Style Remains

BRUSHFIELD STREET

2011-04-30T19:56:00.002+01:00

(Miss Selfridge biker jacket, vintage blouse, locket and bag, Topshop skinnies, Primark brogues)

Another sporadic post here - it's been rare lately to have a weekend when I have time to think about a blog post! Had a wander around Shoreditch and Spitalfields, vintage shop browsing and an al fresco lunch. I'd been wanting some block coloured skinnies for a while, and as ever, Topshop delivered (I may as well have a direct debit to Arcadia), with these coral numbers. Second lucky strike was this nude biker from Miss Selfridge - I'm not normally a fan of faux leather but the gold hardware won me over...

BROADWICK STREET

2011-04-11T22:46:00.005+01:00

(vintage jacket, H&M faux leather skirt and mens t-shirt, Office wedge ankle boots, Topshop chain)

Posting on here has become a very rare occurence - I don't even really think I can call myself a blogger anymore... shows how much a job you enjoy can take over! Taken outside work for a Style Spy feature we do in the office - in fact that gallery is updated with outfit posts every single day so it's a good place to get your fix as I seem to be so slack on here! Take a look at the latest galleries here.

Am working next season's colour palette of seventies mustards, browns and purples already here (in fact I've just realised I don't even have any documentation of London Fashion Week - but the rain did dampen fashion spirits slightly - I promise that come next fashion week I will be a much better blogger!) - I picked up this jacket on a relatively recent Beyond Retro spree, you can't tell from this pic but there is amazing embellishment on the shoulders. Getting quite heavily back into vintage shopping - I also picked up an oversized clutch, an eighties disco dress and, back in my parents hometown, the most amazing print shirt - something I will save to show another time...

SILVER PLACE

2011-01-27T21:50:00.002Z

(vintage top and Levi's shorts, H&M blazer, Miss Selfridge mac, Kurt Geiger boots)

Been wearing this red H&M blazer loads - and I know, I know, I'm always in a blazer - it just seems to pull a look together, and H&M have a great selection of affordable blazers. This photo is taken round the corner from my offices, we upload what the other staff members at the mag wear every day to company.co.uk so sometimes I can get a blog picture out of it too! It's hard to get proper blog posts done at the moment as it's dark when I finish work and I'm not really a fan of photos taken indoors - can't wait for warmer weather and lighter evenings!

I got these Kurt Geiger boots for a steal in their sale - I had my eye on them at full price so very pleased, and think they'll look cool with bare legs if and when I ever get the chance! Also good for toning down mini skirts and shorts - something about chesea boots just counter-balance any overt sexiness to a look.

HEATHROW #1

2011-01-22T11:42:00.002Z

(H&M stripe blazer, American Apparel tank, Topshop biker skinnies, Bertie ankle boots, Forever 21 necklace)

If you are a reader of the Company magazine website then you will know that we were there all last week editing the mag and the website, so apologies as you probably have already seen this outfit - if not, then here it is! I bought these Topshop biker skinnies from eBay, but I will also be getting them from Toppers in black and maybe the camel as well - they are really tight and don't lose their shape - and they just have a bit more of an edge than your regular skinnies.

I know it's still January but I couldn't really wait to get my Bertie peep toe ankle boots out of hiding - they are such a classic. I wore them to the BRITs nominations launch aswell and they just add something to an outfit that closed toe shoes don't.

Can't believe this is only my second post in January - Style Remains has been slack!

FULHAM

2011-01-12T22:10:00.003Z

(Topshop Boutique dress, customised H&M gilet, Zara wedges, YSL ring, Urban Outfitters two-finger ring, Jaegar necklace, vintage jewellery)

Just realised that it looks like I've adopted a new, neutral colour palette of navy, tan and denim. I guess I have it part, but will never leave behind my gold bling! A couple of new addictions to my collection - this long chain with blue gem ball from Jaegar (thankfully I waited a week or so from when I first saw it and it was subsequently reduced in the sale), and this two-finger ring, a heavily hinted for Christmas present from Dan. He calls it a knuckle duster, I love it - although I think I need to balance out the bling on each wrist - I feel I might be verging on Mister T territory...

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

2010-12-30T17:55:00.006Z

(Zara kids coat, Topshop denim shirt, belt and dress, Kurt Geiger chelsea boots, Jaegar necklace, Balenciaga bag)

Went for a look around the sales in Knightsbridge this afternoon, but since I am on a shopping ban, it wasn't much fun, although I did get my eyebrows shaped at Blink in Harvey Nics. In fact it was actually Dan that bought things while I coaxed him from store to store (men are RUBBISH shoppers) all the while thinking about the red Mulberry boots I posted about here and have continued to lust after. They are in the sale, but still inconveniently expensive so think I'm going to have to set my sights a little lower unfortunately!

Wearing my new Zara coat today. It IS Zara, but it just might be from the, ahem, kids department. Well, the adult version was twice the price and this size (age 11-12!) fits my narrow shoulders perfectly, and I think it's got a bit of an 'Alexa Chung' vibe about it. The adult version was only single-breasted too, so I think I scored a winner here (thanks to Dan's family who bought it for me for Christmas!) - take a look in Zara kids if you're petite like me as the range is almost as chic as it's grown-up counterpart...

IN GOOD COMPANY

2010-12-29T17:21:00.005Z

(Topshop navy playsuit and belt, Aldo heels)

Firstly, apologies for this month long hiatus I've had from blogging - but I have been crazy busy! A new flat, nearly a new year... but most excitingly and importantly for me, a new job. The photo above goes some way to explaining why I haven't had much time to catch my breath, let alone log on, but suffice to say I am very happy, if a little tired! I am going to really try to get back into the habit of taking outfit photos and getting back on track with Style Remains.

Hope you all had an amazing Christmas and have found loads of bargains in the sales - I had a pile of new things to share on here so keep a look out for more posts soon...

WIND DOWN

2010-11-29T15:41:00.004Z

(Topshop playsuit, H&M blazer, Primark wedges, Forever 21 necklace)

Starting to wind down in my current job and gear myself up to starting my exciting new role, but the ensuing leaving drinks, dinners and lunches are taking its toll and I'm looking forward to a couple of nights on the sofa - not before a trip to say goodbye to old workmates in Bristol today and a sample sale back in London tomorrow night - all worth it though.

Can't finish this post without talking about these mazing new wedges - bought on a payday mini-splurge in Primark... they literally haven't left my feet since the day I bought them.

LOYALTIES

2010-11-26T09:40:00.003Z

(River Island faux fur coat, Vogue's Fashions Night Out tee, American Apparel skirt, Kurt Geiger ankle boots)

This is the last wear of this t-shirt - my magazine loyalties have definitely shifted from next week! However it has reminded me that I need alot more round-neck printed tees in my wardrobe - they really balance out the silhouette when you wear them with a short skirt. I have my eye on one in particular; a cloud print Stella McCartney number from theoutnet.com. It has started to get REALLY cold and icy now, and the faux fur is back in force - however I am on the lookout for a black version for this winter, but not too expensive. Anyone seen one on the high street?

CROSSROADS

2010-11-22T16:35:00.004Z

(vintage blouse and necklace, All Saints leather jacket, H&M skirt, Primark brogues)

I'm at a crossroads both physically (in this photo) and metaphorically; we moved into our new flat yesterday on the other side of London and I start my new job next week so everything is a bit up in the air at the moment and I'm looking forward to getting settled into a new routine. And also looking forward to getting home tonight and re-arranging my new walk-in* wardrobe! Can't wait to investigate the charity shops in my new neighbourhood too - they look promising...

*well, I can get inside it

BOOTIE CALL

2010-11-19T10:25:00.003Z

Following on from my last post on the boots I've ordered, I am wondering if I've made the right choice after seeing these Sam Edelman leopard booties which Whistles are selling. They are a little more expensive but I can picture them making a plain outfit into something special, and a manageable heel height to boot (ha, boot!).
And then these Mulberrys of course - totally unobtainable for my budget at £450 a pair but SO beautiful in this tomato red colour; perfect for adding a colour pop to any ensemble and would also look fab in summer with bare legs. Sigh.

