• [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

     

     

  • Hatches and Ribbons with Judy and Tess [Collectif Clothing]

    I’d like to introduce you to a few new gal pals. Judy and Tess. New this season from the Collectif Clothing Spring/Summer 2020 collection, are these gorgeous vintage inspired beauties. They really are truly reminiscent of the period too with their prints and styling. I just adore them.

    So first up we have Tess, which is a pencil style featuring two, large, front pockets, a centre back zip and comes with a matching fabric belt (which I’ve tied at the front in a bow).

    I’m in love with the bespoke hatch check print in navy, gold and white. The print is absolutely spot on for the era. I had earmarked this piece as my ‘must have’ this season and I wasn’t disappointed!

    The neckline is cut straight across which isn’t my usual style but I really like it on this dress. The hip area is quite wide compared to the bust but it’s pretty true to size apart from that, especially on the waist and bust. The length is good, sitting just below midcalf, giving a true vintage feel. I like it when my dresses still cover my knees when I’m sat down, which would have been a necessity for propriety back in the day.

    Next, in the same fabric, is the Judy Hatch Check Dress. She’s a swing style with a fabulously fifties, wide, collar and a great addition to the shirtwaister styles (which I have a particular penchant for).

    There’s a gathered skirt with pockets and buttons to the front. I’ve also added the fabric belt from my Tess to the waist as I felt it needed pulling in (it doesn’t come with a belt). The wide sleeves are typically 50s with their overhangs and turn ups.

    Without belt

    It’s longer than I usually wear but I quite like the length so I won’t be making any alterations. It sits at my lower calf but should be below the knee for those that are average height. I found it came up rather large, so would advise sizing down if you want a fitted look (or if you’re blessed up top, it will be perfect for you in your normal size). I definitely feel like a 50’s housewife in this style, it’s the perfect day dress.

    Finally we have Judy, the Ribbon Check Pencil Dress which is our last member of the vintage girl gang today.

    In the same style as the shirtwaister dress, with buttons to the front and open collar, this Judy is a fitted, pencil option, with a lovely nipped in waist and a very mid century marvellous bespoke print of navy and yellow ribbons over ivory cotton sateen. Another fabulous print which is so in keeping with the true vintage vibes which make me swoon.

    This version is much more true to size. You may even need to size up if you’re particularly busty as the waist and bust don’t stretch much beyond the Collectif size chart so check your measurements. It’s a great cut for me, sitting at my mid calf. The perfect Spring dress for running errands or lunching with your girls.

    I’ll be posting more new season goodies next time (subscribe below to be informed of new posts) but for now, I hope you’ve enjoyed a little look at these mid century marvels. Everything is available in all sizes (6-22) on the website.

    Also wearing:
    Dresses: Collectif Clothing
    Necklace: Collectif Clothing
    Earrings and Bangles: Splendette
    Shoes: E5P from years ago

    For reference, I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif. I’m 4’11 and wearing 4 inch heels.

  • Big Sale Bargains Collectif Clothing

    Happy Friyay lovelies! 

    Hope you’ve all enjoyed a little splurge on the sales. Isn’t the January sale always AMAZING?! I confess, I do tend to buy throughout the seasons as and when things appear so by sale time, I’m thinking I’m pretty much done and don’t need anything. However, then I flick through the sale pages and realise I NEED IT ALL!

    I’ve been pretty tame this year and just bought a few things. Some went back as the sizing wasn’t right for me (which is my own fault as I knew a different size wouldn’t fit me but one can dream) and these are the items I kept (there are a couple of others but they were duplicates of things I already have).

    Firstly, the peter pan collar obsession continues with this beautiful Clemence Pencil Dress. This was one of my must haves when I saw it a trade show and I’d been patiently waiting for it to launch, which it did, shortly before Christmas. Having been a bit extravagant at Christmas, I waited for the sale and bought it at 50% off and my goodness am I so glad I managed to snag it! and for that price too! 

    The gorgeous meadow print is used on a couple of other seasonal styles. It has a large green, white and black check and the sweetest details, including covered black, velvet, buttons which run down the front and little black buttons on the sleeves. Yes, that’s right gals, I said SLEEVES! How fantastic is it to have a dress with sleeves during the winter months. I always feel the cold so I am over the moon as sometimes three quarter sleeves aren’t enough for me little chilly wrists.

