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Collectif Pick of the Sale!
With the January sale still in full swing and payday drawing close, it’s the perfect time to try a few pieces and save so much money! There’s still quite a lot to choose from so if you’re on a budget, or just fancy a bargain, have a look at the sales area to see what you can snag!
I usually go for dresses but these separates are such a great combo and perfect to brighten up grey days.
I’d had my eye on this yellow Maya polo top for a while and I’m so glad I have it now as it’s a great little knit and perfect for layering and then going into Spring with its 3/4 length sleeves. The buttons on the front are faux and just for decoration as they don’t open, but it adds interest to the top. It has plenty of stretch and it fits really well. There’s a v shape to the pattern on the front which you can still see when tucked in and adds a nice extra detail.
I love a really bright pop of colour (bet you couldn’t tell that!) so I paired it with the Jasmine Rainbow Wave skirt. The skirt has obligatory pockets (yay!) and the coolest of designs with its curvy colours whirling around the skirt. What’s not to love?! I added a petticoat in the photos above as it’s a full swing and has plenty of room for one underneath but in this photo, I removed the underskirt to show you there’s still a nice shape with the Jasmine just on its own.
I mixed and matched a few pieces to build a small winter sale capsule wardrobe and swapped out the polo top for the warmer Machi Wave jumper.
I sized up in the jumper but needn’t have, it’s a great fit and true to size. The custom design flows horizontally on the jumper which makes a great clash of colours with the vertical waves of the skirt – I do love a good clash!
This is a great buy and the jumper will go well with so many other things in my wardrobe so it’s a new staple!
Next up is the Atomic Harlequin Caterina Pencil Dress.
As a pattern, I absolutely adore anything harlequin although I wasn’t sure about the muted colours in this one when I first saw it launch. However, sale time is a great excuse to try things out and I’m so glad I did as the pattern is so pretty! I really love the variety of soft greens and the black and white breaks it up perfectly.
I’ve always been a fan of the shirt style Caterina and this one definitely didn’t disappoint. The buttons open at the front (no zip on this one) and it comes with a matching notched belt. It’s true to size and has some stretch in the fabric. To make it winter-friendly, I added the Kimberley Bolero (which is actually a cardigan) and this little number definitely keeps you nice and toasty. It’s super soft too and features delicate domed buttons to the front. I always size up in cardigans and did with this one too which was a perfect snuggly fit. The length is cropped to accentuate the waist and looks great on anything cinched in or high waist jeans.
All shirt styles need a good v shaped cardigan to go over for added warmth and the Kimberley fits the bill perfectly. I hope these return in more colours as I already have a few, but some brights would be amazing.
On to a dress I wouldn’t normally choose because it’s a shortie – and yes, I know that sounds odd coming from someone who’s petite! I don’t usually go for shorter lengths but the pattern on this one is super sweet with its stardust stripes and again, I wouldn’t usually go for something in reds and pinks as they clash with my hair – but I’m actually enjoying the clash and whenever I wear red, I’m always reminded I should wear more of it instead of shying away!
The Gosia Starburst Stripes Dress has a square neck and the cutest puffed and elasticated sleeves.
The skirt is full and you could fit a petticoat underneath (I’m not wearing one) but it would need to be a shorter one. There’s a zip to the back and I added a belt to cinch my waist in (the belt doesn’t come with the dress, this is from one of my other Collectif frocks). The fit is great and true to size and it even has side pockets. It’s hitting just below my knee but will be shorter on taller girls so bear that in mind.
I also tried my Kimberley on top and the sleeves fit well under it. Overall, I really like this style and it totally surprised me!
Now last but by very no means least (as it’s my favourite of them all), it’s the Blanche Chestnut Check pencil dress and I love everything about this dress!
It has a Dolores style top and the sleeves are elasticated to sit on or off the shoulders and feature signature decorative buttons. The wide belt with a circular buckle is a really nice alternative to the usual shape too.