BOOTS

2010-11-18T11:08:00.005Z

(All Saints leather jacket, H&M tank and snood, Miss Selfridge shorts, vintage cowboy boots)

Found this snood just on it's own in H&M - I always find the best pieces that way; something which has been discarded by another shopper becomes my purchase, maybe because when everything is crammed on a rail it becomes less inspiring. I also dug these ancient cowboy boots out of retirement as my boot situation is dire currently - my Kurt Geiger favourites needed re-heeling and I am awaiting a delivery of these boots from ASOS in grey.

I'm at the stage where I am bored of everything in my wardrobe - I'm hoping that in the move to the new flat and bigger wardrobe I can rediscover some inspiration...

FEATHERS

2010-11-16T09:40:00.002Z

(Material Girl gilet, vintage levi shorts, All Saints leather jacket, Forever 21 tee and necklace, Bertie boots)

Back from New York and you can see it's much greyer back in the UK - although I have a few new American purchases to keep my spirits up, including this gilet from Madonna's daughter's range Material Girl, bought in Macys on 6th Ave. True, the range is meant for teenagers but I liked the texture and colours, and the fact that it was feathers and not fur. Forever 21 also got a visit from me, where I picked up 2 pairs of skinny trousers and a dress, as well as this tee and necklace, the latter of which I have worn to death over the past week or so - it's trashy beyond belief and I love it.

PASTIS

2010-11-14T18:07:00.002Z

(French Connection dress, vintage clutch bag and faux fur collar, Miss Selfridge trench, Bertie boots)

On our final night we went back to the Meatpacking District and had a gorgeous meal at Pastis. Buzzy atmosphere with perfect lighting, great service and spot on food, I wish I could eat there every night - as did the queue of people at the bar waiting for a table. Sigh. I heart NY.

ROCKEFELLER

2010-11-12T10:37:00.004Z

(H&M blazer and hat, Topshop tank and snood, vintage Levis shorts and biker boots)

Breathtaking views across the Manahattan skyline at dusk - you can see the expanse of Central Park behind me. Again, it was FREEZING, but I took off my coat to show off this new bright red blazer which I bought on a whim from the new H&M in Angel the day before we flew out. I think this red is the perfect accent colour this season to contrast against the black, camel and denim shades I favour - some skinny jeans in the same colour have been on my wishlist for ages and will be my payday purchase; Zara have a great cropped pair I have my eye on...

CENTRAL PARK

2010-11-11T09:54:00.005Z

(vintage top and levi shorts, American Apparel circle scarf, Miss Selfridge trench, Primark brogues, Ray ban sunglasses)

So amazing that they haven't encroached on this amazing park to build on when space is such a premium in Manhattan, but I'm so glad they haven't - it must be such a haven for New Yorkers, to have a place where in some areas you can't even see the skyscrapers.

When it comes to this top, I feel like I have to ration when I wear it because I love it so much I don't want people to be sick of the sight of it. I seem to have this with all of my favourite clothes, then I end up not wearing them as much as any other pieces. I need to re-think this system...

HALLOWEEN

2010-11-10T13:02:00.003Z

(vintage levi shorts, Ann Summers corset, Miss Selfridge heels, All Saints leather jacket)

Not one of my more conventional outfits, and this post is very late, but this is me as Katy Perry for my halloween fancy dress costume - and Dan went as Russell Brand for a nice bit of couple symmetry! Suffice to say it was a very messy night at 230 Fifth, a rooftop bar in central Manhattan, culminating in a rather wasted Sunday morning - needless to say that Katy wasn't feeling quite so perky the next day...

MEATPACKING DISTRICT

2010-11-09T09:51:00.006Z

(All Saints hat, H&M hat, skirt and tank, New Look cardigan, vintage bag and biker boots, American Apparel scarf)

My favourite district in New York by a mile - if I moved to NYC (*dreaming*) this is where I would want to live - it has a real neighbourhood feel, and the fact that Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen and DVF have stores here speaks volumes about the clientele and style of the area. In response to the comment from 'C' - we spent ages on the High Line, it was yet another reason why we loved this area so much... beautiful.

Another wear of the fur trapper hat (and not the last I'm afraid) - it was much colder over there than I expected and this was my saviour when the October wind was whistling around. Loved that we were there for Halloween, the Americans go all out when it comes to decorating and it made our trip to see the efforts. Pic of my halloween outfit to follow tomorrow...

LIBERTY ISLAND

2010-11-07T17:12:00.004Z

(Primark blouse, blazer and brogues, vintage handbag and Levi shorts, Henry Holland for Pretty Polly tights, Ray Ban sunnies)

The statue of liberty is a must-do on any New York visitor's list - but I felt a little bit smug as we went one better and actually went up inside the statue and climbed the spiral stairs right up to her crown with spectacular views of Manhattan, Ellis Island and New Jersey. I wore my Henry Holland for Pretty Polly suspender tights which I love, but I think they might have attracted a few undesirable stares - think the way to wear them is to go really grungy and dressed-down to make them less risque! Just realised that this outfit is a bit Primark-heavy - but it's all about the look and not the label in my book.

HEATHROW TERMINAL 5

2010-11-05T10:45:00.004Z

(H&M hat, Topshop stripe top & snood, River Island shorts, All Saints leather jacket, vintage belt & boots)

Well, I'm back in the blogosphere after nearly a week in New York and a very exciting new job offer which I've accepted and can't wait to get started on! Took an abundance of photos while away in the big apple and tried to document my outfits as best as I could.

Debuting a tryout of lipstick - a new foray into make-up for me, and I love this pillarbox red No7 shade in 'Daredevil' I picked up from Boots at the airport. Also this hat, which I picked up from H&M for a steal before I left, was a must-have pretty much every day as it was so cold, so apologies if you see it fairly frequently over the next few posts.

Flying with BA from T5 was such a welcome change from Easyjet and Ryanair that even the turbulence didn't worry me THAT much...

ADIEU...

2010-10-28T11:05:00.006+01:00

(Warehouse skirt, Topshop tee, vintage scarf and necklace, Miss Selfridge trench,Primark brogues)

...but only for a few days. I am heading today to the shopping capital of the world - New York City! Flights were booked in the January sales, so that gives you some idea of the countdown that has been going on for this break (and the time spent saving for the all-important retail therapy). Posting therefore may be a bit slack while I'm away, but I'll be back to vainly show off all my new purchases next week - hopefully many posts worth of new pieces...

DUNCANNON STREET

2010-10-26T14:02:00.002+01:00

(Topshop blazer, H&M tank, Miss Selfridge shorts, vintage belt, Kurt Geiger boots)

Continuing the layering theme here with cardi-under-blazer instead of a real coat again. I remembered I had these shorts after seeing a street style picture of Taylor Tomasi during fashion week. She has GREAT personal style - very chic but with a hard, rockier edge. Her red hair is a style statement in itself, but she teams her outfit with bold bright accessories to make each look a little more alternative - plus she shares my love of* blazers, so her place as one my style inspirations is cemented.

*obsession with

LAYERING

2010-10-25T09:56:00.004+01:00

(All Saints leather jacket, vintage scarf, River Island shorts, customised H&M gilet, Zara men's jumper, Primark brogues)

Can't wait to have my camera back (or get my new iPhone 4) so that I don't have to contend with the iPhone 3G camera anymore - these photos are less than cristal clear so apologies. The cold weather has hit but I don't want to admit it, so instead of wearing one sensible winter coat I am instead wearing five layers to keep warm.

PS. My roots need doing. It's definite - this is photographic evidence!

CLASH

2010-10-22T10:02:00.003+01:00

(vintage top and belt, H&M jacket, Topshop skinnies, Bertie peep toe boots)

I may well have mentioned this last time I wore it, but this is my favourite top by far at the moment - I think its the combination and boldness of the colours. Teamed acidentally with contrasting stripe jacket, but I quite liked the effect of them clashing together. Please excuse my odd expression here -the sun was directly shining in my eyes but this angle showed the colours best!

ESSEX ROAD

2010-10-20T15:48:00.003+01:00

(vintage boots and Levi shorts, Emma Cook top, Miss Selfridge trench, Ray Ban sunnies, Balenciaga bag)

This was my hangover saturday outfit, when we wandered around the antiques auction and looked at all the interior design shops along Upper Street. I don't know why, but it is IMPOSSIBLE to wear heels when you are hungover, hence these biker boots... again. This time teamed with chunky socks for extra comfort, as well as both a trench AND sunglasses to contend with London's crazy weather at the moment. I picked up this Emma Cook rope print top at London Fashion Weekend last year and had totally forgotten about it until it spilled out when I was forced to give my drawers a clearout in advance of our flat move next month.

