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Monday 30 December 2013

New winter knitwear






























If you're a regular reader (love you) then you may have noticed I'm a little obessed with all things knitwear. You just can't beat a good jumper or cardigan; it keeps you warm, it feels good against your skin and with all the choice around these days, they are far from frumpy and dull. These are the new additions to my wardrobe, thanks to Santa and the sales! It's so difficult to decide what to wear in the mornings as I love them all equally!

1. Khaki cable knit jumper - COS (a Christmas gift for me but now 50% off in the sale!)
2. Brown Polo neck - Primark (now £3! They are a great fit and wash really well)
3. Cardigan - Primark (now £5 and in many colours)
4. Mustard yellow cardigan - COS (also now 50% off in the sale!)

Saturday 28 December 2013

NYE dress ideas


























































































Although I will be dressing as a mythical being for New Years Eve, these items would also make me want to party until dawn. I think celebrating a new year calls for something special, maybe something you wouldn't normally wear so you're fully embracing the idea of the new. Also, I should note that some of these items are in the sale so be quick! After Christmas and shopping in the sales, (I went out today, will show you my bargains later!) any penny saved is a very good thing!

1. Zara dress with sheer neckline
2. Cos graphic print dress
3. Asos ponte pencil dress with lace t-shirt
4. Cos coated jersey dress
5. Zara lingerie-style studio dress - wear with a blazer or a luxe cardigan (or a fur stole!)
6. Warehouse embroidered mesh midi dress
7. Cos strapless dress
8. Asos midi cami dress with lace trim
9. Cos sculpted fold dress
10. Mango cut out detail shift dress


Wednesday 25 December 2013

Block colour




































I just wanted to show you this incredible shirt dress from COS. I think monochrome can look even better than a bright colour and stands out more. It's lovely and silky and light and is part of the newer items, nodding now to spring (weather: take note please) and making me long to see lighter mornings and evenings and sunshine! I would roll the sleeves up and pair it with orange or bronze sandals, quirky sunglasses and a casual shopper to wander round town and then to go and sit in a nice beer garden with some friends and stay there for five hours (sigh, memories!).

Block-coloured shirt dress - COS - £89 

I also hope everyone had a really lovely Christmas, full of food and fun and is looking forward to Christmas leftover sandwiches today as much as I am! I'm off to work soon so I need my strength! The sales have begun...

Monday 23 December 2013

Matches sale edit


























































































The Matches sale is well worth a browse. You can get some amazing bargains and their choice is always fantastic. Sales are a great time to invest in a designer piece that you can mix in with the rest of your wardrobe. Always go for something that you can wear with many things, cost per wear thinking can help with post-buying guilt. Here's my favourite pieces (yes I like a lot of things on there!).

1. Jil Sander -  Roll neck cashmere sweater
2. Christopher Kane - Redman print sweatshirt
3. Roksanda Ilincic - Chapman wide-leg cropped trousers
4. 3.1 Phillip Lim - Angora ribbed sweater
5. Equipment - Signiture silk shirt
6. Jil Sander - Buckle detail leather ankle boots
7. Lightening bolt knit skirt - Kenzo
8. Christopher Kane - Ribbed knit sweater
9. Les Chiffoniers - Double zip leather trousers
10. Mih jeans - The body-con high-rise skinny jeans
11. Carven - Double crepe lantern skirt
12. MSGM - Geometric print sweatshirt
13. Marni - Floral crystal embellished sandals
14. Dieppa Restrepo - Penny bi-colour loafers
15. The Row - Ruby super-fine sweater
16. Nicholas Kirkwood - Zigzag-print suede pumps
17. Jil Sander - Double pocket wool jacket
18. Sportmax - Milo trousers
19. No. 21 - Check-print lambswool sweater
20. Freda - Sofia pleated print skirt
21. Alexandre Birman - Watersnake and suede mule sandals
22. Mary Katrantzou - Bridge jacquard wool trousers
23. Opening Ceremony - Embossed leather mules
24. See by Chloe - Tux blazer
25. Roksanda Ilincic - Marcel cotton-tweed flared trousers
26. Lanvin - Embellished satin clutch
27. MSGM - Striped-sleeve knit sweater
28. Chloe - Jade patchwork bag

Saturday 21 December 2013

White Christmas































































I'll admit it. When it comes to snow, I am a bit of a grinch. Unless I'm on holiday somewhere hilly (sled in hand) or don't have to leave the house till every bit of ice has melted then I'm fine with it. But if I have to get to work, or anywhere, it is a pain in the, well, yeah. You have to walk slowley, it limits shoe choices and I know I'm pointing out the obvious, but it's really cold! Then after the snow you get ice and after last years grand total of three falls, I'm not looking forward to racking up a new score.

