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Caterina Atomic Dress and Annasofia Coat Reviews [Collectif Clothing]
I’ve had this Caterina for a good while now and it’s one of my all time favourites – just look at that cool 50’s print! I love how bright and fun it is and how reminiscent it is of an original 50’s wallpaper design. Anything atomic is always a winner for me, but especially so when it’s pretty authentic and based on actual vintage patterns.
The Caterina is a staple design for Collectif and comes in swing or pencil style. I often lean towards the pencils but I have quite a few swing versions too. You can’t go wrong with a Caterina in your closet. The shirtwaister style is so easy to wear and great to throw tights on and a cardigan over for a classic winter look.
There are small buttons to the front, two patch pockets (both close with a matching small button) and a matching buckled belt with the same patterned fabric (I love it when they do that). The short sleeves are turned up and there’s an open v neck with collar.
I found the fit is true to size. If you’re in between sizes you may need to size up as there isn’t much stretch in the waist. I’m in love with this atomic print and I hope it’s repeated in some other colours and styles. It’s currently available in all sizes at £55 for the pencil and sizes 6-14 in the swing version for £65 but both look to be heading towards the sale so this would be a great one to add to your wish list!
Moving on to the stunning Annasofia Faux Fur Coat with its glorious princess vibes! Made in a dark green with gorgeous brown faux fur details to the collar (which is detachable – handy!) and pockets. I have quite a few Collectif coats including a Pearl which is fabulously trimmed in faux fur. I wanted a coat which was still fancy, but not as full on as the Pearl, and the Annasofia is just perfect to fill that gap in my coat needs. Such a pretty coat but very practical too as I can still move around easily and it’s not as heavy as my Pearl.
Smitten with Annasofia There are a couple of buttons to the waist for fastening and a concealed one behind to make sure it stays put.
Close up details of the faux fur and concealed and front buttons It also has a beautiful green velvet ribbon at the back to tighten or loosen as you wish for the waistline. Though I need to press the ribbon as it literally came out of the bag and straight on to my back haha
It has a flared skirt to the bottom half while keeping everything above quite fitted. I have my normal size in this coat and it fits great for me with room for layering underneath, though the guidance on the website advises to size up for this and I wouldn’t be able to fit great bulky jumpers underneath but I can certainly fit cardigans layered over a dress. So if your layering is like mine, using thin layers, you’ll be fine. If it’s more bulky, size up to fit them all in.
The length is good on me too despite being petite, hitting my lower calf though it looks longer from the angle of my camera here (which it’s not). I’m really happy with the Annasofia, she’s such an elegant coat with a great design and in a gorgeous colour. Unfortunately she’s mostly sold out now with only the smallest and largest sizes available on the website (current pre sale price is £125) but Cherry Red Vintage also has 16 and 18’s at £112.50 and an 8 and a 12 can also be found over at Atom Retro (£87) so it’s worth scouting around the internet to find one if you need an Annasofia in your life, as I did.I’m also wearing the Angelina Faux Fur heels by Lulu Hun in the photos with the Annasofia. You can just see them peeking out at the bottom. I tried these on almost a year ago at a trade show and fell instantly in love.
That Cinderella moment – the shoe fits! They’re a faux suede, closed toe, platform heel with faux fur trim all the way around. How cute! Perfect for jazzing up any wintry outfit. The heel is slim and almost 4 inches so not for the faint hearted ha but I do love a high heel. The guidance given is to size up as they come up small but I actually found they fit me perfectly in my normal size. I don’t have wide feet though so if you do, follow the website guidance and size up. They’re currently available in all sizes at An already reduced price of £33.95 but will likely enter the sale too so I’d recommend you nab a pair of these fun faux fur beauties!
Looking forward to seeing what everyone chooses for the sale and hope the reviews have helped with your wish lists! xx
Additional information:
I’m 4’11” wearing mostly 4 inch heels in the photos and a standard size 6 in Collectif which the dress and coat are.Also wearing: Splendette and Bow & Crossbones bangles. Dress and coat via the wonderful Cherry Red Vintage
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Layered to the max! Warming up for winter with Collectif
Feeling the chill in the air the past week or so, I decided to layer up with a few Collectif pieces including the Caterina Blackwatch and the matching scarf.
