• Velvet Sweetheart Dress Review [Belle Poque]

    Another gorgeous blue on the blog today – but there’s just something about the feel of velvet and in this shade of royal blue it’s absolutely sumptuous.

    There’s a beautiful sweetheart neckline which is super flattering and a row of false buttons down the front which draw the eye. 

    The buttons are just for decoration as there’s a zip at the back. The wide shoulder straps are really comfortable too, though they’re not adjustable. The bodice is tailored which gives a lovely fitted look at the waist before sweeping out into a half swing style skirt with plenty of swoosh!

    There’s some spandex in the fabric which provides a lovely stretch. Ideally I would have liked a size down as this is the size S which is listed as a size 8-10 which I would say is totally right. The length is great as it sits mid calf which is a great cut for vintage styles.

    It’s a really comfortable, wearable, dress and I was really surprised how nice it feels on. Definitely one I’ll be wearing for events.

    This dress is available in sizes S-2XL direct from the Belle Poque website for £24.38 and is also available in a gorgeous emerald green in limited sizes. 

    Additional Information:
    This dress was gifted to me but my views above are all my own. My stats are 33:24:33 and I’m a standard size 6 in clothing, however, I’m wearing a size S (8-10) in the photos above as it’s the smallest size available from Belle Poque. I’m 4’11” and wearing 4” heels. 
    The belt is not included, this is a custom made piece which I added.

    Also wearing:
    Evening gloves – original vintage
    Pearl Necklace – old buy from a costume jewellery store which no longer trades
    Crystal belt – old buy from Etsy, you can buy similar here
    Crystal headband – old buy from the High Street

     

  • [London Edge Feb 2020 Part 4] Charlie Stone Shoes

    In the fourth segment of my tour around this year’s London Edge, I was absolutely delighted to meet Samantha Capello of Charlie Stone Shoes. What a charming, elegant, lady with real passion for what she does – she very much personifies her brand, which offers beautiful vintage styling with the modern practicality of flat/low heel designs.

    As someone that travels to events and then runs around them all day, I often wear something flat or low heeled for the journey, then swap to my heels once I’m there. I did this at London Edge as you can see from previous photos; I’m wearing a low heeled boot in one, (which I travelled in), and then my platform peep toes for the rest of the show. I would love to be able to wear just one pair all day but the trouble has always been finding something that’s still in keeping with the rest of my vintage styled outfit and comfortable enough to whizz from one end of the City to another. In warmer weather I usually resort to a modern ballet flat but they’re quite bland, offer little to zero support, and don’t add to the overal aesthetic I’m going for with my dresses.

    Samantha has created a range of luxurious, handcrafted, shoes which have taken influences from the 1920’s to the 1950’s – they’re incredibly pretty but comfort is also key with their cushioned insoles and hidden arch support.

    I’ve been a fan of the brand for a long time and adored their style but, as I’m vegan, the leather items weren’t an option for me. I was delighted to see a thoughtful selection of vegan products (I particularly love Roma and Firenze from the current collection), have been added to the upcoming season releases, using a high quality, breathable, microfibre PU, which I’m thrilled about.

    These stunning rose gold and white, shell shaped, flats are called Moorea, both vegan and will be launching in April. I love the shape of these with their open toes, exuding elegance and so easy to wear with a dress on balmy summer nights or paired with capris and a light jacket for a day of exploring a Parisian city break.

    I also noted they have the handy quick release buckles which I believe all collections will have going forward. They’re so much easier than having to do the buckle up each time, you just lift the strap into a hook and you’re done! I have a few shoes with this style already and they’re so much faster to put on and hold firmly in place without fuss.

    Also new to the vegan range this year are these low t bar heels:

    Modelling the black pair on the day, they looked great on Samantha and were clearly comfortable as she’d been on her feet all day by that point! They went really well with the dress Samantha was wearing and seemed to be a versatile shoe – something you could wear to the office or out for dinner.

    The rose gold pair have the design detail of a Manhattan flat to the front, but with the addition of a small heel. They’re super sparkly and guaranteed to make your outfit shine! It felt like a really good quality glitter too, not the type which rubs off or leaves a trail everywhere you go, you can tell they’re exceptionally well made.

