Gold and Spikes

My new bracelet and double ring from ASOS. They are quite different pieces for me, I usually go for something more classic but I've decided to experiment a little with a couple of edgier pieces.

I love the dainty chain and dangling spike off the bracelet...limited finger movement that a double ring brings is definitely something to get used to...

Party Pieces

I haven't been feeling well for the last couple of days so have consequently spent most of the last 48 hrs in a horizontal position on the sofa.

I'm trying desperately to rest for the coming (birthday) weekend so have been willing my body into the party mood by doing some screen shopping.

Also great for the coming festive celebrations (ah six weeks!), these are a couple of bits and (party) pieces that have caught my eye:

Clockwise from left:

Gold ring, £7, Pieces at ASOS.com

Gold and black heels, £425, Christian Louboutin (PLEASE let these be in the January sale)

Clarins Jolie Rouge Lipstick in 700 Cedar Red, £16.50, Boots

Nails Inc in New Bond St., £11, Boots

Metallic clutch, £250, Burberry

Bracelet chain with gold spike drop, £6, ASOS.com

Half Tucked

And just as you've given up on good weather, it arrives! 22 degrees and sunshine! Hoorah!

I only just packed away my lighter clothes but any excuse to wear them you have to take in this country.* I think my eagerness to do this has awakened me to the fact that I'm not quite ready for the colder weather and the layering it brings. But hey ho, I'll be ready with my jeans and skinny knits when I need to be.

My favourite skirt once again, with my loose white cotton t-shirt half tucked in and cork and beige leather sandals. They look uncomfortable but are actually one of the most comfortable pairs of heels I own. I didn't even realise till I looked in the mirror that I'd paired two striped pieces together, but since the top is subtle, I quite like the combination. And then I even stood in front on my Anya Hindmarch dust bag which also happens to be stripey.

Top - ASOS, skirt - H&M, shoes - a market in Spain, necklace - Tiffany, ring - my Grandmothers

*Just as I type this the sun once again, creeps back behind a cloud. Sigh.

New Jeans

I ordered this pair of jeans from ASOS late last week and because of the bank holiday and delays to the post, I am still waiting for them.

Like with all new purchases, I've envisaged in my mind the plethora of combinations I can create from my existing wardrobe and with a good pair of jeans, the opportunities are endless. The last time I bought jeans was two years ago, an excruciatingly skinny pair from Hollister. And they've served me well. I still love them. But I was in need of a little denim injection so have gone for a different shape this time. We'll see how it works out but as with any new relationship, I intend to be with them as much as possible.

With that in mind, instead of sitting peering out the window, waiting eagerly for the postman, I thought I would at least try to be constructive with my time and play around with some different looks.

Now all I need is to get them...

Jeans - A/Wear at ASOS, jumper - H&M, boots - H&M, necklace - Halleh at net-a-porter.com, clutch - Anya Hindmarch

Jeans as before, shirt - Topshop, bowling bag - Zara, gold cuff - ASOS, cork wedges - Christian Louboutin

Jeans as before, t-shirt - 3.1 Phillip Lim, Chelsea boots - ASOS, leather belt - Dolce & Gabbana, bag - Coach

Pin Striped Shirt

Shirt - United Colours of Beneton, skirt - Asos, pumps - Primark, ring - family heirloom, necklace - Tiffany & Co.

This is what I wore shopping over the weekend. It was humid and sunny so thin, breezy pieces were a must. I went for this loose blue, thin striped shirt, left the neck open and matched it with a white cheese cloth skirt and tan pumps (with cute matching bow details. Well I think they're cute anyway).

Road Trip Wardrobe

I haven't been very forthcoming with posts this week. The combination of working long hours and then remembering I have a dastardly summer cold when I do get a moment to breath means for little motivation to do anything other than sleep.

However, as I type whilst still in bed at 12.47pm on my day off, I do have the ability to do some browsing online.

I know everyone's buzzing about A/W already but it's hard to think about cosy knits and biker boots when it's 22 degrees and sunny outside. So I've made a conscious decision not to look at my winter wardrobe quite yet. Plus, I don't want to get fed up of it before I even get a chance to wear any of it.

Working isn't the only thing that's going on in my life at the moment. My boyfriend and I are embarking on buying our first car. I've had my licence for nearly two years and have driven my parents' car in Spain but there are more and more occasions now where I think it would be handy to have a car. For example, commuting to uni, visiting relatives and doing the numerous airport runs that there are during the year. Mr Maria's Gaga only started his lessons last week but hopes to pass his test by the end of the summer and after doing some research, strangely it costs less with him on the insurance than with me on my own even though he hasn't passed his test yet. Funny how these things work out.

Anyway, once we get the car we can't wait to take day trips to the beach and have cheap weekends away in the country. With that in mind I've compiled the ultimate road trip wardrobe.

Holiday Looks

Finally my brand new, fully-functional camera cable arrived today so I've been able to upload my Spain photos to my computer.

Following on from this post, I've been dying to get them on here so without further-a-do, here are 3 of my brief getaway outfits (number 4 was just a bikini!).