The Blackwatch pencil dress is a rerelease and comes in a variety of other styles too this year, including the swing version and the fabulous scarf which I obviously needed to play matchy-matchy with.
It’s a gorgeously classic green, black and navy check in the popular Caterina shirt style design. There are patch pockets and a matching belt (no holes sadly). I really love the Caterina’s and have quite a collection of them now. They work so well to dress up or down and feel smart but not too formal. I always buy my normal size in a Caterina pencil which fit really well and I size down in the swing versions.
I really love that there’s a matching scarf (and gloves too, might need those!), to co-ordinate your look and it has the sweetest tasselled fringing. I picked out the green of the dress and wore it with my Molly jacket, which is another rerelease this year but there’s an amazing orange version in the Top Vintage collab too which I am sorely tempted by.
Molly jackets are the perfect short jacket for cooler weather days, when it’s not cold enough to warrant a full length coat but too cold to wear something thinner. The 40’s tailored style is really flattering, nipping in at the waist with a wide buckled belt and the floral linings are so pretty! I also really like that you can remove the faux fur collar should you wish to which make it suitable for warmer Spring days ahead, or as a paired down suit jacket for work.
Sans scarf The Molly’s are cut quite small, so if you’re busty or you want to wear thick layers underneath, definitely size up one. I have it in my normal size and it’s a perfect fit for me with a jumper over my dress too (but not a super thick one – no cable sweater numbers!).
I decided to style my tartan scarf on my Molly coat with my own little nod to the highlands, wrapping it around like a shawl and tucking the corners into my belt. It was actually a really cold day when I wore this and I felt so snuggly and warm with the scarf like a shawl. Definitely going to wear it like that again!
With shawl scarf I added some thick black tights (we all need tights right now – gotta protect those pins!) and my Lulu Hun Selma boots which I bought last year but are also available to buy online now. The range has been expanded to include the most fabulous green and red pairs this season (here) and I can’t tell you how comfortable these ankle boots are with their small block heel.
They really suit vintage styles perfectly with their dainty round toes, scallop edge details and ribbon laces. Such delicate features which compliment 40s and 50s style dresses, skirts and wide legged trousers and look really cute peeking out at the bottom of a long winter coat too.
I have them in my normal size which fit really comfortably for me. If you have a wide foot, you may want to size up but they’re true to size.
I love a good check so I‘m really enjoying seeing the new collections launch and more matching accessories which have really won my heart this season! Which have been your favourites? x
Additional info:
I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif Clothing and 4’11 with 2.75 inch heels on.Full outfit details:
Caterina Blackwatch pencil dress
Blackwatch scarf
Natalie bead necklace in green
Tiki earrings in green
Molly jacket in olive green
Selma boots in black
All Collectif/Lulu HunHair flowers: high street
Bangles: Splendette -
Jolene Cowboy Boots Review [Lulu Hun by Collectif]
What can I say about these boots?! They’re just ruddy AMAZING! I’ve been in love with them since I first saw them back in February. Back then, the pair I had my eye on was the red/blue/white combo but unfortunately due to covid, they haven’t been released this year. This may have been a blessing for me though as I bought the tan pair which I can wear with so much more (though if they ever release the red/blue/white pair, you’d better believe they’ll be straight in my cart haha). The black and pink version on the left is also available to buy.
Back at the start of the year, I also mistakenly thought they were leather and had planned to lust after them from afar as I can’t wear leather. But much to my delight (and believe me, there were squeals!), they’re PU so it was all systems GO!
They’re so comfortable to wear with a small heel in true western style and fit me true to size, with a little room. I like to wear thick socks in winter to keep my tootsies warm so there’s room for these. The pointed toe looks great and isn’t too narrow (though if you have a wide foot, you may need to size up obviously as with most standard shoes). They sit on my calf and are the perfect length for me and not too wide (some boots are too baggy on the calf for me but these fit great).The stitching is a really nice feature which is very subtle on the tan pair but still distinct.