PHONE BOX RED

2010-10-19T10:11:00.003+01:00

(All Saints leather jacket, vintage scarf, shorts & necklace, H&M tank, Balenciaga bag, Kurt Geiger boots)

Blending into my surroundings - kind of like an urban chameleon. I bought this vintage scarf on eBay and then, about six months later, saw another identical one in a vintage shop. That's why vintage excites me - you wonder how each item ended up where they did.

SOUTH BANK

2010-10-18T09:47:00.004+01:00

(H&M jumper, American Apparel U-neck dress and scarf, All Saints leather jacket, vintage bag and biker boots)

Sunday lunchtime stroll along the South Bank before heading home to cook up a massive roast dinner. Been wearing these biker boots ALOT lately, not sure if they may be on the wrong side of butch but I love them. Note the Sunday Times Style mag in my hand: It is the 'Are you middle class?' issue. The answer is sad but true...

COCKSPUR STREET

2010-10-15T09:42:00.003+01:00

(vintage blouse and belt, Topshop jeans, snood and blazer, Bertie boots)

I used to live in jeans, day in day out, but now I find that I need to wear something a bit different on top to make me feel like I've made more of an effort - in this case a vintage blouse which I picked up from a charity shop where my sister lives. She's moving today though (happy moving day sis), so I hope that her new village will match it for bargain finds. Also wearing my peep toe boots from Bertie which are my new favourite - look amazing with everything, including bare legs.

THE SHOE GALLERIES - SELFRIDGES

2010-10-14T10:59:00.003+01:00

To me it's not a shopping department, but an art gallery. From Nicholas Kirkwood for Rodarte's wax heels to Louboutins show apartment and everything in-between (even River Island and Topshop have their own shoe areas), the way the shoes are displayed on pedestals is exactly as they should be. And to top it off, they even have a shoe photo booth, where Kat and I extolled the virtues of these suede Fashionista by Kurt Geiger heels.

DUSK

2010-10-13T09:55:00.005+01:00

(H&M skirt & stripe tee, Primark tux jacket, New Look hiker boots, mainly vintage jewellery)

Using a variety of cameras as mine finally gave up the ghost while Dan was away at the weekend, so we are alternating between Dan's dads amazing DSLR (which took these pics) and a 4 milion megapixel digital camera (pictures yet to be seen!) so results may vary. I've only worn these boots previously with bare legs as I thought they made my short legs look even shorter when worn with jeans or tights but balancing the colour against this camel skirt appears to lengthen them again somehow. Also picked up this huge black cocktail ring from Primark at the weekend in Oxford, just to give my YSL a bit of a rest...

BUCKINGHAM PALACE

2010-10-12T09:40:00.005+01:00

(Topshop blazer, tank and snood, American Apparel leggings, vintage bag and biker boots)

Taken when me and Kat had a long day of walking through London, stopping off at touristy spots on the way. After lunch on the South Bank, we spent a long time staring at the bored guards at Buckingham Palace before heading to Hyde Park, then to Marble Arch and Oxford Street. Shopping counts as cardio doesn't it?

OXFORD

2010-10-11T09:45:00.005+01:00

(All Saints leather jacket, BDG @ Urban Outfitters jeans, vintage belt, Primark blouse and brogues, Balenciaga bag)

Met my parents for lunch and a trip to the Ashmolean in Oxford yesterday, and even getting up at 7.45am on a Sunday to get an early train wasn't all bad - I love seeing London first thing in the morning before the crowds begin to arrive.

PARIS FASHION WEEK SS11 ROUNDUP

2010-10-09T09:54:00.003+01:00

Fashion month is over. I'm sad because it means that there won't be minute-by-minute accounts of the shows on Twitter and the majority of people have stopped being consumed with fashion (myself excluded, I still eat, sleep and breathe it...) but the finale was, of course, Paris. And what a finale. It cemented the trends of the previous cities and also created some new ones of it's own - and I've montaged some of my favourite looks above. My highlights included colour and graphic patterns - all unmistakeably Marc Jacobs - at Louis Vuitton; leather, block colours and equestrian detailing at Hermes; and Sarah Burton's first complete collection since taking the reins at Alexander McQueen, which was a triumph. It was still undeniably McQueen, but with a fresh breath and a slightly more female aesthetic. The graphic mustard maxi dress was a standout piece from Paris Fashion Week - luxe but tough.

And then Chanel. With rumours flying that this will be Karl Lagerfeld's last show, the fashion stake were high - and he didn't fail to impress. A wearable, sleek collection full of contrasts in texture, colour and fabric, all the while retaining the Chanel tone that has been built up for so many years. As usual I was drawn to the shorts (another reason to tone my legs up before next summer) teamed with chiffon shirts and bold, whimsical patterns, but also a couple of dresses made my hitlist - an OTT peach feathered number and a two-length sheer black dress, both beautiful and bound to be on the red carpet before the year is out.

And I couldn't end without giving a special mention to these Chanel lattice peep-toe wedge/heel hybrids. So wearable and so desireable - I would wager that these will be gracing the feet of many fashion editors come the AW11 shows (I also bet that Tommy Ton of Jak&Jil blog will be capturing them in his inimitable style):

Sigh. Autumn/Winter 2010 seems so boring in comparison now. When is it Spring again?

All images courtesy of Style.com

MANI

2010-10-08T12:00:00.003+01:00

I never used to wear nail varnish on my fingernails even though I have always been obsessive about my toenails being painted. Recently though, I've been looking for the perfect shade of greige (inspired by Chanel's Particuliere) which wasn't too lilac-y; and I found it in Superdrug by Rimmel in Softly Beige. Just looks more polished than bare nails but not too obvious when it chips -perfect. And every mani is made better with the addition of my YSL cocktail ring, which I still love even though I've worn it every day for nearly two years.

IRVING STREET

2010-10-07T14:07:00.001+01:00

(Topshop skater dress, H&M customised gilet, All Saints leather jacket, Kurt Geiger boots)

Need to mix up my footwear a bit more, these Carvela boots seem to be the first things I pull on in the mornings but I'm even boring myself by wearing them now. The weather is looking like it'll be sunny for the next couple of days so I'm going to take the opportunity to wear heels (and no tights hopefully). My shoe situation also isn't helped by the fact that they are piled in such a huge tangled mess at the bottom of my tiny wardrobe that I can't remember what I even have. Looking forward to moving into the new flat where my shoe rack will the length of the hall... can't wait.

FAUX

2010-10-06T11:08:00.002+01:00

(H&M kids faux fur jacket, Topshop jeans, Kurt Geiger ankle boots, men's Zara jumper)

It's nearly getting cold enough to wear some of my faux furs, in this case my leopard print fur jacket from the kid's section at H&M - to make a pair of jeans and Dan's old jumper a bit more exciting.

DOUBLE TAKE

2010-10-04T15:41:00.006+01:00

One pair is from Balenciaga, the other from River Island. When I saw the RI pair the similarity struck me immediately. Whether they are a homage or a copy I think depends on the budget you normally reserve for shoes - but if you can afford designer shoes then why would you want anything but the real thing?

But imitation is the most sincere form of flattery and River Island's shoes are always way ahead of their high street rivals...

PICCADILLY

2010-10-03T09:05:00.000+01:00

(All Saints leather jacket, H&M black mini, SJP Bitten tee, my sister's faux-fur scarf, Primark brogues, Balenciaga bag)

Actually easier to take photos in the busiest places in London sometimes! Still in a sheer VS opaques quandry with black tights... opaques are certainly more flattering and forgiving. Maybe I need some 40 denier sheer to meet somewhere in the middle. Does anyone else resent spending money on tights as much as me though?

WARDOUR STREET

2010-10-01T10:01:00.004+01:00

(H&M customised gilet and tank, Miss Selfridge trench coat, Kate Moss for Topshop jeans, vintage boots & scarf)

Proper British autumn weather now - hence the trench. Layered it up underneath with a simple black tank, sleeveless denim jacket and this leopard silk scarf for a bit of detail. These vintage boots turned down to show the sheepskin cuff are great... until it rains and then it's like carrying a couple of wet cats round my ankles.

