Sunday 29 May 2011

Valentino leather or crepe?

Whilst completing my weekly ritual of browsing the 'What's New' section on Net-A-Porter, I stumbled across two beautiful dresses which caught my eye.

I'm on the hunt for a smart black dress for a day time event, and both ticked the box, complete with bows and ruffle details which I love, naturally.

Then I realised they were, more or less, the same dress. Both by Valentino, with one key difference: one is a crepe viscose fabric and the other is leather and lace.

From left: Ruffled stretch-crepe dress, £1, 120. Leather and lace dress, £2, 165. Both Valentino at Net-A-Porter.


I can't decide which one I like best.

The crepe fabric dress seems a more simple, relaxed piece, whereas the leather and lace is sexier and more fashion-forward.

Help me decide by telling me which one you like best in the comments below!


xo

I Want... White Ray-Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses

Probably one of the most iconic styles of recent times, the Ray-Ban Wayfarers are even cooler in white. Perfect against tanned skin in Summer.

White Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses, £108 Sunglasses Shop

Wednesday 18 May 2011

Neutrals and Nudes

Neutral hues are another key trend for Spring/Summer this year. Now I know what you're thinking- nudes have been around for ages! And yes, they have. But for Summer, you can work lighter, looser fabrics that will prove to be the antithesis of the summer blocking and neon trends for the Season.

So, if you're less a fan of the bright colours for Summer, nudes and neutrals could be the best thing for your wardobe. Just don't be afraid to accessorise with colourful or bold pieces - check out my posts on statement rings and bright bags below for some head-to-toe inspiration to go with the nude pieces here.


Twill tapered trousers, £270 Tibi at Net-A-Porter

These light-weight blush trousers are the perfect colour and fit for this season. The nude colour is flattering for most skin tones and can be paired down with a t-shirt and sandals or dressed up with statement and contrasting accessories. Not only do they look comfortable, but the fit is flattering and bang on trend.


From left: Tulip skirt, £39.99. Faux leather pleat skirt, £69.99. Accordion pleat skirt, £29.99.  All Zara.

I couldn't choose which of these skirts I like best. The tulip skirt creates a beautifully structured but simple look. It's fairly short length means you can pair it with sandals or flats and a simple black or white top to offset the colour. The faux lather pleated skirt nails the leather trend but makes it cute and girly with it's pretty colour and pleat detail. Keep it simple on the top half and with the footwear to make sure you don't overcrowd the pleating. If you prefer a slightly longer length and a more relaxed look, the accordion pleat skirt is the one for you. The fabric is very light and the basic shape means it's great for everyday wear and a dressed-down but smart summer look. Take your pick!


Ponti waisted dress, £40 ASOS

ASOS comes up trumps, yet again, with this camel ponti waisted dress which comes in a shorter or longer length, so you can pick the length you prefer - so clever! The shape is very feminine, accentuated by the elasticated black waist band, and you could wear this during the day with black flats or sandals, or dress it up in the evening with a pair of nude or black statement heels. It's so versatile, you need it in your wardrobe now!

3D flower bodice dress, £120 ASOS

This dress is the epitomy of summer neutrals - pretty, girly, chic and totally wearable. This is a more dressy piece which will be so easy to wear this summer. Thanks to its flower detail bodice, it requires minimal accessorising and will look perfect for an event in the sunshine or in the evening.


From left: Raffia wedges, £65 Office.  Nude with bow, £150 KG by Kurt Geiger. Lace mocassins, £32 Topshop. 

These raffia wedges from Office are summer days and nights to give you some extra height whilst wearing a dress. If you prefer girly footwear, try these nude court shoes from KG by Kurt Geiger. The removable lace bow means you can add or subtract the cute girly detailing depending on your outfit and mood! And don't forget a pair of nude flats for day time. Give the nautical theme a whirl in these nude lace marine mocassins from Topshop, which are perfect for a chic but relaxed day time look.


What nude pieces will you be picking up this season? Leave a comment below!





Big Rings

I love a big, statement ring. Jewellery in general is great for adding detail to any outfit, and rings are a bold way to do it. Don't be shy when it comes to size and colours - the more attention-grabbing the better. Use them to dress up a plain outfit or add more drama to a dressy ensemble.

Here is a selection of what I found online- click the links below the images to go and buy one for yourself!

From left: Red domed ring, £10.  Black carved ring, £8. Vintage style oval ring, £8.  Metal and stone ring, £10.
Yellow enamel ring, £6. All from ASOS.

Tuesday 17 May 2011

I Want... Oliver Peoples Sunglasses

I've been on the hunt for a new pair of sunglasses for Summer. There's so much choice, from different shapes, colours... But I have to say, these are my favourite pair I have found. They're the perfect amount of cool and edgy, but simple and chic at the same time. I think they'll look great with every outfit, whether it's giving some edge to a paired-down girly look or revving up a sophisticated sleek look.

They are most definitely on my Summer wishlist. Now to start saving...

Oliver Peoples 'Daddy B' D-frame acetate sunglasses, £190 from Net-A-Porter. You can buy them here


Monday 16 May 2011

Sunday 15 May 2011

I Want... Alexander McQueen Cushions

Yes, you read that right.

Look at these beauties...




What could be more fabulous than decorating your house with McQueen's signature skull design?

You can buy these skull tapestry cushions for £385 each here.