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Midge Jumpsuit Set Review [Collectif Clothing]
I’ve been waiting for months for this beauty to drop onto the website so as soon as I saw it was finally released, I bagged it immediately! It arrived the very next day and was just as gorgeous as I’d hoped.
The aptly named Midge Jumpsuit Set comprises a black jumpsuit with capri trousers and removable overlay skirt. It is very Midge (from The Marvellous Mrs Maisel – who else was obsessed with that show?!) being both a classic design and super elegant. The design also echoes the chicest of them all, Grace Kelly, in To Catch A Thief.
I love the monochrome palette. I don’t really wear black during summer time but the light skirt really lifts it – though even on its own, the jumpsuit with its sleeveless halterneck style makes it a great option for warmer weather.
The halter-neck fastens at the back with two poppers and there’s a centre back zip on the jumpsuit with a hook and eye above it.The neck and shoulder lines on this jumpsuit give such a chic overall look and there are princess seams to the bodice for a tailored and fitted finish.
As a jumpsuit on its own, it works really well too.
The leg length fits well for me, though I am petite and it’s meant to be a cropped capri length, so it will be shorter on taller gals.
Straight on, it gives a lovely line and the waist sits well for that vintage feel.
The skirt is listed as white but it’s more of an off white. It has a black waistband to match the jumpsuit and ties at the front (or back or side if you prefer) to reveal the jumpsuit underneath. It’s a really versatile piece as you can wear it over lots of other outfits too (I’ll pop it over a playsuit).
I love how you can flash a little jumpsuit and swoosh around in the open skirt.
When the skirt is closed it looks more like this:
The skirt fastens with a tie which I chose to make into a bow at the front.
Size wise, the guidance on the website suggests you size down if you’re in between sizes. I bought my normal size (as there isn’t a size down) and I’m not in between sizes but I definitely would have sized down in this if I could have as it is a little too big around the sides which I’ll run down on the machine. So I would recommend sizing down for this one whether you’re in between sizes or not. There’s some stretch in the fabric too. It has quite a long rise so would be good for average/taller girls as well.
I absolutely love this set. It’s so reminiscent of 50s fashion and I feel like I’ve stepped out of Mrs Maisel’s or Grace Kelly’s set. It’s currently available in all sizes (6-22) and it’s £89 which is really reasonable for a skirt and jumpsuit combo. Until midnight tonight (26th July) you can also use code JULY10 to get £10 off at Collectif Clothing. Fingers crossed for more Maisel and Kelly inspired designs appearing in the coming seasons!
For reference:
I’m 4’11” and wearing 4 inch heels in the photos above. I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif clothes and I’m wearing my normal size above (though I recommend sizing down). My measurements are 33:24:33 if that’s helpful.Also wearing:
Sunnies: Old season Collectif
Bangles and Earrings: Splendette
Hair Flowers: High Street many moons ago
Hat: ASOS a couple of years ago
Shoes: E5P a while back -
Makira Shoes Review [Honiara Vintage]
If you’re not aware of Honiara Vintage yet, you’ll be forgiven as it’s a relatively new outlet from the very fabulous Charlie Stone. With a tiki twist for pin up loving, vintage style, gals, Honiara Vintage focus on vegan leather shoes for summer styling.
I chose the Makira heels in white and it took about a week to arrive and I was especially happy to see a compostable bag included for any returns too. As well as being kind to animals, they’re also being kind to the planet 💚
The packaging is really lovely and feels special with a branded box and dust bag, which features a pink ribbon closure. Both shoes are then in individual dust bags too so your shoes arrive perfect and well cared for during transit.
Upon opening the bag, you’ll let out a little squeal with delight as your new pin up shoes emerge. They are absolutely gorgeous! I really love the diamond lattice details on the Makira which really emulates the 50s style of shoe.
Also note the close up of the foot bed in this photo which is super cushioned. It’s honestly the most comfortable summer heel I’ve worn. This is a classic feature in Charlie Stone collections and it’s great that they’ve continued to think about comfort for summer wear too. I could happily wear these all day and night and for anyone that dances, these are the shoes for you! The 2.5 inch heel makes it very easy to wear too. They’re low enough to be practical but high enough to add a little spring in your step and elongate your legs in your outfits for that perfect pin up look.
