10 Items: Pastel Coats

I love the idea of winter pastels around this time of year. I was all about plaid and rich, heavy fabrics in the months leading up to Christmas, but now that the festive season is over, I'm more than ready for springtime with its sugary shades. 

Here are 10 coats that look good enough to eat! Which would you pick? Or do you find pastels too sickly sweet for your taste?!




1. Linea at House of Fraser / 2. Choies / 3. Lavand at House of Fraser / 4. Enföld / 5. New Look 
6. Pull & Bear / 7. Mackintosh at Harrods / 8. L.K. Bennett at John Lewis / 9. George at Asda / 10. Gucci 

10 Items: Festive Footwear

Last week, I shared my picks for 10 sparkly items of clothing that I would happily wear all day, every day this time of year. Today I thought I'd put the focus on festive footwear with 10 glittery pairs of shoes are sure to put a sparkle in your step! Which are your favourites?

1. RED Valentino / 2. Kate Spade / 3. Keds x Kate Spade  / 4. J. Crew / 5. Paul Smith Shoes 

6. Bimba Y Lola / 7. Miu Miu / 8. Dune / 9. Lucy Choi / 10. Kate Spade

10 Items: Sparkle

I love, love, love anything sparkly -- it's just so fun, so festive, so decadent. While it's obviously a style well suited to parties/nighttime, I equally love the look of a sequinned piece casually worn with low-key basics for day (think sparkly trousers with an oversized sweatshirt, or a glittery top with boyfriend jeans). 

What's your favourite way to wear sparkle?!


1. BCBG Dress / 2. H&M Jacket / 3. River Island Skirt  / 4. Alice + Olivia Jacket  / 5. New Look Shorts 
6. Calypso St. Barth Top / 7. Case-Mate iPhone Case / 8. H&M Dress / 9. BCBG Leggings / 10. Anya Hindmarch Clutch

10 Items: Tartan

As you may know already, I'm a big fan of all things plaid, and this post got me thinking of the multitude of ways you can wear this seasonal trend. Here's a round-up of 10 fabulous check and tartan-inspired pieces -- which are your favourites?

1. Coat

Sea New York tartan plaid coat - oxygenboutique.com

2. Sweater

McQ by Alexander McQueen knit sweater - alexandermcqueen.com

3. Dress
FAUSTO PUGLISI black velvet mini dress - yoox.com

4. Gloves

C Wonder glove - cwonder.com

5. Scarf
Linea evening shawl - houseoffraser.co.uk

6. Trousers

Vivienne Westwood Red Label slim fit wool pants - profilefashion.com

7. Skirt
Oui mini skirt - houseoffraser.co.uk

8. Shirt
Band of Outsiders red collared shirt - lagarconne.com

9. Handbag
Tory Burch black handbag - toryburch.com

10. Heels
Lucy Choi London high heel pumps - my-wardrobe.com

10 Trends for Autumn/Winter 2014

Hello! Sorry for the lack of posting these past few weeks...I was in Calgary for my friend's wedding at the beginning of the month (more on that later!) and things got a little sidetracked since then. Anyway, I'm back now with a post I've been looking forward to writing for quite some time...my personal take on this season's trends! Back in June, I did a similar post for Spring/Summer's trends, and now here are the looks I'm excited to try this fall (as well as the ones that I don't quite think I can pull off). 

What are your favourite trends of the season? And which do you think you'll pass on?!

1. Moody Florals
While I love big, bright, splashy prints for spring/summer, this time of year calls for something a bit darker and moodier. Whether it's in the form of a dress, skirt, top, or trousers, I'm glad that the dark floral trend is sticking around for another season. 
Topshop midi dress - nordstrom.com

2. Chelsea Boots

Chelsea boots have been kicking around for quite some time now, but are enjoying a resurgence in popularity thanks to the '60s trend that's been permeating the fashion scene this season. I love the sleek look of a classic black pair, but red would be fun, too.

Church's leather booties - barneys.com

3. Winter Pastels

I love pastels year-round -- I love how they can look so crisp and refreshing in springtime, yet so cosy and marshmallowy in the colder months. While I love the rich hues traditionally associated with this time of year, I'm also a fan of these more unexpected sugary shades.

Ted Baker pink coat - harrods.com

4. A-Line Minis

Funnily enough, I prefer shorter skirts in the winter and longer, midi lengths when the weather's warmer (probably because I prefer minis with tights and midis with bare legs). The '60s-inspired A-line skirt is flattering on all shapes, and looks great paired with a chunky sweater or turtleneck. 

