• [London Edge Feb 2020 Part 5] Voodoo Vixen, Hell Bunny & More!

    As we take a little tour of the trade floor, I thought I’d show you some more highlights from the show. There were some great displays from so many brands and fab to see so many independent retailers exhibiting.

    The featured photo above shows a stunning display by The Seamstress of Bloomsbury. They always have a wonderfully vintage stand combined with Classic Bags in Bloom, whose bags are hand finished in the UK and look absolutely adorable with their vintage styling. 

    Hell Bunny always have a great centre spot showcasing their existing and upcoming designs.

    There were a few favourites I saw hitting the runway.

    Hell Bunny Python Rose Dress
    Hell Bunny Viva Las Vegas Top and Skirt
    Hell Bunny Pina Colada Dress and Noa Noa Mid Dress

    I particularly like the tropical Tiki print of the Noa Noa dress above which is full of exotic birds, palm frongs and hibiscus flowers – the perfect summer print! 

    Hell Bunny also had a range of shoes on display and I’m a sucker for a polka dot peep toe, especially if it has a bow on it. LOVE.

    Moving on to Voodoo Vixen with their exciting collaboration for Summer called Unreal Redheads (so I’m aptly drawn to it!). I really loved the cute designs and pastel shades of these two.

    This is the Trixie Gingham dress and features a pastel rainbow gingham with love heart pockets and buttons – adorable!

    The Hayley prom dress is a real head turner. I have a similar design which was hand made for me about 8 years ago as it’s such a classic vintage evening style and looks amazing on all shapes and sizes. Mine wasn’t resplendent in rainbow tulle though! I love it when straps sit delicately on the shoulders and the detailed pleating on the bust is fantastic.

    Beautiful tulle pleats

    The Jinkx Floral Tropical Print dress also stood out for me with it’s gloriously leafy and floral design. 

    The sweetheart neckline combined with heart buttons and elasticated sides for a perfect fit make this a great choice for holiday season.

    There were also some fun novelty bags from Voodoo Vixen – and I do love a novelty bag! I especially like the camera bags:

    It was also exciting to see Daisy Dapper at London Edge which are based in Sweden.  Their stand was filled with elegantly styled, vintage inspired, pieces and some were adorned with daisies!

    Lastly for today, my favourite piece from Banned Retro, was this Summer Sail Dress with it’s sweet open collar and border print full of bright sailing boats:

    I hope you’ve enjoyed the tour around London Edge, look out for the next instalment which will include Collectif Autumn/Winter 2020 range. Subscribe below to be notified when the post goes live x

     

  • [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 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

     

  • 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 Summer Party Fun!

    I had such an awesome day/night spent with the Collectif crew at their Summer Party on Sunday. I actually missed my train and arrived much later than planned, but there was still time for shopping in the Camden store – where all ticket holders were given a whopping 50% off everything! wowee! So I picked up the red pair of Susan heels (previously reviewed the black pair here which I actually wore that evening) for an absolute steal!

    The shop was bustling with lots of ladies bagging amazing bargains, and the staff were just fantastic as always – literally nothing is too much for these girls! Even though it must have been pretty overwhelming at times with the sheer volume of dolls that turned up, (and very hot upstairs), their welcoming smiles and willingness to help and advise is always impeccable. I love the Camden shop so much.

    While the ladies that booked to have hair and make up done were getting primped and primed at the venue by the fabulous Le Keux team, I grabbed a quick bite to eat before heading back just in time to see the start of the queue forming for the evening event and within 5 minutes we were in Gabeto, the venue for all the night’s fun and frolics.

    I just loved seeing wall to wall Collectif and everyone looked so beautiful in their finery. Some had brought their other halves along and they were resplendent in their waistcoats and tiki tastic shirts too. As with all Collectif events, there’s such a lovely buzz and feel to the place – everyone is so happy to be there and to be involved; it gives off such a great party vibe.

    The gorgeous Kellie from Team Collectif enjoying the show with her hubby

    We were treated to live vocals from vintage lovin’, big band sound, babes, The Sweet-SpotsThe Tootsie Rollers and The Satin Dollz. All of whom were dressed in Collectif and looked (and sounded) utterly fabulous. Swingdance UK were also on the dancefloor and swinging like a dream! I could watch them all night.