HAND ME DOWN

2010-09-30T10:00:00.002+01:00

(All Saints leather jacket, vintage scarf, bag and belt, Topshop shirt, New Look shorts, Primark brogues)

This bag is almost double vintage, in that my mum bought it from a vintage shop and has subsequently lent it (on a verrrry long loan) to me. Feels odd to carry a different bag but nice to accessorise with brown rather than black sometimes. Wearing sheer black tights here as an experiment; I think they add a different effect than my normal black opaques - in some ways smarter, and in other ways grungier, especially in the sense that they ladder when you as much as look at them...

MILAN FASHION WEEK - DSQUARED² SS11

2010-09-29T10:18:00.001+01:00

Milan Fashion Week is more established, with heavyweight big-hitters such as Prada, D&G, Armani and Jil Sander showing, but I always seem to be more interested in the slightly off-beat, but no less impressive designers - in this case Dsquared². Perhaps I was so drawn to the styling as it is a more polished extension of my own wardrobe and taste, but the combinations of shorts, brogues, leather and quirky accesories had me at the first short-suit outfit (top right). The result is that I might want to purchase some geek glasses, and that I probably need to start squats and lunges now to prepare my legs for Dsquared²-esque shorts come Summer...

LEOPARD

2010-09-28T09:44:00.002+01:00

(Uniqlo tank, customised Sass & Bide jeans, vintage belt, River Island shoes)

Wearing my new heels which I can't believe I haven't posted about yet - I first saw them about 6 weeks ago, and although I slipped one on and admired them, I didn't think too much about them at the time. For the following couple of weeks though, I kept thinking about them, what I could wear with them, how they would add a pop to an otherwise plain outfit... So when I went back to buy them I realised the added bonus of they actually being comfortable. Will also be cracking these out to wear with tights when it gets even more grey and miserable.

BOROUGH MARKET

2010-09-25T18:32:00.000+01:00

(Vintage top, H&M skirt, All Saints leather jacket, Primark brogues, Balenciaga bag)

I found this top in Beyond Retro in Stockholm, and I was almost beside myself when I pulled it off the rail. Not only was it the perfect colours, style and print (khaki/red/blue, sleeveless and bold) but it was only after I had it in my hands that I realised it was in the sale, meaning it ended up costing around £4. While I have plain loose tanks coming out my ears, the one thing really lacking in my wardrobe is decent tops with some individuality and colour and this goes someway to filling this void.

This taken on a perfect Saturday - Borough market in the morning with Dan to get some gorgeous food for dinner, then meeting the girls at Bluebird on King's Road for coffee and window shopping.

ROYAL ALBERT HALL

2010-09-24T10:07:00.005+01:00

(vintage sequinned blazer, Topshop stripe tunic, Zara wedges, Balenciaga bag)

To see Stephen Fry's one man show last night, I wore this jacket which I'd forgotten about all day at work too, I like wearing sparkles during the day for a change. I dug out this find in a little vintage shop in Devon, where we are headed again this weekend - I'm hoping to unearth some more treasures on this trip too...

LONDON FASHION WEEK SS11 ROUND-UP

2010-09-23T08:24:00.006+01:00

It's special when the fashion carnival comes to your home turf - and the talent on show this year made me proud to be a Brit. There were so many highlights and there is so much to write about, but I'm keeping things simple with pieces from some of my favourite designers for each day, and scanning for the looks and trends that will dominate come Spring/Summer next year - particularly print, seventies, neon, glamour and biker.

LFW: DAY ONE

I was very enamoured by the Sass & Bide show, maybe because I'm fussy when it comes to prints, but this collection got them just right in an understated palette of washed khaki, creams and dark brown. Felder Felder always hits the mark, and this look is very simple but chic, with great detailing. PPQ's mustard satin trousers stopped me dead - perfect statement piece but also very versatile and surprisingly wearable, while the texture and colours at Maria Grochvogal had sellout written all over them. My favourite looks from Paul Costelloe and Jean-Pierre Braganza were dresses in nude, muted tones - shades that I favoured throughout the whole week of shows.

LFW: DAY TWO

Topshop Unique never disappoints. Perhaps it's the fact that they have a huge high street store as a mentor, but the backing of the public means that they have a real confidence when it comes to creating trends, and the dreamlike maxi skirts and perspex platform heels are an instant hits. My standout piece was this raspberry dress - sexy yet demure. Twenty8Twelve always gurantees a media frenzy (especially with Jude Law in the front row) but generally the clothes matched the hype; it wasn't an overly remarkable show, but contained lots of sellable and wearable pieces. Louise Gray also used the mustard hue (thankyou!) with block colours and chiffon overlays, while Henry Holland created a new signature print - a banana leaf. This dress is flirty (and fringey!) but I fear that he has designed for quite a niche market with this collection. Fashion Fringe debuted three great new designers, but it was Jade Kang's grecian draping and sorbet colours which immediately won me over.

LFW: DAY THREE

On Sunday, London fashion week was crammed to the rafters with clever, edgy and colourful collections - I tried to edit this montage down but couldn't. Therefore this left me with more stunning nude ensembles from Richard Nicoll (this pleated cape dress is certainly on my ever-expanding wishlist) and Julien MacDonald, who created a more restrained and grown-up show. More perfect prints abounded at Kinder Aggugini, Matthew Williamson and Basso & Brooke, on designs as diverse as short-sleeved shifts, sweeping tropical maxi-dresses and another caped mini-dress. Finally Acne, in the very regal setting of Kensington Palace, proved to be as wearable and edgy as ever - they can do no wrong in my book.

LFW: DAY FOUR

Prints got miniature and digital on day four, with Peter Pilotto going in a slightly new direction with a looser, seventies feel and superb cut-out detailing, while Erdem created a highly desirable new print which was even extended to toy pugs - buy one of these limited edition pooches exclusively at http://www.start-london.com/. Meadham Kirchoff created a pink wonderland in which to display their wares, and again, a red chiffon dress was my highlight. Giles created a headline-grabbing show with an array of celebrity models and neon colours - a trend also reflected by Christopher Kane, a collection which won the hearts of fashion editors around the world, while David Koma built on the publicity of being championed by A-listers to create a more mature look whilst still retaining his signature shapes and edges. However Holly Fulton was my favourite show of the day, if not the week; I now covet every single skyscraper-inspired piece, and the chosen palette of orange, turquoise, black and white is exactly what I want to be wearing next summer.

LFW: DAY FIVE

The final day of womenswear kicked off with Jaegar London, an accomplished collection introducing metallic blue into the colour equation, - which was mirrored at Marios Schwab, a show I was drawn to with the Joan Jett wigs, rock n roll undertones and grungy soundtrack. The simple shapes in contrasting cream and black from Krystof Strozyna were a masterclass in textures, creating a very sell-able collection and the nude tones carried through to Todd Lynn, who created accents with metallics - another key trend for next summer - and he also proved that the skinny trouser is here to stay. And then Burberry Prorsum of course. The day, and perhaps the week, came to it's peak at 4pm, when Christopher Baileys visions were streamed live around the world. As one incredible look followed another, I was wowed by the fact that I wanted to own every single item. Unbelievable attention to detail and a biker look to die for, from the cream leather motorcycle skirt to the studded trench coats, I was in fashion heaven. Minus the shoes of course - when the final model toppled over after a sterling effort I think buyers around the globe mentally crossed those heels off their list.

And now that LFW has started to deconstruct it's catwalks, all thoughts turn to Milan...

SOMERSET HOUSE

2010-09-22T10:00:00.004+01:00

(Zara blazer, Topshop skinnies, H&M tank, Bertie boots, Balenciaga bag)

During London fashion week, it's the best place to peoplewatch in the world.

INBETWEENERS

2010-09-21T09:52:00.007+01:00

(American Apparel scarf, Topshop denim shirt, Primark blazer, new Look shorts, Kurt Geiger ankle boots)

Yes, I love the show (the fashion show last week was an obvious highlight!), but its also an apt description for this time of seasonal crossover; we're at the tail end of summer, but wearing AW trends at the same time seeing what we'll be wearing NEXT summer. This culminates in shorts and a scarf ,and pastel hues with black tights and boots - although I'm now ready for more of a chill so the faux fur can come out...

FARRINGDON

2010-09-20T10:34:00.004+01:00

(Barbara Hulanicki for Topshop dress, All Saints leather jacket, Carvela ankle boots, Balenciaga bag)

Drinks, dinner and a dress. This is the best photo so far of the detailing on my leather jacket - the quilting on the shoulders and the supple leather. It is almost criminal how much time I am spending wearing it...