    As well as the dazzling array of shoes, I spotted these glorious rattan bags which were launched at the start of the year.

    Inspired by Grecian Summers, these sweet little bags are named Kythira and come in white (above) and natural (below) with gold fixings.

    My favourite is the natural version as it sets off my Tiki inclinations. The dimensions are 20 x 13 x 6.5 cm, small enough to be demure, but big enough to hold a mobile phone, (which many vintage styled bags don’t consider), along with your other essentials. Unfortunately these have already sold out on the website (I’m not surprised as they’re undeniably a must have item) but hopefully stockists will have some incoming.

    You can buy the full range directly from Charlie Stone via their website (do remember to factor in customs tax and duties when importing). It’s also important to note that they’ve taken the rather fabulous step of using only 100% compostable, plant based, mail bags for single item orders and use minimal tissue paper for packaging leading to much less waste. In a world of fast fashion, it’s so important for us to be consciously thinking about our own impact and it brings joy to my heart to see a company so proactive and innovative when it concerns our planet – we only have one and need to be kind to it.

    You can also purchase Charlie Stone shoes here in the UK and EU from the following stockists:

    Voluptuous Vintage

    Top Vintage 

    Revival Retro 

    These shops have a good selection to choose from, and some will be stocking the Summer lines, so I look forward to seeing the new styles grace their websites.

    I hope you’ve enjoyed having a look at what’s to come for Charlie Stone, it was a real pleasure to chat to Samantha and learn more about her company and the exciting way it’s evolving.

    The next edition of the London Edge highlights will be going live shortly, subscribe below to be notified x

     

  • [London Edge Feb 2020 Part 2] Sheen Clothing

    With a range of vintage and modern styles, I was delighted to meet the lovely team at Sheen on my visit to London Edge. I mentioned them on the blog at my last visit (see here) as I really liked the Helena dress which was showcased on the catwalk that day.

    Helena Dress

    With it’s beautiful neckline, long sleeves and full skirt, this was a stand out winter dress for me. More recently, I fell in love with the aptly named Heart dress which is so insanely pretty, it truly captures hearts.

    Photo Credit: Sheen Clothing

    This year, the stand was bursting with colour and unique prints, featuring their Spring/Summer looks.

    So many styles!
    In every colour and print

    There is something for everyone, from fun and flirty playsuits to casual day dresses, all the way to evening wear. My favourites from the current line are these playsuits which have the sweetest details:

    Arlene Playsuit
    Jana Playsuit

    The charming Summer prints, daisy buttons and lace detailing at the sweetheart neckline make these a perfect choice for lazy Summer days or exploring on your holidays. The Jana went down the runway and looked gorgeous. Just add a wide brimmed straw hat, sunglasses and some wedges and you’re set!

    Jana Playsuit

    From the new collection, my favourite picks were from the Capsule Collection. These nautical fancies are just spectacular!

    Ahoy there! Sailor Trousers
    Sailor Skirt

    I adore a novelty print and these cute little crabs on a blue and white stripe really make a statement. The waistbands with their double covered buttons are a really nice feature too. They’ll be available as cropped trousers or a swing skirt, both with pockets (yay!).

    Then I spotted this dress and I couldn’t contain my excitement:

    With a little nod to the super hero in all of us, this elegantly styled dress has beautiful detailing to the shoulders and neckline. And with a border of cheery crabs scuttling around the hem (I couldn’t fit it all on one photo sorry!), this fun design is bound to be a big hit.

    You may also be able to pick these two out of the stand photos which I really liked:

    Photo Credit: Sheen

    A casual shirt dress with a fun print is my ideal sunny shopping day attire. For cooler days I’d throw on a cardigan and tights with brown boots. This style of dress is very versatile so the Morgan Shirt Dress appealed to me.

    Bette Dress Photo Credit: Sheen

    And then there’s Bette, with her fabulously bright toucan print, combining my favourite colours (turquoise and yellow). This halterneck pencil dress ties at the neck and features a sweetheart neckline wth bow tie to the front. It’s the perfect cocktail dress for a tiki bar or summer barbecue party.

    There are many more styles coming too, and while the brand is usually only available via stockists, Sheen has exciting things planned. In around a month’s time, a new ecommerce store will be available on the website, meaning we can buy direct! And everything is available in sizes 8 to 22 which provides a good range.