    The Sweet-Spots were fun and fabulous
    The Satin Dollz
    The Tootsie Rollers and Swingdance UK

    Musical delights also came in the form of The Cash Cows, whose quirky style got everyone dancing, with numbers you recognise but reworked in a totally unique way.

    The Cash Cows

    The very glamorous and utterly divine House of Burlesque gals served up sophisticated chic on the catwalk later in the evening, cutting their way through the crowds to share the new stock styles. Their cheeky sassiness was infectious and everyone loved the show! It was ingenius to use them as models as it really brought the clothes to life; these girls know how to turn it up on the catwalk!

    The star of the catwalk show was, inevitably, the new Nova pastel rainbow dress which everyone is waiting for (it’s coming soon, woohoo!). It looks absolutely gorgeous in real life!

    We also saw a little sneak peek of the upcoming Menswear collection (previously blogged about here). Again, it makes such a difference seeing them on the guys. They did a fab job and obviously when I’m asked to feel the quality for myself while they’re strutting down the runway, I oblige!

    Ooooo, feel the quality! Photo credit: Rachel O’Toole-Hawkins

    Entertainment by Lolo Brow was also a highlight – she’s always so good! If you get the chance to see her, go!

    Lolo Brow being epic – photo credit @rubycorkscrew

    It was a really great night, catching up with Collectif loving fans near and far and of course, Team Collectif, too.

    With my girls at the party! Photo Credit: Lucy Klinkenberg

    There will be another party soon enough, so if you’re able to, come along and see what you’ve been missing! They’re so much fun and you can dance the night away with like minded lovelies as well as being entertained by awesome acts!

    For fear of turning into a pumpkin at midnight (and missing the last train home), I left at 11pm and got home around 1:15am; a little dishevelled, tired but so very happy! See you at the next one guys and dolls! x

    Home bound on the train after a wonderful day and night with Collectif

    Outfit details:

    Dress: Collectif Watermelon Love Mahina Sarong Dress
    Starburst Brooch: Antique
    Cardigan: Collectif Jessie Tropical Palm Leaf
    Belt: from the Collectif Zoe dress
    Jacket: Collectif Monroe in black
    Hairflowers: Ebay, High Street and 2 x Elsie pink and green hydrangeas from Miss Bella’s Blooms
    Bangles: Splendette and Bow & Crossbones
    Earrings: Splendette black hoops
    Shoes: Lulu Hun Susan Heels in black

  • Collectif Summer Party Competition & Outlet Sale!

    Over the next couple of weeks there are some very exciting events happening at Collectif! In order not to miss out, here’s all the info you’ll need to make sure you’re ready and raring to go for some early Summer fun and frolics!

    Firstly, on the 1st and 2nd of June, there’s the next Outlet Sale – these are amazing and you can pick up so many bargains for just a few pounds.

    I did a full review of the last one in February, but this one promises to be even bigger and better with twice the stock! This blows my mind as the last one was full to the brim with goodies. Please make sure you take a drink with you as you may need to queue (it’s a very popular event) and try not to all arrive at once – use the Sunday too as they restock all the time.  There is a curtained off changing area in the back of the room if you need to check the fit. I bought £2 necklaces and dresses from £5-£15, consisting of either previous stock (which I’d been lusting after but thought it had gone forever), or there are limited edition and current and new sample stock items too which are little gems scattered through the rails – such a lucky duck if you find one of those! Sizes available are 6-22, there’s something for everyone. If the rails are looking a bit bare after the first deluge of shoppers, hang in there and wait as they get restocked all the time and more will be coming!

    It’s a great day out and right by the Excel, easy enough to find if you catch the DLR to Custom House, then head straight down the concourse as far as it goes, walk down the steps and turn immediately right. You will probably see a queue forming outside Collectif Head Office so it will be obvious which building it is, but if you don’t and you’re one of the first, it has this signage outside and is just past the Fox bar and restaurant. Remember it’s card payments only, gals!