STOCKHOLM STRAGGLER

2010-09-17T10:36:00.003+01:00

(H&M jumper & skirt, Japanese vintage scarf, Primark brogues, Ray Ban wayfarers)

Final pictures from Stockholm - I'm missing those stretches of water and the holiday feeling actually. However, it other news, London Fashion week starts today and already the streets are filling with models and fashion editors, high heels are on and AW trends abound. Right, forget winter -time to think about the spring/summer collections now...

BERTIE PRESS NIGHT

2010-09-15T09:49:00.007+01:00

(Primark pussy-bow blouse, H&M mini, All Saints biker jacket, Balenciaga bag)

Last night was the Bertie PR event to celebrate the opening of their new South Molton Street store and to showcase their new Autumn/Winter collection - from which there are lots that would be a very welcome addition to my wardrobe. It is a surreal experience when you meet bloggers face to face that you are used to seeing on your computer screen -makes you feel a bit voyeuristic for your style-stalking! But the press there were lovely, they had a manicurust and they had beer, which gets a tick in my box. My favourite picks of Bertie's new collection are below -I especially love the mustard leather biker boots - but there was no deliberating when it came to which pair to come away with: the G-Cuff black suede ankle boot (see bottom picture) is everything I want from a pair of heels. I can wear them with bare legs and shorts or minis, as well as with rolled up peg trousers and skinny jeans, and the heel is high but not 'wonky-walking' high - I even had a bit of a shoe buzz when I left the party and jumped on the tube last night.

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK - HALSTON SS11

2010-09-14T13:47:00.008+01:00

As New York fashion week draws to a close for another season, it's our first chance to see the shapes, looks and colours we will all be wearing some version of come Spring. Hard to imagaine when we havent even really had autumn yet, but my favourite show so far has to be Halston.

It's certainly a capsule collection, featuring only 24 pieces of which the vast majority are dresses - but it is small and perfectly formed as they are all sublime. My three favourite looks are above (runway look 2, 4 and 23) and the print designs are perfect - and I am hard to please when it comes to prints. The luxe, '70's vibe of the original Halston is still very apparent, but these looks feel completely current, helped by the statement platform heels they were styled with.

I was also a fan of the Marc Jacobs show, and I think his almost sorbet palette of burnt oranges, dark berry pinks and sherbet lemon will be key in deciphering the trends and colours for the Spring/Summer season next year.

CHRISTENING

2010-09-13T09:56:00.004+01:00

(vintage dress, necklace & clutch, heels from Las Vegas)

Spent a lovely afternoon in Chelsea at Francis' christening, getting to catch up with all my oldest best friends and drink champagne at 3 o'clock in the afternoon - perfect. Wore a vintage dress that I picked up in Stockholm - I was very excited when I saw this shoulderless dress crammed in the middle of a rail, and the fact that it was my size means I was destined to buy it. However, at calf length it was slightly unflattering, so I took a pair of scissors to it and had to let it fray as I didnt have a chance to get it sewn up. Love the pattern on it and know it will see me through many more dress-wearing events...

SLUSSEN

2010-09-10T10:19:00.005+01:00

(All Saints leather biker jacket, H&M maxi dress, vintage scarf and bag, Ray Ban wayfarers)

The underground system in Stockholm is far cleaner and less... well, disgusting than the London tube, and it was a pleasure to get around on. The weather was perfect for maxi dresses - fairly cold but sunny - in fact I'd like to get another maxi dress for winter, and Primark has a lovely cream crochet one I could wear with boots. Am also LIVING in this leather biker jacket - it makes every outfit better.

H&M: ONLINE SHOPPING & LANVIN COLLABORATION

2010-09-09T10:19:00.005+01:00

For those who had registered for the newsletter, shoppping online at H&M could begin today. This is an exciting development and good news, especially for those who love the design aesthetic and (importantly) the prices of this high street powerhouse but can't stomach the queues, clothes strewn floor and jumbled racks (although as a hardened shopper, I merely see this as adding to the challenge - I think that the clothes and designs are worth the jostle!).

I logged on with anticipation this morning but was a little bit disappointed with this initial launch. Maybe I've been spoilt by more experienced fashion e-commerce offerings like Arcadia's sites, Net-a-porter and ASOS, but the online range was quite limited in comparison to the actual stores, there seemed to be a mix between images of models wearing the clothes and cut outs of the items, the navigation was slightly irratating (pressing the back button always took you back to the homepage) and the only postage option was £3.90. However, if these issues get ironed out, I could definitely learn to love it just as much as the stores themselves. See the site and judge for yourself here.

Even more exciting in the world of H&M however, is the highly anticipated, recently announced collaboration with Lanvin, designed by the amazing Alber Elbaz. The countdown clock and the gradual release of new short films and interviews which will slowly launch the collection are a clever marketing tool, and I am extremely excited to see what these huge fashion influencers can create together.

GAMLA STAN

2010-09-08T09:45:00.006+01:00

(M&S boys blazer, vintage Levis cutoffs and bag, American Apparel pullover, Primark brogues)

Such a lovely weekend in Stockholm - it is a really beautiful city and the bodies of water everywhere give it a real sense of space. Hours were spent wandering the alleys, squares and concentrating on not breaking my ankle on the huge cobblestones - never thought I'd say this but it's a good job I didn't pack heels! The brogues were out yet again, and served me well even after walking for hours.

KATE MOSS - ISABEL MARANT AD CAMPAIGN

2010-09-07T14:58:00.004+01:00

Okay, so it's a cliche to love La Moss and cite her as a style inspiration... but I do. And I am not ashamed - especially when she is dressed in the design genius that is Isabel Marant and looking smoking hot. Even if it wasnt for the clothes, pose and french cool, this picture a keeper purely to take to my hairdresser on my next visit to base my next 'do on. Parfait!

Image courtesy of Fashion Gone Rouge.

CREAM

2010-09-03T11:48:00.002+01:00

(H&M jumper and tank, Topshop leggings, Primark brogues, Miss Selfridge trench, Ray Ban shades)

There's something really nice about the first few days of Autumnal weather, as long as the sun is still shining. Layering and a blustery day were made for each other and loose soft knits are perfect and so this cream knit oversized jumper made its debut today. H&M is brilliant at the moment - I haven't made a trip there lately without wanting to buy at least five new bits - and I think this sweater will see me all the way through winter.

UPPER STREET

2010-09-01T10:46:00.005+01:00

(Zara blazer, H&M sequin tank, BDG @ Urban Outfitters jeans, Primark brogues, Balenciaga bag, vintage necklace)

I love living in Islington, we have everything we need within a 20-minute-walk radius, so popping out on a whim for wine or wagamamas is no big deal, and no transport to worry about. Pastel hues abounded on this night out for dinner, and I chucked on my bargain brogues, fast becoming a favourite in the shoe collection - so surprisingly comfortable, I might even wear them for wandering around during my upcoming break to Stockholm - I'm looking forward to my long weekend in one of Europe's most stylish cities.

Carnival

2010-08-31T09:39:00.006+01:00

(H&M tank and cutomised gilet, Topshop jeans, vintage biker boots, animal print jacket and necklace)

Absolutely action-packed bank holiday weekend, culminating in an afternoon spent at the Notting Hill Carnival with a Red Stripe in one hand and jerk chicken in the other. Amazing atmosphere, packed streets, blaring speakers and sunshine.

Brogues

2010-08-27T10:15:00.002+01:00

After searching for the perfect pair, I eventually found some in a very unlikely place: Primark. They actually have some really nice bits in there at the moment, including a long chunky cream knit cardi and some cute dresses to wear with tights for the winter. But back to the matter in hand - these brogues. Perfect shape and detailing, just-right heel height, spot on colour and fantastic price. Brogues: done.

H! By Henry Holland lust-have

2010-08-26T10:50:00.003+01:00

There were a few bits of his last collection for Debenhams that I coveted, but none more so than these shorts with braces from his new collection - worn with or without the braces, they cover so many trends in one that I think I'd better get them...

You can see the whole collection on Vogue's website here or shop online at Debenhams here.