Carven short a line skirt - flannels.com

5. Over-the-Knee Boots

Despite my love for this look, I've always found it hard to find boots that actually go over my knee (and not awkwardly hit right at it). Last year, however, I was lucky enough to score the perfect black suede pair at Aldo...and I have a feeling I'll be getting just as much wear out of them this winter as I did the last.

Tory Burch distressed leather riding boots - toryburch.com

6. Fast Food Fashion

For someone who loves McDonald's (and junk food in general) as much as I do, you'd think I'd be more enthusiastic about a Golden Arches-embossed handbag. But nope, this trend doesn't appeal to me in the slightest. What can I say? I guess I'm just not playful or rich enough for fast food fashion.

Moschino quilted chain handbag - monnierfreres.co.uk

7. Colourful Fur

Back in the early '00s, I sported a subtle take on this trend (a denim jacket trimmed with a lurid red fur collar), but these days I'm way too sensible and boring to give it another shot. Another trend best left to the Cara Delevingnes of this world, I think. 

Oui Odile blue faux fur jacket - farfetch.com

8. Cocoon Coats

I think this mannish look is definitely cool, but really not the most flattering for my type of figure (I generally prefer a more feminine style with a defined waist). And in my books, flattering trumps cool every time.

Violeta by Mango wrap coat - johnlewis.com

9. Monk Strap Shoes
What the ugly sandal was to Spring/Summer, the monk strap shoe is to Autumn/Winter...and again, I'm just not attracted to the ugly footwear staple of the season. Yes, it's cool, but as far as I'm concerned, this is one style that can stay in the monastery.
The Office Of Angela Scott low heel shoes - neimanmarcus.com

10. Turtlenecks
Turtlenecks, roll necks, polo necks...whatever you call them, they're back with a vengeance. While I'm including this look in my "No!" section, I'm actually more on the fence about it... Generally, I think turtlenecks look the most flattering and elegant on those with a flatter chest, but I think I could just about pull one off if I layered it under a jacket. 
Silvian Heach knit sweater - houseoffraser.co.uk

10 Items Inspired by Pantone's 2014 Fall Colours

It's that time of the year again! Once again, we've compiled a list of 10 items for fall based on Pantone's Colours. (You can see last autumn's picks here, and this past spring's here, if you're interested). 

What are your favourites of these 10 shades? I think I'm kind of feeling the purples, interestingly enough! It's not a colour I wear too much despite my love for it, so I'd love to find some way of incorporating it into my wardrobe this season...

1. Radiant Orchid

This warm purple is not just Pantone's Colour of the Year; it's also made it on to both the Spring and Fall colour charts. For the cooler months, consider incorporating it into your wardrobe via a leather handbag. It's actually a surprisingly versatile colour, and would look fantastic paired with a coat in navy, camel, grey, or even a deep forest green. 

Purple leather purse - chikoshoes.com

2. Royal Blue

This classic colour just lends itself to outerwear, whether you opt for a classic peacoat or a modern wrap.

Miu Miu royal blue wool coat - mytheresa.com

3. Aluminum

Unexpected use of leopard print is big this season, so why not consider wearing a swingy dress in a putty shade of print?

Mango dress - mango.com

4. Aurora Red

This rich red would look fantastic in a midi skirt (a style that's still going strong for the fall). 

Oasis red midi skirt - oasis-stores.com

5. Misted Yellow

For those of you who secretly think midis are frumpy and unflattering, rejoice! The '60s, A-line mini is making a comeback, and would look fab in this autumnal shade of yellow. 

Victoria Beckham wrap skirt - farfetch.com

6. Sangria

This warm wine colour is perfect for accessories; consider incorporating it into an outfit with a pair of suede pumps.

Tory Burch pointy pumps - toryburch.com

7. Mauve Mist

Instead of your classic grey oversized cardigan, why not consider one in this lavender shade? 

TIBI peach cardigan - tibi.com

8. Cognac

Chances are, you probably have a black leather jacket, but have you thought about updating to a moto style in a rich brown? 

FOSSIL leather biker jacket - fossil.com

9. Bright Cobalt

A shade or two lighter and brighter than Royal Blue, this hue would look fresh and unexpected on your fingertips this fall.  

NARS Cosmetics bright blue nail polish - beauty.com

10. Cypress

Exchange your dark-wash denim for a pair in this always autumn-appropriate deep olive green.

Violeta by Mango slim fit khaki pants - johnlewis.com

Pantone Colours image via:http://itsthreethirty.com/nail-polish-fall-forecast/

10 Trends for Spring/Summer 2014

Each new fashion season, I love seeing what new trends are surfacing--I take note of which I'd like to try...and which I plan on steering well clear of. Here are my thoughts on ten of the most popular Spring/Summer 2014 trends... Which would you wear? And which would you not be caught dead in?! 

