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Big Sale Bargains Collectif Clothing
Happy Friyay lovelies!
Hope you’ve all enjoyed a little splurge on the sales. Isn’t the January sale always AMAZING?! I confess, I do tend to buy throughout the seasons as and when things appear so by sale time, I’m thinking I’m pretty much done and don’t need anything. However, then I flick through the sale pages and realise I NEED IT ALL!
I’ve been pretty tame this year and just bought a few things. Some went back as the sizing wasn’t right for me (which is my own fault as I knew a different size wouldn’t fit me but one can dream) and these are the items I kept (there are a couple of others but they were duplicates of things I already have).
Firstly, the peter pan collar obsession continues with this beautiful Clemence Pencil Dress. This was one of my must haves when I saw it a trade show and I’d been patiently waiting for it to launch, which it did, shortly before Christmas. Having been a bit extravagant at Christmas, I waited for the sale and bought it at 50% off and my goodness am I so glad I managed to snag it! and for that price too!
The gorgeous meadow print is used on a couple of other seasonal styles. It has a large green, white and black check and the sweetest details, including covered black, velvet, buttons which run down the front and little black buttons on the sleeves. Yes, that’s right gals, I said SLEEVES! How fantastic is it to have a dress with sleeves during the winter months. I always feel the cold so I am over the moon as sometimes three quarter sleeves aren’t enough for me little chilly wrists.
Clemence button and fabric details There is also an optional ready made, adjustable, bow which can be worn or excluded. I really liked both options and will also be using the bow on my other dresses and blouses. Such a great feature!
Fit-wise, I found it a little roomy for me. It seems larger than some of my others, but you know, that’s just room for puddings. I also found it longer than other pencils I’ve had. They normally cut mid calf but this one sits on my lower calf. I may end up having it altered slightly to be a tiny bit shorter, but I was happy with the overall fit and look. I’m also removing the buttons on the skirt part as I prefer them just on the top half. Hopefully I won’t make any holes! I paired it with my black Lulu Hun Susan Heels and some Christmas decorations which were still up at the time I took the photos haha
Next is one I’d forgotten about until I happened to remember that some Modcloth items are included at sale time. The polka dot print on this Caterina is the same as those on the Jemima and Dolores dresses we’d had previously, but in a glorious navy instead.
The 50’s shirtwaister style is such a classic for a vintage lovin’ gal. I have a number of dresses in this style but this is definitely my new favourite. The polka dots against the navy are really lovely.
I tend to size down with Caterinas and I did with this Modcloth collaboration too and it fits perfectly. There’s a matching belt in the same fabric and pockets in the side seams. I also much prefer the buttons on this one which are metal with a little pattern around the edge. Caterina’s are so easy to wear wherever you’re going (or not going – just add a pinny over it at home for 50’s housewife chic!).
Lastly, this is a sale item I didn’t expect to be keeping as I thought it wouldn’t work for me, but I think it does! woohoo! The Dolores Palm Jumpsuit was from the last Summer collection and I didn’t take much notice of it as I don’t suit Dolores styles, and with the petite aspect, jumpsuits often don’t work with my shorter frame. But I threw caution to the wind (as you often do during sale time) and figured, what’s the worst that could happen? I end up with a saggy crotch? Ok, that sounds pretty bad, but luckily it didn’t turn out that way!
The top of the jumpsuit is a normal Dolores style with slim fit trousers. Genius! Firstly, this print has been amazing and I’ve picked up a few styles with this palm tree design. I’ve always loved the look of a Dolores on others, but for some reason, I can’t get my body to make it work. So the jumpsuit option made my little Dolores-wannabe heart sing! There’s a centre back zip and a pocket on your butt. It’s a comfortable fit with stretch in the fabric. She’s going to get worn a lot this Summer as you put it on and instantly launch SASS mode. I popped a wide red belt on to cinch in the waist and some white heels to fully embrace the sassiness.
Unfortunately the jumpsuit is no longer available, but fingers crossed for a return this year in a different print (or check the Collectif buy/sell group for this version). The Clemence dress is in the sale, along with the full swing version too. I recommend snapping these up! The Modcloth Caterina isn’t in the sale section so I was lucky to get that with the 50% off code, but it will no doubt enter the sale at some point so keep your eyes peeled.