So my version of a white Christmas? Any one (or all) of these jumpers under the tree! I've been dreaming of wearing all white but lack the pieces in my wardrobe, maybe the January sales gods will smile on me and cut the price of one of these beauties. The only problem? Buying just one...

1. Zara Turtle neck sweater
2. COS high neck top
3. Uniqlo Premium Cotton Turtle Neck Long sleeve T-shirt
4. Equiptment Sloane Cashmere sweater

Wednesday 18 December 2013

LBD

















































My boyfriend is flying home for Christmas on Sunday so the other day we had a day together, swapping presents and having a roast in the pub (was delicious, thank you Font Fallowfield!). As well as an adorable tea strainer with an owl charm and some of my favourite loose earl grey tea to put in it - I'm drinking a cup using it as I type - he also got me this beautiful black skater dress. I'm in love with how simple it is, in at the waist, long sleeves but then at the back it dips down making it just a tiny bit sexy (just the amount I like!) I know it's not christmas yet but I couldn't resist taking a few pictures to show it to you. It's from ASOS and you can get it here. I got him a black cashmere scarf from COS (avaliable in many colours for your loved ones here) in which I thought he looked very handsome indeed!

Pink





I know Christmas isn't even here yet but I'm so excited for New Year’s Eve already! Mainly because the theme for the party I'm going to is Myths and Legends and that means I can get this dress out again. I've only ever worn it once before for a party in university that had the same theme (and once to lectures the first day I bought with an oversize jumper - I thought I looked very cool indeed but I got some odd looks. Maybe a little overdressed for 9.30am. Girls got to do what she can to make getting up at that time easier! Gowns are my coffee). I got it at a vintage store in Bangor high street that sadly closed in my third year. I think it cost £15 at the time and I also got a toothpaste stripe, red and white halter dress I wish I still had, it's disappeared over too many harsh clear outs and house moves. Luckily this one has survived! I'm going to pair it with wings and ballet slippers and maybe even find some floral tattoos for my arms and neck.Can't wait!

Tuesday 17 December 2013

Choices, choices



I am in love with COS jewellery. It's simple and elegant but always has an edge. Any piece is perfect for making your outfit instantly more stylish. I think it really suits the simple lines of the clothes and always looks like a cool one off, the kind of hidden gem people assume you found hidden deep in a flea market somewhere on holiday. I love how all the pieces are always very tactile. They use a lot of fabrics like velvet, jersey or metals in bronze, gold and silver. You can't help but pick them up! They also have a new sterling silver range available in some stores and online (prices from £25). Clean lines and amazing value. Perfect for any last minute gift buying you need to do. These four are my favourites.

1. Velvet bead necklace

2. Sterling silver necklace

3. Folded grosgrain necklace (also in an amazing bright orange!)

4. Braided jersey necklace


Sunday 15 December 2013

Best of COS







































































































































COS - standing for Collection of Style - is one of my all time favourite brands. Their clothes are timeless and simple but always with something subtle under the surface that makes each piece to die for. Expect soft, luxurious fabrics in relaxed and imaginative cuts. Great for basics and great for those one off standout items that will lift the rest of your wardrobe for years to come. And the best bit - very reasonable prices! These are my top ten picks in store and online now. Prepare to want everything!

1. Cashmere hat

2. Extra wide cardigan

3. Wool and silk cardigan

4. Block heel leather shoes

5. Cotton silk tailored dress

6. Cable knit jumper

7. Square-cut jumper

8. Milano knit cardigan

9. Melange wide shirt

10. Wool-mix trousers

Saturday 14 December 2013

My Christmas wishlist!



I am feeling so christmassy this year. Not that I'm normally too grinch like but it can take me a while to get in the mood. Maybe christmas music in the background at work since mid October has something to do with it. Here are the items on my wish list. Not one, not two but three COS jumpers (of course), some christmas day reading and other treats. If you haven't tried the Hotel Chocolate dark salted soft caramels you really must! I'm planning on spending christmas with my family and although the presents are very exciting, the best thing for me will be my mum's roast dinner. Roast chicken, pigs in blankets, honet roast parsnips, red currant jelly and veg covered in gravy. Plus my mum's done a special white-flour-free christmas pudding for me this year, I can't wait!