    You may also have noticed on the stand that the brand name will be changing – from Sheen to Timeless. There’s a definite shift happening within the company and while most items are available in cotton currently (some polyester), they’re becoming a more environmentally conscious brand. To that end, the textiles they plan to use going forward will be sustainable which is a great step forward for those of us that enjoy fashion but want to think about our footprints on the planet too.

    I’m looking forward to exploring the new website when it launches!

    Look out for Part 3 of the London Edge previews, or subscribe below to be notified of the next publication x

     

     

  • London Edge September 2019

    London Edge is always guaranteed to be an amazing day, filled to the (rather impressive) rafters of the Business Design Centre, with awesome alternative brands, showcasing their new lines and trading to buyers (it’s not open to the public guys!). 

    London Edge Exhibitors

    It’s always abuzz with excitement as the doors open, we all start to mingle amidst those we admire and new brands we’re inspired to follow. The vibe is always super friendly and you meet so many like minded people all striving to offer the industry the best alternative products.

    Obviously my favourite when I visit is always Collectif. Their space always stands out and looks great – like an alternative and vintage haven! With a constant stream of lovely buyers, it’s always great to see them doing so well. So I made a beeline for them first and caught up with the team and their goals for the forthcoming seasons.

    Collectif Clothing Stand

    Collectif Clothing Autumn Winter 2019

    My previous posts about AW19 (and here) and SS20 previews (use the category search at the top of the site for SS20 and you’ll find all of them) will fill you in on what’s to come, but there were a few additions which are absolutely worthy of a mention. 

    I’m so happy to see some more seasonal bits coming in for this Halloween (along with what’s already been launched), so this is a great opportunity for anyone that loves to be a casual member of the ghoul gang to pick up a few pieces for Halloween, or indeed, any other day! 

    I really love this bright pink and green check too on the new Rochelle skater dress which is will also be available in a trouser. Tartan is awesome; super bright tartan is even better!

    Continuing with the checks, this red and black dolores will be a good staple for most this season.

    And this Arwen Woodland Pine Check Swing Dress feels so lovely and soft, it’s definitely been added to my list as I hadn’t realised what a lovely fabric it was and feel it’s been overlooked previously. I’d highly recommend this one as an Autumn staple.

    We had the pleasure of viewing some of the new Autumn/Winter 2019 collection strut down the catwalk, courtesy of the beautiful Miss Deadly Red looking as gorgeous and sassy as ever.

    Wearing the Mimi Pumpkin Check Dress, Lulu Hun Maria heels and carrying the Carrie bag

    Wearing Barbara Pom Pom Jumper, Alexa Rainbow Star Skirt and other model wearing Matilde in Wonderland Skirt

    More gorgeous gals modelling the Silva Geek Check Dress (left) and the Clemence Meadow Check Dress (right)

    As well as the Autumn Winter stock, we also had another glimpse of the Spring Summer 2020 collection. I blogged previously about this but a couple of extra key pieces caught my eye. 

    These are, the night sky Dolores with super sparkly stars for night’s out. It has those lovely velvet buttons too <3

    And the stunning Faye Starlight Swing Dress which has the prettiest navy ribbon trim and sheer top with gorgeous twinkling stars. This is a real headturner and will be so perfect for all of next year’s summer events.

    Look at that beautiful ribboned hem!
    Clear stars on a night’s sky, with sweetheart neckline

    Additions to the Lulu Hun brand include this fruity and fabulous Alexandria Watermelon bag – I mean, come on! we all need this!

    Winner!

    Also the Rock and Roll heart shaped bag in red which will match perfectly with the Charlene Rock and Roll cardigan – and many more outfits your little rebel heart desires!

    I was super happy to find pockets in nearly all the dresses and skirts – something I know which is important to us all. Fingers crossed lining is next and that would be the icing on the cake!

    Also hitting the runway was the popular brand Sheen and I particularly liked this vintage styled dress from them.

    As well as Hearts & Roses, whose poppy inspired frock was very pretty. I like the higher neckline and matching belt too.

    Over at Banned Apparel (Banned Retro) I was surprised to see a print which was inspired (and approved) from a popular Michael Miller fabric I bought a couple of year’s ago. Here I am wearing my custom Candy Cane Cocktails skirt by Violets in May back at Christmas in 2017 (which is, consequently, a great place to buy off the peg or have something custom made).

