• 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

  • 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: Splendette

    For 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. 

  • Demira Gingham Daisy Pencil Dress [Collectif Clothing]

    What a great new style for the Spring/Summer 2020 collection! This bloomin’ gorgeous dress is the Demira Gingham Daisy Pencil dress and is a stand out piece – radiating happy vibes wherever you wear it!

    I managed to bag it in the sale (still currently on) having ummed and ahhed over it since it launched. I absolutely love the bold, bright, print but I was a bit concerned about the higher neckline and puffed sleeves – not things I would normally go for. I almost bought the pencil skirt instead (which is also very cute) but I’m so glad I took a punt and bought the dress – it’s a triumph!

    The puffed sleeves are elasticated and actually add a sweet detail to the top of the dress which is more conservative with a round neck. They’re comfortable on the arms and not tight at all. At the back of the dress, the neckline dips into a lovely v shape and there’s a centre back zip making this easy to get in and out of.

    I found this style to be true to size, with limited stretch at the waist, so if your widest part is there, you may want to size up. It falls on my mid calf giving a great vintage feel and accentuating that wiggle when you walk!

    I wore the Demira with accents of yellow, picked out from the daisy print. This goes really well but you could pair it with white, blue or black accessories if you preferred to be matchy matchy but not so bold with yellow. 

    To get your gingham daisy fix, this dress is still currently 50% off at £26.25 (utter bargain!) and available in all sizes. If a pencil isn’t your thing, then have a look at the other items available in this design too (available here). I’m still thinking I may need a few more pieces in this print, but if you prefer spots over gingham, then Collectif have also just launched this new polka dot design! Which will you choose? x

     

    Also wearing:

    Pineapple bag and cinch belt: Collectif Clothing
    Yellow shoes and Blue shoes: Lulu Hun
    Hair flower: Miss Bella’s Blooms
    Earrings: Bow & Crossbones
    Bangles: Splendette
    Necklace: Vintage

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

     

  • Astrid Deckchair Stripe Dress [Bright & Beautiful]

    What a treat! I love a rainbow dress and this beautiful Astrid Deckchair dress was kindly gifted to me from Collectif. It’s part of the Bright & Beautiful range which is the 1960’s and 70’s inspired sister label to Collectif Clothing. The Astrid is the perfect Summer dress with it’s array of radiant stripes and lightweight rayon for feeling cool, but staying chic.  And though I don’t have a deckchair, I do have a hammock – and this dress looks amazing while taking in the rays. 

    This is such a fun dress with its striped print, but is also very elegant with a fitted bodice at the top. A trademark of Astrid dresses is they’re usually trimmed with something delicate and this one is no different, using red ric rac this time. It’s a sweet detail and matches the flowy, carefree, nature of the dress. 

    There’s a side zip to get in which is super easy and the dress feels really comfortable to wear. There are pleats on the skirt falling from your natural waistline which give the skirt an extra swooshy feel as you’re moving. I absolutely love it! The only thing it’s possibly missing is what every girl needs – pockets, but it’s such a lovely dress that I don’t even mind forgoing those.

    I find Astrids true to size and though they fall a little longer on me, I actually don’t mind because they’re so floaty. I’ll wear it with some flat summer sandals too and brighten up a (socially distanced) barbeque.

    They’re such a great style and so easy to wear, I feel like everyone needs at least one Astrid in their wardrobe – and for an instant Summer injection, this one is a great choice! There are lots of other prints too in this design if full on stripes isn’t your thang though, see here. Just add sun x

    Let’s be having you, Summer!

    Also wearing:
    Hair flower: Collectif Clothing 
    Shoes: E5P
    Bangles: Splendette
    Earrings: Bow &  Crossbones

    For reference: 
    I’m 4’11” and a standard size 6 in Collectif Clothing and Bright & Beautiful. I’m wearing 4 inch heels in some of the photos.

    This piece was gifted to me, but all my views are my own and I only ever post honest reviews.

  • Supplier Spotlight: Mod Shoes [The Angie]

    It’s a pleasure today to talk about Mod Shoes, which were established back in 2011 but I only became aware of them over the past couple of years. I followed them intently and lusted after their many gorgeous designs (have a look here, honestly they’re the cutest things ever!). Unfortunately I wasn’t able to buy as most of you know I’m vegan. So much to my delight, this year Mod Shoes have launched their very own range of vegan shoes and they are AMAZING! Could this gal be any happier? I think not. 

    If you’ve never heard of the brand before, they make their own exclusive designs with factories based in Spain and Portugal, creating ‘smart shoes for smart people’ setting themselves apart from the High Street and bargain buys. Their focus is on quality designs with influences from the 60’s, 70’s and mod era. I love modern shoes with a vintage twist and their range of retro styles have something to suit everyone.

    I was gifted The Angie in the gorgeous blue and vanilla colour way which based on an original 1960’s shoe.  The royal blue is so striking against the cream – I love it! 