1. Grace: A Memoir by Grace Coddington

2. Milano knit cardigan

3. Ro's Argan oil from Lush - smells so amazing!

4. Cable knit jumper

5. Hotel Chocolate dark salted soft caramels

6. ASOS Tunic Top with V Back in Crepe

7. Square-cut jumper

8. ASOS Cape Dress

Friday 13 December 2013

Jumper (for joy!)



How gorgeous is this jumper from COS? It's made of lovely soft wool and has long sleeves and a high crew cut neck, just what I love in a warmer layer. I love the colours and the wavy lines. It's almost like an abstract camo print don't you think? It's technically from the men's party range but I think it is definitely a unisex item. The whole party range is also worth checking out. There are loads of beautiful abstract prints, silk shirts, full skirts, leather trimmed blazers and amazing structural dresses. It's the one stop for easy, grown up night time dressing. This one is going right on my wish list along with a few other items I'll share with you later. Then I think I should check into COS jumper anonymous because I definitely have a problem. Hello my name is Corrine and I'm a jumper-holic.

Get it here - Painterly stripe jumper, COS

(picture taken from www.cosstores.com)

Thursday 12 December 2013

Thursday



I've decided I will not be defeated by the rain today and am off into town to do my last few bits of christmas shopping and to meet friends for a cup of tea and a catch up at one of my favourite places 'Home Sweet Home' in Manchester. Although it's wet today it's not too cold (14 degrees, thank you Google!) so I'm going with lots of layers I can put on or take off as I need too. I'm wearing my ultimate lazy day uniform; black leather leggings from Next (totally obsessed with them, even the rip in the left knee hasn't slowed me down), grey t-shirt from Primark, pumps from Primark, navy wool coat from COS and bag from Zara. The scarf is a gift (read long term lend) from my mum. I've even gone for a bit of optimism up top as well and curled my hair using a Tresemme curling wand. It's the only curler I've found that keeps my stubbornly straight hair curled for the whole day, even with the rain! Right, I'm off out, wish me luck!

Tuesday 10 December 2013

Barbara Casasola



I'm so excited about Barbara Casasola, a new designer whose first collection made its debut for SS14 (on the whole very exciting but we'll cover that later!). These are my favourite looks, for the full collection check out Elle's catwalk guide here) Apart from being entirely on trend - mesh is going to be HUGE for SS14 - it's just beautiful, the perfect balance between femininity and strength. I love how the shapes have been kept demure with longer length skirts, dresses and high necklines. But that the mesh, strategically placed and delicately shaped, creates that peek-a-boo effect making it sexy but in a very subtle, Oh! This is see through? I hadn't even noticed! way.

Although many of the colours are bright and bold; yellow, purple and deepest fuchsia the effect remains sophisticated and minimalistic. There is definitely a 50's, slightly mad men feel with the silhouettes but the mesh and geometric elements keeps it modern, fresh and needed in your wardrobe as soon as possible.

(photos taken from Elleuk.com)

Sunday 8 December 2013

Purple



I am absolutly in love with this make up look on Daria Werbowy shot by Cass Bird for the November issue of L’Expresse Styles. It's a great different look for the upcoming christmas parties. Don't use too much mascara and keep your lips simple. This kind of look looks better if it's a bit messy so it's a good one to do quickly at work before heading out. Make this look even more intense by lining the inners of your eye lids with a black shadow. I love using Barry M eye shadows as eye liners because they last all day and the boldness of the colours is amazing. A small, squared lip brush is the best for applying it.

To get this look, use a cream metallic shadow like Maybelline EyeStudio Color Tattoo 24hr Cream Gel Eyeshadow in 'Light in Purple' and apply it using your finger. Then add a dab of Maybelline EyeStudio Color Tattoo 24hr Cream Gel Eyeshadow in 'And in Bronze' in the corners of your eyes (a lighter or shimmery colour here always makes your eyes look larger and more alert, yay!). This look could even be adapted for day, swap the precious metal for a light sweep of lilac eye shadow like No7 Stay Perfect Eyeshadow in 'Lilac shine'.

Monday 12 August 2013

Street Style 7



Hello there! Hope your week has got off to a good start and you're having a good Monday! I have more street style for you today. I took this photo about a month back now on a really gorgeously sunny day and it's taking me right back. I loved the simplicity of it and how it looked very natural, sort of thrown on quickly in the morning but being stunning for exactly that reason. Plus I love a monochrome palette for summer as well. A note on shoes: Although I love looking at a beautiful heeled shoes, I'm not really a huge wearer of them and prefer flats, a low wedge or a small block heel. Don't be afraid of choosing a lower shoe, yes it brings down the 'glamour factor' of an outfit but that means you can go all out on other items you're wearing. A mini skirt looks much more elegant with a flat shoe (especially a brogue) than towering heels. Plus they are comfy and better for your feet, trust me, your knees will thank you when you're 45.