Having all shopped til we drop, I’ve been patiently awaiting the launch of the Spring/Summer 2020 collection and was delighted to see the new additions to the site this week (although strangely they’re not in the New In section, you have to look for them by category). I’ve bought a few items which I’ll share next time with you (I know it’s still winter, but I’m already wishing it was Spring). Some of them will crossover with a cardi and tights added for winter so I can get double the wear! In the meantime, enjoy your sale items and look out for further reductions x
For reference:
I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif and 4’11” usually wearing 4 inch heels in the photos above.
Bangles: Bow & Crossbones
Necklace: Charity shop find
Shoes: Lulu Hun and Everything5pounds
Silly Doggo spying in one of the pics: Model’s own -
Happy 2020! [Collectif Mimi Clueless]
Happy new year you gorgeous lot! Hope this year is amazing for you. I have sashayed my way into it with this gorgeous Mimi Clueless dress which my lovely sister bought me. I missed this the first time it came around so I was delighted to receive it for Christmas (along with some Splendette goodies – that gal knows me well!).
I’ve written about the Mimi before as I loved my pumpkin check version (see here) and this print certainly doesn’t disappoint. It’s so bright and cheery with reds and blacks mixed in to the check. Yellow is my favourite colour (alongside teal) so I was pretty much swishing around with the dress pressed against me for quite some time at Christmas haha (no joke though).
Yummy yellows The sweetheart neckline is so flattering and has black bias binding around it. I found it tts and the same fit as the pumpkin, despite hearing it came up smaller for other people. I’m glad I went with my normal size.
It’s a mid calf length on me and I strutted my stuff around Market Harborough in it while attending an Afternoon Tea event hosted by the Vegan Cakery (check them out, they’re award winning, and rightly so!). Food porn below.
Diets start in February, right?! I was wearing my Lulu Hun Selma boots which are so comfortable and the cobbled streets were no match for them. For stylish, you can see them on the pumpkin check post. I was also snuggled up in my Carmella coat as the Pearl would have been too big to take to the venue (which is the quaintest little building on stilts as you can see in the main photo).
Close up Carmella car selfie These products are all available in the big Collectif sale at the moment with a whopping 50% off (code SALE50) so snap them up while you can! The Carmella is from 2018 so the black isn’t available any longer, but there’s a beautiful camel colour way this season in that style. The Mimi is currently only £17.49 with the code! I’ve had a little splurge too during sale time and will post my bargains up soon xx
Also wearing:
Cardigan – Jessie Geek by Collectif Clothing
Earrings – Catkin hoops by Splendette
Bangles – A selection from Bow and CrossbonesFor reference, I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif Clothing and wearing a 6 here. I’m 4’11” and wearing 2.75 inch heels.
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Christine Pencil Dress Review (Collectif Clothing)
I thought it was time for a little pencil dress feature, and oh my, is this one a beauty! In a gorgeously soft, mustard, fabric and three quarter length sleeves, the Christine is a perfect winter addition to everyone’s wardrobe.
To the front, there’s a wonderfully sweet peter pan collar with a fixed, black velvet, bow detail. The velvet is continued with four feature buttons across the chest and at the waist on the adjustable belt (which has eyelets – woohoo!).
The sweetest velvet details This classy piece has a centre back zip and a split to the rear (so you can wiggle but still walk). It falls at a perfect vintage mid calf length on me with my heels. There is a little stretch in the material but I find it true to size. If you’re busty or wider on the waist or hips than the Collectif chart, you should size up.
I really like this dress which you could easily wear for work or play depending on accessories. I’ve kept mine simple and paired it with some black Lulu Hun heels. There’s also a swing version of this dress available if you’re not really a pencil kinda gal, which can be found here. Both versions are currently available in all sizes and I do hope more colour ways come out in future collections as it feels lovely to wear – fingers crossed!
For reference:
Height: 4’11” wearing 4 inch heels
Stats: 33:24:33 and a standard Collectif size 6 (which I’m wearing here) -
Collectif Amber-Lea Pumpkin Dress Review
Happy Halloween lovelies! For today’s post, I thought I’d wear the fabulous Amber-Lea Pumpkin Stripe Dress which I’ve had for a while now but it seemed fitting to share with my spooky friends.
This new style is similar to the Amber pencil dress, with a gathered skirt instead. I have an Amber pencil already so I knew I was going to love this shape – and with the cool pumpkin stripes, it was a definite winner!
The swing skirt has plenty of room for a petticoat (I wore mine with a fluffy black petti underneath) and has huge pockets for stuffing hands or essentials into.
There are half sleeves for colder days and a wide scoop neck (great for larger busted ladies).I found it true to size with a bit of stretch in the fabric (thanks to the spandex) so there’s plenty of room for puddings (marvellous).
