Marvellous Mabille

Having just graduated and celebrated in style at our university's graduation ball, I've been encapsulated by all things glitz and glam when it comes to my recent fashion finds. The more jewels and silky chic material the better in my opinion when dressing up for a formal occasion and letting your hair down with a glass of champers in hand.

One of the most fabulous designers of formal wear who I have only recently personally discovered has to be Alexis Mabille. He tailors for women of all tastes, from classic and simple style to the most ostentatious and glamorous gowns. His gorgeous collection would fit any number of occasions, perfect for a sophisticated afternoon tea with friends or a red carpet event where you need to turn each and every head.

I absolutely adore the cut of this dress, skimming the body to give a beautiful silhouette. The dark navy colour palette works perfectly to give a real sense of drama and effect within the draping at the front and makes it a fabulous evening dress perfect for any cocktail party.

I love the simultaneous simplicity and complexity of this dress. The neckline is incredibly intricate and delicate, yet the simple draped skirt avoids the outfit becoming fussy or overstated. The muted mustard colours and white lace mean it could be worn to a daytime BBQ or dressed up with glamour gold sandals for an evening soiree.  

Finally, this dress has to be my favourite. It has an Asian vibe with the slit neckline and it's silk and beaded detailing. It, again, seems simple yet super glamorous and chic. If only it came in more colours, I can imagine this piece looking stunning in a midnight blue or rich, mahogony, red. 

When looking for the perfect evening gown this season, look no further than the marvellous Mabille who is sure to have designed an absolutely stunning party piece, ideal for your next big occasion.  

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!

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!