    There are stairs going down into the warehouse as you can see, so if you have mobility issues, or you’re taking a pram, head to the back of the building instead and call Collectif on 07482017812 and a staff member will help you.

    The week after the Outlet Sale, it’s time to put on your glad rags and join me at the Summer Party!

    Held on the 9th June (Sunday), it’s set to be another night of dazzling entertainment, packed full of like minded vintage-lovin’ ladies, filling the space with love and laughter. The last one (for their 18th birthday celebrations) was spectacular and everyone had such an amazing time. You can find all the info about what to expect here as I blogged about it afterwards, but rest assured, you’re in for the most fabulous treat!

    So much fun at the last shindig!

    It costs just £10 for a ticket (purchase here) and you’ll be entered into a prize draw to win £300 worth of Collectif vouchers! Eep, exciting huh?! Very best of luck, ladies! All tickets also include a huge 50% discount at the Camden store for that evening! So if there’s something you have your eye on, it’ll be the ideal time to pick it up. Heck, who am I even kidding, I never need an excuse to buy something from the Camden store at the best of times – it’s like an Aladdin’s Cave to me, filled with so many gorgeous things whispering ‘buy me’ every time I go in! The staff at the store are just the loveliest girls too, you will always receive the best customer service there.

    If you fancy a little vintage makeover before the party, you can select from two other types of ticket – the first is £28 and includes taster hair OR make up, and the second costs £39 and includes both taster hair AND make up. The taster hair includes a half pinned up style (like victory rolls, faux bangs, a beehive etc) and the taster make up consists of lips, eyes and brows. It’s such a great deal as you’ll be primped and preened by the wonderful team from Le Keux Vintage who are experts in making pin-up perfection dreams come true. Appointments are available between 2.45 and 6pm and need to be booked via the normal ticket system (Le Keux will contact you to arrange a time after booking). Click on the photo to be redirected to book.

    Get ready to become perfectly coiffed by the Le Keux team!

    Amidst the fabulous entertainment provided by artists such as The Tootsie Rollers, House of BurlesqueLolo Brow and Swing Dance UK, there will also be a catwalk show showcasing the awesome new Menswear line (for sneaky peeks, see my preview here for a glimpse of some of the goodies you’ll see) and a photobooth – and who doesn’t love a photobooth?!

    Please note that this event will be held at Gabeto which is just opposite the Collectif Camden store in the Stables Market. I look forward to seeing you there and dancing the night away with you all again – come say hi if you see me! x

  • Supplier Spotlight: SilkFred.com and Collectif Jemima Review

    With so many online shopping sites popping up, it’s difficult to know who to trust sometimes. I’d seen SilkFred appear on my social media newsfeed occasionally but I wasn’t really properly aware of them until recently – when I found they now stock Collectif!

    SilkFred are an online company based in London which provides a sales platform for a range of boutique, independent, brands. So if you’re looking for something a little different, SilkFred is a pretty good option to start your search! You can find other reproduction vintage brands like Glamour Bunny on there too, accessories from Crown and Glory or maybe some true vintage to add to your wardrobe, like Pop Sick Vintage?

    I made a beeline for the Collectif store front (obviously) as I saw they had in stock the Jemima dress I’d been after, in my size! (yes, a chorus of ‘Hallelujah’ did start playing in my head when I saw it). Out of stock everywhere else, it was meant to beeeee! I already have the cream version which I bought back in January when it first launched (see full review of the dress here). Do you ever get buyer’s regret? I’ll be honest, it doesn’t happen to me often (I’m like a good soldier and never leave a pretty dress behind!)…..but as I’d bought quite a lot of new releases, I decided to buy just the one colourway of the Jemima and go with cream, leaving the black behind.

    BIG mistake! I couldn’t get her out of my mind, could I?! Typically she was super popular and snapped up by everyone so I thought all was lost. Then SilkFred came to the rescue! I quickly bagged myself a 6 and had spoken to Collectif about the company – it’s all legit and the process is exactly the same as if you order via Collectif direct. It was easy to register, checkout and I received my DPD updates and speedy courier delivery as always. The great thing about SilkFred is there is FREE DELIVERY on orders over £50! so you save money on shipping too. I like that they use their own photos as well, so you can see how it looks styled differently and at diffferent angles, which you may not have previously seen on the main website.