This style pretty much sold out immediately on the main site, but there is still plenty of stock available from stockists in all sizes currently (except 6).
I paired my pumpkin dress with a Kimberley Cardigan and picked out the green to compliment it. These are really lovely (I already have other colours) and so soft. The sleeves are very long for petites so tall gals will love them. The cropped length is perfect over swing dresses and gathered skirts and the matching green buttons are very sweet and super easy to do up.
Continuing with the green accessories, I had my Carrie bag which was the perfect match. I love this darling little bag. It’s very reminiscent of vintage purse style handbags with a modern twist. One little clip in the centre opens the entire bag and there’s enough room for all my bits and pieces (lipstick and liner, obviously). I’m grateful for a really easy way to get in and out of this bag as I’m usually forever fumbling with fastenings. It comes with a gold chain if you want to make it into a shoulder bag, but I really like it hand held instead.
I’m also wearing the sweetest addition to the accessories collection this year, which is the Evie Ascot Scarf in black. This is based on an original vintage design and one side cleverly tucks into the other to hold it in place so there’s no knotting, keeping clean lines and the focus on the chic pointed scarf ends. I also bought it in the mustard to brighten up my black outfits. This is such an inexpensive way to make an immediate vintage impact on what you’re wearing.
Hope you like the outfit and enjoy Halloween – don’t get too scared!(unless you like that, obviously).
Watch out guys and ghouls! If you’re looking for a super way to spend a day this weekend, remember the Collectif Outlet Sale is on (details on their events page). I’ve written about what to expect at these events previously and all the bargains I’ve snapped up so it’s definitely worth a visit – enjoy! x
Also wearing:
Necklace and earrings: Natalie Bead Set by Collectif in orange
Bangles: Splendette and Bow & Crossbones
Belt: Billie by Collectif in green
Shoes: Lulu Hun Susan heels in green
Petticoat: Hell Bunny -
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 -
Lulu Hun and Bright & Beautiful SS20 Preview
If you missed the previous Spring Summer 2020 previews, you can click for Collectif and Menswear and see what delights next year holds! Today is all about my favourite picks from Lulu Hun and Bright & Beautiful though, and first up, we’ll take a look at Bright & Beautiful.
To be honest, I don’t buy a great deal from this range as the era isn’t something I wear much of (it has a very 70’s vibe), but occasionally there are some beauts which I just can’t be without!
For instance, the Astrid. I’ve spoken about this style of dress previously here. It’s boat neck and flared skirt design easily lends itself to the 50’s and it’s the main dress from the range which I really look forward to seeing from B&B every season. Next year, we have this gorgeous Deckchair version coming!
Bright & Beautiful Astrid Deckchair Dress It’s a showstopper for sure. I love the rainbow stripes and the addition of the red ric rac trim (it’s often lace that features on the edge instead). If you’re not an Astrid fan, then this print appears in a few other styles too so there’s something to suit everyone.
If you are an Astrid fan, then you may be delighted to hear that it’s also coming in a new pencil style!
Bright & Beautiful Astrid Gingham Pencil This looks like it will be a Summer staple for most with it’s classic gingham check and perfect crossover for work wear, lunch date or a mooch around the shops with friends. I really like how the main best sellers are all getting an upgrade next year to incorporate new versions of a very popular design.
The gingham continues with this gorgeous red checked dress called Iris. It has a shirred top and flared skirt – again, perfectly passable for a fifties style. Just add the picnic.
Bright & Beautiful Iris Gingham Dress The knitwear was a massive hit with me. There are so many cute, short sleeved, jumper styles coming, including this yellow check Sydney.
Bright & Beautiful Sydney Check Jumper and the Bella Harlequin jumper in blue
Bright & Beautiful Bella Harlequin Jumper Both of these have the sweetest details at the back with a row of false buttons. You could probably wear it either way around too.
Next up is Lulu Hun. This range just keeps getting better and better – I just love all the novelty items and the accessories which match perfectly with the designs of the dresses.
The sandals are always a big hit and they have some fabulous styles coming, including these orange, strawberry. monstera leaf Lottie sandals and the Phoebe starfish version.
Lulu Hun novelty sandals galore! True vintage fans will also like this 40’s inspired, mock croc, matching bag and shoes.
Lulu Hun 40’s style mock croc I also really like this wedged sandal which has a removable flower!