I bought this dress from Zara that day so paired it with my new Zara heels for drinks in the evening. I kept the hair and make-up simple, with just a red lip to keep the look clean.



I wore this ensemble to visit my old college to see what the current fashion design students were up to. The top is from Tkmaxx, skirt from ASOS and sandals from River Island (also mentioned here and here).

This final outfit was for a relaxing day by the pool. Easy to strip off with my black Vitamin A bikini underneath (see here and here), but making a bit of a statement with the super bright skirt. Top - H&M, skirt - ASOS, sandals - River Island

Holiday Essentials

How depressing. I really am lost without being able to transfer photos onto my computer. Hopefully it won't be long till the cable arrives.

Since recently being away, and having to pack extremely light, I've had to think a lot about "essentials". After shortlisting what seems like 100s of things you want to take on holiday to just a few, I thought I would feature my super five fashion essentials which you shouldn't leave the country without (at least not in summer anyway).

1. Bikini

If you're going to a hot country, more than likely you will be swimming at some point whether it be in the pool or the sea. This By Malene Birger bikini (available at net-a-porter.com) is small and simple enough to avoid unsightly strap lines and I love the tassle detailing on the ties.

2. Sandals

For day or night, a comfy yet stylish sandal is a must. I would choose a neutral coloured pair to go with your whole wardrobe. I bought these from River Island (available at asos.com) and I'm so glad I did. I've worn them nearly everyday and after a couple of blistered wears, they're comfortable too.

3. Tote

If you are trying to take minimal bags, your first port of call should be a tote. Large enough for the beach and hand baggage but chic enough for lunch or shopping whilst abroad. I love this cheap and cheerful Pieces one from asos.com.

4. Maxi dress

Just like the tote, it needs to be practical to wear on the beach but also dressy enough for dinner. This T-Bags maxi (available at net-a-porter.com) has a simple shape but the embellishment makes it special.

5. Sunglasses

A no-brainer. I have two pairs which I like to chop and change depending on my mood and outfit - a large, olive green Marc by Marc Jacobs pair and some classic Ray Ban aviators. I also love these from Miu Miu (available at net-a-porter.com)

Maxi

Top - H&M, skirt - Belle and Bunty at ASOS, necklace - Tiffany & Co

I decided to wear my new maxi skirt today. Wasn't totally convinced before I put it on but I actually loved wearing it. It's so bright and flowing - really makes you smile. Since it's so outfit-dominating, I wore it with a plain, black tank top, black cardigan and simple gold sandals. Some gold bangles would have worked perfectly but unfortunately I don't have any.

I took a cheeky trip to New Look today to deliberately go and buy some flat sandals. Well that didn't work out so well but I did walk out with these tan stacked wedges (with my student discount - £20). Not sure if I'm going to keep them yet or not - will probably wear them round the house a bit until I decide. Why is it always that I end up keeping the item when I say I might return it??

Friday

Top - ASOS, jeans - Hollister, sandals - Zara, watch - vintage, ring - antique

I can't tell you how truly pleasant this week has been. Although I've mainly been in the office at Anya, it's just been a week full of small smiles.

Firstly, the ASOS order arrived. I know this sounds a bit naff but you can't deny the high you get after going shopping (even if you feel guilty about the money you spend).

Secondly, I booked flights to go to Spain today. Not exactly the holiday of the year and I probably paid too much for the flights but I can't wait to see my Mum, friends and lie in the sun. It's only a short trip since I start another internship (see below) as soon as I get back but never the less, I can't wait - a great way to R&R after uni finishes.

Thirdly, I contacted Burberry today who responded by offering me a week's internship to help out with their menswear show at the beginning of June. (I go to Spain the day after I finish at Anya and fly back the day before I start at Burberry.) Another thing to look forward to.

Fourthly, my Dad is coming tomorrow and we are going out for lunch. Since I moved away I don't get to see my parents very often - and I miss that. So I really treasure the time I do get to spend with them.

A very small thing lastly but I got a compliment for the coral top I bought from ASOS. I wore it today and someone told me how nice it was to see someone wearing a bright colour, which instantly made me feel happier about stepping out of my comfort zone, style wise.

Have a good weekend readers!

New Purchases

Just a quick post today since I've been busy with uni, interning and voting. I ordered these items a few days ago from ASOS so was excited to find they had arrived when I got home this evening.

A bit of a random order but I was having a look through the sale and found a few little pieces I felt were missing from my wardrobe (aren't there always?!).

Firstly a couple of basic, long-sleeved, loose fitting jersey tops in white and coral (I'm trying to branch out further than neutral hues) which I'm sure I'll wear a ton of times with jeans in the winter and denim shorts in the summer.




And secondly, a chiffon maxi skirt by Belle and Bunty. Now I'm not 100% on this yet but I'm going to try it on with a few different tops and see what I think. I bought it because it's so vibrant and can be worn with so many different things - tank top, t-shirt, wedges, flat sandals, belt, no belt... but I'm just not totally sure it's me. Time will tell.



I promise to post some photos when I wear these.

