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Nautical but Nice! Meri Top and Nancy Shorts [Collectif]
A really casual outfit today as the sun’s out, so the legs are out too! I really love nautical looks which work super well with my hair (or any hair to be fair, I just really like when my bonce matches with my outfit hehe). So I’ve combined the Meri Nautical Knitted Top and Nancy Nautical Shorts for that classic sailing-inspired vibe of the 50s.
The Meri top is such a gem of a piece this season! So easy to wear and super comfortable. It’s a light knitted top with red, black and white horizontal stripes and features a gorgeous bateau neckline which is just fabulous.
There are delicately capped sleeves and these can sit on or slightly off the shoulders, however you prefer to wear it. I usually wear one on, one off to a jaunty angle! It has a knitted rib to the bottom so it can sit nicely over clothes to hip level or tucks in well too, which is how I’ve worn it.
The shorts are oozing maritime mid-century style! They’re so fun with rows of white buttons featuring red anchors.
There’s also a matching button at the back. The shorts fasten with a concealed zip at the back and the button fastens over. Such a cute detail!
There are wide, rounded, pockets to the front of the shorts, belt loops (I’ve added a belt to them in keeping with the nautical theme) and turn ups to the hems.
They’re so comfy to wear and I wasn’t sure about sizing so I tried sizing up as sometimes the waistbands on Collectif bottoms don’t stretch at all. Not the case with the Nancy Shorts though! I can get away with the bigger size as I’ve pulled the waist in with my belt, but they’re true to size and you don’t need to size up at all. They’re made from stretch cotton which has plenty of movement in them, so buy your normal size.
I just love this set together, such an easy way to get that classic nautical look with very little effort. The top is available still in all sizes (6-22) and the shorts are available in limited sizes on the Collectif website, both £35 each. There are extra sizes of the shorts available over at Rockamilly too.
For reference:
I’m 4’11” and wearing 3 1/4 inch heels. I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif clothing and wearing a 6 top in the photos and a size up (8) in the shorts.Also wearing:
Hair Flowers: Collectif Lola and previous season too
Earrings and all Bangles: Splendette
Shoes: Joe Browns
Belt: Hell Bunny -
Supplier Spotlight: Sass and Steel [inc DISCOUNT CODE]
I’ve long been an admirer of the very talented Hannah from Sass and Steel. Everything is carefully hand made and she offers a range of limited edition retro style pieces with a super edgy feel. If you have your own ideas of what you want, she’ll also commission something for you – how cool is that?!
The piece I’m wearing today is the gorgeous Rockabilly Crop Top in the ‘Candy Carnival’ print which is so much fun with it’s bright pink highlights including amazing pom pom trim and pink glitter buttons.
When it arrived, it was beautifully packaged and adorned with the classic Sass and Steel logo and glittery tissue paper – a great start!
You can see the pretty glitter button detailing here I really love the dolman style sleeves on this top and sweetheart neckline. The collar is super clever too as it folds to meet itself at the back so there’s no big collar flaps catching in your hair and feels really light to wear – genius!
Very clever detailing to the back of the neck! The other little detail I love on this top is the flash of fabric on the ties. It matches the upper section and I have a flash of blue in mine which is frikkin awesome.
I’m blown away with the quality of this item – it fits like a glove! Which, let me tell you, when you’re petite is no mean feat! There’s a fab customisation option on Hannah’s orders where you can tweak things a little if you wish. I added a couple of requests and it is an absolute dream to wear!
The patio top is such a classic 50’s look and as it’s a retro twist on this with the cropped length and cute pom pom feature, I really wanted to play up on cowgirl influences too. So I wore it with a frayed black denim skirt and black, vegan leather, western boots and accessorised with black and pink bangles.
I think it works really well but I’ll also be buying the skirt from Sass and Steel which goes with it to be all matchy matchy. It’ll also go with so many things I have in my wardrobe too and I’ll be able to wear both as separates or together which is super exciting.
