• Makira Shoes Review [Honiara Vintage]

    If you’re not aware of Honiara Vintage yet, you’ll be forgiven as it’s a relatively new outlet from the very fabulous Charlie Stone. With a tiki twist for pin up loving, vintage style, gals, Honiara Vintage focus on vegan leather shoes for summer styling.

    I chose the Makira heels in white and it took about a week to arrive and I was especially happy to see a compostable bag included for any returns too. As well as being kind to animals, they’re also being kind to the planet 💚

    The packaging is really lovely and feels special with a branded box and dust bag, which features a pink ribbon closure. Both shoes are then in individual dust bags too so your shoes arrive perfect and well cared for during transit.

    Upon opening the bag, you’ll let out a little squeal with delight as your new pin up shoes emerge. They are absolutely gorgeous! I really love the diamond lattice details on the Makira which really emulates the 50s style of shoe.

    Also note the close up of the foot bed in this photo which is super cushioned. It’s honestly the most comfortable summer heel I’ve worn. This is a classic feature in Charlie Stone collections and it’s great that they’ve continued to think about comfort for summer wear too. I could happily wear these all day and night and for anyone that dances, these are the shoes for you! The 2.5 inch heel makes it very easy to wear too. They’re low enough to be practical but high enough to add a little spring in your step and elongate your legs in your outfits for that perfect pin up look.

    The strap is a quick release style; lifting it up easily over the hook to get in and out of without having to do the buckle up. This style of closure is great when you’re in the cutest wiggle dress but can’t actually bend down (oh yes, I’ve been there!), or if you have disabilities/arthritis issues it’s super practical too.

    Trying them on for the first time, it felt like my foot slipped into Cinderella’s shoes – the perfect fit! They feel really good on, so incredibly comfortable and as I chose white, they’ll go with so many of my outfits. Size wise, be aware that this is a style which comes up large and is suited to regular/wide feet. I have quite a narrow foot so following the guide on the website and with help from Honiara Vintage too, we decided a size down would work well for me, which was absolutely spot on as the fit is really good. To ensure you order the correct size, check the sizing guide or contact Honiara Vintage and they’ll recommend the best size for you. 

    I love a peep toe sandal and combined with the security of a small strap, they’ll be a staple for my summer outfits. I wore a palm tree playsuit to add some tiki inspired, pinup, vibes and they work so well together.

    What I love most is that they’re so practical and comfortable but delicate and daintily styled too. The strap sits just low enough to highlight the curve of your ankle whereas a lot of sandal straps completely cover this area which makes your legs look smaller (especially if you’re of a petite nature). 

    As well as white, this style is also available in red, gold and black and cost £59 with FREE worldwide shipping! I think I may need every colour haha and look forward to wearing the Makira at every opportunity this summer! x

     

     

    For reference:
    I’m a size 4 (37) in shoes normally but the above are a size 3 (36). 

    Disclaimer:
    These shoes were gifted to me as a Brand Ambassador for Honiara Vintage. I only give honest reviews and all thoughts shared about the product are my own. 

    Also wearing:
    Mahina Playsuit, Sunnies and Hair Flowers – Collectif Clothing (previous season stock)
    Bangles – Splendette

  • Hatches and Ribbons with Judy and Tess [Collectif Clothing]

    I’d like to introduce you to a few new gal pals. Judy and Tess. New this season from the Collectif Clothing Spring/Summer 2020 collection, are these gorgeous vintage inspired beauties. They really are truly reminiscent of the period too with their prints and styling. I just adore them.

    So first up we have Tess, which is a pencil style featuring two, large, front pockets, a centre back zip and comes with a matching fabric belt (which I’ve tied at the front in a bow).

    I’m in love with the bespoke hatch check print in navy, gold and white. The print is absolutely spot on for the era. I had earmarked this piece as my ‘must have’ this season and I wasn’t disappointed!

    The neckline is cut straight across which isn’t my usual style but I really like it on this dress. The hip area is quite wide compared to the bust but it’s pretty true to size apart from that, especially on the waist and bust. The length is good, sitting just below midcalf, giving a true vintage feel. I like it when my dresses still cover my knees when I’m sat down, which would have been a necessity for propriety back in the day.

    Next, in the same fabric, is the Judy Hatch Check Dress. She’s a swing style with a fabulously fifties, wide, collar and a great addition to the shirtwaister styles (which I have a particular penchant for).

    There’s a gathered skirt with pockets and buttons to the front. I’ve also added the fabric belt from my Tess to the waist as I felt it needed pulling in (it doesn’t come with a belt). The wide sleeves are typically 50s with their overhangs and turn ups.

    Without belt

    It’s longer than I usually wear but I quite like the length so I won’t be making any alterations. It sits at my lower calf but should be below the knee for those that are average height. I found it came up rather large, so would advise sizing down if you want a fitted look (or if you’re blessed up top, it will be perfect for you in your normal size). I definitely feel like a 50’s housewife in this style, it’s the perfect day dress.

    Finally we have Judy, the Ribbon Check Pencil Dress which is our last member of the vintage girl gang today.

    In the same style as the shirtwaister dress, with buttons to the front and open collar, this Judy is a fitted, pencil option, with a lovely nipped in waist and a very mid century marvellous bespoke print of navy and yellow ribbons over ivory cotton sateen. Another fabulous print which is so in keeping with the true vintage vibes which make me swoon.

    This version is much more true to size. You may even need to size up if you’re particularly busty as the waist and bust don’t stretch much beyond the Collectif size chart so check your measurements. It’s a great cut for me, sitting at my mid calf. The perfect Spring dress for running errands or lunching with your girls.

    I’ll be posting more new season goodies next time (subscribe below to be informed of new posts) but for now, I hope you’ve enjoyed a little look at these mid century marvels. Everything is available in all sizes (6-22) on the website.

    Also wearing:
    Dresses: Collectif Clothing
    Necklace: Collectif Clothing
    Earrings and Bangles: Splendette
    Shoes: E5P from years ago

    For reference, I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif. I’m 4’11 and wearing 4 inch heels.