The strap is a quick release style; lifting it up easily over the hook to get in and out of without having to do the buckle up. This style of closure is great when you’re in the cutest wiggle dress but can’t actually bend down (oh yes, I’ve been there!), or if you have disabilities/arthritis issues it’s super practical too.
Trying them on for the first time, it felt like my foot slipped into Cinderella’s shoes – the perfect fit! They feel really good on, so incredibly comfortable and as I chose white, they’ll go with so many of my outfits. Size wise, be aware that this is a style which comes up large and is suited to regular/wide feet. I have quite a narrow foot so following the guide on the website and with help from Honiara Vintage too, we decided a size down would work well for me, which was absolutely spot on as the fit is really good. To ensure you order the correct size, check the sizing guide or contact Honiara Vintage and they’ll recommend the best size for you.
I love a peep toe sandal and combined with the security of a small strap, they’ll be a staple for my summer outfits. I wore a palm tree playsuit to add some tiki inspired, pinup, vibes and they work so well together.
What I love most is that they’re so practical and comfortable but delicate and daintily styled too. The strap sits just low enough to highlight the curve of your ankle whereas a lot of sandal straps completely cover this area which makes your legs look smaller (especially if you’re of a petite nature).
As well as white, this style is also available in red, gold and black and cost £59 with FREE worldwide shipping! I think I may need every colour haha and look forward to wearing the Makira at every opportunity this summer! x
For reference:
I’m a size 4 (37) in shoes normally but the above are a size 3 (36).Disclaimer:
These shoes were gifted to me as a Brand Ambassador for Honiara Vintage. I only give honest reviews and all thoughts shared about the product are my own.Also wearing:
Mahina Playsuit, Sunnies and Hair Flowers – Collectif Clothing (previous season stock)
Bangles – SplendetteYou May Also Like
[London Edge Feb 2020 Part 4] Charlie Stone Shoes
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Gemma Western Cactus Shirt [Collectif]
I swear sometimes Collectif read my mind. Lately I’ve been hankering after a good western shirt with long sleeves, and lo and behold – one appears on the website! So obviously I snapped it up and it was delivered the very next day. Superb!
The Gemma Western Cactus Shirt is made from black cotton and features a fabulous embroidered cactus design emblazoned on the front. There’s a dainty collar with piped green edges and a row of red popper style buttons.
The pattern also has western style swirls in green and to add a little sparkle, there’s studs dotted through the design which catch the light beautifully.
It has long sleeves which end with matching green faux winged cuffs and feature two, red, popper buttons. I love how it all ties in together and the green, black and red work really well together.
The shirt is a fitted style with darts for a more tailored finish. The length is great for me – enough to tuck in to high waisted bottoms or you could wear it over if you prefer (I’m a tucker inf’er). It fits perfectly and is true to size for me. The cotton is light enough to wear over Summer and I’ll be adding a cardi for Autumn. It’s one I’ll want to wear from season to season.
I wore it with a black denim mini skirt and cowboy boots to continue the western theme. I’ll also wear it with high waisted jeans, black shorts and red trousers for alternative looks.
The Gemma Shirt is available here in sizes 4-22 and costs £49.00. Are you a fan of the vintage western look?
For Reference:
I’m 4’11” and wearing 2.64” heels. I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif and wearing a size 6 in the photos above.Also wearing:
Denim Skirt: PrettyLittleThing
Boots: PU from Zulily
Hair Flower and Sunnies: Collectif previous seasons -
Nautical but Nice! Meri Top and Nancy Shorts [Collectif]
A really casual outfit today as the sun’s out, so the legs are out too! I really love nautical looks which work super well with my hair (or any hair to be fair, I just really like when my bonce matches with my outfit hehe). So I’ve combined the Meri Nautical Knitted Top and Nancy Nautical Shorts for that classic sailing-inspired vibe of the 50s.
The Meri top is such a gem of a piece this season! So easy to wear and super comfortable. It’s a light knitted top with red, black and white horizontal stripes and features a gorgeous bateau neckline which is just fabulous.
There are delicately capped sleeves and these can sit on or slightly off the shoulders, however you prefer to wear it. I usually wear one on, one off to a jaunty angle! It has a knitted rib to the bottom so it can sit nicely over clothes to hip level or tucks in well too, which is how I’ve worn it.
The shorts are oozing maritime mid-century style! They’re so fun with rows of white buttons featuring red anchors.
There’s also a matching button at the back. The shorts fasten with a concealed zip at the back and the button fastens over. Such a cute detail!