I’m absolutely delighted to be able to offer an exclusive 10% off code for my readers if you quote LAPETITE10 or you can click on the link HERE to be sent straight to the shop and it already incorporates my code – clever, huh?! As a small business brand, this company doesn’t offer discount codes so this is your chance to get something with a cheeky 10% off!
There are so many other styles to choose from in sizes XXS-3XL so it’s really inclusive; some ready to ship now and others which are made to order and take around 2 weeks (incorporating any bespoke customisations you may have made too – such a great service!). Whether you’re more into the goth scene, punk, or like me, lean toward pin up vintage – there’s something to suit everyone’s style, or you can make your own!
The brand name definitely reflects Hannah to a tee – she creates really cool vintage inspired clothes which make you feel sassy and steely – I sure felt both sauntering around in my new top, I couldn’t love it more! If you use the code, I’d love to see what you buy, so comment below x
For reference:
I’m 4’11” and my measurements are 33:24:33. I’m wearing the XXS in the top above. There’s a full sizing guide on each listing and you can add your own custom requirements if needed. Use the link included above for the discount to be valid or use the code LAPETITE10.Also wearing:
Hair flowers: Blue is Collectif Lola, Pink is Miss Bella’s Blooms and Black is old high street
Sunnies: Old Collectif stock
Bangles: All Splendette
Earrings: Oh So Flamingo
Skirt: Pretty Little Thing
Boots: Zulily -
Emilia Gingham Cherries Top and Dakota Skirt [Collectif Clothing]
This adorable set was a birthday gift from a beautiful friend who knows me VERY well! What could be better than a cute frilly cropped top and swing skirt adorned in a big gingham print with scrummy cherries?! So perfect!
The Emilia Gingham Frill Top is a real darling of a little top with a frilled sweetheart neckline. I ironed down those frills to make them more uniform and set them in place.
There’s a row of domed black buttons to the front, but these don’t open. Instead it’s an elasticated back which is easy to get in and out of and adjustable straps which cross over at the back. It’s so great when adjustable straps are included with elasticated backs as they fit just about everyone. I would say it’s true to size. I’m actually wearing a size bigger than I usually wear which feels a little looser but not noticeably, especially with the straps adjusted. As it’s cropped it goes more by your bust size and as I’m almost a size 8 bust, I think that’s why it works ok for me. So I’d recommend you buy your normal size but if that isn’t available, a size up will likely work too.
The matching Dakota Gingham Cherries Skirt works so well with the top. I have the Dakota in another colour way already but this is a different fabric and much stretchier so you may be able to size down with it. There’s a buckled belt included and belt loops around the skirt which is great to keep the skirt from twisting around. There are two side pockets to the front with a fold over detail in the black trim and these are large enough to keep whatever you want (except the kitchen sink – hands usually suffice haha).
Fold over details to the pockets It has a centre back zip and it’s pretty gathered, fitting a petticoat underneath just fine. I wore a black one underneath but I’ll wear it without too.
The length is lovely and just past my knee, though bear in mind the petticoat will be lifting it a little so it’ll drop a little without one.
I absolutely love the print of kitschy red cherries over black and white gingham, giving it such a classic retro look. I was such a lucky (and spoilt) gal to receive this gorgeous set. It’s going to be super versatile too, not only wearing it as a set but wearing the top with a variety of jeans, skirts and trousers and the skirt with a range of different black, white or red tops. So many options!
The top is £27.00 and currently available in sizes 10-22 and the skirt is £49.00 and available in sizes 6, 18-22 (both available as a set, here) and sizes 8-16 available for the skirt over at SilkFred.
For Reference:
I’m 4’11” with 4 inch heels on here. I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif, but I’m wearing a size 8 in the top and a size 6 in the skirt. My measurements are 33:24:33.Also Wearing:
Hair Flowers, Earrings, Necklace and Sunnies: Old stock Collectif
Bangles: Splendette
Shoes: E5P old stock -
How Star Will You Go Dress Review [Harkel Clothing]
Something a little different to round the week off – though not too much of a stretch as I’m easily won over by atomic stars!