The check is a beautiful russet combination of oranges and browns and the accents like the awesome side pockets (yes, pockets!) are edged in a deep brown. The fit is brilliant and has a centre back zip – though be warned, there is zero stretch to this fabric so if you’re in between sizes on the waist, go up a size! I’ll be dressing this one up and down throughout the season and highly recommend it. If you haven’t tried a pencil dress before – try this one! I also popped my Kimberley cardi over it to see how it fits over the sleeves and it works a treat! It looks great with the sweetheart of the Blanche peeking through and most importantly, is keeping me glamorous but WARM!
So which were your favourites, or do you have a favourite I didn’t pick? I hope you enjoyed my sale highlights and I’ll see you again soon 🙂 xx
Acknowledgements:
All items gifted by Collectif Clothing and the above is my own, honest, review of each item.Also wearing (items are my own):
An array of Splendette and Bow & Crossbones bangles
Earrings and necklaces by Collectif
Shoes by Lulu Hun and E5PYou May Also Like
How Star Will You Go Dress Review [Harkel Clothing]
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Midge Jumpsuit Set Review [Collectif Clothing]
I’ve been waiting for months for this beauty to drop onto the website so as soon as I saw it was finally released, I bagged it immediately! It arrived the very next day and was just as gorgeous as I’d hoped.
The aptly named Midge Jumpsuit Set comprises a black jumpsuit with capri trousers and removable overlay skirt. It is very Midge (from The Marvellous Mrs Maisel – who else was obsessed with that show?!) being both a classic design and super elegant. The design also echoes the chicest of them all, Grace Kelly, in To Catch A Thief.
I love the monochrome palette. I don’t really wear black during summer time but the light skirt really lifts it – though even on its own, the jumpsuit with its sleeveless halterneck style makes it a great option for warmer weather.
The halter-neck fastens at the back with two poppers and there’s a centre back zip on the jumpsuit with a hook and eye above it.The neck and shoulder lines on this jumpsuit give such a chic overall look and there are princess seams to the bodice for a tailored and fitted finish.
As a jumpsuit on its own, it works really well too.
The leg length fits well for me, though I am petite and it’s meant to be a cropped capri length, so it will be shorter on taller gals.
Straight on, it gives a lovely line and the waist sits well for that vintage feel.
The skirt is listed as white but it’s more of an off white. It has a black waistband to match the jumpsuit and ties at the front (or back or side if you prefer) to reveal the jumpsuit underneath. It’s a really versatile piece as you can wear it over lots of other outfits too (I’ll pop it over a playsuit).
I love how you can flash a little jumpsuit and swoosh around in the open skirt.
When the skirt is closed it looks more like this:
The skirt fastens with a tie which I chose to make into a bow at the front.
Size wise, the guidance on the website suggests you size down if you’re in between sizes. I bought my normal size (as there isn’t a size down) and I’m not in between sizes but I definitely would have sized down in this if I could have as it is a little too big around the sides which I’ll run down on the machine. So I would recommend sizing down for this one whether you’re in between sizes or not. There’s some stretch in the fabric too. It has quite a long rise so would be good for average/taller girls as well.
I absolutely love this set. It’s so reminiscent of 50s fashion and I feel like I’ve stepped out of Mrs Maisel’s or Grace Kelly’s set. It’s currently available in all sizes (6-22) and it’s £89 which is really reasonable for a skirt and jumpsuit combo. Until midnight tonight (26th July) you can also use code JULY10 to get £10 off at Collectif Clothing. Fingers crossed for more Maisel and Kelly inspired designs appearing in the coming seasons!
For reference:
I’m 4’11” and wearing 4 inch heels in the photos above. I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif clothes and I’m wearing my normal size above (though I recommend sizing down). My measurements are 33:24:33 if that’s helpful.Also wearing:
Sunnies: Old season Collectif
Bangles and Earrings: Splendette
Hair Flowers: High Street many moons ago
Hat: ASOS a couple of years ago
Shoes: E5P a while back -
Gemma Western Cactus Shirt [Collectif]
I swear sometimes Collectif read my mind. Lately I’ve been hankering after a good western shirt with long sleeves, and lo and behold – one appears on the website! So obviously I snapped it up and it was delivered the very next day. Superb!