    I was super happy with my purchase. I’d signed up for SilkFred updates and they notify me of certain things (you can opt out of this if you prefer). Apparently they send discounts that way too so it’s always worth signing up to a newsletter I think.

    Overall, it’s a great format in addition to the main site and gives us another outlet to buy from – which is always a good thing. So if anyone is unsure, go for it!

    Obviously I’m over the moon with my black Jemima dress – still available in most sizes on the main site (here) or on SilkFred (here). I found it came up slightly smaller than my cream version (though still true to size), so order up if you’re in between sizes or busty. I’ll be using SilkFred again in future (alongside the main site), as it gets a huge thumbs up from me. And now my wardrobe is complete……until the next dress release!

    Collectif Jemima dress in black

     

    Outfit details:

    Dress: Collectif
    Jewellery Set: Collectif
    Sunglasses: Collectif
    Bangles: Collectif and Bow & Crossbones
    Shoes: Lulu Hun
    Hair Flower: Miss Bella’s Blooms
    Brooch: Erstwilder

    All products bought by me and the thoughts expressed are my own.

     

     

     

  • Collectif Outlet Sale February 2019

    So last Saturday I headed back over to the big smoke for the second Collectif Outlet Sale. I wasn’t able to attend the first sadly but I got to this one just before it opened at 11am and joined a rather large queue which had already brought everyone out and it quickly trickled in.

    Early birds at the Outlet Sale

    We were greeted by the Managing Director who welcomed us all into the pop up shop area of the Head Office. Behold, a thing of beauty! Rails and rails of pretties lined up in order of size, with shoes and accessories around the sides. There was so much to see it was super exciting!

    Sooo many goodies!

    The sale included sample sale stock – some old and some new (there were a few samples from summer 19 stock which hasn’t arrived yet) and old stock from recent and older seasons.

    I headed to the 6’s and managed to snag some really gorgeous dresses which I’d previously missed out on, then had a good mooch around the rest of the sale, bumping into a bevvy of beauties who were all as equally excited as I was to be given such an awesome opportunity to bag such bargains.

    I queued twice – the first time was pretty fast and I was done within ten minutes but while I’d been enjoying all there was to see in the outlet, the queue outside was unrelenting and never seemed to go down. People were let in but simultaneously an unprecedented amount of people would turn up and join the back of the queue again! It was so busy and the queues at the checkouts started to get bigger, tailing around the aisles. The staff were working so hard to get everyone in and checked through but the sheer volume of people meant there were queues for an hour and a half – although nobody seemed that upset about it in the store – we used the time chatting away with like minded vintage lovers and continuing to check the rails as we made our way around (you know, just in case we missed a hidden gem!). The rails were regularly restocked and the staff were just amazing – the Managing Director was even packing and bagging! All hands on deck and they did the most wonderful job. I’ve since learned that Sunday was much quieter, so perhaps we should spread out next time as there’s enough stock for everyone (Sunday was restocked too).

    Super staff working hard to get everyone’s goodies bagged!

    So, what did I get?! here’s a snapshot of my bargains and a full run down….

    Outlet haul!

    I had loved the retro tulip print on this Aida Zak Nora Abstract dress from 2017 but missed out on it at the time so I was delighted to get it for just £10! (original price was £64.00). It has a matching belt and big, white, patch pockets. I absolutely adore it! I really hope more retro prints like this appear in future seasons. In the photo below, I’m also wearing a sample necklace I picked up for £2. 

    Nora Abstract Dress

    I then spotted this beautiful Sandra Boat dress from Aida Zak (from spring/summer 2017) which has the most fantastic nautical print. It has the prettiest pin tucked shoulder detail and buttons on the back. And of course, everyone’s favourite – pockets! The belt is really good on this too as it’s pu backed with riveted holes, has a cute white plastic buckle and is made in the same fabric as the dress. Dreamy! It was reduced from £49.95 to £15. 