1. Midi Skirts
Because I'm tall, shopping for skirts has always been a somewhat sad experience for me. When it comes to shorter skirts, something that would look respectable on someone else looks downright indecent on me, so you can imagine my delight when longer lengths started becoming a thing. If you feel like the classic midi is a bit too frumpy for your tastes, look for one with sheer panelling for a 2014 twist on this '50s style.

Lavish Alice midi skirt - lavishalice.com

2. Crop Tops
My waist is one of my favourite features, so I'm a big fan of this subtle way of showing some skin. Unlike the belly-baring styles of the early noughties, the 2014 crop top is a more demure affair, best worn with something high-waisted so that only a sliver of skin peeks through.
Preen short sleeve shirt - net-a-porter.com

3. D'Orsay Flats

So pretty! So dainty! So chic! I just love this feminine flat, which would look great with either boyfriend jeans or a midi skirt. Those with thicker ankles should stick to a thin strap, while skinnier ankles can take a chunkier one.

Gianvito Rossi white shoes - barneys.com

4. Kimonos
Kimonos, to me, are the epitome of laid-back luxe: sophisticated, but comfy enough for lounging around the house in. And they flatter every body shape! Toss one over cut-offs and a simple tank to add a dose of bohemian glamour to your look. 
Monsoon swim cover up - monsoon.co.uk

5. Sharp Pleats
I love the look of a crisply pleated skirt--either dressed down with an oversized sweatshirt, or up with a delicate blouse tucked in. Those with narrower hips can get away with more flimsy, chiffony materials, but hippier girls should consider a heavier fabric for a more flattering look.
J W Anderson mini skirt - brownsfashion.com

6. Culottes
Um, no. Just no. What the midi is to skirts, culottes are to pants, but this is one trend I just can't get behind. While there are many styles that I wouldn't wear but like on others, I have yet to see anyone rock a pair of culottes. I actually like palazzo pants, their longer-length sibling, but I think this calf-length style is very hard to pull off. 
Charlie Brear clothing - avenue32.com

7. Ugly Sandals
Honestly, I'm just not cool enough for man-repelling fashion in general, and the whole ugly sandal trend is no exception. It actually seems like a fun kind of trend to partake in (I think I'd kind of enjoy shopping around for the absolute ugliest pair I could find), but I don't think I'd actually bite the bullet and wear them. 
Steve Madden sandals - stevemadden.com

8. Sleeveless Blazers
This style can look very sleek and sharp, and would be perfect for warmer weather...but personally, I'm not a fan. What can I say? I just like my blazers with sleeves. 
Ted Baker blazer - tedbaker.com

9. Mules
Gross-sounding name, creepy-looking shoe (in my humble opinion). But one girl's shoe pariah is another girl's treasure, right?! In their defence, they do seem relatively comfy as far as heels go...and they'd be easy to wear with any style of trouser (just maybe not #6 ;-). 
Pour La Victoire shoes - revolveclothing.com

10. Overalls
Once upon a time, I was actually a fan of this farm-friendly look (I have fond memories of an orange, knee-length pair I had circa 1998). These days, however, it's not a look I'm in any hurry to revisit; while I've seen overalls look super cool on flat-chested, narrow-hipped girls, they wouldn't look so great on my figure.
Citizens of Humanity bib overall - stylebop.com

10 Items Inspired by Pantone's 2014 Spring Colours

It seems just yesterday that we were compiling our Pantone Fall Colours list, but here we are half a year later with the springtime edition! With ten hues ranging from delicate to vibrant, we hope you find a fresh new shade to introduce into your warm-weather wardrobe. 


http://www.countryliving.com/homes/how-to-get-the-look/pantone-2014-spring-trend-colors

1. Placid Blue
Calling to mind sunny-day skies and seaside waves, this tranquil shade of blue would be the perfect choice for your next manicure. 

Butter London blue nail polish - butterlondon.com

2. Violet Tulip
A silky shirt in this flattering, blue-based shade of purple can be dressed down with a pair of cut-offs or up with a perforated leather skirt.   
Long sleeve top - yoox.com

3. Hemlock

A gentle grey-based green, the fresh Hemlock would add an unexpected, summery pop to accessories--from sunglasses to watches. 