NISHE

Scanning my daily ASOS newsletter, a curious brand caught my eye. It's called NISHE and it was launched in Hong Kong in 2008, by Polly Sui. The designs have a romantic air to them with feminine, pretty details and shapes. It's not often I post about a brand on my blog but I have to say, if I could, I would own the whole collection.

I tried to get in contact with the brand to find out more about them but my emails bounced back.

These are a few of my favourite pieces from the collection. The scalloped edged shorts, the sheer black waist coat and the structured oyster-coloured dress are my favourites.









I really wish the model would stop playing with her hair.

Menswear Trends S/S 2011

To add a bit of diversity to my blog, I thought I'd take a little bit of time to talk about men's trends for S/S 2011.

BLUE

Issey Miyake, Dries Van Noten, D&G

Trailing through the catwalk reports I noticed a definite pattern of blue emerging. If you are already a religious jean-wearer then this trend is ideal but if you are feeling a little more daring, the bright blue shirt below would be perfect with long shorts or those trusty denims.

Selected at ASOS

DOUBLE-BREASTED

Jean Paul Gaultier, Kenzo, Lanvin. Note: I am definitely NOT feeling the Jesus sandals...

This is such a classic look that the smarter gentleman may already have a double-breasted piece in their wardrobe. Usually just for dressier occasions but the cardigan below makes the trend casual.

ASOS

A CLASSIC JACKET

Burberry, Lanvin, Paul Smith

Trench, blazer, mac, whatever your choice, make sure it's well cut and well made. And if it's double-breasted too, then all the better. Colour wise, aim for muted navy, charcoal and black, fabric wise, mattes and satins work well.

Cheap Monday at ASOS

GREY

Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Dior

A no-brainer. Mix with navy, burgundy, denim, black, tan or even more grey and you're on to a winner. I'd play with textures here - knits, tailoring, jersey - it's all good. Keep it simple with this t-shirt and pair it with some chinos.

ASOS

TURNED HEM SHORTS

Louis Vuitton, D&G, Marni

A little tailored, possibly with a crease down the front. I'd go for a matte navy, camel or even khaki to keep them neutral and versatile and both a shorter or longer style work. Wear with a t-shirt for day and loose untucked shirt for evening.

Polo Ralph Lauren. Note: Beware knobbly knees.

Photos: Style.com and ASOS

Parachute Silk

The inspiration for this post actually came from the daily net-a-porter.com email I subscribe to but I thought I would take the idea and show you exactly how you can wear it.

PARACHUTE SILK
From Mathew Williamson to Chloé, billowing silk has been shown all over the catwalks for Spring/Summer. An elegant, feminine trend which always looks beautiful but is not always practical (or cheap!). I've created 3 looks - day, evening and occasion - to show you that you can wear it from day-to-day.

DAY

Rolled-sleeve t-shirt - Splendid @ fashionbeans.com, pleated silk maxi skirt - Tibi @ net-a-porter.com, black leather clutch - Alexander Wang, suede sandals - Prada, black and gold watch - Michael Kors

EVENING

Silk organza dress - Valentino, patent wedges - Lanvin, black leather clutch - YSL, knotted bracelet - Lanvin

OCCASION
Iris-print silk-chiffon gown - net-a-porter.com, skull diamonte embellished clutch - Alexander McQueen, Palais pump - YSL, gold and blue agate cuff - maxandchloe.com

Ok, I know, they're all stunning pieces but not exactly accessible for the recessionista. But I'm now going to show you with just a few tricks, you can create these looks on a budget.

DAY
Take that canary yellow maxi skirt. I know for sure that with a little bit of rummaging, you can find one similar in a charity shop. It may not be the exact colour but if you spend a few pounds on the skirt and another few on some dye, it's hardly breaking the bank, is it?

And the Prada suede, black platforms. They look fairly similar to these Topshop heels.

EVENING
Now I would agree that the Valentino dress is a little harder (if not impossible) to emulate but a dress similar to these will still create the mood you want.

Left: J.Crew @ net-a-porter.com (£120). Centre: French Connection (£150). Right: French Connection at John Lewis (£135).

And if you layer a black lace body underneath, it adds a little more uniqueness.

Lace body - Topshop (£30)

And as for the Lanvin shoes, a simple pair of black stacked wedges will do the same job. Adding some cheap satin ribbon and tying it in a bow around your ankles will make them look extra sweet.

Wedges - ASOS (£40), scissors - totally my own creation. I would take off that boring ankle strap and instead thread a length of ribbon through.

OCCASION
This look is just that little bit more special/eye-poppingly expensive so it takes some creativity.

The McQueen clutch could be emmulated by starting off with this cheap box clutch and decorating with glue-on diamontes from a haberdashery. Now it would take patience and time but ultimately look glittering at the end of it.

Clutch - Kurt Geiger (£19)

ASOS is a great place to shop for occasion/evening dresses and I found this one for £60. Not too dissimilar, I don't think.



So that's it. My attempt at trying to show you that you can wear what you see on the catwalk and in designer shops, you just need to be a bit smart about it.

Images - Polyvore.com