The How Star Will You Go dress by Harkel Clothing is a really cool little shirt dress with an all over celestial print featuring an array of bright stars and planets. It has a Peter Pan style collar which you can do up to the top if you prefer, but I like to leave shirt styles open.
It comes with its own thin blue belt but I swapped it out for a wide red one to tie in with my hair and accessories instead. You could get away with lots of belt options as there as so many colours you could pick out from the design. It also has round buttons with a moulded star shape on them which I thought was a nice feature.
It has a fitted bodice and full gathered skirt with two seam pockets which is great. Harkel don’t sell my size so I checked the sizing guide and the 8 was more of a 6-8 measurement so I took a punt. It is a little roomy on me but the good thing with shirt dresses is you can pull them in with the belt and nobody would know! It’s pretty bang on a 6-8 rather than a true 8 so I’m really chuffed to get away with it. The individual sizing charts are a really handy feature on each item. It sits just below my knees which is a good length for me. It will obviously be shorter on taller gals and in their description they note it’s aimed to be above the knee, so expect it to be cute and short if you’ve got those extra inches I don’t have hehe.
If you’re looking for some different styles to add to your wardrobe, it’s worth a look. I stay pretty much with 50’s styling but this is such an easy wear with a stand out print so it really caught my eye and I’m glad I went for it. Delivery was pretty quick.
I ordered this last month when it had 50% off and though that ship has now sailed, Harkel are always on sale and currently doing a promo with 40% off (code HAPPY40) so it’s still a good price and available currently in sizes 8-20 (no size 12’s though sorry dolls) x
Further info:
I’m 4’11” wearing 4.5 inch heels and a standard size 6 in clothing and ordered the 8 in the dress above. It’s more like a 6-8 than a true 8, a little roomy to be expected but not too much. Use the size guide on the product page to ensure you order the right size for you.Also wearing:
Splendette bangles
Orchid hairpiece from the high street
True vintage beltYou May Also Like
Collectif Pick of the Sale!
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Moxy Holiday Check Trousers Review [Collectif Clothing]
What did you manage to grab in the sale? There’s always that one item you order that you’re not sure about but think, “well, I can always send it back!”. Then it turns out to be the best thing you bought and wonder why you didn’t just go for it sooner!
For me, that’s the Moxy Holiday Check Trousers. I coveted these for ages but I just wasn’t sure because of obvious height issues for me as well as sizing concerns. They’re a brand new style so I had no point of reference about how they sized up.
They’re a wide legged trouser with an amazing large checked pattern in dark green and red with a light green background. I don’t know why, but they seemed yellow on my screen before I ordered and when they arrived, they are indeed a gorgeous soft green with no yellow whatsoever (I wouldn’t mind them in yellow though – maybe next time!). Here’s a close up of the fabric.
The fabric is actually quite stiff and thick which make them perfect for winter. There are two large pockets to the front and the thick fabric does make them stick out a little at the sides with the cut but I don’t mind this so much – especially as I love a big pocket for hand stuffing and they’re incredibly comfy!
It has a super high waistband which is fitted and fastens with a zip to the front of the trousers as well as a concealed hook and eye above it to keep them secure. You also do up two, black, covered buttons above the zip so these babies are staying put! The waistline is pointed where it meets the cute matching fabric straps and these crossover at the back. There are matching black buttons on the braces both front and back and a buckled matching belt. I’m loving these little details!
The straps have double buttons to fix them in place and, as I’m petite, I’ve used the highest button hole only to fix them and shorten the straps for my frame. I’ll hop on the sewing machine and add another button hole to the braces so I can have them both in place as they should be, but it’s not too bad without that effort. I’ll also slightly shorten them but to be honest, I was super surprised that they weren’t longer as Collectif trousers do tend to be super long. Maybe not one for the really tall gals among you but average and shorter girls will be rejoicing!