Monday 5 August 2013

Corrine



As you may know, my name's Corrine. It's not that popular a name and I've only ever met one or two Corrine's in my life and one was a boy (spell Korin). Most people have trouble pronouncing it even after I tell them 'It's like 'Coronation Street' without the nation or the street' (I'm hilarious!). And the sad thing, when you're younger is that when you go on school trips or museums etc, the pens, mugs, bookmarks, padded headbands with the 3D squidgy writing (remember them?) with your name on never ever have Corrine. Not even when I went to Paris in Year 7 and I thought I'd be well in. Sometimes it would be spelled Corinne but never with two r's instead. So when I was scrolling through the latest goods for AW at Matches I was absolutely delighted - and may have made a high pitched squeak - when I saw these Stella McCartney beauties. I'd already opened them into a new tab (along with about 20 other things) because I thought they were gorgeous and totally the kind of thing I like (just a bit ugly-pretty, slightly androgynous, low block heel and a little leopard print). But when I saw the name of the shoe I was so happy! They'd be a pair to save up for for sure, but I can ease my guilt by saying it must be a sign right? They are better than a million headbands put together!

Thursday 1 August 2013

Helen Moore



I know, it's still summer but I'm getting really excited about winter already. And it's never too early to start planning your AW wardrobe. Especially after discovering Helen Moore - click here to visit her website. I showed these to my house mate but she said that even looking at them made her feel too warm. My favourite are the cuffs, the easiest and not too expensive way (it's £25 for two!) to update last years coat making it instantly nod to the 'fallen heroin' trend as seen by Louis Vuitton and Prada this AW13. Plus it's practical (warm!), chic and adds a touch of glamour. You could add these even to a Parka or a denim jacket. Or the tops of boots, or even the ankles of jeans. I love the scarves as well. I would have killed for one of the Mui Mui scarves with the large printed flowers from last AW but this fox-like or midnight blue (or both) wrap will keep me warm without leaving me eating baked beans for the next six months.

Sunday 21 July 2013

Street Style Sunday



Hello! Can't believe it's nearly the end of June already! This year has flown by. I hope the sun doesn't though, I've heard we've got two more weeks of it and I want every day of those 14 please. More street style today. I took this one the other day in the Northen Quarter - my favourite place to go style hunting - and spotted this woman. I love all the different elements in this outfit. The stark white dress, the mesh panel, acid wash denim jacket, the pumps, the bag with a very long strap (which I love) and then backwards baseball cap. I think it takes a certain level of cool to pull the latter off, and she'd definitley got it. It's kind of 90's meets sports luxe. Don't be afraid of mixing different styles together, you never know what will work. Put a leather jacket over a cute girly dress or a big jumper over a fancy skirt. Opposites attract.

Thursday 18 July 2013

Street style





I am so ashamed of the delay of this post, it's been far too long since I've posted. Gotta get back on the regular blogging horse. I blame the sun haha. That and my laptop screen melting (seriously). But here and I am and I have some amazing street style for you and more to come over the week. As it's been glouriously sunny the past few weeks I'm starting today with this gorgeous lady to illustrate some summer style basics. First of all the summer dress. If you've been hiding in jeans - and I've seen a few of you, what are you thinking??!! Are you not boiling? - then get yourself a summer dress and don't even think about adding tights. There's lots of different styles, maxi's, midi's and mini's, loose kaftan styles if you prefer sleeves, shirt dresses. Nothing makes me happier than bear shoulders, bare legs and a really sweet summer dress. Also don't worry about having to pair your dress with delicate sandals, like in this photo plimsolls or converse are a great options. More comfortable too. Then finally a denim jacket keeps the evening breeze of your shoulders when the sun goes down and you're still in that beer garden so the fun doesn't have to stop. God I love summer.

Wednesday 3 July 2013

Crop top and trousers



Here are the crop top, trousers and midi skirt I was telling you about the other day. So pretty, the online picture doesn't do them full justice. Plus now they are on sale, hooray! No need to choose between the trousers and skirt. The dress code at where I now work is really flexible but after almost 3 years of working in an office I think I'd feel bizarre walking into work with my midriff out (That's max two inches below the bra line to remain chic by the way, if you can see your belly button you've gone too far!). I'd be like, surely this is not ok?? I'm reasonably conservative dresser really, well bar my love of a mini skirt (how many do I have now? Like ten? Always with tights!) I only have to wear something sleeveless and I'm worry it's too much haha. But it's great to have the opportunity to be more adventurous, I vow to experiment!

