• Annabelle Floral Palm Dress [Bright & Beautiful]

    Something a little different from me today. I don’t usually veer too much from my love of the 50s but occasionally something will come along from the Bright & Beautiful range which I just love and need to have! That’s the case for this gorgeous Annabelle Palm Dress which oozes much more of a late 60s/early 70s vibe. I actually had a very similar wallpaper in my bedroom growing up as a little kid so it’s really nostalgic for me.

    It’s still a shirt style dress, which I often wear, but instead of either having a voluminous skirt over the knee or a tailored pencil shape, it’s loose and not at all fitted.

    Feelin’ that 60s vibe

    It also features a super cool, pointed collar which match the cuffs on the full length loose sleeves. None of which is too hot to wear as it’s made from a really light fabric that’s perfect for Summer. The bespoke print is great with the large florals and palm frongs all over in greens, white and a dash of blue.

    I love how light it is to wear and that the breeze caught the bottom of the skirt a little to give me a little ‘flip’ when I walked

    As well as wearing it as intended, I also couldn’t resist cinching my waist in a little and added a white belt from another outfit to change it up a bit and give myself more options. I really like it with the belt too and feel like it works well.

    Overall I preferred the option with the collar buttoned up and the belt added and felt the look was still retro, though I’d style my hair in more of a straight bouffant next time and change the glasses to something a little larger to emulate that groovy vibe.

    Fit wise, it’s a loose fit and I have it in my normal size which fitted great. If there was a size down (unfortunately sizes don’t go down enough for me) I’d have also tried the size down too but I feel it’s pretty true to size. The length is above my knee which is amazing for me! These dresses are meant to be on the shorter side which was part of the trend at the time.

    The Annabelle Floral Palm Dress is available on the Collectif website in most sizes (all except 8 and 18) for £55.00 and sizes 8-16 over at SilkFred with free delivery.

     

    For reference: 
    I’m 4’11” with 4 inch heels on in the pic and a standard size 6 in Collectif and Bright & Beautiful clothing. I’m wearing a size 6 in the photos above.

    Also wearing:
    Shoes: Lulu Hun Lorena previous season
    Hair Flowers: Collectif Aaliyah and High Steet many moons ago
    Earrings and Sunnies: Collectif previous season

  • Bright & Beautiful Demmi Deckchair Dress Review [Collectif]

    As Summer is drawing to a close, I’m making full use of my sale buys and enjoying the last of the sunshine in this very sweet little dress, the Demmi Deckchair, part of the Bright & Beautiful range from Collectif. 

    It’s super lightweight and made from rayon which is perfect for warm days. I’ve previously spoken about its counterpart with the Astrid in this print, but this shorter version is really lovely too and great to have as a more casual option.

    As well as the amazing bright stripes, this dress has a gorgeous, sweetheart, neckline and adjustable straps which are great to ensure a good fit for everyone. The top part is fitted and has pretty wooden buttons running down the centre to the waist. From there, the skirt billows out with darts finishing at hip height. I really like how full the skirt part feels along with the fitted bodice. There’s also an invisible side zip to get in and out which is super handy and discreet.

    The fit is great for me. I love that it’s a mini dress version – which actually works as just a normal length dress for me! It’s a wonderful length for petites and sits just above my knee (which to be honest, doesn’t usually get seen much now!). It will obviously sit shorter for those of average height and taller. There’s no stretch in the fabric so if you’re busty, you may want to size up and also if your widest part is on the waist. I found it true to size for me and I’m really happy with how it fits.

    As the Collectif sale is coming to an end, this dress is now out of stock on the main site, however, you can still pick it up in selected sizes for just £22 at SilkFred which includes free delivery too – bargain!

    Also wearing:
    Hair flowers: Miss Bella’s Blooms and Collectif
    Sunglasses and Necklace: Collectif 
    Bangles: Splendette and Bow & Crossbones
    Earrings: Splendette
    Shoes: old favourites from E5P

    For reference: 
    I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif Clothing and I’m wearing a size 6 in this Bright & Beautiful range. I’m 4’11” tall wearing 4 inch heels.

  • Darcie Rainbow Stripe Jumpsuit Review [Collectif x Modcloth]

    As you may have seen from my previous post, I have this gorgeous stripe already with the Jill dress (see here) but couldn’t resist the jumpsuit too which I picked up in the 50% off sale. With its fabulous print over wide legged trousers, scoop neck, and those pockets! The pockets are lovely and deep with two curves on either side. I love stuffing my hands in so these are great! It’s so comfortable to wear too.

    Shoving a hand in my pockets since 1992

    Now, if you’re a taller gal, don’t expect the jumpsuit to look the same on you. It’s actually meant to be a cropped culotte style, but as I’m petite, they fit me like a normal length would – bonus for me and all my other petite gals! I like it either way though, as a cropped length on taller gals, and full length on those with shorter statures. 

    Even though I’m petite, I fell like a Goliath in this jumpsuit (it’s ok, I know I’m fooling myself!), it does the trick of elongating legs – for which I am very grateful obviously ha.

    Ooooo I feel tall!

    There’s a centre back zip so it’s an easy one to get on and off and has a wide, bright yellow, buckled belt which compliments it perfectly – I love pairing this pattern with yellow and I’ll probably use this belt for the Jill instead of the smaller one it came with. 

    The neckline is really smooth and fits well and has wide shoulder straps. I might slip my yellow Chrissie jumper on underneath it when it gets a bit cooler to take me into Autumn. 

    The hips are fitted and the legs then flare out which gives such a retro look, I absolutely love it! I ordered my normal size (Modcloth and Collectif have the same sizing up until size 18 when you should follow the Modcloth specific chart) and it was absolutely true to size for me.