Lulu Hun Kellie wedges with removable flowers You can just see underneath where it has a brooch and hair clip attachment. So you could pop it in your hair if you don’t want it on your shoes. Clever!
The bags were so fun and fabulous as always. I particularly liked these bright gingham saddle bag styles with co-ordinating fruits and flowers. There’s also a little padlock feature to the front and lots of room for all your essentials.
Lulu Hun Gingham Bags And lastly, a pastel pink perfection bag with something I happen to say rather a lot.
Lulu Hun heart shaped bag This heart shaped bag sums up the collection rather well I think! Will you be broke next year because there’s so much stuff you want?…..HELL YEAH! (sorry, not sorry) x
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Collectif & Lulu Hun Review: Galactic Tshirt and Susan Heels
I love pink and black together, it’s such a classic pin up colour combination. So when my Galactic Attack tshirt from Collectif arrived a couple of months ago, I knew I’d be pairing it with pink! My matching Maddie jeans from a few seasons ago and Outlaw jacket were the perfect choices.
This tshirt is ridiculously cool with it’s mid-century, sci-fi inspired, graphic on black. I’m so glad Collectif have ventured into tshirts in this style, as they’re so easy to pop on with some capris or rolled up denim and immediately give you that pin up look (you could pop a bandana in your hair, and you’re done!).
ATOMIC!!<3 This one features two pin up space gals with rockets, spaceships, planets, stars and the moon. I am obsessed with everything atomic, so I can’t tell you how happy that combo makes me!
The tshirt is made from cotton jersey and is nice and stretchy. I actually bought the size up in the tshirts thinking they may come up a bit small, but there was absolutely no need. You should buy your normal size as there’s plenty of room in them and they’re a really comfortable, true to size, fit.
Perfect for a casual pin up look There are a few other styles with this fantastic retro print, including a Dolores top and dress and a blue cardigan. We are also promised a Matilde skirt which is one of my favourite styles of skirt, so fingers crossed that arrives too.
I don’t think I’ve reviewed my Outlaw jacket before, (despite having owned it for a couple of years now!), so here’s a quick run down in case you’re considering joining the pink girl gang! (which, of course, you should).
She is roomier than the stretch versions so you may be able to get away with sizing down in this one. The sleeves are a bit long on me but will be perfect for anyone of average height – I just roll them up a little bit, which is how I wear most cropped jackets anyway, so it suits me.
The jacket is fully lined in a gorgeous pink satin which gives it a very luxurious feel. The soft pink denim is perfect to pair with so many rainbow pastels and of course, black. It lifts any outfit up with its biker babe vibes and with two front pockets, it’s practical too. I wear it a lot and have the blue and foiled versions too (the blue sizes the same as the pink) because it’s such a versatile style so you can’t just have one colour, can you?
I finished my pin up outfit off with the Susan heels from Lulu Hun which are new this season.
Ooooo new shoes! I absolutely adore a good sling back heel, a peep toe and a platform – and these have all three! The ultimate pin up heels! There’s even a sweet bow to the front.
Bow detail Although they have a 4 inch heel, it’s a chunky heel so much more comfortable to wear, and with the 3/4 inch platform, in reality, the heel is only 3 1/4 inches. There’s also a normal buckle for the sling back so you can adjust it to suit your own comfort.
Lulu Hun Susan Heels – perfect with pink I love these heels and will need the red and green pairs too, obviously. They will be perfect with 40’s and 50’s style trousers and dresses alike, making them a great investment.
I would also add a neckerchief to this outfit – I have a pink chiffon scarf I would have worn with it too, but I liked showing off the tshirt graphic so much, I didn’t want to cover it up. Hope you like this ‘glam-casual’ (I just made up that term but it kind of fits), pin up, look.
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Full outfit details:
Earrings: Splendette
Necklace: Vintage
Bangles: Splendette and Vintage
Hair Flowers: Ebay (Collectif sell orchids)
Pins: Mostly Punky Pins
Sunglasses, Jeans, Jacket, Tshirt and Belt: Collectif
Shoes: Lulu HunFor reference:
I’m 4’11” and a standard size 6 in Collectif Clothing and a standard size 4 (37) in Lulu Hun shoes. I have narrow feet.
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Colour Me Pretty – Lulu Hun Shoe Review Veronica & Lorena
I absolutely love a pop of colour on my feet and the Lulu Hun’s Spring/Summer collection never disappoints! As well as adding a sense of fun (and your own personality) to an outfit with accessories (see here for some inspo), you can easily brighten up your day to day wear with some fun and fabulous shoes.