MARC BY MARC JACOBS mint green jewelry - monnierfreres.co.uk

4. Paloma
One of the hardest-working items in my wardrobe is my black leather jacket, but this time of year, it starts to feel a bit heavy...a similar style in a dove grey would be just as versatile but a little more summery. 
Reiss zip jacket - reiss.com

5. Sand
A buttery leather tote in this warm neutral will go with absolutely everything in your wardrobe, guaranteed.  
Chloé beige purse - barneys.com

6. Freesia 
Although it's one of the happiest colours around, many people complain that bright yellow can make them look sallow or washed-out--if you're one of those people, consider wearing it on your lower half instead. An adorable daffodil-esque skirt like this one combines a hot colour with a trendy trumpet hem. 
Chloé flounce hem skirt - harrods.com

7. Cayenne
A zesty shade of coral, Cayenne is a flattering colour on most, and adds a bit of oomph to any ensemble. But, just like its spicy namesake, a little goes a long way...use it in small, punchy doses tempered by neutrals. 
Dorothy Perkins petite shorts - dorothyperkins.com

8. Celosia Orange
Consider working this playful shade into your make-up routine--after all, the orange lip is making a huge comeback! To ensure the look is less '70s, more J. Crew catalogue, keep eye make-up to the bare minimum--just a slick of mascara will suffice. 
MAC Lipstick Morange (A) - nordstrom.com

9. Radiant Orchid
There are sunglasses, and then there are funglasses--we think these shades in Pantone's Number One Colour of 2014 fall firmly into the latter category. 
Karen walker sunglasses - shopbop.com

10. Dazzling Blue
You probably already have this trendy style of shoe in a practical black or nude...but why not branch out to a slightly more daring shade, like this rich cobalt?
Ava & Aiden metallic shoes - gilt.com

10 Items Inspired by Pantone's 2013 Fall Colours

Inspired by the colours chosen by Pantone for Fall 2013, we've compiled a selection of items in these autumnal hues...

1. Emerald

Rich jewel tones are perfect for this time of year, and an emerald-coloured handbag would be a sophisticated accessory for an autumn outfit.

Mulberry handbag - mulberry.com

2. Mykonos Blue

In case you don't already know, the midi skirt is where it is at right now. Love it (Ali) or loathe it (Vicky), this demure length isn't going away any time soon. Save the feminine florals and pastel shades for spring and summer, and try one out in a deep, fall-appropriate shade like the Grecian-inspired Mykonos Blue.

J W Anderson skirt - net-a-porter.com

3. Linden Green
Unlike the other nine colours, Linden Green has a decidedly springlike air; a bit unexpected, perhaps, in a sea of saturated jewel tones, but surprisingly refreshing. A t-shirt in this shade would look fresh peeking out from a charcoal-grey or navy blazer.
J Crew j crew t shirt - jcrew.com

4. Acai
Try this dark, moody purple on your nails for a slick autumnal look.
Butter London dark purple nail polish - thehut.com

5. Samba

A deep, vivid red adds a powerful punch to any ensemble; if you find it a bit too overpowering in large doses, consider incorporating it into your look via a smart accessory, like this felt hat.

Wool felt hat - e4hats.com

6. Koi

While bright orange is one of those colours that seamlessly crosses over from summer into fall, the cooler temperatures of this time of year require pieces in heavier materials. Consider working this colour into your wardrobe with a chic leather skirt or knit sweater.

Richard Nicoll side slit skirt - net-a-porter.com

7. Deep Lichen Green
Bright colours are all very well, but sometimes your mood calls for something a little more subdued--this soft, earthy green colour is perfect for such times, and a long, cosy cardi is the perfect piece to chill out in.
H M cardigan - hm.com

8. Vivacious
Pink is kind of the colour for coats this season. The runways for a/w 13 were awash in oversized outerwear in delicate, sorbet shades, but if pastels aren't really your thing, why not consider a coat in the vibrant Vivacious?
Dkny coat - farfetch.com

9. Turbulence
It almost seems like no one wears plain blue denim anymore, what with the overwhelming variety of coloured and patterned jeans out there. However, nothing is more flattering to the figure than a solid dark wash, and if dark blue and black are a bit too boring for you, why not try out a pair in a dark grey?
Mango dark grey jeans - johnlewis.com

10. Carafe
Brown boots are an autumnal staple, and you're bound to get great mileage out of a pair in this rich, coffee-brown hue.
Tory Burch boots - toryburch.com

Monochrome Magic

Monochrome was one of s/s 13's top trends, and is one that lends itself perfectly to this time of year. Right now the days are warm, but the imminence of fall gets us thinking to the style season ahead, and, unlike many of the typical trends of warm weather style (neon brights, splashy floral prints), this stark, pared-down palette can easily cross over into autumn.