The Gemma Western Cactus Shirt is made from black cotton and features a fabulous embroidered cactus design emblazoned on the front. There’s a dainty collar with piped green edges and a row of red popper style buttons.
The pattern also has western style swirls in green and to add a little sparkle, there’s studs dotted through the design which catch the light beautifully.
It has long sleeves which end with matching green faux winged cuffs and feature two, red, popper buttons. I love how it all ties in together and the green, black and red work really well together.
The shirt is a fitted style with darts for a more tailored finish. The length is great for me – enough to tuck in to high waisted bottoms or you could wear it over if you prefer (I’m a tucker inf’er). It fits perfectly and is true to size for me. The cotton is light enough to wear over Summer and I’ll be adding a cardi for Autumn. It’s one I’ll want to wear from season to season.
I wore it with a black denim mini skirt and cowboy boots to continue the western theme. I’ll also wear it with high waisted jeans, black shorts and red trousers for alternative looks.
The Gemma Shirt is available here in sizes 4-22 and costs £49.00. Are you a fan of the vintage western look?
For Reference:
I’m 4’11” and wearing 2.64” heels. I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif and wearing a size 6 in the photos above.Also wearing:
Denim Skirt: PrettyLittleThing
Boots: PU from Zulily
Hair Flower and Sunnies: Collectif previous seasons -
Jemima Cool Palm Swing Dress Review [Collectif]
I bought this gorgeous dress prior to the sale when it first launched and totally forgot to write about it, so forgive my much belated review…oops. I have previously posted about Jemimas (here and here) as the polka dot versions stole my heart and although I have a couple already in my wardrobe this cool palm print was everything and I had to have it!
Just look at that totally tropical design! What’s not to love?! It screams sun-filled paradise, and let’s be honest, we’re all dreaming of days like that at the moment.
The palm design looks fantastic against the navy background. I have a thing for gigantic leaves (my house is full of them) so walking around like one is always my first option!
The Jemima has a sweetheart neckline with wide shoulder straps (still not adjustable unfortunately, the only downside to the Jemima), a fitted bodice and full, gathered, swing skirt. Running down the centre is a row of the red buttons used on a few other designs. I don’t mind the red as it always co-ordinates with my hair, but I think brown wooden buttons would have worked better on this one (like those on the previous Kimberly) as there aren’t any other red elements to it. There isn’t a zip so this is how you get in and out, using the buttons at the front.
There’s a matching buckled belt in the same fabric which can cinch in that waist. I really love that the Jemima’s always have belts in the same fabric as the dress. They also have side seam pockets! Which is obviously a must – where would we be without pockets?! And I much prefer side seam pockets to patch, so hurrah!
I teamed it with the Collectif Jessie Palm Cardigan which works really well together as the day got cooler. The cropped cardigans from Collectif are great for these styles as they sit just above the waistline, not covering the belt so you can clearly see where your waist is defined (but stay warm).
I also paired it with green shoes and turquoise, blue and green jewellery which matched the colours in the print perfectly. Picking out the colours featured in whatever you’re wearing always makes the best accents.
Size wise, I’m wearing my usual size and again, it’s true to size for me. However, if you’re a D cup or above, you’ll likely need to size up. There isn’t any stretch to the bust so those bestowed with bounteous boobage would struggle in your normal size. It sits at the top of my calf which is a lovely length for this style of dress (it’ll obviously be shorter on taller gals).
It’s 100% cotton and feels so nice on. The sale has been raided so unfortunately you won’t find any on the Collectif site anymore but at the time of writing, there are quite a few sizes over at Succubus (a reliable Netherlands based company) if you need it as much as I did.