    Clemence button and fabric details

    There is also an optional ready made, adjustable, bow which can be worn or excluded. I really liked both options and will also be using the bow on my other dresses and blouses. Such a great feature!

    Fit-wise, I found it a little roomy for me. It seems larger than some of my others, but you know, that’s just room for puddings. I also found it longer than other pencils I’ve had. They normally cut mid calf but this one sits on my lower calf. I may end up having it altered slightly to be a tiny bit shorter, but I was happy with the overall fit and look. I’m also removing the buttons on the skirt part as I prefer them just on the top half. Hopefully I won’t make any holes! I paired it with my black Lulu Hun Susan Heels and some Christmas decorations which were still up at the time I took the photos haha

    Next is one I’d forgotten about until I happened to remember that some Modcloth items are included at sale time. The polka dot print on this Caterina is the same as those on the Jemima and Dolores dresses we’d had previously, but in a glorious navy instead.

    The 50’s shirtwaister style is such a classic for a vintage lovin’ gal. I have a number of dresses in this style but this is definitely my new favourite. The polka dots against the navy are really lovely.

    I tend to size down with Caterinas and I did with this Modcloth collaboration too and it fits perfectly. There’s a matching belt in the same fabric and pockets in the side seams. I also much prefer the buttons on this one which are metal with a little pattern around the edge. Caterina’s are so easy to wear wherever you’re going (or not going – just add a pinny over it at home for 50’s housewife chic!).

    Lastly, this is a sale item I didn’t expect to be keeping as I thought it wouldn’t work for me, but I think it does! woohoo! The Dolores Palm Jumpsuit was from the last Summer collection and I didn’t take much notice of it as I don’t suit Dolores styles, and with the petite aspect, jumpsuits often don’t work with my shorter frame. But I threw caution to the wind (as you often do during sale time) and figured, what’s the worst that could happen? I end up with a saggy crotch? Ok, that sounds pretty bad, but luckily it didn’t turn out that way!

    The top of the jumpsuit is a normal Dolores style with slim fit trousers. Genius! Firstly, this print has been amazing and I’ve picked up a few styles with this palm tree design. I’ve always loved the look of a Dolores on others, but for some reason, I can’t get my body to make it work. So the jumpsuit option made my little Dolores-wannabe heart sing! There’s a centre back zip and a pocket on your butt. It’s a comfortable fit with stretch in the fabric. She’s going to get worn a lot this Summer as you put it on and instantly launch SASS mode. I popped a wide red belt on to cinch in the waist and some white heels to fully embrace the sassiness.

    Unfortunately the jumpsuit is no longer available, but fingers crossed for a return this year in a different print (or check the Collectif buy/sell group for this version). The Clemence dress is in the sale, along with the full swing version too. I recommend snapping these up! The Modcloth Caterina isn’t in the sale section so I was lucky to get that with the 50% off code, but it will no doubt enter the sale at some point so keep your eyes peeled.

    Having all shopped til we drop, I’ve been patiently awaiting the launch of the Spring/Summer 2020 collection and was delighted to see the new additions to the site this week (although strangely they’re not in the New In section, you have to look for them by category). I’ve bought a few items which I’ll share next time with you (I know it’s still winter, but I’m already wishing it was Spring). Some of them will crossover with a cardi and tights added for winter so I can get double the wear! In the meantime, enjoy your sale items and look out for further reductions x

     

    For reference:

    I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif and 4’11” usually wearing 4 inch heels in the photos above.
    Bangles: Bow & Crossbones
    Necklace: Charity shop find
    Shoes: Lulu Hun and Everything5pounds
    Silly Doggo spying in one of the pics: Model’s own 

     

  • Happy 2020! [Collectif Mimi Clueless]

    Happy new year you gorgeous lot! Hope this year is amazing for you. I have sashayed my way into it with this gorgeous Mimi Clueless dress which my lovely sister bought me. I missed this the first time it came around so I was delighted to receive it for Christmas (along with some Splendette goodies – that gal knows me well!).