    The Banned version is now available as a range of Christmas/New Year items, called Christmas Cocktails! I’m going to snap up a cardi to go with my skirt.

    Banned Cocktails Skirt

    They also have a very cute range of foxy numbers. This skirt with it’s fox pockets was adorable <3

    How cute are those pockets?!

    And speaking of foxy things, it leads me to my final favourite trader of the event. I have followed Oh So Flamingo for some time now and love the range of handmade, laser cut, acrylic jewellery that this creative gal dreams up. It always seems to fit what I have in my mind as a perfect piece to finish an outfit.

    This was Rachel’s first time exhibiting at London Edge and her stand was full of current and brand new pieces which was very exciting to see.  

    Here are a few I think you’ll love:

     

    When I popped over to say hi, I was very kindly gifted these beautiful black hoop earrings with silver glitter studs and atomic star design. They are immense! I can’t tell you how in love I am with these. Obviously, I had to get home and try them on straight away with something semi glam.

    And the adorable heart sweet <3
    Aren’t they just the best?!

    Meeting Rachel in person (and her lovely Mumma) was one of my personal highlights from the show. Please go and have a look at her site and show her some love on Instagram. Her pieces were also worn by the Collectif models as they came down the catwalk (see if you can spot them on one of the catwalk pics above), which was a really special moment to watch Rachel experience. I was so excited for her!

    I had the best time as always at London Edge and was very lucky to receive some goodies from the Kat Von D stand (mini lipstick and tattoo liner) along with the guide and bag which I always keep as they’re super useful (all hail reusing your bags!). I’m really looking forward to being at the next one – if you see me, come say hi! I hope you’ve enjoyed my tour around and have found a few ‘oh my gawd, I need that!’ items, because…. ya know, I can’t be the only one throwing all my cash at them this season, we all need to be skint ha x

    Making like a Boss at the Business Booth

     

  • Lulu Hun and Bright & Beautiful SS20 Preview

    If you missed the previous Spring Summer 2020 previews, you can click for Collectif and Menswear and see what delights next year holds! Today is all about my favourite picks from Lulu Hun and Bright & Beautiful though, and first up, we’ll take a look at Bright & Beautiful.

    To be honest, I don’t buy a great deal from this range as the era isn’t something I wear much of (it has a very 70’s vibe), but occasionally there are some beauts which I just can’t be without!

    For instance, the Astrid. I’ve spoken about this style of dress previously here. It’s boat neck and flared skirt design easily lends itself to the 50’s and it’s the main dress from the range which I really look forward to seeing from B&B every season. Next year, we have this gorgeous Deckchair version coming!

    Bright & Beautiful Astrid Deckchair Dress

    It’s a showstopper for sure. I love the rainbow stripes and the addition of the red ric rac trim (it’s often lace that features on the edge instead). If you’re not an Astrid fan, then this print appears in a few other styles too so there’s something to suit everyone.

    If you are an Astrid fan, then you may be delighted to hear that it’s also coming in a new pencil style!

    Bright & Beautiful Astrid Gingham Pencil

    This looks like it will be a Summer staple for most with it’s classic gingham check and perfect crossover for work wear, lunch date or a mooch around the shops with friends. I really like how the main best sellers are all getting an upgrade next year to incorporate new versions of a very popular design.

    The gingham continues with this gorgeous red checked dress called Iris. It has a shirred top and flared skirt – again, perfectly passable for a fifties style. Just add the picnic.

    Bright & Beautiful Iris Gingham Dress

    The knitwear was a massive hit with me. There are so many cute, short sleeved, jumper styles coming, including this yellow check Sydney.

    Bright & Beautiful Sydney Check Jumper

    and the Bella Harlequin jumper in blue

    Bright & Beautiful Bella Harlequin Jumper

    Both of these have the sweetest details at the back with a row of false buttons. You could probably wear it either way around too.

    Next up is Lulu Hun. This range just keeps getting better and better – I just love all the novelty items and the accessories which match perfectly with the designs of the dresses.

    The sandals are always a big hit and they have some fabulous styles coming, including these orange, strawberry. monstera leaf Lottie sandals and the Phoebe starfish version.