First Class

2010-08-23T12:10:00.005+01:00

(H&M skirt, Uniqlo tank, Topshop blazer, Kurt Geiger boots)

A very enjoyable trip down to Devon this weekend, made even more pleasureable as we indulged in a cheap upgrade to first class on the train. Huge leather seats, air con, no screaming kids - perfect. This weekend I also experiemented with an item of attire I have previously always avoided like the plague... tan tights. I was geting fed up with not being able to wear my skirts and shorts while my self-imposed August black tights ban was on, but I'm still not convinced, even with their airbrushing qualities...

Bronze award

2010-08-20T15:24:00.003+01:00

When you don't have the funds to buy new clothes, I just go window shopping (or torture, as I like to call it) and H&M is amazing for this because of the variety of styles and the fact that you can take ten items into the fitting room - which can while away an entire lunchbreak. Today however, I took in only two items (both of which I now desperately want): this leopard print jersey tunic and a bronze faux leather skirt with a bow, £12.99 and £14.99 respectively. Worn together or as seperates, they are both perfect for going out for drinks... and maybe a little dance too.

PS. Can't wait til I can upgrade to the iPhone 4 - the camera on the 3G really does leave a little to be desired...

Sweet charity

2010-08-19T10:17:00.003+01:00

(Topshop chinos, H&M tank and scarf, charity shop belt, heels from Las Vegas)

There seems to be the same few items that I always hone in on when I'm in a charity shop, and it's usually accessories. I dont know if thats because they are easier to dig out, but anything with shiny gold hardware on always catches my eye, and in this instance it was this cream leather belt - I paid £1 and it was mine.

Grid

2010-08-17T11:44:00.003+01:00

(Current/Elliot khaki skinnies, Primark blazer, H&M tank, Office heels, Kenneth Jay Lane necklace, vintage belt)

This is basically my uniform, or at least a version of. I have moments of thinking how I MUST vary my style more - but then if it aint broke, don't fix it, and I am happiest when I feel 'myself'. Howwever, I have shot myself in the foot with my self-imposed black tights ban until September. It's cold and grey and I am completely limiting my options; my shorts and mini skirts are feeling so unloved that I may have to move over to the dark world of... flesh coloured tights. Eek!

PS. Just re-discovered this Kenneth Jay Lane lion-head necklace - so huge and tacky, I love it!

B97

2010-08-16T10:00:00.007+01:00

(All Saints leather jacket, vintage scarf, boots and belt, H&M tank, Topshop jeans)

After working in Bristol on Friday, I had a lovely weekend staying with my sister and nephew; she's moving house next month and so we had girly time giving her wardrobe, shoes and jewellery a massive sort out. I should be a image consultant full time, I love it... editing down, sorting out, re-organsing - and then the best bit; shopping for the items that your wardrobe is missing (easier said that done when you have an 11-month old in tow). My outfit may look like it's the depths of winter, but it may as well have been. I sorted through my shoes and boots last week and rediscovered these shearling-lined vintage boots. I turned down the top to expose the shearling and create a cuff and hey presto - instant AW '10 trend ticked off.

Follow STYLE REMAINS here.

Autumn wishlist

2010-08-13T11:38:00.007+01:00

I personally think that this wishlist is very restrained - there is only one unacheivable item here (no prizes for which one I mean) and the rest are firmly on my shopping list to create my new season look on the high street. Absolute top of my wishlist are these navy suede heel/wedge hybrid from River Island, which are a great transitional piece and would work with all my looks.

To be honest, the majority of my desired items are to work with my All Saints biker jacket (debuted a couple of posts back) which will be the pivotal item in my wardrobe, and I am loving red as an accent colour, a la Isabel Marant A/W '10. The Acne 'Enca' tank in black or white is a very likely purchase as I am off for a long weekend to Stockholm at the beginning of next month and a visit to the swedish uber-brand's HQ is very much on the agenda.

Leather (or faux) shorts, like these Next faux leather shorts are a perfect A/W look too, and I plan on wearing these (or a similar pair in black) with tucked in loose jersey tanks, ankle boots and a trench coat when the weather is wet and horrible.

And as for the rest? A pair of Topshop red 'Jamie' jeans are almost essential as a contrast to all the dark tones I wear whilst still retaining a bit of an edge, the Miu Miu 'Matelasse' shoulder bag becuase I really need a tan or brown small bag that can been worn across the body or as a clutch (see - its basically two bags for the price of one!), the red Topshop 'Lexi' block heels because they are beautiful, slightly reminiscent of Miu Miu and would liven up any outfit and finally the Miss Selfridge stone sleeveless biker jacket to throw over a stripe tee or plain tank for a bit of interest.

So - just need to buy this all now...

Follow STYLE REMAINS here.

Wayfarers

2010-08-12T11:33:00.007+01:00

(M&S boys blazer, H&M tank, warehouse skirt, Zara wedges, Ray Ban wayfarers)

This post is so titled because I think they might be forming a second skin over my eyes. Perfect shape, classic black design. They are definitely an investment - they are timeless and can be passed on to any future potential kids. They look good on Dan too, but I am not going to let a boy stretch them - I have a small head and they need to fit right!

Follow STYLE REMAINS here.

Slow burn

2010-08-11T19:33:00.013+01:00

(customised H&M denim gilet, Topshop tank, vintage shorts, Author sandals)

Should've worn heels today, and I realised as soon as left the house that my brown gladiator heels would have been much better, but at least sandals meant I could run around, albeit looking much shorter and less stylish! These shorts are a failsafe as they aren't as indecent as the rest of my collection, and even though this particular pair are vintage, I really want a leather pair in this style - Zara had a great leather pair which might be a worthwhile winter investment.

On the subject of legs, I am still seeing girls round town wearing thick black tights. In August. When it's hot. It just looks wrong. It was raining on Saturday and have to say I was tempted, but I have a self-imposed ban on black tights, at least until September, when I can debut my Henry Holland for Pretty Polly pair.

Follow STYLE REMAINS here .

Calendonian Road & Barnsbury Station

2010-08-10T12:54:00.008+01:00

(All Saints leather jacket, Kurt Geiger boots, Topshop skinnies, Uniqlo tank, secondhand scarf)

Ah, the great British summertime in August... grey, cold and wet. Turning a negative into a postive, it has enabled me to wear my new pride and joy - the All Saints Worley leather biker jacket that I have finally got my hands on. Not being prepared to hand over £225, I instead played the waiting game which paid off; I got this one of eBay for £63, one of my greatest eBay victories so far! The perfect details (quilted shoulders, zips and buckles) aren't too visible in these photos, but given that I will probably be wearing it every single day come autumn, you will definitely be seeing more of it.

Follow STYLE REMAINS here .

SE10

2010-08-09T10:35:00.009+01:00

(Diesel jacket, H&M tee, New Look shorts and boots, Balenciaga bag, Ray Ban sunglasses)

Another sunny afternoon spent in Greenwich, having a late lunch and a wander round the markets. We needed to recover after a hectic Saturday with two parties - a tea party in St. John's Wood (never drunk vodka from a teapot before) followed by a late BBQ in Wimbledon - thank god for late running public transport.

Nice to have the sun again (which means legs out and sunglasses on) after all the rain - going to eek out the dregs of summer to get away with no tights for as long as I can.

Follow STYLE REMAINS here .

St Clements Street

2010-08-07T12:40:00.007+01:00

(Zara blazer, H&M tank, Topshop skinnys, vintage clutch and mainly vintage jewellery)

I know I wanted Autumn weather so that I could start wearing A/W '10 but I didn't really mean rain... but it does mean that the ankle boots are back out and the blazers are back on. So easy to rely on them but this tailored tux jacket by Zara does always add a 'grown up' feel to a look. The latest item to give me the elusive shopping buzz were these Ray Ban wayfarers. There may be no sun to wear them today but they are the perfect shape and go with everything - I might just start wearing them even when its cloudy... well, you can't be too careful when it comes to protecting you eyes, can you?

Follow STYLE REMAINS here .

Wrist

2010-08-04T09:50:00.006+01:00

My infatuation with gold and vintage jewellery is most evident on my left hand, where the majority of it is piled. From right to left, the 'rolex-a-like' watch is in fact a men's Sekonda, and was bought for me by Dan after a barrage of hints, then there is another watch (although it looks like a bracelet) which was my Nanas - the winder has fallen out and the watch probably stopped 40 years ago, but I love it. Next is a gate bracelet with heart padlock which my mum wore when she was younger, and is the real deal - it feels like an heirloom piece to me and I love it. Finally, a vintage damascene gilt & enamel bracelet I picked up -I like that the design tones in with the watch face.