1. Crop top - Rubee B at New Look
2. Trousers - Rubee B at New Look
3. Skirt - Rubee B at New Look

Thursday 27 June 2013

Jumpsuit



I start a new job today and was lusting over this jumpsuit all day long. Plus a loose trouser and crop top set which I would be showing you, but it's not online yet, or maybe anymore (I hope not!). It's really gorgeous, loose and floaty, an intricate, pale dusky green and cream floral print. There's a midi skirt to go with it as well. But the jumpsuit, I really liked too. It's so fun. I don't think I could pull off grumpy in an all in one. I'd pair it with a crisp white shirt to androgen-ise it a little and trusty black brogues. I'm determined to prevent too much mental spending though whilst I work and I'm going to get on the eBay train and start selling some of my older, no longer worn clothes. I'll post when I do, please feel free to check out (and buy! haha) anything that catches your fancy.

1. Jumpsuit - Tokyo Doll at New Look

2. Shirt - New Look

3. Brogues - New Look

Sunday 23 June 2013

Isabel Marant and H&M



I've heard a rumor that Isabel Marant is doing a collaboration with H&M! I am extremely excited. H&M really do have the upper hand when it comes to collaborations. Karl Largarfeld, Versace Lanvin, Maison Martin Margiela, Stella McCartney, and these are not just any designers. Every season they are new, unique and brave and push the limits of what a modern woman is selecting out of her wardrobe today. You can't fault H&m's taste. Plus it makes it affordable for the rest of us. This is not an opportunity to just buy into a label you couldn't normally afford. It's not buying into status, it's more buying into a lifestyle, or into the kind of woman their clothes are designed for. The Isabel Marent girl is effortlessly cool, feminine and strong. The kind of woman who wants the kind of wardrobe you can just fall into in the morning and always come out looking the perfect balance between casual, sexy and bohemian. Now who doesn't want a slice of that? Out November time.

(The lady herself - photo taken from http://marantphiles.com/category/about-the-designer/)

Monday 17 June 2013

STYLIGHT

As you may have already read, I am a bit obsessed with fashion magazines. I cannot get enough of them, especially Elle, I think I have about 50+ of them now. I used to have the same amount before I started collecting this bunch but they were practically turning lace-like from all the pictures I'd snipped out for collages. These are getting a bit like that now too, but still good for a while!





(As many of my collection that I can fit into my camera lens)

But now of course you have fashion websites, blogs and online magazines. You could literally search all day and read and look at all the beautiful pictures (tumblr is like a giant, never ending collage!) till you've had your fill. There are some really good ones out there. Including, STYLIGHT (click here) that i joined around a month ago. It's a great mix of different things, an online magazine (which also has style info for men, click here!), mood boards and you get your own profile. It's a great way to start blogging if you're new to it, or a great way to spread the word about a current blog.

Here's my profile...





There's lots of street style on the main page from other users and you can post your own style too - some of the photography is gorgeous - and include on your board what's inspired you. It's mad what can inspire you sometimes. Remember my subconscious desire to dress like a perfume bottle (click here)? My favourite bit is the magazine of course! They reviews lots of bloggers, post trends, street style and fashion news. Plus you can even shop on there. Actually shop! Click here to start! Brands like Carven to Dolce and Gabbana to Vivienne Westwood. And recommend items to others (once you've nabbed it in your size of course haha). Here's my current picks (click here to view):





I love that magazines are focusing more on bloggers now, I find it much more inspiring seeing someone who has to dress for work 5 days out of 7, has to compete with schizophrenic weather (it's June, what is going on?!) and doesn't have unlimited funds. I don't think money buys style, but it can definitely help. As can hours and hours of scrolling through STYLIGHT, enjoy!

Wednesday 12 June 2013

Selfridges Sale edit



It's the Selfridges sale tomorrow! I completely recommend a look, some of the bargains there are unreal. Most of it's far more than half price and of course, there might be a repeat of the time I saw several sets of Prada shoes on the rack....£90 each! How do you sale shop? Arrive at opening time on the day or risk waiting a few days to nab even more marked down prices? I've picked out the my top ten favorites just for you.