I wore my Erin jumpsuit with mine and the Evie Ascot scarf in mustard for a casual daytime look, paired with yellow and brown jewellery from Splendette. I’ll also be wearing these beauties with skirts and dresses as they work with everything! They’re going to be a staple for my autumn/winter looks this year. I honestly love them so much!
They’re available here in sizes 3 to 8 and cost £114.40. The black and pink stars are £112.45 and can be viewed here. There’s currently a promotion by Collectif which includes free delivery over £50 so shipping is free (UK) and over £75 worldwide (purchase from the international website if you’re outside the UK). They’re well worth the investment – I’ve already worn them SO much!
They’re the perfect Autumn/Winter boots for co-ordinating with your vintage wardrobe, and mine x
Western boots in the wild! For reference:
I’m 4’11” and a standard size 6 in Collectif clothing (wearing the Erin jumpsuit in a 6). My shoe size is a 4/37 and that’s what I’m wearing in the boots above.Also wearing:
Scarf: Evie Ascot by Collectif
Jumpsuit: Erin by Collectif (old stock)
Jewellery: Earrings and bangles by Splendette
Hair Flower: Miss Bella’s Blooms -
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: CollectifFor 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”. -
Adalaide Yacht Stripe Swing Dress [Collectif X Modcloth]
I adore a striped dress (as you know), but even more so when it has a nautical nod. This piece by Collectif is from their collaboration collection with Modcloth.
It’s absolutely perfect for Summer and the heat wave we’ve been having of late. Made from viscose it’s super light and flowy. I felt so cool in it, despite the temperatures soaring!
It has a bold, bespoke, yacht stripe pattern in red, white and a slim line of blue too (which I hadn’t previously noticed in the pic before but upon arrival was delighted to see). To the front, there’s a fitted bodice with sweet peter pan collar and keyhole detail. This works really well together and looks effortlessly chic.
Not only that, but this dress has side seam pockets! (hand resting nicely in one in the pic above). Woohoo! We all love a good pocket, I know. It also comes with a circular belt (no holes unfortunately) and has a centre back zip.
The dress flows out from the waist but isn’t a full or half skirt. It does blow beautifully in a breeze however, and has the perfect amount of swoosh for walking around on sunny days. Who would want a full skirt on a yacht, anyway?! hehe.
This dress has a lovely, floaty shape and feel because of the fabric I chose my normal size (6) in this dress and it fits perfectly. As with all Modcloth collab items, the sizing is the same as Collectif from size 6-16. However, if you’re size 18 or above, follow the specific Modcloth size chart as it then differs slightly (found on the Collectif site, here).
The Adalaide Yacht Swing Dress is available in sizes 4-30 (which is amazing; I love how inclusive those sizes are at both ends) and costs £77. This elegant new design is also available in plain navy (here) has also been released on the mainline collection in a different striped colour way for £55 (see here).
Pockets are everything <3 Also wearing:
Shoes: Lulu Hun (see previous review, here)
Hairpiece: Miss Bella’s Blooms
Bangles and Earrings: SplendetteFor reference:
I’m 4’11”, wearing 6cm heels and I’m a standard Collectif size 6.
For full transparency, this item was gifted to me but I only ever write honest reviews, all based on my own thoughts. -
Demira Gingham Daisy Pencil Dress [Collectif Clothing]
What a great new style for the Spring/Summer 2020 collection! This bloomin’ gorgeous dress is the Demira Gingham Daisy Pencil dress and is a stand out piece – radiating happy vibes wherever you wear it!
I managed to bag it in the sale (still currently on) having ummed and ahhed over it since it launched. I absolutely love the bold, bright, print but I was a bit concerned about the higher neckline and puffed sleeves – not things I would normally go for. I almost bought the pencil skirt instead (which is also very cute) but I’m so glad I took a punt and bought the dress – it’s a triumph!
The puffed sleeves are elasticated and actually add a sweet detail to the top of the dress which is more conservative with a round neck. They’re comfortable on the arms and not tight at all. At the back of the dress, the neckline dips into a lovely v shape and there’s a centre back zip making this easy to get in and out of.
I found this style to be true to size, with limited stretch at the waist, so if your widest part is there, you may want to size up. It falls on my mid calf giving a great vintage feel and accentuating that wiggle when you walk!