My everyday jewellery each has a little meaning to me, as well as satisfying my chunky, gold and bling requirements...

Follow STYLE REMAINS here .

Greyscale

2010-08-02T10:20:00.006+01:00

(secondhand blouse, American Apparel mini skirt, Author sandals)

I love the 70's feel at the moment, with big, loose wavy hair, maxi dresses, semi-sheer chiffon and a bohemian feel. Wearing this sheer(ish) maroon coloured blouse I found in a charity shop teamed with a black mini, although the sleeveless blouse is so long I could also wear it as a dress.

Follow STYLE REMAINS here .

Choppy

2010-07-30T15:17:00.005+01:00

(Topshop shrug, H&M tank dress, Office heels, vintage & YSL jewellery)

Very pleased with my new hair... it may not look too different from before but it feels very different: much lighter and more shaggy: a look I sourced inspiration from a mixture of the Olsen twins, Goldie Hawn and Nicole Richie (any of which I'd be happy to look like!). Met friends from Cardiff for dinner in the West End, and I wore an outfit rehashed from a few old pieces - this huge cape/shrug is about 2 years old and recently re-discovered, and the dress is in fact a long £4.99 tank from H&M.

Follow STYLE REMAINS here .

Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Special Items'

2010-07-29T18:06:00.004+01:00

And these items - they are definitely special. I stumbled across this area of the Marc Jacobs website and found it to be full to the brim with oddites and trinkets that are yes, special, but most importantly, totally affordable. Anyone who knows me will know I'm a sucker for gold jewellery at the best of times, let alone when it is a) Marc Jacobs, b) is a ring shaped like bones, and c) costs less than £10. Taxi to Mayfair please - immediately!

Belsize Park

2010-07-28T11:15:00.005+01:00

Belsize Park really is beautiful, and walking up that hill towards Hampstead village I realise it is high up on the 'wish-it-was-my-neighbourhood' list, although maybe not until I'm earning megabucks! This is the last picture of me with me old boring straight hair now I have had it cut and it is big and wild, which is how I have wanted/needed it to be for months and it feels like a weight has been lifted - quite literally; I have lost 6 inches of my hair in some of the layers.

(customised H&M denim gilet, Topshop Jamie skinny jeans and top, vintage belt, Balenciaga bag, Author sandals)

Bicycle

2010-07-26T10:04:00.003+01:00

Had a bit of a large weekend (for me anyway!) - drinks and cinema to see Inception on friday night and then the wedding of my beautiful friend Niki in Reading on saturday. It's slightly scary that I am getting to the age where my friends are starting to get married but I'll let them off if, like Niki's, there is a free bar all day and night at the wedding. Needless to say yesterday was a write off, and after a particularly painful train and tube ride back home, we stopped off to get ourselves a bucket of chicken from KFC, a true testament to how hanging I actually was.

In clothes news, I have been eBaying like mad to generate cash for new clothes (I am trying to implement a 'one in, one out' policy on my clothes) and this week I am actually selling this lovely maxi skirt, which makes me a bit sad but needs must! You can see the item here.

(River Island maxi skirt, H&M tank, Galibardy necklace)

Haymarket

2010-07-23T09:56:00.008+01:00

This ensemble is slightly more respectable and simple than usual; I bought this dress as I thought it had elements of Stella McCartney and Celine about it, something a little more chic in case I had an important meeting. It's a great daytime dress and also perfect for the weather at the moment (muggy but not sunny), when a sundress looks a bit too much. The dress was knee-length until I took a pair of scissors and a sewing machine to the hem - I have to make everything short, to correspond to my height...

Also demonstrating my current toenail colour of choice - the hottest pink ever by Nails Inc, a treat from my Harvey Nics goody bag a couple of months ago.

(H&M customised dress, vintage belt, Office shoes)

Orange Street

2010-07-21T10:33:00.006+01:00

(H&M grey tank and studded jacket, Topshop crop tee, jeans and heels, vintage jewellery)

Pretty apt road name, considering the colour of my cropped tee. Layered here over a marl tank and teamed with jeans and heels, and I used my studded-shoulder jacket to add some detail to the outfit.

My roots are getting a bit out of control and they really show in these pictures but I need to wait til payday to re-blonde myself... I am also going to get some layers chopped through the length again; the length of my hair means it is so heavy I can't get the volume I need (although I have recently re-discovered mousse, and its really helping on the 'flat hair' front) - and I NEED volume!

Asymmetric

2010-07-20T11:11:00.003+01:00

Topshop can sometimes surprise with how good their basics can be - and I applaud their designers on this basic jerset top. It has huge batwing sleeves, and a backwards asymmetric hem, with an extra 12 inches or so of fabric at the bak - great if your derriere isn't your favourite feature. The cropped front means its great for washboard stomachs (!) or, in my case, high-waisted trousers. Even at only £14, this top looks much more high-fashion that high-street.

(Topshop top, belt and trousers, Miss Selfridge heels, vintage necklaces)

Check

2010-07-19T10:15:00.003+01:00

Wearing tight white jeans and a check shirt made me feel a bit like Baby from Dirty Dancing (which I got Dan to watch last weekend, which I consider an amazing achievement given the fact that he has firmly resisted for two years). Instead of white pumps though, I teamed this outfit with my tan Zara wedges, and I was actually wearing Dan's shirt so it wasn't very feminine!

(H&M mens shirt, Topshop jeans, Zara wedges, YSL ring)

SW6

2010-07-18T18:35:00.003+01:00

We have spent all weekend scouting locations for our next flat, travelling on Saturday from Islington to Crouch End, then to Muswell Hill before going to Belsize Park and Golders Green, then today we went west, to Fulham and Parsons Green. That is ALOT of walking, but thankfully my gold sandals did me proud, not rubbing once. Good little sandals. The conclusion is that we will think we'll either stay in Islington or move west. Just got to find a flat now...

Also wearing this little vintage heart necklace that I saw and fell in love with at a car boot sale in Devon so Dan bought it for me - I think it was £1. Money well spent, as I found it in my jewellery drawer last week and have been wearing it ever since.

(H&M tank, Topshop jeans, Author sandals, Zara waistcoat, vintage bag, sunglasses and necklace)

Ann Demeulemeester Shoe Lust

2010-07-16T10:18:00.003+01:00

I have an unhealthy obsession with these shoes from Ann Demeulemeester's S/S 09 collection. I always seem to spot stars wearing them - including SJP and Carine Roitfeld, just to add to my desire for them. They have so many things going for them; they look comfortable, have leg-lengthening properties due to the open front, and are instantly recogniseable. These cream versions are amazing, but I think the tan pair would be my first choice.

Regardless of the price, I have missed the boat on these as they are over a year old - but I have a search saved on eBay just in case.

St.Martin-in-the-Fields

2010-07-15T09:21:00.003+01:00

The weather has snapped - England got confused with so much sunshine so we have been subjected to two days of rain. I know it's so British to go on about the weather all the time but these constant changes really affect my outfit choices, as winter clothes are too hot and summer clothes too flimsy and ridiculous-looking when it's wet. I think it's why Burberry invented the trench, so I'm wearing mine as a homage - although unfortunately mine isn't Burberry!

(Miss Selfridge trench, Sass & Bide customised jeans, Topshop tank, vintage scarf and belt, Office heels)

Topshop.com redesign

2010-07-13T10:42:00.004+01:00

Obviously I have a extra interest in online, but when topshop.com relaunches, you know it's going to be good. As with everything, there is the initial fear of change, but the new clean lines and extra features have replaced the previous 'dots' look and I think the new navigation is easier once you accustom yourself to it.

Welcome added features include hover/zoom functionality and 'Recently Viewed', very handy if you are browsing before you buy. The site is also now categorised into several sections: New In, Clothing, Shoes, Accessories, Kate Moss, Make Up, Sale, Shops, Features, Collection and finally Blog, which links to 'Inside-Out', the insider blog which is well worth a visit.

Well done on your fabulous relaunch Topshop.com, but we didn't really expect anything less.

Longleat

2010-07-12T18:37:00.003+01:00

I've just returned from an extremely enjoyable weekend away at Center Parcs, a place straight out of the Dirty Dancing set - minus Johnny Castle unfortunately. I hired a bicycle, a mode of transport I hadn't used for a good ten years, and I can definitely feel the effects of that now! However a swedish massage helped to ease the pain a little...