1. Printed T-shirt - Alexander McQueen

2. Tulip dress - Jil Sander

3. Shellie Dress - Ralph Lauren

4. Duck Print top - Marni Edition

5. Snake-effect cashmere jumper - Equipment

6. Panelled skirt - Marni Edition

7. Embroidered asymmetrical dress - Isabel Marant

8. Colour-block dress - Helmut Lang

9. Laser cut leather shorts - Diane Von Furstenberg

10. Marc Jacobs Lita Cheetah jumper

Sunday 9 June 2013

Top ten New Look



I love New Look for a number of reasons. It really can be your go to place for almost everything. But my ultimate favourite thing about it? If you take a 12 to the changing rooms, it will be a 12. Not a 10 masquerading as a 12 to make us all feel fat but an actual 12. Shops base their sizes, for example a size 12, on the average size of a group of size 12 ladies who shop there. Clearly, the average shopper, is awesome.

It's also fantastic for trends and designer collaborations. My favourite bit is the shoe lounge. So many of my favourite shoes come from there. They sometimes repeat stock a few shoes each year too which is great, especially if like me you wear your favourite shoes to death. Shoes just seem to fall apart on my feet, I think it's a curse. And lastly, the price! It's so reasonable. You can get a whole outfit from there for £50 no problem. Less even. And that's shoes included.

So to celebrate their general fab-ness, here's my top ten new in:

1. Aztec skirt

2. Monochrome grid skirt

3. Triangle necklace

4. Mesh polka dot skirt

5. Flower print dress

6. Green floral skirt

7. Transparent clutch

8. Polka dot denim skirt

9. Denim Pinafore

10. Gold rainbow necklace

Friday 31 May 2013

COS edit



1. Cotton and linen shirt

2. A-line jersey skirt

3. Sheer detail skirt

4. V-neck printed dress

5. Jacquard blazer

6. A-line denim skirt

7. Leather lace up sandals

8. Structured A-line dress

9. Silk angora jumper

10. Cotton and linen dress

Here are the best ten pieces new in at COS right now. If you've never heard of COS it's definitely a name you need on your radar. The pieces are beautiful, you can tell straight away how much thought has gone into the cut, fabric choice and style of each item. I love how COS makes pieces that are on trend but completely timeless at the same time. My first purchase from COS was a navy blue cocoon coat and I just love it. Putting it on instantly adds style points to whatever I'm wearing. I'll never have to start the dreaded (yet kind of fun, I love a good fashion related challenge!) decision of what winter coat to buy because I'll be taking this out year after year. It looks just as good as it did now as it did fifty million wears ago when I bought it last October.

Tuesday 28 May 2013

Summer dressing



We've just had (and on a bank holiday too!) a few days of some of the nicest weather we've had all year. In true Brit style I've been spending the past few days in beer gardens, parks and generally just being outside as much as possible. I've even caught the sun a tiny bit. This is good and bad, good for lightly bronzed shoulders but not so good that you can blatantly tell which side I've been carrying my canvas bag. Here's an arrangement of what I've been wearing the past few days. The denim skirt is from ASOS, Polka dot camisole from Primark, wide leg, printed trousers from H&M and sandals from George Asda (last year). I've been staring at them in my wardrobe and wishing I could wear them for about 2 months! So good to finally wear them. Of course, it has started raining again but I'm staying optimistic. What are you waiting for summer to wear?

Monday 20 May 2013

My style 1



I've been thinking of posting some of my own style for a while but have been hesitant about it. I'm an absolute style blog addict but never really felt the need to post any of myself. But I thought why not? It'd be a fun project and great way to look (or laugh) at things I was wearing a year or however long from now. I'm still going to have lots of street style and high street and designer edits but with maybe the odd appearance from me every now and again. I hope you enjoy this post!

Now I'm thinking about it, all items, boots, dungarees and shirt are from Topshop (cough, addict, cough) except for the tights which are Primark. I got the dress recently, the boots in the sale last week and the shirt a while ago. I can't believe how versatile dungarees are, you can stick anything under them (and you should always have something under them), jumpers, shirts, t-shirts, tunics, it's endless. I'm waiting for an amazing ruffled jumpsuit to come in at ASOS, it been ages since it was in the ASOS magazine. I always know it's right to buy something if I can't get it out of my head.

Monday 13 May 2013

Laces



Hey there. More street style today. This was near to the triangle on a very windy Saturday, or maybe Friday. I'm not sure! Working shifts can make you start to confuse the days a little! The part of her outfit that drew me first and the most were her shoes, I just love them. I think they make the entire outfit. That flash of pink that really warms up the denim and khaki jacket. They are a really personal touch, like the scarf and brooch. She definitely seems like the kind of person who would put her own cool spin on everything. I always think it can look a bit funny when you see a group of girls or boys who all have on practically the same outfit and hairstyle. I always wonder if they haven't noticed or if they have but don't want to say anything. Or maybe they think that's good. I don't know. It's definitely dull.