I wore the Demira with accents of yellow, picked out from the daisy print. This goes really well but you could pair it with white, blue or black accessories if you preferred to be matchy matchy but not so bold with yellow.
To get your gingham daisy fix, this dress is still currently 50% off at £26.25 (utter bargain!) and available in all sizes. If a pencil isn’t your thing, then have a look at the other items available in this design too (available here). I’m still thinking I may need a few more pieces in this print, but if you prefer spots over gingham, then Collectif have also just launched this new polka dot design! Which will you choose? x
Also wearing:
Pineapple bag and cinch belt: Collectif Clothing
Yellow shoes and Blue shoes: Lulu Hun
Hair flower: Miss Bella’s Blooms
Earrings: Bow & Crossbones
Bangles: Splendette
Necklace: VintageFor reference:
I’m 4’11” and a standard size 6 in Collectif Clothing, wearing 4 inch heels in the photos. -
Mirtilla Oranges Pencil Dress Review [Collectif Clothing]
We’ve reached the end of another week – a miserable one here in the UK sadly with all the rain (but our gardens are thankful!). Better weather is on its way though and what better way to hold on to hopes of blue skies and endless sunshine than by adorning yourself with a taste of Spain (when I see sweet juicy oranges, I always think of Valencia).
I managed to purchase this one during the 50% off sale and my size happened to appear (it was meant to be!) so I snapped it up immediately. The Mirtilla style is new this season and what a fab little pencil she is! Emblazoned with oranges on a navy cotton sateen, she has a casual feel with the polo style top but still dressy with the tailored wiggle. I absolutely love this new design, especially the bespoke orange print, it’s just delicious.
The collar has a couple of buttons to the front and turn up sleeves on the arms. There is a side zip on this one which, to be honest, I found incredibly difficult to get on with a pencil style. They work much better for swing dresses and I do wish it had a centre back zip instead as I have to ruin my hair to get it on. I much prefer to step into dresses and I felt a bit like I needed to be double jointed to get into it with side zip haha. Once on though, it’s super comfortable to wear and it has just the right amount of stretch.
It falls on my mid calf which is just perfect for a good vintage length. I love that it’s more of a casual style but still in my beloved pencil shape. I really hope to see more of this design returning (but fingers crossed for a centre back zip). There are also swing versions of this design if you’re not a pencil lovin’ kinda gal, but not in the oranges print.
I paired mine with the orange Billie cinch belt and Natalie orange bead necklace from last year’s Collectif accessories, the parasol I picked up at a Collectif outlet sale event a couple of years ago, the Aaliyah orange orchid hair flower from earlier this season at Collectif, shoes from Lulu Hun (featured earlier on the blog, here) and bangles by Splendette and Bow & Crossbones which were a perfect match with this dress. I felt totally tropical! Bring back sunny days x
For reference:
I’m 4’11 and wearing 4″ heels, I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif and no alterations have been made. -
Susan Navy High Heels Review [Lulu Hun]
Hey gorgeous shoe fans! Today we’re having a look specifically at the new season Susan shoes by Lulu Hun, in navy. I’ve previously spoken about this style here, but since then I’ve pretty much bought the entire range and thought I’d share what the new shade looks like.
So, they are the same style with a fabulous forties inspired heel and slingback which fastens with a buckle and feature a slim platform sole too. I cannot tell you how much I love this design. The things I look for most in heels is 1) a slingback, 2) a peep toe and 3) a platform, so ticking all my boxes, they were always going to be mine! Platforms are such a great way to get the added height of the 4 inches, but it feels super comfortable to wear too, especially with the blockier heel. Bonus!
There is a really sweet white bow to the front, giving these shoes somewhat of a nod to nautical, combined with a new, sultry, red sole, which I now want on all of my shoes please!
They’re made from PU leather and are really good quality. I’ve had other pairs for over a year now and worn them a lot out on the razzle dazzle, especially to dance in, and they haven’t put a step wrong (the same can’t be said for me and my dancing sadly ha).