    I’ve written about the Mimi before as I loved my pumpkin check version (see here) and this print certainly doesn’t disappoint. It’s so bright and cheery with reds and blacks mixed in to the check. Yellow is my favourite colour (alongside teal) so I was pretty much swishing around with the dress pressed against me for quite some time at Christmas haha (no joke though).

    Yummy yellows

    The sweetheart neckline is so flattering and has black bias binding around it. I found it tts and the same fit as the pumpkin, despite hearing it came up smaller for other people. I’m glad I went with my normal size.

    It’s a mid calf length on me and I strutted my stuff around Market Harborough in it while attending an Afternoon Tea event hosted by the Vegan Cakery (check them out, they’re award winning, and rightly so!). Food porn below.

    Diets start in February, right?!

    I was wearing my Lulu Hun Selma boots which are so comfortable and the cobbled streets were no match for them. For stylish, you can see them on the pumpkin check post. I was also snuggled up in my Carmella coat as the Pearl would have been too big to take to the venue (which is the quaintest little building on stilts as you can see in the main photo).

    Close up Carmella car selfie 

    These products are all available in the big Collectif sale at the moment with a whopping 50% off (code SALE50) so snap them up while you can! The Carmella is from 2018 so the black isn’t available any longer, but there’s a beautiful camel colour way this season in that style. The Mimi is currently only £17.49 with the code! I’ve had a little splurge too during sale time and will post my bargains up soon xx

     

    Also wearing: 
    Cardigan – Jessie Geek by Collectif Clothing
    Earrings – Catkin hoops by Splendette 
    Bangles – A selection from Bow and Crossbones

    For reference, I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif Clothing and wearing a 6 here. I’m 4’11” and wearing 2.75 inch heels.

  • Mimi Pumpkin Check Dress by Collectif Clothing

    I’ve been meaning to write about this gorgeous little number for about a month now, but never got around to it, so I’m popping it up now while we’re still embracing the beautiful, autumnal, colour palette. Everywhere I go at the moment everything is golden, orange or fiery reds – love it! (though I’m definitely feeling the cold already brrrr!),

    The Mimi Pumpkin Check dress is a really lovely shape with its sweetheart neckline (trimmed in black), featuring a little gathering at the bust, and cute, puffy, sleeves. The swing shape isn’t a really full circle skirt but there’s more than enough room for a petticoat underneath if you wish to add one.  Sadly, there aren’t any pockets to this one – but maybe we can keep our fingers crossed these will come in time. 

    The print itself is just divine with those amazing oranges and blacks – it’s a real headturner. The fit is true to size, so if you’re in between sizes on the waist, you should size up as the fabric doesn’t stretch. The length is a little shorter than the Dolores style (which is great for me!), so it cut nicely at my shin. 

    I’m really pleased with this style and will be buying more Mimi’s. They’re a very comfortable, easy, design to wear and perfect for popping some tights and knitwear on colder days. I would have liked a lining on the skirt part to sav me wearing a slip but that’s just a minor detail. This style comes in a range of other prints too but this one is still available in sizes 8-22 and costs £52.50.


    Also wearing:
    I paired mine with yet more orange and black (couldn’t resist living my own pumpkin dreams!)

    Billie Cinch Belt – Collectif Clothing in orange (these are such handy little elasticated belts to have, I bought them in a few different colours).
    Bangles – Splendette in Fox
    Bangles – Bow & Crossbones in Black Weave
    Bangle – Collectif Clothing  Carrie in black
    Necklace – Collectif Clothing Natalie Bead Set in black
    Earrings – Splendette
    Boots – Lulu Hun 

    For reference:
    I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif Clothing and wearing the 6 above.

  • Party Time! Collectif Florence Dress Review

    With Halloween now behind us, my thoughts spring forward to festive events and all the upcoming parties we’ll be attending. With that in mind, I had to share the beautiful Florence Occasion Swing Dress from Collectif, which is the most beautiful thing I’ve seen in a long time!

    The sweetheart neckline is divine and the bodice is boned for a great fit. The trim is all in black velvet (yummy) and the straps (also velvet) are adjustable – woohoo! I do love an adjustable strap.

    Adjustable straps + boning = winning!

