• Kimberly Cherry Swing Dress Review [Collectif]

    Happy August Bank Holiday, guys! Hope you’re spending the day doing something wonderful, or just having a well earned rest. I’m enjoying the last of the Summer sun and looking at the Kimberly Mini Cherries dress today which I managed to nab in the first flourish of the sale. I had meant to buy this dress when it was first released but it totally slipped my mind as I was waiting for other things to drop too so I sadly missed it. In the sale, it was only available in a size 8 and though it was OK with a size up (but quite roomy on the bust for me), I had regrets that I hadn’t bought my normal size way back when. However, within a week, my normal size suddenly appeared as though manna from heaven, so I was able to return the 8 and purchase the 6. I’m so glad I did as it’s such a great fit and perfectly true to size.

    I have previously talked about the Kimberly design when she first launched (here), and I’m so glad it returned this year with some amazing patterns as it’s such an easy summer dress to pull on and always feel fabulous. I especially love this cherry design though, the embroidered cherries are super cute and really pop against the black.

    There’s a sweetheart neckline with wide’ish and adjustable straps, elasticated shirring to the back which makes it super comfortable and stretchy, and a side zip. I also think the colourful red buttons are a really sweet touch.

    The dress is made from 100% cotton and falls below the knee. The patch pockets are super handy for popping summer essentials in (or hands when you’re trying not to touch your face!).

    Unfortunately during sale times, things go quickly and this is no longer available from the Collectif website anymore (though they do have some other Kimberlys in different prints). However, it is still available in selected sizes from Silk Fred for £28.50 with free delivery which ships direct from Collectif, so you still have the great service from Collectif, but none of the shipping costs! so grab one before they’re gone!

     

    For reference:
    I’m 4’11” and wearing 3.5 inch wedge heels.  I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif and wearing a 6 in the photos.

    Also wearing:
    Bangles: Splendette and Bow & Crossbones
    Earrings: Splendette
    Shoes: Lulu Hun Kathleen 
    Sunnies: Collectif old season
    Hair flower: High street years ago
    Necklace: Thrifted vintage

  • 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

  • Crazy for Coloko! Shoe Review

    I’m a bit of an Imelda Marcos if truth be told. I have hundreds of pairs of shoes but only one pair of feet – go figure! But I can never resist a cute pair of shoes and these low flats by Coloko tick all the boxes! I’d been wanting a pair of jelly style shoes since forever, but everything I’d previously seen reminded me too much of actually wearing jelly shoes to school in the 80’s! So I was delighted to finally find a pair that feel more grown up, but fun at the same time.

    The Blossom style I chose is an open shoe with covered heel and toe, featuring a double bow on top. I opted for the blue and it has a speckled effect (almost like glitter but it isn’t at all shiny) and a small heel of 15mm making them super comfortable to walk around in for long periods.

    Coloko Blossom side and sole

    The footbed has a really sweet pattern on it too, as well as the sole of the shoe – they haven’t forgotten about keeping things pretty when they’re not on your feet, which I love (and think of all the cute patterns you’ll leave while walking on the beach!).

    Coloko Blossom Footbed

    I was a bit concerned about them being open and thought they may slip on and off my heel, but they’re a perfect fit and don’t do that at all. I would say I’m a small 4 (37) and they’re true to size.

    Recently I’ve been trying to make better choices for the planet, so being a vegan friendly product is such a plus too. The packaging is fully recyclable as well (though I tend to keep all the boxes my shoes come in so they don’t get dusty).

    If you sign up to their newsletter there’s a 15% off code for orders and delivery is free over £30. They have other ballerina flats and sandals too, which are obviously going to be next on my list!