There are wide, rounded, pockets to the front of the shorts, belt loops (I’ve added a belt to them in keeping with the nautical theme) and turn ups to the hems.
They’re so comfy to wear and I wasn’t sure about sizing so I tried sizing up as sometimes the waistbands on Collectif bottoms don’t stretch at all. Not the case with the Nancy Shorts though! I can get away with the bigger size as I’ve pulled the waist in with my belt, but they’re true to size and you don’t need to size up at all. They’re made from stretch cotton which has plenty of movement in them, so buy your normal size.
I just love this set together, such an easy way to get that classic nautical look with very little effort. The top is available still in all sizes (6-22) and the shorts are available in limited sizes on the Collectif website, both £35 each. There are extra sizes of the shorts available over at Rockamilly too.
For reference:
I’m 4’11” and wearing 3 1/4 inch heels. I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif clothing and wearing a 6 top in the photos and a size up (8) in the shorts.Also wearing:
Hair Flowers: Collectif Lola and previous season too
Earrings and all Bangles: Splendette
Shoes: Joe Browns
Belt: Hell Bunny -
VE Day OOTD
Happy VE Day you gorgeous lot! I hope you’re able to celebrate in any small way you can during lockdown – be it bunting in your kitchen, or socially distanced garden parties with neighbours on your street.
Uncharacteristically, I’m not in a dress for a change! Instead, I’ve chosen a land girl inspired look with a modern twist and 50’s details (as stylistically, that’s my preferred era to wear) for my celebrations. In keeping with the red, white and blue theme and a nod towards the brilliant ladies of the Women’s Land Army, I’ve gone with the Voodoo Vixen Jasmine Overalls.
They have the cutest polka dot print over denim blue and sweet details like the sweetheart neckline, handy (and deep) pockets and a flattering cropped length.
The straps are adjustable and can be crossed over at the back. I bought a size 6 and the sizing guide states they’re true to size. Personally, I found they came up a little large on me, but not so much that I can’t work with it. I really love them and they’re super comfortable to wear. They could easily be dressed up or down and I picked out the Maria Hawaiian blouse by RocknRomance to wear underneath.
The blouse is super light and can be worn either tucked in as I have here, or tied at the front (cleverly, the ends are button free so this can be achieved easily). The tiki inspired print is so pretty and the collar can be worn up or down depending on your mood and is also available in other colours and styles. I also have the dress version of this print in a couple of colours, which is just adorable. If you haven’t found yourself browsing their site before, it’s definitely worth having a look. I found their customer service to be really good too – friendly interactions and speedy replies and delivery.
My new Tonya shoes by Lulu Hun were the perfect choice to complete this outfit with its red, white and blue stripes!
The wedge heel is so comfortable to wear and the style is just incredible. I love Lulu Hun for shoes. I bought my usual size but could have sized down. I have narrow feet though, so for those that have a wider foot, don’t size down. The ankle strap is in the contrasting pale shade and has a normal buckle, not the hoop over type. They’re so bright and fun, I adore these shoes and I’m seriously considering buying more colours.
What will you be wearing? I can’t wait to see all the photos of everyone’s events. We may not be together, but we’re united with respect for the fallen and all efforts made which afford us our normal freedoms. Take care, be safe and have fun! xx
Also wearing:
Bangles – Splendette
Necklace and Sunnies – Collectif
Hair Flowers – pink piece by Miss Bella’s Blooms
Pins – Erstwilder -
[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:
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
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Makira Shoes Review [Honiara Vintage]
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[London Edge Feb 2020 Part 3] Bow & Crossbones
I’d missed the fabulous Bow & Crossbones last time they exhibited at London Edge as I ran out of time, so I wasn’t going to make the same mistake twice! Heading over to their stand, I was greeted with such a friendly welcome from Camilla and Taz. It’s so nice when people you only know via social media turn out to be as lovely in the flesh as they are online.
Bow & Crossbones make fakelite and 50’s inspired bangles, necklaces and earrings, but also sell true vintage, kitschy cool, items. I love Cam’s work and often wear her pieces which you’ll have seen in previous posts – in fact I was actually wearing some Bow & Crossbones when I met her! You know I love a good accessory.
Bangle stacking is easy with B&C! The Kane Wicker collection (which I’m wearing above in Coco and Black) is just unbelievably good, made better only by the fact that part of the new season pieces are two tone wickers! That’s right, you heard correctly, TWO-TONE!