    Lulu Hun novelty sandals galore!

    True vintage fans will also like this 40’s inspired, mock croc, matching bag and shoes.

    Lulu Hun 40’s style mock croc

    I also really like this wedged sandal which has a removable flower!

    Lulu Hun Kellie wedges with removable flowers

    You can just see underneath where it has a brooch and hair clip attachment. So you could pop it in your hair if you don’t want it on your shoes. Clever!

    The bags were so fun and fabulous as always. I particularly liked these bright gingham saddle bag styles with co-ordinating fruits and flowers. There’s also a little padlock feature to the front and lots of room for all your essentials. 

    Lulu Hun Gingham Bags

    And lastly, a pastel pink perfection bag with something I happen to say rather a lot.

    Lulu Hun heart shaped bag

    This heart shaped bag sums up the collection rather well I think! Will you be broke next year because there’s so much stuff you want?…..HELL YEAH! (sorry, not sorry) x

     

     

  • Collectif Menswear Preview SS20

    The fabulous new Menswear collection is still to launch at Collectif as of yet (coming very soon though), and if you want to see what’s in store this season, have a look at my previous post here from way back in January.

    Today we’ll be looking at what’s to come next year with a sneaky preview of their Spring and Summer 2020 designs! Very exciting. I was blown away by the new line and the cool prints and fab co-ords don’t stop this year!

    First up we have this awesome array of tiki inspired shirts with short sleeves – who doesn’t love a Hawaiian shirt?!

    In a range of colours and tropical prints, these shirts feature wide collars and a pocket to the front. They ooze 50’s summer tiki vibes. Perfect for casually lounging by a pool or summer barbeques back in old Blighty.

     

    Next up are these raglan baseball tops which come in a few different colours (same print). I love a good raglan top and wish they came in my size too! Definitely unisex if you fancy one for yourself gals! it’s not all about the boys 😉

     Moving on to knitwear, I just died when I saw this! There are a couple of utterly fantastic light knits with the best novelty designs ever!

    A cowboy passing a giant cactus, with a sky filled with atomic stars and a spaceship? Yes please! Just the coolest thing ever.

    The last piece I have to show you is this nifty denim shirt. I love the winged stitching, the buttoned pockets and the wide collar. Perfect to throw on over any tee with some black workwear boots.

    On to accessories now, and they really have excelled in this too, offering a wide variety of co-ordinated fifties/sixties fashion forward styles. This man bag ties the look together well and is big enough to pop all of your other half’s lipstick, phone and accoutrements in as well 😉

    I really like the design of this – how it looks a little like a flight bag/suitcase with it’s faux wrap around straps. This is coming in a couple of colour options and I believe it’s leather (not for the vegan among us).

    Finally, I really liked this style of wallet too. Again, it is leather so hopefully they’ll do a faux version in seasons to come.

    Rivets and chains add some nice details to this. 

    So guys, next time you’re dragged into a Collectif store by your gal, you don’t have to make a beeline for the nearest coffee shop or stand waiting outside the changing room endlessly…..you can be browsing your very own collection! Lucky boys, enjoy!

    Look out for the next instalment of the previews for Spring/Summer 2020 which will be Lulu Hun and Bright & Beautiful. Subscribe below to be notified of new posts first and feel free to leave a little comment on the blog below too about what your thoughts are for the upcoming designs x

  • Collectif AW19 Collection

    The awesome new Lookbook is now live at Collectif for this season (see here) so I thought I’d drop a few real life photos in for you to see what they look like close up and personal, which can sometimes show a little more detail than the editorial pics. I already previewed some of the collection back in January (see here) but I’ll include the rest of the photos you can see in the Lookbook now they’re live which I’ve been dying to share with you!

    So, firstly is the Alice in Wonderland inspired collection. This is just so cute. I love a good toadstool!

    Claudia In Wonderland Cape Coat
    Reverse side is the Cheshire Cat smile!
    Peta in Wonderland Dress
    This matching Wonderland Cardigan will also be coming soon,

    On to the Blackwatch tartan which is just dreamy. I have this myself and will review it fully shortly. Blackwatch tartan IS winter. The Dolores dress has velvet buttons added this year too which is a really lovely addition.