Thursday 9 May 2013

Couple 4



I spotted this couple just by the Triangle and I love their style. I love the mix of neutral and earthy tones, browns, greys and whites, and how they are both matching with the scarves, jackets and plimsolls. It's cool because they complement each other so well yet still look really unique. Like The Kooples adverts but maybe for Mango or Zara. Or something a little more Urban, maybe. They were visiting from The Netherlands which made me want to go on holiday there very much, I've been about 5 times and I love it. Such a friendly city, beautiful architecture, great style, amazing bars and cafes and the noodle version of Subway (amazing!). Plus you can cycle everywhere (Save the earth, money and your health in one!) as the city is perfectly designed to accommodate cyclists. Cycling around Manchester can be a bit dangerous really, I'd be a bit terrified I think!

Sunday 5 May 2013

Fun



Hello! I've got some more street style for you today. I spotted these girls straight away walking up past Zara and really wanted to take their photo. Their looks really reminded me of being young (not that I'm old but you know what I mean) and having fun with clothes and not taking them too seriously. Polka dot jeans, bowler hats, sheepskin, acid wash denim - why not? It totally works. And of course the fun with fashion shouldn't stop when you're not young, personally I think you should have even more of it, but you can't beat the time you first start to get to grips with what you wear and start asking, what clothes are 'me'? I've been through so many phases, some great, some a disaster. I've had my designer phase at about 13 where I used to hunt around the charity shops for t-shirts that had FCUK across the front (shudder) and then the vintage phases where I used to (it seems anyway) look for the most mad, crazy, preferably in need of serious repair piece of clothing, stick a belt round it and out the door I went. But it's all part of the process. Not everyone might agree but I really think that you can find yourself through clothes. Wearing some things really requires you to up your confidence levels and trust your own choices and feelings. If you want to wear something but your reason not to involves someone else's opinion, then get that thing over your head right now and get out the door! God I love fashion.

Sunday 28 April 2013

Leopard Courts



I love these shoes from Topshop, I can't decide which colour is better! They have the making of a very popular shoe. Pointed court, mid to high heel and two colour lepoard print. Great with jeans, amazing with dresses or skirts. I think I like the white ones, no the blue, argh I don't know! I have a feeling I'm going to be seeing these a lot in magazines and possibly on Olivia Palmero, they remind me of her style a bit. She does have amazing style. It's classic yet brave at the same time. I think grooming plays a big part. Her makeup and hair are just impeccable. Like, perfect. It really counts for a lot. I think clothes look better if your washed and brushed up. I had my hair trimmed the other day at Icehouse Hair studio (www.facebook.com/icehousehairstudio) and the hairdresser dried my hair with a little curls and bounce at the bottom - I loved it! I felt like my hair was about to become a new character on 'Made in Chelsea' (mad people, great hair). I'm going to give it a go at home but I'm slightly apprehensive, my hair repertoire pretty much consists of hair down and top knot (lifesaver). I can do some curls with a wand but the success seems to depend on the day haha. Wish me luck!

Friday 26 April 2013

Khaki



Hello! Some more street style today! I've not posted for over a week so I went off today into town to hunt for some style. I spotted this girl near The Triangle and I loved the simplicity of her outfit, the khaki coat with the grey t-shirt and the black leather boots (great legs by the way!). It just works really well and looks effortlessly stunning. Really earthy tones. A khaki coat is a great basic to have in your wardrobe, it's practical and casual but still has a bit of fun and girly-ness to it. They suit all shapes and size and go with every colour. A real hero piece. Topshop always has coats similar to this all year round, especially around festival season which has already started. Or for a bit more authenticity and on a budget, check out your local army surplus or vintage store. If you live in Manchester the the shops in the Northern Quarter are a great place to hunt one out and Affleck's Palace too.

Thursday 18 April 2013

Matching



I've been staring longingly at this silky matching set from Zara for ages. And as I've not shopped for a while I nipped down at lunch the other day and bought it. I love the pattern, it's not too much and not too bright. Plus the I can wear them as separates too, the top will go with jeans and the trousers with any kind of top really. I'll probably go with loose t-shirts and jumpers with shirts underneath. I can't wait to wear them together as well, but it'll be a while till I can wear it, it brightened up for a few days but the wind today was insane. The thunder too, my whole office went silent for a second when it started to rumble and it's normally a fairly noisy place. It's nearly May, it's very unfair. Anyone else got any outfits they are having to save for a much warmer day?