(Current/Elliot skinny jeans, H&M tank, vintage scarf, Converse All-stars)

Offord Road

2010-07-10T14:02:00.001+01:00

I seriously don't have any clothes that are really suitable for summer. I have about a weeks worth (my holiday wardrobe) but when I've exhausted those options I have to get a bit more creative. Today I layered a couple of long tanks and kept my hair back with this animal-print scarf (actually the belt from this blazer). Not sure what I'll do if this weather continues for the next two months - I have drawn the conclusion that spring and autumn are definitely the most stylish seasons, where layering (my favourite dressing method) really comes into it's own.

(H&M black long tank, Topshop beige racer-back tank, Topshop belt, Faith wedges, Galibardy necklace)

Barnsbury Grove

2010-07-08T09:55:00.004+01:00

I decided the other day that I wanted a denim gilet - perfect cover-up for this weather and they add a bit of an edge. However, finances and times being what they are, I made do and mended by simply cutting the sleeves off my denim jacket. It was the right decision as I hardly ever wore it as a jacket, but as a gilet it's scarcely been off my back. With this outfit I teamed it with a skirt dug out from the back of the drawer that I forgot I had (flared skirts seem to be much easier to wear that the riding-up, revealing, bodycon kind I normally favour) and a wide multi-buckle waist belt. And again, the Gallibardy necklace which is fast becoming a permanant fixture around my neck.

(customised H&M boys gilet, Primark skirt, Topshop belt, H&M tank, Gallibardy necklace, Zara wedges)

National Gallery

2010-07-06T09:52:00.001+01:00

Sometimes you forget what you have in your wardrobe (especially, if like me, half your clothes are stuffed away in the loft to make room for new pieces!) and so when you find them again, it's almost the same thrill as buying something new. This Diesel jacket was purchased when I was at university (and enjoyed alot of disposable income!) so it must be at least 6 or 7 years old. Proves you should definitely keep hold of everything (regardless of what Dan may say!).

(Diesel jacket, Topshop leggings, American Apparel sexuali-tank, Author sandals)

Little Venice

2010-07-03T15:52:00.000+01:00

Who knew that this beautiful area exisited just out the back of Paddington station? You can have lunch on the little barge cafe behind me and there's even a theatre - something about being next to water is always calming. Two minutes from the bustle of the train station and it feels like you're in another world.

(H&M stripe jacket, Uniqlo tank, Topshop jeans, Kurt Geiger boots, Balenciaga bag, vintage bag and necklace, SJP Bitten sunglasses)

Oxendon Street

2010-07-01T09:58:00.003+01:00

Very much enjoying the warm weather, although I've realised that the season my wardrobe in best suited to is Autumn, with my mountains of skinny jeans and rail crammed with blazers, meaning I need to be a bit more creative with my outfits in the summer. I have alot of shorts, but as I normally wear them with tights, I haven't realised quite how short they actually are, making the majority unsuitable for work. However this vintage high-waisted pair hit the right note between my style and a more modest length, and I've teamed it here with a rather miami-vice inspired blazer.

(vintage shorts, Topshop belt, H&M tank, Author sandals, Primark blazer)

Surface To Air wedges

2010-06-29T11:03:00.004+01:00

I'm currently obsessed with these two amazing pairs of wedges by Surface To Air, an 'unique group operating in contemporary fashion, communication and film' who sell their wares on ASOS.com in the UK, with flagship stores in Paris and Sao Paulo. They have a whole range of women and menswear but their shoes are something special. I know I could wear the leopard wedges every day, be it with little dresses or rolled up chinos, while the multi-coloured 'Penta' wedges are the perfect dinner date shoe.

Greenwich

2010-06-28T10:31:00.002+01:00

Spent a beautiful day in Greenwich - and now I'm in love with the place. I haven't been anywhere else in London with the same sense of space and history. From the observatory you can see for miles, from the O2 Arena to the banking skyscrapers of Canary Wharf and beyond. We took the DLR which was a relief as the tube is horrific in this sweltering weather - even in these Levi cutoffs and tank. Since it's purchase last week, this Galibardy necklace hasn't left my neck. The owners came into the office on Friday lunchtime with a selection of their heavy rings and pendant necklaces - I wanted it all, but settled for this bird's skull and wings brass beauty.

(Realitee @ Topshop tank, American Apparel zebra bandeau, vintage levi's cutoffs, Author sandals, Galibardy necklace, vintage handbag)

Kaleespera

2010-06-26T19:11:00.003+01:00

On our final night we went to the harbour for chilled wine and seafood. We found a gorgeous bar, Mare Mare, and watched the sunset from their terrace before wandering along the seafront to find a restaurant. I wore my Barbara Hulanicki for Topshop dress which is dangerously short but makes me feel a bit like a ballerina. Perfect end to a perfect holiday. Now - back to London!

(Barbara Hulanicki for Topshop dress, Office heels, F21 bangle, YSL ring)

Maxi to Midi

2010-06-25T15:15:00.004+01:00

In order to try and maximise my holiday wardrobe, I doubled up the ways to wear this River Island maxi skirt by hoisting it up, belting it up and making a dress. It's not a length I would normally wear in the belief that it would make my short legs appear even shorter, but in fact, the column of fabric gives the illusion of length and I felt quite chic wearing something calf length. As ever, I like to mix my prints and cinched the fabric in using my zebra print belt and teamed the ensemble with my Office heels. I apologise for their repeated appearances but Dan and I shared a suitcase, leading to an unfortunate rationing of shoes.

(River Island maxi skirt worn as a dress, Topshop belt, Office heels, vintage necklace)

The best of the rest of the very best...

2010-06-24T14:50:00.005+01:00

High end sales are a different breed. The discounts are usually very generous (proportional to how much they cost in the first place) - however this still may not be enough to allow mere mortals to partake in them. Once again, I have scoured the web to find my favourites and the above are all on my wish list, with 'wish' being the operative word; the best picks from the luxury end of the market.

From right: Preen strapless dress, £565 (was £800), Matches; Surface to Air buckle wedges, £175 (was £245), Browns; Stella McCartney embellished jacket, £1047 (was £2095), Net-A-Porter; Christopher Kane 'Explosion' T-shirt, £115 (was £180), Matches

Topshop Summer Sale

2010-06-24T12:32:00.004+01:00

It's that time of year again - just before payday, the high street decides to inflict torture on millions by starting their end of season sales. I'm not a particular fan of sales in the respect that the shops are full to the brim, hareem pants wrestle next to sequin tops and entire outfits are strwen all over the floor and you are being elbowed out of the way of the last pair of size 4 platforms. That said, if there were items you already had your eye on, sales are amazing, and by far the best way to enjoy them is to shop online - I may be biased by favouring the internet, but certain online stores get it so right; Topshop.com being one of them. The navigation is clear and a good chunk of decent stock is discounted; my favourites are above.

Just rememember - if you didn't love it at full price, you wont love it at half price either.

Chloe Sevigny for Opening Ceremony

2010-06-23T19:54:00.004+01:00

I keep a scrapbook of torn out magazine pictures to avoid me becoming the old lady who lived in her magazines (I get through so many I could never keep them all, so now I just tear out the images that inspire me), and some people have recurring appearances throughout. One of these style icons, among a few, is Chloe Sevigny. Yes, she sometimes appears on worst-dressed lists, but I feel like even when she gets it 'wrong', she gets it right.

Her new season line with Opening Ceremony has done nothing to dispel my admiration, mixing up biker boots with platforms and leather with florals to create grungy 90's look that I am really loving (I lived through it the first time and it still hasn't put me off). I'm hoping the collection is released by the time I got to New York in October - my suitcase might come back a little heavier than the outbound journey...

Images courtesy of Refinery 29.

Steps

2010-06-22T11:16:00.003+01:00

This blouse is another charity shop find, long enough to be a dress but lightweight enought to tuck into these nude Topshop shorts. Dan called it a 'granny' blouse, and I do agree to some extent, but I see that as a good thing! I bought this when I was with my sister and we had hysterics reminiscing about the abundance of these types of sheer blouse ('fly-ies' we called them - no idea why) we used to possess. We even had one the same design in different ages -thanks mum. What goes around comes around eh?

(secondhand blouse, Topshop shorts, vintage necklace, Office heels)