In the spirit of all things black-and-white, I'll leave you with this excerpt from a haunting little poem I came across in one of my old textbooks. Maybe it'll inspire you to try out this slick trend!

"A white well 

In a black cave;

A bright shell

In a dark wave.

A white rose 

Black brambles hood;

Smooth bright snows

In a dark wood.

...A bright spark 

Where black ashes are;

In the smothering dark

One white star."

-from "Incantation" by Elinor Wylie (1921)

1. Long-Sleeved Crop Top: Perfect worn over a black maxi-skirt.

topshop.com - topshop.com

2. Graphic Flower Earrings: Channel a '60s vibe with these cute earrings, big hair, and winged eyeliner.
dorothyperkins.com - dorothyperkins.com

3. Flared Dress: A sweet dress with a swingy skirt would look fantastic with brightly coloured tights when the chill sets in.
jonesandjonesfashion.com - jonesandjonesfashion.com

4. Heart-Dotted Phone Case: Simple yet oh so cute!
forevernew.com.au - forevernew.com.au

5. Structured Bag: A bag in a monochrome palette is sure to go with everything.
farfetch.com - farfetch.com

6. Stripy Jacket: An eye-catching little number like this would look equally great worn with skinny jeans or a skirt.
warehouse.co.uk - warehouse.co.uk

7. Patterned Heels: A sharp pair of black-and-white heels is the perfect backdrop for a bright pedi.
missselfridge.com - missselfridge.com

8. Loose Tank Top: A comfy tank in a bold, tribal print is the perfect accompaniment to leggings or skinnies.
topshop.com - topshop.com

9. Stripy Dress: Eye-catching stripes are the perfect backdrop for zingy, neon accessories.
shelikes.com - shelikes.com

10. Printed Jeans: Why wear plain denim when there are so many playfully printed jeans out there?
hm.com - hm.com

10 Items For Summer

Happy Summer, everyone! We hope you're all enjoying yours! Here's our final instalment of the seasonal 10 Items series, in which we share our top picks for summer! Happy shopping and wearing :-)

1. A Maxi Dress

I absolutely live in maxi dresses during the summer; they are just so comfortable, flattering to every body type, easy to pack, easy to style, and they hide a multitude of sins! If you still have your suspicions regarding their wearability, I urge you to just try one--I guarantee you'll be a convert ;-)
Floral maxi dress - newlook.com

2. A Wide-Brimmed Hat

A beachy hat not only gives your outfit a put-together, chic feel--it also has health benefits too, by protecting the delicate skin on your face from the harsh rays of the sun. Win win!
Lalù straw beach hat - pret-a-beaute.com

3. A Little White Dress

A cool, crisp white dress is an absolute summer must. Check out our round-up of favourite LWD styles here.
Miss Selfridge strap prom dress - missselfridge.com

4. A Fun Pair of Sandals

By 'fun', we mean something a bit quirky and colourful, like these gorgeous aquamarine ones. Pretty much everyone has a pair of practical sandals in a neutral shade, but bright colours can be just as versatile. 
Ankle tie shoes - makemechic.com

5. A Pair of Luxe Shorts

Ditch the Daisy Dukes in favour of something a tad more sophisticated, like these fab jacquard shorts, which can be dressed down for day with a casual tank and sandals, or up for night with heels.
Elizabeth and james shorts - shoplesnouvelles.com

6. A Kaftan

A folkloric, embroidered kaftan is such a ubiquitous summer holiday essential that it's almost a cliche at this point, but for a reason: it's the perfect thing to throw on over your swimsuit and looks fabulous with a tan and tousled, beachy waves.
River island - riverisland.com

7. A Swimsuit
Bikinis are all very well, but there is something so sweetly retro and cool about one-pieces in bold colours (and then of course there's the fact that they are infinitely more forgiving).
Norma Kamali pinup swimsuit - shoplesnouvelles.com

8. A Pair of Espadrilles

Every girl should have a pair of espadrilles, either with or without wedge heels, in her wardrobe: they're the ultimate shoe of summer.
Lauren Ralph Lauren espadrilles shoes - macys.com

9. A Pair of White Jeans

Yes, they can be scary, but they're just so darn summery: the perfect accompaniment to nautical tops and colourful sandals. (Just keep your Tide-to-Go pen handy--you're gonna need it with these bad boys!)
Citizens of Humanity denim skinny jeans - mytheresa.com

10. A Beach Tote
Even if you don't plan on setting foot on a beach this summer, a large, colourful bag is still the most seasonally-appropriate option for lugging around all your stuff on a daily basis. 
Two s Company jute tote bag - sundancebeach.com