Fit wise, I found them to be exactly like the previous season. I took my normal size (4) and they fit perfectly. I have a narrow foot though, so if your foot is wider, you may want to size up. The slingback strap is adjustable on the buckle so you can get a tighter or looser fit.
They also come in white with a contrasting red bow, which are also very cute. I don’t really wear white heels though as I’d get them dirty instantly. I really hope they return in another plethora of colours so I can add more to my collection. They’re the perfect shoes to pair with any outfit and are currently priced at £45.50 and available in all sizes.
Which colour will you choose? Susan rainbow joy right here!
Susans galore! This style is also currently 50% off on the Lulu Hun website! So snaffle them up quickly x
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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 7] Bright & Beautiful, Lulu Hun and Collectif Menswear AW20
In our final instalment of the Autumn/Winter 2020 previews, we’re starting with the awesome new collection from Collectif Menswear.
As well as the amazing Jonathan jacket pictured above (seriously, how cool is that?!), there were some great chunky knits, guaranteed to keep your other half warm (or for yourself as I’ve often said before!).
I love a good moss stitch pattern and this bright yellow cardigan has bags of true vintage style with a modern flair, brightening up even the darkest of wintry days.
I will always be a sucker for an atomic print, so this knitted top also caught my eye:
The starbursts are everything! For a more casual look there are plenty of polo tops too:
As with previous seasons, there will also be a range of novelty prints which are going to be very popular (no previews of those though to keep you in suspense!).
Next we have Bright & Beautiful, which takes its inspiration from the 60’s and 70’s. Adding a contemporary twist to their vintage styling, there are often pieces which crossover from the past and look on trend for the modern day. Like this cropped sequin jumper which will look great with some high waisted jeans or slacks:
The rainbow sequin detail is so pretty! Also this cute ladybird dress which is a classic 60’s mini shape in velvet, but sits a little longer than their daring lengths and has a fabulous gold print:
As with every Bright & Beautiful season, I’m always on the look out for the new Astrid, and this tweedy version didn’t disappoint!
Such a staple style to pair with brown boots for Autumn.
There was also this new trench coat style which has the best tartan detailing to the lining:
I love the turned up cuffs to reveal the tartan pattern. With a wide collar and double breast buttons, it oozes 70’s style but you could easily throw this over something more modern too.
Moving on to Lulu Hun and accessories now and the displays were fantastic as always. Here you can see the bags from the current collection:
Current season stock The leopard bag is particularly splendid, and there’s also a matching mirrored brooch which will be coming to the Collectif Accessories range:
The accessories line will also launch new Natalie necklaces (you know how much I love those), one of which is this superbly pumpkin inspired treat (no tricks):
Featured on the shoe display were these Spring/Summer prickly delights from Lulu Hun:
The cactus wedges and pumps are really fun, and I adore a tropical leaf print!
So what can we look forward to for Autumn from Lulu Hun? Firstly, the wonderful Mara is returning in two new shades:
I have these in black and red already from 2018:
They’re the perfect heel to be running around in and look so dainty with their velvet bow detail to the front, impeccably finishing off your vintage outfit. The plum and green versions will be brilliant additions.
The next stand out pair for me were these spectacular heels:
With faux fur all the way round, these platform heels are so cute and are like the shoe version of the Tatiana boot. I had to try them on to see how they looked of course!
Bit of a weird angle as I was doing a balancing act of holding everything in my hands and trying to point down to my feet, without dropping everything! but, you get the picture. They look super cute on and were a really cosy fit.
And now for the cream of the crop…..
There are no words. These cowboy boots are just magnificent (ok, there were some words). I’m hoping they’re faux leather so I can strut around in the blue and red pair, tip my hat at random people and say, ‘howdy partner’ as I pass by.
Finally the Autumn/Winter bags from Lulu Hun. My favourite picks were this black glitter satchel:
So practical but so fancy! And also this incredibly cute pink heart bag:
Isn’t it adorable?! And with all that love, it’s the perfect way to leave our jaunt around London Edge this year having viewed so many gorgeous things. I hope you’ve enjoyed seeing all the previews and do share with me which you liked most by popping a comment below x
Featured brands today can be found here:
Collectif Menswear
Bright & Beautiful
Collectif Accessories
Lulu Hun