I bought my normal size and they fit great. There’s some stretch in this fun fabric which is good as I often find the waistbands are sewn in tight and don’t stretch. That’s not the case with these so if you’re in between sizes or have a big lunch, you’ll be fine!
I really like these vintage style trousers, which surprises me as I didn’t think they’d suit me at all! So if you’re like me and were wavering, I fully recommend taking the leap! They’re currently still available in all sizes from 6-22 at just £19.50 with the discount code BS50. The full price should be £55 – total bargain! x
Additional information:
I’m 4’11” wearing 4.5 inch heels and I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif.Also wearing:
Morgana top by Collectif (previous season)
Tiki earrings and Natalie necklace in green both by Collectif (last season)
Splendette bangles -
Lilla Swing Starfish Dress Review [Collectif]
As soon as I knew this dress was coming, I couldn’t wait to bag it! So the day it dropped on to the website, I bought it and it is just as good as it looks on the website, if not better!
This summery little number has the cutest bespoke, red starfish, print against a dark blue background which adds to its nautical feel. It’s such a clever design, with the full swing skirt to the bottom and a bikini top style which has scarf-like halter neck straps to tie at the back of the neck.
You might think there isn’t much support going on with this dress (which I was concerned about too) but it’s actually really supportive as the back of the dress is all joined together and features a centre back zip to get you in and out easily…..and how sweet are those starfish?!
A normal dress at the back with a zip The top is quite small though. Very small chested girls will be fine with their normal size, but anyone with some boobage will likely need to size up. I bought it in two sizes to see which suited me best. I’m a C cup and I couldn’t get the girls in my normal size, although the waist was perfect for the skirt. I don’t class myself as big chested, but when buying bikini tops I always have to size up twice to fit properly (and my normal size for the bottoms), so I had expected something similar for this style of dress. I’ve kept the size up as my boobs feel much better and aren’t squished, just sitting pretty! The waist is bigger on the size up obviously, but that’s not really an issue with the belt which cinches in – and there’s always room for seaside treats now! haha. I may take it in a smidge at the sides which is easy to do a it’s hidden under the corners of the crop top.
The belt is a lovely wide style with circular buckle, in the same vibrant red as the starfish. I love how I can be matchy-matchy with my hair hehe.
As a woman in my 40s, I was a bit dubious about the cut out triangle below the bust. Questions like, “am I too old for that?” crossed my mind for a nano-second – then I realised, sod it! You only live once and you should wear what you love, regardless of age! So here I am, belly out and strutting it and loving it! ha.
Feelin’ myself ha I’m so glad I bought it, and if you haven’t already, you really should! It’s still in the sale (here) in all sizes, down to an amazing price of £19.25 – what a steal! You won’t regret it. Shoulders back, boobs forward and rock that look!
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For reference:
I’m normally a standard size 6 in Collectif, but I’m wearing the size 8 in the photos above. I’m 4’11” and wearing 4.5 inch heels.Also wearing:
Hairflower: Collectif and high street
Bangles: Splendette and Bow & Crossbones
Earrings: Splendette
Sunnies: Collectif
Shoes: These are old faves which are no longer available -
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. -
Supplier Spotlight: Lady K Loves [Polly Jeans Review]
It’s been about a year since I first saw these jeans and started swooning over them. I’d followed the company for a good while before as they suit so many of my vintage lovin’ gals, especially the fabulous ‘Hug me Baby‘ style which makes all pear shaped beaut’s dreams come true!
But alas, being a bit vertically challenged, I rarely do well in trousers or jeans without alterations and they’re especially problematic if they’re high waisted as I just don’t have the extra torso space. So I almost fell off my chair when the awesome Lady K Loves designed the amazing Polly jeans – with a shorter rise and perfect for us petites!
If you’re not petite, but you prefer a mid or low rise jean, then this style would also be a great choice for you. I’m thrilled to finally own a pair of Polly’s in indigo which are now my wardrobe staple. I love the beautiful stitching with the sweetheart yoke on the back.