    Caterina Blackwatch Dress

    Next up  is the gorgeous Caroline Cape. This was a staple in a lot of our wardrobes last year as it came in black and red previously, and I love the addition of this beautiful green.

    There are some very sweet cardigan and scarf sets coming, including the Allie Woodland version which was included in the lookbook. I only photographed the geek check though so I’m including that here. They come with a matching scarf – how cool is that! And more velvet buttons <3

    On to the Monet Woodland Pine Check trouser which is a lovely autumnal wide leg with a fab check and matching belt.

    Next is the Courtney Polka dot occasion dress which is just fab! I love its frothy layers of tulle

    Closely followed by Giselle, which is perfect for any pink princesses and guaranteed to brighten up any occasion!

    The Caterina Sunset Stripes is a really lovely design. The colours are fantastic on this one.

    The beautiful Bernice Plain Faux Fur Coat follows in a lovely burgundy. I really like the wide brown belt which is included too.

    On to the fluffy Cara cardigan, which will be available in a few colour ways.

    The we have the showstopper Sheena Leopard Cape which has a hood. It’s super cosy and fleecy with a velvet feel on the black.

    The Byna Pencil Dress in black is shown next, which is a lovely stretchy bengaline and features a pretty strap detail to the front.

    The Caterina Geek check dress is just fab. I love the bright yellow running through the monochrome check and anything geeky, I’m in!

    The Blackwatch Pearl Coat has been seen quite a lot due to spoilers this Summer, but I’ll include it again anyway as it is a thing of beauty!

    The very whimsical Aurora Occasion Swing is next which features a black chiffon overlay with balloon sleeves, pink floral embroidered roses to the neck and sleeves and pink sash belt at the waist.

    The Dolores Half Sleeve Midnight Floral Swing Dress is another perfect Autumnal staple. It has those gorgeous velvet buttons again too!

    I don’t have a clear photo of the June Apple Swing Dress, but you can see the design either side  here (and a sneaky peek at another dress coming soon)

    The matching cardigan looks like this. Will you be brave enough to take a bite? With those cute red buttons, I think you will!

    The very fabulous Heather Hooded Swing Coat returns in this glorious burnt orange for Autumn.

    Along with the signature style Bonnie trousers in a Pumpkin Check – the bright orange check is just amazing!

    And this print is also available in a Mimi dress

    I don’t have photos of the Lila Magic Mesh Skater dress, but I can tell you the spooky theme continues on other dresses, so those of you that are Halloween all year long won’t be disappointed!

    The Trixie is such a popular dress and every year everyone waits to see which new designs will drop. This year, we already have the Golden Polka Dot version (available to buy here) as well as a few others to come, but the Midnight Moon appears in the Lookbook with its soft velvet and sparkly moons and stars.

    The Jessie Rainbow star cardi follows, along with the Alexa Rainbow Star Swing Skirt. The multi coloured stars are so sweet on these. 

    I hope you’ve enjoyed browsing through the real life pics and look forward to hearing about all your AW19 purchases! I’ll share mine soon too. Feel free to add your comments about this season to the bottom ↓

  • Collectif SS20 Preview

    Oh it’s good to be back after a brief hiatus, and my goodness, have I come back with a bang! Today I’ll be sharing a few sneaky peeks from the Spring/Summer 2020 collection by Collectif Clothing. Yes, that’s right, 2020! While the AW19 releases are gradually trickling through (I’ve bought a few myself already which I’ll share with you later and remember to click here for my AW19 previews previously), those of us which are going mad bagging bargains in the sale are still very much in Summer mode, so here’s a few things to tantalise for next year which I hope you’ll enjoy viewing.

    Firstly, let’s talk about Jemima. She was one of my favourite picks from this season and came in cream or black polka dots. Next year she’ll make a comeback and will be available in a gorgeous green…swoon. A great all rounder of a dress with pockets, everyone needs one.

    Next up are the popular Dolores styles. The green polka dot print from above is also available as a Dolores top and looks super pretty combined with the rusty orange or, for a lighter pairing, the pastel colours which also appear on the dots.

    You won’t be disappointed with the vast array of these staples in numerous prints. I’ve chosen to share this cute ‘Strawberry’ Dolores Doll style which is just delicious.  I can’t look at strawberries on white without thinking of strawberries and cream, yummo.