Monday 15 April 2013

Les Chiffoniers



I am absolutely in love with this top by Les Chiffoniers. I saw it in the More Dash than Cash supplement with Vogue this month. I did try to take a photo of the magazine but it didn't really show you the quality and detail photographed twice. I know it's all part of reading Vogue, lusting over the beautiful designer creations, which I love, but whatever dash is, it's worth more than cash! Hence the unrequited love I'm experiencing with the gorgeous creation above. But I forgive them, there's so much more to Vogue. The photo shoots are sometimes out of this world and it's a very romantic magazine, especially the way the articles are written. The words are almost like lyrics, and encourage the reader to imagine and lose themselves a little. I like it, it's like a happy fashion day dream. Does anyone else know what I mean? But back to the item above. I flipped to this page and was just like oh my god! It looks like an amazing over size, ribbed wool jumper but it's made of the most buttery soft looking, creamy pink leather instead! Therefore catapulting it from comfy and casual, to both of those things plus an edge.

(photo taken from Les Chiffoniers.com)

Thursday 11 April 2013

Fantasy shopping - Net-a-Porter edit



I don't know why I do it to myself but I can't resist a rummage through Net-a-Porter every now again. Everything on there is just so beautiful, here's a top ten list of my favourite items. Yes, I know, some of them are eye wateringly expensive but fashion is all about fantasy after all. I can't decide on a favourite, I'm pretty much in love with every single item. And they weirdly all go together. Like if you added a grey t-shirt to the mix (to tuck into the skirts, or possibly even under the Helmet Lang dress?) you'd have a very glamorous capsule wardrobe indeed.

1. Metallic leather pumps - Chloe

2. Embellished printed satin dress - Proenza Schouler

3. Ghent fine-knit cashmere and silk-blend sweater - The Row

4. Ombré silk cocoon coat - Burberry Prosum

5. Jacquard dress - Helmut Lang

6. Patchwork cotton landscape dress - Vika Gazinskaya

7. Studded patent-leather flats - Valentino

8. Pandora Perspex clutch - Charlotte Oylmpia

9. Panelled satin skirt - Proenza Schouler

10. Lace-appliquéd taped silk-organza skirt - Christopher Kane

Monday 8 April 2013

Denim and khaki



Hello! More street style today. I spotted this lady in Piccadilly gardens a week or two ago. I love how fun the outfit was, really cute and casual. I love denim and khaki together and the cream fur gilet and the statement necklace adds a touch of personality. She also had a gorgeous black Chanel bag, I spend so long online lusting over them! I'd love to invest in one, one day, but that day is not today! The 2.55 is my favourite. Not too big, not too small, in black. I love just having one bag, normally black, nice and simple and generally quite big as I'm definitely a everything-but-the-kitchen-sink person. I need a new bag at the moment as my current one is a little battered but it's so hard to find a bag you love enough to carry it everyday. Does anyone else need a bag that's 'them' in a weird way? Like it has to feel 'right' on your arm. I have a male friend who thinks it's odd that women have to look at a bag on them in a mirror before they buy it but I totally get it.

Thursday 4 April 2013

Warm layers



I love this outfit. It looks so warm and cosy and comfy, but really glamorous at the same time. I think it's the black leather boots with the gold tips (want!) and the brown leather bag, which I think is from Zara. I like that the scarf and grey flecked boyfriend coat are oversized and accentuated by the skinny jeans - if you look closely they have little dots on them. They are so cute.

I can't believe it's April already. Though I do love the beginning of the month because all the new magazines comes out and I am a complete magazine-addict. My favourite is Elle, but I'm really loving InStyle at the moment. They always have so many pages and pages of clothes and they are always styled beautifully! Their fashion team are genius! I also really love Look magazine. I think it's the best weekly. Again, pages and pages of clothes and they really encourage people to push the style boundaries and try new things, which I'm always a big fan of!

Monday 1 April 2013

Bank holiday shopping



As it was a bank holiday weekend, I did do a little shopping with my friend on Friday. These are two of the things I bought and have been wearing all weekend, as you can see I've scuffed one of the boots already haha. The boots are from New Look (click here) and also come in black. They do remind me a little of the Chloe buckle boots but not too much so. I'm sort of on the fence with designer 'copies' on the high street. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. The jumper is from Primark, I've been wearing it with a white shirt underneath. I did buy a couple more things which I might show you later, but they are mainly pieces for summer that will have to be stored away for a month or two. I can't wait for warmer weather, there are so many outfits I want to wear! I've been thinking recently of posting some of my own style soon, but I'm not too sure yet!