The fit is really good too. The rise is just where it should sit on my frame – instead of a few inches higher where other high waisted jeans normally sit on me (which is practically directly under my boobs – not a good look for anyone). They’re really comfortable, and I love the feel of the denim. Speaking of which, not only does LKL cater for all shapes and sizes with their range of jeans, they’re also very consious about ethical sourcing, fair trade, and providing a fabulous but sustainable, quality product. They’ve definitely hit the nail on the head with these jeans, and it feels great to support a company with such high ethical standards. You can read more about this process on their website (here).
The little details like the new label and iron on patch (which is definitely going to be added to my pair) are fab too:
An ethical label for an ethical brand <3 Can’t wait for this patch to go on! With the leg length, I bought the 27″, but when measuring them, they’re actually 28″ so were always going to be too long on me anyway as I’m a teeny 4’11” as most of you know. I’ve rolled up twice but will likely just alter them so the roll ups sit better – nothing I wouldn’t normally do for jeans/trousers, though I think I can get away with them as they are, which never happens!
The ordering process was super easy and I emailed Boss Babe, Kessie, for sizing guidance prior to ordering (there’s a great size guide on the website but I needed a little extra help). She was so lovely and helpful and made the purchase a real pleasure. Based in Bristol, she’s still hard at work sending out happy parcels from her home office to us during these weird times, which I was really thankful for. These jeans have come at the perfect time for me as I want to incorporate a more casual look to my vintage style wardrobe. I normally wear dresses, so these have become a really cool alternative for my 50’s aesthetic when I don’t feel like putting on a frock. They ooze vintage style but with the modern fit, feel great and enable me to do whatever my little heart desires.
As well a range of jeans to suit all, LKL makes limited edition tops, skirts and accessories and offers a variety of ways to pay, including Clear Pay, so you can spread the payments if needed. There are also some cheeky sale bargains in the Last Chance section which has some great offers and is worth checking out – I picked up a cute yellow top from a previous sale and was so glad I snapped it up as it didn’t come back (it really was the last chance) – so if you see something you like, grab it! Enjoy x
You May Also Like
Matalan Petite Review – Papaya April Ankle Grazer Jeans
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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 -
Adriana Top Review [Collectif Clothing]
This crop top may be small but its impact is mighty! In a gorgeous bright red, cotton, the Adriana top has halterneck straps which tie at the neck.
I love the sweetheart line and pleating details at the bust. I added the Cocktail O’clock brooch at the centre which I think adds a nice touch too – already feeling ready for Summer, despite only just dipping a toe in April!
There’s an elasticated back which makes for a comfortable fit as the shirring is super stretchy. If I could have, I would have sized down as it runs a little large on me (though anyone busty will have plenty of room so you should order your normal size). I’ll sew it in when I get to it, but I think I can get away with it as it is if I decide to be lazy.
There are matching shorts available (here), but I wore mine with high waisted trousers and jeans while it’s still a bit cooler. As a woman in my 40’s, it’s very rare for me to put my midriff on display, (especially in public, that’s usually saved just for the garden!), so I’ll probably end up wearing a loose white shirt over it, tied at the waist. Either way, it’s going to be the perfect top to wear as we heat up and will go with so many things. I had planned on maybe wearing it around the pool with some wedges – but maybe next year!
The Adriana top is £27.50 and currently available in sizes 12-22 on the Collectif website.
For reference:
Checked trousers: Collectif Clothing Bonnie Gingham trousers (sassy pants from a couple of seasons ago)
Blue jeans: Collectif Clothing Kirsty jeans (also previous season, super high waisted stretch denim)
Bangles: Bow & Crossbones (black set and blue),vintage (red)
Earrings: Collectif Clothing Tiki Earrings (red), Bow & Crossbones Double Dot Hoops (blue/yellow and red).
Hair flower and necklace: so old I can’t remember, sorry! but likely the high street many years ago.I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif and wearing size 6 in everything above.