For reference:
I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif and wearing a size 6 in the Jemima above. I’m 4’11” and wearing 4 inch heels in the photos.Also wearing:
Cardigan: Collectif Jessie Palm (old stock)
Necklace: Collectif Natalie (old stock)
Bangles: Bow & Crossbones and Splendette
Earrings: Splendette
Shoes: E5P (old stock)
Brooch: Erstwilder
Hair flower: Collectif Lili (old stock), high street and eBay. -
Jill Rainbow Stripe Dress Review [Collectif X Modcloth]
Another day, another gloriously rainbow striped piece from the sunshine filled array of gorgeousness over at Collectif! I’ve been keeping a close eye out for the new ModCloth collaboration pieces to drop since I saw them go live at ModCloth a few weeks ago. My patience paid off when they dropped last week and I snapped up the Jill dress sharpish.
I love the shape of the Jill design – a flattering sweetheart shape to the neckline, wide pin tucked straps, a pleated skirt and THAT amazing print!
I do have a confession though – I usually steer clear of a Jill as I find the straps to be too long for me. But as soon as I saw the rainbow stripes I was ALL IN, and I’m actually super pleased I took the leap. The straps are a touch long for my body but not nearly as much as I’d expected. I had planned to pop some body tape on my shoulders to hold them in place but to my delight, I didn’t need that at all and they stayed firmly where they were meant to. So the straps are definitely workable and not to be avoided going forward (which is wonderful news as I’ve always adored the cut of this dress and there are many more Jill dresses which I’m going to need now!). I think the ModCloth version is sized a little smaller than the Mainline range which has worked in my favour.
I really like the tailored pleats on the flared skirt which make a nice change from a full circle. It’s such a classic shape and very pretty. And although it’s not a full circle, there is still plenty of room for a good swish about.
The Jill is meant to fall on the knee but I’m itty bitty so it falls below mine (which I prefer). My knees don’t often get seen but swishing around I dared to bare the hint of a knee – what a devil! haha
There’s a centre back zip for getting in and out of the dress easily and unfortunately no pockets but maybe these will appear in time (pocket lovers, I know you feel me). Made from 97% cotton, the dress is light enough for summer but the fabric isn’t at all see through, so although it’s a white dress with a diagonal print, there are no embarrassing moments stood in front of light sources! The fabric is great quality and there’s a little stretch in it too.
There’s also a matching yellow belt (sans holes but it does have belt loops and a stopper). I really like that the yellow has been picked out from the dress to accent with the belt – not least because yellow is my favourite colour but also because it’s so darned cheery! I also picked out the yellow with my necklace and hair flower, and chose to compliment the rainbow theme matching the green and yellow stripes of the dress with my heels and earrings. Plus, bangles (because we know you can never have too many of those!).
Fit wise, if you’re plus sized, be sure to check the ModCloth sizing chart (which can be found on the last pic for the dress on the website). The new ModCloth range is sizing a little differently than last year so check your measurements against the new charts. For the rest of the sizes, it’s pretty standard and I bought my normal size which fits fine for me, but as I mentioned above, does feel smaller than the Mainline sizing (which I’d tried on previously). So if you usually size down for a Jill, don’t with this one as it’s pretty true to size.
Available in ModCloth sizes 4-30, this one is priced at £93 as it’s a collaboration piece and there is another Modcloth collab Jill with a sweet lemon print which dropped at the same time (see here). If that’s a little out of budget, there are non collab Jills in other prints (here) which are priced at £55 and an array of other joyful rainbow goodies to choose from if the dress isn’t for you (here). I have my eye on a few more! Which will you go for?
For reference:
I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif Clothing and 4’11” tall (small) with 4 inch heels on here.
I’m also wearing:
Hair flower: Miss Bella’s Blooms
Bangles: Splendette and Bow & Crossbones
Necklace: Thrifted
Earrings: Collectif -
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 -
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