    Available in all sizes at the time of writing, the Collectif X Modcloth Darcie Jumpsuit is £77 and such a great addition to any wardrobe. I really hope Darcie returns next year as she’s such a fab style and so fun to wear!

     

    Also wearing:
    Bangles: Splendette and Bow & Crossbones
    Hair flower: Miss Bellas Blooms
    Shoes: Lulu Hun (also in the sale currently)
    Sunnies: Collectif

    For reference:
    I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif and 4’11” tall (or short, depending on how you look at things). I’m wearing a wedge heel which has a heel height of 2.75”.

  • Astrid Deckchair Stripe Dress [Bright & Beautiful]

    What a treat! I love a rainbow dress and this beautiful Astrid Deckchair dress was kindly gifted to me from Collectif. It’s part of the Bright & Beautiful range which is the 1960’s and 70’s inspired sister label to Collectif Clothing. The Astrid is the perfect Summer dress with it’s array of radiant stripes and lightweight rayon for feeling cool, but staying chic.  And though I don’t have a deckchair, I do have a hammock – and this dress looks amazing while taking in the rays. 

    This is such a fun dress with its striped print, but is also very elegant with a fitted bodice at the top. A trademark of Astrid dresses is they’re usually trimmed with something delicate and this one is no different, using red ric rac this time. It’s a sweet detail and matches the flowy, carefree, nature of the dress. 

    There’s a side zip to get in which is super easy and the dress feels really comfortable to wear. There are pleats on the skirt falling from your natural waistline which give the skirt an extra swooshy feel as you’re moving. I absolutely love it! The only thing it’s possibly missing is what every girl needs – pockets, but it’s such a lovely dress that I don’t even mind forgoing those.

    I find Astrids true to size and though they fall a little longer on me, I actually don’t mind because they’re so floaty. I’ll wear it with some flat summer sandals too and brighten up a (socially distanced) barbeque.

    They’re such a great style and so easy to wear, I feel like everyone needs at least one Astrid in their wardrobe – and for an instant Summer injection, this one is a great choice! There are lots of other prints too in this design if full on stripes isn’t your thang though, see here. Just add sun x

    Let’s be having you, Summer!

    Also wearing:
    Hair flower: Collectif Clothing 
    Shoes: E5P
    Bangles: Splendette
    Earrings: Bow &  Crossbones

    For reference: 
    I’m 4’11” and a standard size 6 in Collectif Clothing and Bright & Beautiful. I’m wearing 4 inch heels in some of the photos.

    This piece was gifted to me, but all my views are my own and I only ever post honest reviews.

  • Supplier Spotlight: Mod Shoes [The Angie]

    It’s a pleasure today to talk about Mod Shoes, which were established back in 2011 but I only became aware of them over the past couple of years. I followed them intently and lusted after their many gorgeous designs (have a look here, honestly they’re the cutest things ever!). Unfortunately I wasn’t able to buy as most of you know I’m vegan. So much to my delight, this year Mod Shoes have launched their very own range of vegan shoes and they are AMAZING! Could this gal be any happier? I think not. 

    If you’ve never heard of the brand before, they make their own exclusive designs with factories based in Spain and Portugal, creating ‘smart shoes for smart people’ setting themselves apart from the High Street and bargain buys. Their focus is on quality designs with influences from the 60’s, 70’s and mod era. I love modern shoes with a vintage twist and their range of retro styles have something to suit everyone.

    I was gifted The Angie in the gorgeous blue and vanilla colour way which based on an original 1960’s shoe.  The royal blue is so striking against the cream – I love it! 

    I love the little silver ball details to the ends of the laces too. Such a sweet and effective touch!

    They’re a patent style (also available as non patent) with a cream toecap and a 5cm heel making them a great choice for work or play. They also have gel cushioned inserts so comfort is definitely key and I can confirm they are really lovely to wear – you could absolutely wear them all night dancing and not feel a thing!

    They’re also really soft and flexible, not like some vegan shoes can be where they’ve rushed to get a vegan option out but the quality isn’t up to par. One of the founders of Mod Shoes is vegan and really wanted to produce a vegan range which looks and feels great and compares equally to the rest of their range. I have to say, they didn’t disappoint! They’re hands down the best vegan shoes I own. 

    The Angie is available in UK sizes 2-9 with other styles available up to size 11. The vegan range also includes the very fabulous Dusty Vee which is a version of the non vegan Dusty from their collection. The turquoise t bar pair are my favourite and it has a slightly higher heel at 8cm with the gel inserts to maintain comfort.

    All shoes are available with the option of Clearpay making it easy to pay in instalments if needed, and delivery is fast and free (over £40). 

    I think it’s important to point out that you don’t need to be vegan to buy vegan shoes – they’re just man made. So by choosing man made instead of leather occasionally, you just happen to be helping the animals too.

    Mod Shoes also offer a range of clothing and cool tights, so if you want to add some snazziness to your legs as well as your feet, you can find those here. I love all the delicate patterns and bold prints – especially as the weather has cooled again this week so tights are super handy!

    The team are really friendly and helpful too, so if you can’t find the answer to a question on the website (there is so much helpful info on there too), then drop them a line and they’ll be able to help.

    I’m utterly enamoured with The Anglie and really enjoyed the change in style frommy usual 50’s to 60’s influences. I’m off to prance around in my gorgeous new shoes now! x

     

    Full disclosure:
    I was gifted this pair as I’m now a Brand Ambassador for Mod Shoes (woohoo! lucky ole me). However, I’ve long been a fan of their shoes and only write honest reviews which are my own personal thoughts, not that of the brand. I was recommending this company a long time before I became an ambassador and will continue to do so as their products are fantastic! 

  • 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