    The heart buttons are a really nice detail, and of course, pockets on all Dolores! that continues to make a lot of people very happy. There’s a matching cardigan to this too for those that like to be as co-ordinated as me!

    The highly favoured Caterina also gets an update and new colour options. These are such a signature style, it was unfathomable that they’d be able to improve on this design. However, I bring to you……….the sleeveless Caterina! [insert audible gasp here].

    This amazing dress is perfect for anyone that struggles with Caterina sleeves (for me, they are quite wide and loose because of my size, some others find them too snug), or like me, prefer not to see the bulk of the sleeve underneath one of the cardigans – so for us, this fantastic solution is genius! It’s also just a fabulous seasonal version of this dress with its spring green and linen look fabric, and will appeal to so many that enjoy a sleeveless number in the warmer months. 

    As if that wasn’t enough, the Caterina has also been transformed into a blouse for those that like the shirt dress style but want to pair it with a contrasting trouser or skirt.

    This navy polka dot version will be great for the office and paired with jeans or wide white slacks for a more relaxed weekend look. 

    Kimberly was another new style which appeared this season (I have one myself – check my reviews section or type in ‘kimberly’ in the search bar at the top) and they’re back in abundance with some really great prints, including this crazy for cacti pattern called Cactusland featuring wooden buttons with bright red centres.

    Such a super light and floaty dress which will see us through any future history making, soaring temperatures!

    I know quite a lot of you are always keen to see what the next Korrina will be….so here she is, in a stunning bright red which will pair so well with navy and white (and that cute strawberry dolores above!).

    As well as these reinventions of fabulous designs, there are a variety of new gals joining the girl squad too. Among these is the very elegant, Bertha, whose sweet pale pink swing dress is just a delight.

    With a beautiful, wide, boat neck collar, half sleeves and bow detail to the waistline, she’s sure to be a hit over the Summer for any event or just when you want to feel fancy at work, swishing around the photocopier.

    Next up, meet Demira. In a signature polka dot print on a gloriously red background, this new swing (and pencil) style is a great alternative to those that like a Dolores but aren’t able to wear them for whatever reason. 

    With a higher neckline and elasticated arms, this will be easy to dress up or down for work, dinner dates or casual days out.

    As well as dresses, the knitwear is awesome too! I really loved this adorable Doreen Cardigan, look how pretty she is!

    Featuring a blue and white striped shawl collar which crosses at the ends, this navy cardi with white covered fabric buttons will be a staple in my wardrobe for getting a nautical look with ease. 

    Lastly, I need this more than anything. Collaborating with Playful Promises again, (after this season’s great new launch into swimwear), exciting new prints and styles will be available. Even better than that, those of us that need a little support will be delighted to see the new range includes lots of padding and structure, including this amazing bikini!

    Do you like my melons?

    Such a fun little set with a tie front and padding in the cups. I’m really looking forward to the rest of the collection too.

    So that’s a quick round up of my sneak peeks for Spring/Summer 2020. There are so many more, and the most gorgeous prints which we have to look forward to that I know you’ll love. They really have outdone themselves! But for now, enjoy the Summer sale (currently up to 65% off selected styles) and the launch of Autumn Winter 2019 (which is also SO good it makes me want the cooler weather to return – almost) and I’ll pop up the Lulu Hun, Bright & Beautiful and Collectif Menswear SS20 collection previews on my next post (so enter your details in the Subscribe section at the bottom of the page to be notified of new posts and be the first to see them!) x

     

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    Apologies for all the logos over everything, I’m tired of people lifting my pics and not crediting me (how rude is that?!) so it has to be done for preview pics I’m afraid! x

  • Review: Collectif Giselle Palm Print Dress

    With glimpses of Summer starting to come back, today I tried on my Giselle Palm Print dress which I’ve had for quite a while now. I especially love the amazing palm print and vibrant teal background of this one which I paired with yellow accessories to make it really pop!

    I just love a bardot neckline and this one is fully elasticated, (as are the arms), so you can wear it on your shoulders or off, whichever you prefer. I actually preferred mine on my shoulder with this one. The neckline is also a sweetheart shape and has a little tie at the front to make it more or less revealing – much like the Sasha tops I previously discussed here. I really love this feature which enables the more busty and the not so busty alike to find the shape that suits them. 