I bought the gold Veronica’s last year from Lulu Hun and I was lucky enough to win the silver pair in a Collectif competition (which pop up on my previous post here). They are the most comfortable shoes – I danced all night in them at the Collectif party back in December. I do love bright, primary colours though, so when I saw these were coming in red and green too, I was absolutely delighted! I’ve obviously snapped them both up and now have all 4 – shoes for every outfit or occasion!
Lulu Hun Veronica line up! Colour me pretty Veronica circle There have been a couple of slight changes to the Veronica’s this season, one of which is the funny little hook catch which is on quite a few of the Lulu Hun range. This has been swapped out for a normal buckle and is a very welcome change as, although I didn’t mind the hook, I much prefer a buckle. The other alteration is to the footbed of the shoes which are now a fabulous floral print. I love that this pretty print peeks out from the vibrant red and green, they’re a great new design feature.
The new red and green Lulu Hun Veronica heels with floral bed and normal buckle The metallic range are £41.00 and the red and green are £44.00, all available in sizes 3-8 and available to purchase here or direct via the Lulu Hun website.
A perfect fit in my new Veronica heels I tend to match my clothes with red accessories quite a lot, so the opportunity to buy the new Lorena heels in red too, was just too tempting. I’ve always loved these fun and funky shoes with their ric rac detailing. I have the black and green pairs from last year already (seen on my previous post) and though they seem high at 4 inches, with the 5/8th platform they’re super comfortable to wear.
Lulu Hun Lorena line up Colour me pretty Lorena cirle The block heel and buckle straps make you feel very supported. How cool are these shoes?! I never want to take them off.
Wearing my new red Lorena heels They go so well with my ric rac skirt, Carrie bangles and Natalie bead sets from Collectif.
Lulu Hun Lorena heels and Collectif accessories How well do they go with my skirt?! The Lorena heels are £43.75 each, available in black, green and now red in sizes 3-8. All the pairs I bought are true to size and fit perfectly. I’m a standard 4/37 and bought my normal size.
There are so many more Lulu Hun Summer shoes I have my eyes on, but I only have one pair of feet (you know that’s not going to stop me, right?!). Enjoy brightening up your feet on grey days, dolls!
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Collectif Previews at London Edge (Part 3 AW19)
Welcome to the final instalment of the London Edge Previews! Today we’re taking a little glimpse at what this year’s Autumn Winter collection has in store for us – and with the current climate, it feels super cosy to be looking at warm woollens and sumptuous velvets!
I’ll do a proper round up of this collection much nearer launch, but for now here are a few sneak peeks to satisfy your curiosities.
As many have already seen on social media, the magnificent Pearl returns in the most gorgeous blackwatch tartan (the same one as the dress I wore to London Edge so I was perfectly matching!) with a splendid black fur trim.
Blackwatch tartan Pearl There were other pearls too, but the most striking outerwear for me was actually this beautiful full length black, velvet, cape. It has the most fabulously soft, leopard fur, lining – glamour and warmth are my favourite things combined! I love that it’s rather unassuming at first glance, but with a swish of your cape, the striking leopard print would be revealed. All the drama!
Leopard lined velvet cape There are some great themed lines coming too. Indeed, it seems like Team Collectif have heard the callings of all those Halloween babes! I know for some of you, Halloween is all year round, not just October, so you will be able to fill your boots with all the goodies to come! I love this cute tee!
Spooky Babe Tee There were lots of moons, stars, cats and black – including this dress with flocked detail and so many other amazing designs you gals are going to adore!
Flocked dress Another awesome theme coming in the Autumn will be…… Alice in Wonderland! This range is amazing and you will be all over these, I’m sure. Just look at the Claudia cape coat with the Cheshire Cat grin on the back! The toadstools are everything <3
Alice In Wonderland Claudia Cape Coat Cheshire Cat grin As well as the themed collections, we have staples coming in many more prints and shades – the knitwear is amazing and so thick and warm! This fun star print swing dress was a winner for me too. Who doesn’t love being showered with rainbow stars? Yes, please!
Star Print However, Autumn Winter usually means only one thing for me, evening dresses! Bring on the glitz and glamour! I was absolutely bowled over by the variety of occasion wear we have to look forward to (including our beloved new Trixies) – though the biggest delight for me, came from seeing the rerelease of this stunning gown, the Ingrid (seen here in Jade).
