunday 15 September 2013

Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head

When the rain is pouring down outside, it’s hard to ever convince yourself that leaving the house would be a wise decision. However, sometimes you just haven’t got the luxury of the choice and you need to boot-up, wrap yourself in the biggest coat you own, and brace yourself for the elements.

It’s a daily battle I have with myself when back at university in the not-so-sunny Scotland. I love the city of Edinburgh, but with the amount of wind and rain it throws back at me, I’m not so sure it’s mutual. However, when the weather is like that, fashion can fight back.

I love the opportunity to wear a good pair of solid boots and wear a coat fit for sub-zero temperatures even in September – the usual rules of seasons just don’t apply in this part of the UK!



This Paul Smith Prince of Wales check double-breasted coat would be perfect for any suave man about town. It’s sure to keep you snug against those bitter winds yet seamlessly keeping any man looking sophisticated and dapper, even if he is soaked through!


For the girlies, I adore this gold wool-blend Herringbone Coat. It has such a simple, subtle and understated air about it, yet it’s super glamorous and chic. I would love to head off to lectures wearing this, although it would seem a shame to risk even a drop of rain touching such a beautiful piece of tailoring.


I tell myself, it may be miserable out there, but if you’re dressed right you can bring that missing bit of sunshine to the streets with a knock-out overcoat and a killer set of boots. When you’re prepared, no weather can get in the way!   

Tuesday 10 September 2013

Loving Leather

It may be a material most conventionally used for handbags and purses, but leather should never be constrained to just our accessories. It’s classic, clean and seriously stylish. It’s not the most comfortable or practical of fabrics, but who cares when it looks great? No pain no gain could not be a more appropriate mantra when it comes to fashion.





















I am loving Michael Kors’ leather cropped zipped pants. They ooze sleek style and sophistication, and can easily be paired with simple white contrast-collared shirt to complete a fabulous look. The funky and young feel of the cropped leg adds something unique to the piece and help it stand out from other leather pieces in the market.
  

I just love how throwing on a pair of leather trousers makes you feel. It’s fundamentally sexy and adds an effortless air of stylish seductress to even a casual outfit. It's so easy, yet so successful. So in the future, dare to risk having to peel off your trousers after wearing them - it's so worth it!

Monday 9 September 2013

Space Age Style

I may not be a believer in the paranormal or any extra-terrestrial beings, but that does not mean that I’m against a space inspired style. Any opportunity to add a modern metallic element to an ensemble and dazzle with a piece which isn't seen too often on our Earthly the streets, I'll grab it. 

I’ve channelled my inner galaxy explorer with this silver skirt. Paired with one of my favourite multi-coloured ‘star-explosion’ shirts, I love the fun and bright futuristic vibe of this outfit. It's so simple to put together, but I think creates a rather strong statement which few would feel daring enough to wear.


This simple silver spacey piece is a great new addition to my wardrobe, transforming easily from day to night. Teamed with a basic tee it works as a casual chic but very contemporary day look but then, with a quick change, and worn with a cute red cropped tie top you’re immediately ready for a night on the town. It's all about ease paired with style with my wardrobe. I love to make an effort and dress up, but if it requires hours of thought and being constrained by only a couple of pieces working together, it's not a piece I would buy. With today's economy, you want maximum wearability out of every single item you own, ensuring it can be transformed with the simple addition of a different necklace or colourful pair of jeans.  

Despite the very specific style of this intergalactic metallic skirt, it really does work well in a huge variety of looks and outfits. It just has to be wisely styled and then can work for almost any occasion. Who knows, maybe this is the look of one our neighbouring planets? Maybe I’m not so original after all!

Thursday 5 September 2013

What Women Want

As a petite woman of a meagre 5’3” I often struggle to find clothes which fit me perfectly, especially on the rare occasions when I can glam-up and am grabbing at the chance to wear a floor length gown.

It’s no revelation that all women come in different shapes and sizes and that we each have our own issues when it comes to finding clothes which we feel comfortable and confident in. When you find that one dress which slips on perfectly and sits just right, showing off the right curves (and hiding the others!), it’s a dream and you can’t let it go without buying it in every colour available.

A friend of mine passed on the name of this designer, recommending her as the brilliant creator of both, gorgeous figure enhancing pieces at reasonable and accessible prices. The moment I looked at her collection I was wowed by the variety of garments, able to appeal to a diverse audience of women, with items which are classic yet modern.


I particularly love this herringbone 60s inspired dress by the wonderful designer Nadine Merabi from her Spring/Summer 2013 collection. Her entire work truly reflects her talent in knowing how to dress women and compliment their figures in glamorous and classic silhouettes. 





















This stunning black floor length gown similarly portrays her ability to tailor to the needs and wants of modern women. The dress is uber-glamorous, gliding over the female figure and keeping it young and fresh by subtly revealing little flashes of skin. Not too much, but just enough to keep it fun whilst maintaining a clear air of class and grace.

(photos courtesy of http://www.nadinemerabi.com/)

Next time I hit the red carpet (possibly in my next lifetime?!) I will certainly be looking at Nadine Merabi's collection and making a much anticipated purchase.

Monday 2 September 2013

Student Suitcase Stress

Heading back to uni is an incredibly exciting time. Escaping the constant vigilance of overly-caring parents and returning to complete independence to do as you please, and eat 4 times the recommended salt and fat levels – bliss!

Amidst all of the excitement and anticipation, looking forward to being reunited with friends you haven’t seen for months and the freedom to ditch clothes-hangers and employ the floor as the most practical wardrobe, comes the panic of “What clothes do I take?!”

You have one suitcase in which to fit an entire year’s worth of clothing - quite a feat. That means covering all bases of practical, fashionable and wearable with just a handful of items. This means serious fashion business! Being in Edinburgh, I can’t just throw in a casual summer smock and sandals hoping I’ll get a chance to wear them. I know it will be sub-zero temperatures within weeks and I just don’t have the suitcase space to spare for such optimism. It’s important to stick to staples which can be worn limitless times and can be re-worked in to several outfits.

 


This fabulous ACNE Vera leather-trimmed shearling biker jacket would be the perfect addition to my wardrobe. Versatile and chic, it's ideal to wrap up warm on the bone-chilling winter days and eluding a clear sense of style and sophistication. 

(Jacket available and photos courtesy of net-a-porter.com)

With pieces that transform effortlessly from day to night, and tick both the comfort and style boxes, you'll be able to dress well with just a few key pieces.

So pack clever to ensure you can always look great without suffering the cold and concentrate solely on enjoying student life.