    Pull tie strings at the bust

    Also just have to mention, POCKETS! whoop whoop! We all love a dress with pockets. It also comes with a waist tie which you can use at the front or back (I chose the back), or not at all! It makes a great hair band or neck tie if you want to be matchy matchy in a different way! There’s a swing skirt to this dress with a bottom ruffle which isn’t a style I would normally go for, but this dress is really pretty and looks different on to how I imagined it may look with a big ruffle on a short girl! It was actually quite windy in my photos and I loved how the wind kept lifting up the ruffle and making it super floaty – but never enough to be unbecoming of a lady!

    Up, up….but not away (thankfully)

    The fit advice for this dress is to size down for a pin up look and that was absolutely the right advice I found and would suggest you do go one size down in Giselles. I bought the smallest size so I couldn’t actually size down unfortunately, and it was a little big on the top for me. but I still love it and it will get lots of wear this Summer (as long as the sun sticks around!).

    Available in all sizes 6-22 currently, and reduced to £44.00 in the sale, there are also a couple of other Giselles to choose from if you prefer a different print.

    See you next time!

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    For reference: I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif and 4’11” wearing 3 inch heels

    Also wearing:
    Necklace and Earring Set: Natalie in Yellow by Collectif
    Shoes: Lulu Hun Juliette in yellow
    Sunglasses: Collectif old season
    Bangles: Vintage and Collectif Carrie in yellow
    Hair flowers: High Street many moons ago

  • Matalan Petite Review – Papaya April Ankle Grazer Jeans

    I don’t shop on the High Street much, but I was browsing (monstera covered) homewares when I happened upon the petite collection at Matalan (which had launched five years ago apparently!). The range is limited, as with most petite collections, but there’s enough to provide a petite gal with a good few options for Summer.

    Available in sizes 6-18, I tried on a few things in a 6 and the proportions were on the large side for me personally. However, there were a couple of pieces which were great. 

    I loved this green Paisley Shirt Dress which had a strong 70’s vibe. There are buttons all the way down the centre, on the cuffs of the cropped sleeves and a pull through belt. It’s a cool midi length, but it would be too long for me without heels. They aim for 5’3″ and under, so it would probably be great for the top end of that height range if you only wear flats. Add some tortoiseshell earrings and a scarf in your hair for boho chic, a comfortable heel for a great office look or flat sandals and a wicker bag for a shopping day. Or you know, if you’re trying it on in a changing room, the barefoot look works too….

    Matalan Paisley Print Shirt Dress

    The best buy I found were the April Embroidered Ankle Grazer Jeans which have the most amazing embroidery panel and pom pom trim! (you know I’m all about the pom poms). They’re a skinny fit style with pockets and were actually a really good length (22 inch inside leg – slightly cropped, above the ankle) and fit (no bagging around the waist, the waist was actually in the right place, no extra length in the crotch area which usually happens with standard sizing on petite gals).

    Matalan Papaya April Embroidered Jeans

    At £18 they’re an utter bargain too. Limited sizes are left online but they had plenty in my store so it may be worth calling ahead to see if yours has them.

    I paired my new jeans with the Collectif Ronda top which continued the pom pom theme and added more colour to what would make a perfect summer bbq outfit. It was such an easy to wear outfit and will be perfect for mooching around in the sunshine too.

    I’ll keep my eye on Matalan from now on – I like to support companies which are trying to provide us with a targeted range; that way it’ll encourage others to do so (the same with collections aimed at tall people, too). We need more like this to jump on board and think about torso sizes, waistbands, leg length etc. We are small in stature and in number, but we’re still a target market prime for the taking. Fingers crossed for more petite lines in the future!

     

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    For reference, I’m 33:24:33 and a standard size 6 in most shops. I’m 4’11” and wearing 4 inch heels in the main photos.

    Also wearing:
    Belt: Lisa belt in blue from Collectif (I had to add a couple of holes to make it fit)
    Shoes: Lorena by Lulu Hun
    Hairflowers: Lucina by Miss Bella’s Blooms
    Bangles: Mix of Splendette, Bow & Crossbones and Vivien of Holloway