Ingrid Jade Dress This has the most beautiful draping and is such an elegant dress with a classic 30’s shape. Cut on the bias, this is very flattering for lots of ladies and I’m sure it will be just as popular again.
Ingrid Front. Photo by Collectif Clothing Ingrid – back detail (photo by Collectif Clothing) The Bright & Beautiful range didn’t disappoint with the new Astrids (which are fast becoming a favourite of mine), especially this one with flashes of electric blue on deep maroon
Bright & Beautiful Astrid And Lulu Hun also excelled – these boots will be in everyone’s baskets, I’m sure! Glittery, leopard print flocked, DM style boots. What else do you need?!
Lulu Hun Winter Boots I hope you’ve enjoyed a quick twirl around next winter’s fashions and the previous two parts of the London Edge series (here and here). While I was at the show, I asked about events, (which had been mentioned previously at the 18th birthday party), and was told that we have an awesome Summer one to look forward to (though this will be earlier rather than later), so I hope to see you all there in your new season stock for more fun and frolics!
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A Very Collectif Christmas!
Hi everyone! Hope you all had the most wonderful Christmas and a very happy New Year to you all!
I had a few gorgeous treats this year from Collectif and thought I’d share them and sizing info for you before we all hit the sales tomorrow!
Collectif Christmas Goodies! I’m not one for short jackets usually as they don’t tend to sit right on me (being half the size of a normal person!). However, the Molly jacket is absolutely amazing and I wish I’d noticed her sooner!
Molly jacket in Olive Green In a beautiful olive green, and belted with the sweetest lining, she’s a perfect fit for me – I found her true to size, however I know some ladies have to size up. I would suggest if you’re anything over the Collectif size guide then size up but otherwise it’s bang on. It has a lovely wide belt that matches and a detachable fur collar for days when you feel like being less fancy – though when are those days?! Always be fancy!
Next up is the black and white Marilu skirt which had a revamp in 2018, being a slightly different fabric to its predecessor of 2017. I much prefer the new one and it’s fully lined too which is a dream to me!
Marilu Skirt This skirt is absolutely true to size with no stretch, so again, if you are a teeny bit over the size guide, size up. Mine is in my normal size which will be perfect for me when I stop eating all the Quality Street!
The Ines Tropical Fruit Pencil dress I tried on in the summer at Camden and decided to take the Cecilia Lemons instead (another beautiful summer print!), as I didn’t think I needed 2 pencil dresses that day – but I totally regretted not picking it up at the time!
Ines Tropical Fruit Dress I was delighted to receive this frock with it’s fab fruity print and deep front pockets (I love shoving my hands in pockets – mine, obviously!). It is true to size for me and has a lovely matching belt to cinch you in.
I was also treated (no, spoilt) and given these two amazing frocks which I absolutely adore! The first of which is the Winona Slither Check Pencil Dress. Who doesn’t love a good tartan for winter? And I know the Harry Potter fans were loving the whole range.
Winona Slither The Winona dress has a pretty black collar, long sleeves (I favour longer sleeves in winter) and pockets (winner!). This is such a versatile dress – easy to dress up or down but always stylish.
The second dress I received was one I hadn’t considered before it was made in the Make A Wish print (so sparkly!) because I’d assumed the shoulders would be too high for my frame – how delighted I was to be so very wrong!
Vanessa Make A Wish Dress The Vanessa Make a Wish dress oozes sophistication and style. I loved the Make a Wish range with its shooting stars on sumptuous black velvet, but I’m unable to buy the Trixie version of this as it’s too big in the 6 for me (tip: always size down in the velvet Trixies). So I was over the moon to be able to have this print in another style, I absolutely love it! There’s plenty of stretch so it accommodates my over indulgence at Christmas and if you’re in between sizes, you’ll be fine with your normal size. This is currently out of stock online but may be available in stores. I’ll be looking out for next year’s Vanessa’s now I know what a great choice they are!
Lastly, my new Lulu Huns, which I’d been eyeballing since last year! The Mara is such a classic style and so easy to pair with everything.
Lulu Hun Mara Shoes I love the burgundy colour with red velvet trim and bow detail. I actually size down in most of my Lulu Huns and this was no exception. I have a narrow foot so find it suits me better – if you have a wider foot, go with your normal size though. I prefer to wear a lower heel in the day so these are perfect at 2 1/4 inches.
I’ll be posting pics of all of the above on my Instagram so give me a follow there if you’d like to see how they look in real life.
Which vintage inspired treats did you find under the tree? I hope you all manage to get what you want in the sale too!