    The velvet adornment continues at the front with a cute bow detail and the swing style skirt is hemmed with a velvet edge too. It’s extra pouffy from a netted underskirt, followed by a black satin overlay, and finished with the most amazing tulle layer covered in glittery polka dots which graduate with an ombre effect. This is a total head turner of a dress and you will bedazzle everyone! I can’t tell you how in love I am with it (though you’re clearly getting the gist). 

    Beauiful ombre detail on the glitter drops and velvet bow to the front.
    Satin layer with glitter drops tulle overlay, and velvet hem trim details

    The fit is bang on true to size, so if you’re in between sizes, you should size up as the waist doesn’t stretch.

    I’ll be donning this fabulous beauty of a vintage inspired gown at the next Collectif Party, and I can’t wait to see where you all wear yours too! For more occasionwear inspo, I’ll be adding a few more posts soon with more options to look the belle of the ball this year. Bring on the fairy lights and champagne coupes!

    Ready to party!

    UPDATE: By happy coincidence, the Collectif x Modcloth version of this dress has also just launched today. You can find it here. It’s a little cheaper and doesn’t have the velvet edged hem but is just as pretty.

    Also wearing:
    Gloves – Original vintage evening gloves from an antiques fair a long time ago 
    Shoes – Lulu Hun Susan Heels in black
    Earrings – Collectif Clothing Mansfield Hoops
    Dress – from Cherry Red Vintage

  • Collectif Amber-Lea Pumpkin Dress Review

    Happy Halloween lovelies! For today’s post, I thought I’d wear the fabulous Amber-Lea Pumpkin Stripe Dress which I’ve had for a while now but it seemed fitting to share with my spooky friends.

    This new style is similar to the Amber pencil dress, with a gathered skirt instead. I have an Amber pencil already so I knew I was going to love this shape – and with the cool pumpkin stripes, it was a definite winner!

    The swing skirt has plenty of room for a petticoat (I wore mine with a fluffy black petti underneath) and has huge pockets for stuffing hands or essentials into.

    There are half sleeves for colder days and a wide scoop neck (great for larger busted ladies).I found it true to size with a bit of stretch in the fabric (thanks to the spandex) so there’s plenty of room for puddings (marvellous). 

    This style pretty much sold out immediately on the main site, but there is still plenty of stock available from stockists in all sizes currently (except 6).

    I paired my pumpkin dress with a Kimberley Cardigan and picked out the green to compliment it. These are really lovely (I already have other colours) and so soft. The sleeves are very long for petites so tall gals will love them. The cropped length is perfect over swing dresses and gathered skirts and the matching green buttons are very sweet and super easy to do up.

    Continuing with the green accessories, I had my Carrie bag which was the perfect match. I love this darling little bag. It’s very reminiscent of vintage purse style handbags with a modern twist. One little clip in the centre opens the entire bag and there’s enough room for all my bits and pieces (lipstick and liner, obviously).  I’m grateful for a really easy way to get in and out of this bag as I’m usually forever fumbling with fastenings. It comes with a gold chain if you want to make it into a shoulder bag, but I really like it hand held instead.

    I’m also wearing the sweetest addition to the accessories collection this year, which is the Evie Ascot Scarf in black. This is based on an original vintage design and one side cleverly tucks into the other to hold it in place so there’s no knotting, keeping clean lines and the focus on the chic pointed scarf ends. I also bought it in the mustard to brighten up my black outfits. This is such an inexpensive way to make an immediate vintage impact on what you’re wearing.

    Hope you like the outfit and enjoy Halloween – don’t get too scared!(unless you like that, obviously).

    Watch out guys and ghouls!

    If you’re looking for a super way to spend a day this weekend, remember the Collectif Outlet Sale is on (details on their events page). I’ve written about what to expect at these events previously and all the bargains I’ve snapped up so it’s definitely worth a visit – enjoy! x

     

    Also wearing:

    Necklace and earrings: Natalie Bead Set by Collectif in orange
    Bangles: Splendette and Bow & Crossbones
    Belt: Billie by Collectif in green
    Shoes: Lulu Hun Susan heels in green
    Petticoat: Hell Bunny

     

     

  • 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 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