    Sandra Boat Dress

    Next up I found an Olive dress! This is a much coveted dress by many and I was never a fan (not based on anything other than I’d assumed it just wouldn’t suit me, although I loved it on other people). There was a forest green one hanging amidst the size 6’s for £7 (reduced from £62.00 and part of the 2015 collection). Hmmm, well at that price, it would have been ridiculous not to try it! It turns out, I now need them in all the colours as it’s become a new Autumn/Winter favourite! I really hope they make more of these in all sorts of colours. It’s so comfy and cosy to wear. 

    Olive Dress

    The pic above looks smooth for some reason, but it’s actually a ribbed knit fabric as seen here:

    Olive dress close up

    I hadn’t really looked at the Primrose dress before but this satin pencil from 2017 features a sweet little bow at the waist and drew my eye. It has a deep v at the back and is boned for support. I really love it and it’s the most perfect evening wear. I can’t wait to take it out! The original price was £44.00 and I got it for £5, what a steal!

    Primrose dress

    I had previously seen this beautiful flocked palm print on another of the Bright & Beautiful range but hadn’t paid any attention to the Sandy Devore dress, which was a mistake! From last year’s collection, it has a classic fitted shape at the top and a swing skirt. It was £50.50 down to £7 and I look forward to wearing it for dinner dates, the mesh overlay is just divine.

    Sandy Devore dress
    Flocked palms on a mesh overlay

    Moving on from the dresses, I also picked up this fluffy and fabulous Fatima jumper which had been on the site recently (originally a 2017 design). With long sleeves and a cropped length, it has a cute ric-rac collar and keyhole feature and is really soft. I’ll be wearing this a lot as the weather has just switched back to being cold! I’ve paired it here with the Kayleigh skirt I already had (bought in last year’s sale from Camden). It was £44.00 but I checked out at £10.00.

    Fatima Jumper and Kayleigh Skirt
    Close up of the ric rac and keyhole detail

    I never used to wear shorts (bit worried about being too old for them), then I bought my first pair of high waisted Ayanas and I was sold! I have a few pairs now and this Tropical Flamingo pair from the Collectif x Modcloth collaboration were from last year’s stock. They were down from £34.50 to £5! Perfect for balmy, sunny, days and I love their deep pockets. I wore it here with my Lucy Gingham cardigan from last summer.

    Flamingo Ayana Shorts

    I also picked up this orange Elvira parasol which was reduced to £5  from £15 and it will protect my pillar box red hair from the sun in the most fabulous way.

    Elvira Parasol

    Although there were some changing rooms at the sale, I just winged it and luckily managed to come away with a clean sweep of everything fitting as I’m a pretty standard Collectif size (except for being petite, obviously!) so I can usually buy off the peg and it will fit.

    I had the best day and it was really nice to see the Head Office too – what a lovely location for a fantastic team to work in. I look forward to many more outlet sales ahead – the prices are so low and there’s a great variety for everyone, making it possible to pick up old pieces you’d missed and new pieces which aren’t even out yet. It’s definitely a day to pop in your calendar. Just allow yourself lots of time as this event is now extremely popular, take a drink to stay hydrated (we were so lucky with the weather, what a blissfully sunny February day!) and have a blast! See you at the next one xx

    View from the Royal Victoria Docks

     

    Ps for anyone reading this looking for information about the Collectif Outlet Sale location, get the DLR to Custom House, walk the full length of the concourse towards the Excel, down the stairs and turn right. The Collectif warehouse is in front of you with the sign featured on the main image and you walk down the stairs to enter. There is disabled and pram access via another entrance if you let Collectif know. 

  • Collectif is all grown up! 18th Birthday Celebrations

    A couple of weeks ago I had the great pleasure of attending the Collectif 18th birthday party (held on the 25th November). From humble beginnings on a stall at Camden Market, the brand has flourished during those years and now boasts a sucessful online store shipping worldwide, international stockists, and shops in Brighton, Spitalfields, Commercial Street and of course where it all began, Camden. 