Spot them on the second row up in all their funky glory I have no idea how it’s even possible, but it looks incredible. With earrings to match, these are so ridiculously cool. I think I may have let out an audible yelp when I first saw them. So they’re definitely on the list!
Offering us another sneak peek of what’s to come, these awesome octagonal bangles were showcased too, look at all the gorgeous carving:
I love shaped bangles but they never fit my teeny wrists, so when Cam said the new collections going forward will always be available in all 3 sizes (Princess, Queenie and Goddess), I was thrilled! Such great news, right?! whichever size you need, we’re all catered for.
There were lots of gorgeous earrings to look at too and I’d already spotted the Dot earrings which were released recently. They’re double hoops and super cute.
Dotty about these! Photo credit: Bow & Crossbones To my surprise, when I picked them up, they were so much lighter than I expected! No droopy lobes for us, ladies! I’m going to be bagging a few of those too.
Hope you’ve enjoyed a little preview of all the goodies coming this year from B&C, in the meantime there are so many pretties available on the website and make sure you drop by on Friday evenings for the market nights which are fab! x
Look out for Part 4 of my London Edge round up which will be coming soon. You can subscribe to the blog below which will notify you when it publishes to be a step ahead 🙂
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Collectif Reviews – Bonnie Trousers, Mona Shirt and Bright & Beautiful Astrid dress
So as well as a trip to London Edge, I also sprinted over to the Camden store – mostly to catch up with the team there whom I adore. They are truly special with so much care taken with every customer, making them feel absolutely beautiful inside and out and giving them a guiding hand if unsure. The service is always provided with a very warm welcome and nothing is ever too much. The customer service is impeccable in store and it’s the reason I travel so far to visit time and time again (as well as the fabulous clothes obviously!), but the friendly staff always make it a very special day for anyone that visits. Looking at that amount of Collectif stock at the Edge had made me need to purchase something though, and there are still plenty of bargains to be had – in store currently has an extra 15% off sale items too! Amazing!
I tried on a few things (I normally take half the shop into the changing room with me) and decided upon these in the end. The first of which I’d been hankering after for a few months because, well look at this awesome check! One of my favourite colours to wear is yellow, and this yellow and blue tartan just screamed for me to buy her since she launched (but I waited as I’d gone completely mad last season, as with all seasons I guess!).
Bright & Beautiful School Check Astrid The School Check Astrid has a full skirt and is lovely and soft. She has flattering boat neck, teal trim to the edges and a side zip. Although she doesn’t have pockets, this can be forgiven for how beautifully vibrant the dress is and it’s total swish-worthiness (yes, I just made up a word). I paired mine with the Lulu Hun Juliette heels in yellow and found it true to size (bought my normal 6) with room to spare around the waist. Plenty of room for puddings!
My next bargain buys were items I’d previously never considered. Being petite, I struggle with high waisted trousers as the rise is often too high for me. However, being a gingham freak (I clearly went gaga over this black and white check as I bought it in every style, including the shoes! see my previous posts), I figured I’d keep everything crossed and give them a try.
To my absolute delight, they fitted really well! The Bonnie Gingham Trousers are a cigarette style, with a fitted top half and slim leg further down. They’re fastened with a side zip and hook and eye and have a pocket at the back. I bought my normal size and found them spot on true to size. There’s no stretch in the waist though so if you’re in between sizes on the chart, you’ll need to order up.
Collectif Bonnie Gingham Trousers and Mona Shirt I tried them on with the Mona shirt, which again, I hadn’t looked at previously (as I don’t wear workwear clothes), however, I soon realised this blouse is just perfect for a classic, pin up, weekend look too. The white works really well with the trousers I think, and I paired red shoes and a cinch belt for a pop of colour. The Mona has a the most gorgeous open v neckline with a lovely collar, three quarter sleeves with cuffs and the fabric has light stretch. I found her true to size and very flattering on the décolletage!
The Astrid was £30.38, Bonnie’s were £12 and the Mona was £11.62 – so two full outfits for £54! The extra 15% off sale items ends on Sunday 10th (in store only), so be quick and remember there’s the Outlet Sale weekend at the end of the month too so if you’re local (or even if you’re not – I’m not and I’ll be there!), pop along for limited edition and sold out styles with dresses from £10! See you there x