    To celebrate this massive achievement, Collectif hosted an extravaganza at their Camden shop and FEST. With tickets snapped up fast including hair and make up at the event, I bagged a silver ticket for £20 which included a free dress (I chose the absolutely gorgeous Maica green velvet dress which fits like a dream!).  What an amazing deal those tickets were! It also included a free drink at the shop (sponsors Sailor Jerry saw to that!) and a pink cocktail at FEST which was particularly yummy.

    I headed to the shop early to have a browse (you can’t go to Collectif without buying something, right?!) and picked up a Jasmine skirt I’d been after which was no longer available on their website (woohoo!), then had a mingle with the staff and ladies starting to trickle in for the celebrations. 

    Serving rum, donuts and cupcakes at the Camden store – delish!

    There was live entertainment outside the shop, with fabulous groups like the Victory Sisters, the Tootsie Rollers and Britain’s Got Talent finalists, the D-Day Darlings bringing cheer to the crowds in the crisp night air. I went over to FEST to be met by the delightful Collectif team (all looking fabulous in their Collectif finery), and joined the ladies that had been coiffed to perfection while we waited for the evening events to start, chatting amidst exquisitely dressed stables and everyone dazzling in their Collectif frocks (honestly, everyone looked stunning!).

    Fest Stables hair and make up stations

    It wasn’t long until the doors opened to the main stage and everyone gathered on the dancefloor to listen to the launch of the birthday party. The live music started and we were treated to The Danny Mcvey Trio, more Tootsie Rollers, D-Day Darlings and Victory Sisters.  It was a delight to see the SwingDancers burning up the floor with their awesome moves! I really must learn how to dance one day.

    The Swingdancers in full swing with live music from the Danny McVey Trio

    The evening was peppered with talented acts in between the fabulous musical numbers, featuring burlesque and drag performers Lolo Brow, Meth and Tigress.

    Lolo Brow’s Burlesque performance

    The Mythical Menagerie team were there too, sprinkling us all with a friendly dusting of unicorn sparkles.

    Bedazzled with my bestie by some unicorn friends

    There were some truly moving moments too – just looking out over the hundreds of guests and feeling the love and warmth in the room, the sheer joy of everyone being who they are (most apparant when the song ‘This is Me’ came on), lifting each other up in confidence and enjoying each other’s company – things this brand stands for and prides themselves on. It was a very magical evening.

    The dancefloor was filled with revelry. So many gorgeous ladies (and gents!)
    Fest fabulousness!
    Myself (far right) with the beautiful Bella from Collectif (second left) and our friends

    Later on the MD made a rousing speech and commended his wonderful team of staff that help make the brand what it is. I had spoken to the MD a few times that evening and he wanted guests to know how grateful he was to have such a brilliant team, and that they really are what makes the company. I have to say I agree, as the Collectif team go all out for their customers and it was lovely to hear an MD recognise the efforts of all members of his workforce – be it customer facing or behind the scenes. If you’ve ever been to a store you’ll know how awesome the staff make you feel when you’re trying something on; if you buy online, they’ll try to get it to you as quickly as possible and work extra hours to make this happen, and if you’ve ever had an unfortuate issue with something not working, the customer service team just want to make you happy and rectify it as soon as possible. As well as the many others like the creative teams and office staff that all make up the amazing Collectif family.

    It was also very exciting to hear him promise more events going forward and a pop up shop near the Head Office was the start of these last week. Keep an eye on the facebook page Events section for the latest updates, can’t wait for more of these types of things next year!

    I was also given a little insight into how the company decides what to make and who we are as customers. I absolutely loved this as I have a Marketing background so I found it incredibly fascinating. Customer engagement and listening to feedback was clearly evident here and hugely impressive.

    It was such a well organised and fun night and I had an incredible time, as did everyone I spoke to (it was great to meet so many of you!). I’m thankful to Collectif for building such a fantastic community, caring about their customers so much and continuing to design the most fabulous clothes which suit everyone, regardless of age, gender, size etc. We all looked and felt amazing, and that’s what it’s all about. 

    See you next year!

    ps for my outfit info click here and for further photos from that night, follow Collectif’s instagram tag #collectif18