    I love the little silver ball details to the ends of the laces too. Such a sweet and effective touch!

    They’re a patent style (also available as non patent) with a cream toecap and a 5cm heel making them a great choice for work or play. They also have gel cushioned inserts so comfort is definitely key and I can confirm they are really lovely to wear – you could absolutely wear them all night dancing and not feel a thing!

    They’re also really soft and flexible, not like some vegan shoes can be where they’ve rushed to get a vegan option out but the quality isn’t up to par. One of the founders of Mod Shoes is vegan and really wanted to produce a vegan range which looks and feels great and compares equally to the rest of their range. I have to say, they didn’t disappoint! They’re hands down the best vegan shoes I own. 

    The Angie is available in UK sizes 2-9 with other styles available up to size 11. The vegan range also includes the very fabulous Dusty Vee which is a version of the non vegan Dusty from their collection. The turquoise t bar pair are my favourite and it has a slightly higher heel at 8cm with the gel inserts to maintain comfort.

    All shoes are available with the option of Clearpay making it easy to pay in instalments if needed, and delivery is fast and free (over £40). 

    I think it’s important to point out that you don’t need to be vegan to buy vegan shoes – they’re just man made. So by choosing man made instead of leather occasionally, you just happen to be helping the animals too.

    Mod Shoes also offer a range of clothing and cool tights, so if you want to add some snazziness to your legs as well as your feet, you can find those here. I love all the delicate patterns and bold prints – especially as the weather has cooled again this week so tights are super handy!

    The team are really friendly and helpful too, so if you can’t find the answer to a question on the website (there is so much helpful info on there too), then drop them a line and they’ll be able to help.

    I’m utterly enamoured with The Anglie and really enjoyed the change in style frommy usual 50’s to 60’s influences. I’m off to prance around in my gorgeous new shoes now! x

     

    Full disclosure:
    I was gifted this pair as I’m now a Brand Ambassador for Mod Shoes (woohoo! lucky ole me). However, I’ve long been a fan of their shoes and only write honest reviews which are my own personal thoughts, not that of the brand. I was recommending this company a long time before I became an ambassador and will continue to do so as their products are fantastic! 

  • 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

     

  • Pinup picnic, for one [Collectif x Top Vintage Collaboration Caterina Review]

    This year we’ve been treated to another gorgeous collaboration between Top Vintage and Collectif Clothing (you can view the full Collectif Loves Top Vintage range here). There are some very cute circus prints as well as a very fabulous harlequin (which I am eyeing up but I don’t suit pale colours so I’m hoping it’ll return in a bolder colour, fingers crossed!).  Also included in the collection is this sweet little Caterina.

    The Caterina is a very popular style (you know I already have quite a few!), but this one is super special because she’s sleeveless! It’s the stuff of dreams – a sleeveless pencil Caterina. No more trying to figure out how to bunch sleeves up under fitted cardigans just smooth, smooth, lines!

    No more bumpy sleeves!

    I find I’m being drawn more and more to red clothes again. They used to be my staple as a brunette, but since I became a redhead (almost a decade ago), I always avoid red clothes thinking they’ll clash too much. Well I’m truly over that now. Maybe current world events are encouraging me to stop getting hung up on the minutiae as they don’t matter. So, I’m embracing red, clash or no clash. It’s my favourite shade – that bright pop of lipstick red.

    The fabric is cotton with a little stretch but it has a linen look and is lovely and light to wear for Summer too. As a classic 50’s shirtwaister dress, it has sweet wooden buttons running down the front (to the hip line) and these feature on the front pockets too. It has a matching belt with holes as well which is a great addition and I found it true to size for me, if a little bit generous on the hips. I’ve found a couple of the pencils are similarly sized this year. I may run it in a fraction but it gives me room for Covid essential pudding eating, so I’m not all that fussed.

    Close up details of the beautiful neckline and buttons

    I paired it with mint, but it will go well with so many other colour combinations too, I just adore anything on the turquoise scale with red. I’m currently knitting something in these shades and hadn’t realised that when I look around my home and clothes, I tend to put them together A LOT! ha

    Stay safe and I hope you can enjoy a little pinup picnic of your own in your garden or even a floor picnic in your lounge while the sun is shining. We may not be able to get together, but we can carry on looking fabulous until we do! Have a great Easter, until next time cuties x

    The Collectif Loves Top Vintage Caterina is priced at £55.00 and is available in all sizes from 6-22 on the website.  

    For Reference:

    Also Wearing:
    Cardigan: Collectif Lucy Strawberry Cardigan from a previous season (but Abigail would go so well too).
    Sunglasses, Bags and Necklace: All Collectif
    Bangles: Some vintage, mostly Bow & Crossbones
    Peep Toe Shoes: New Look (many moons ago)
    Brooch: Made by me
    Everything else – vintage/ retro bits and bobs from my house

    Stats:
    I’m a standard size 6 in Collectif clothes and I’m wearing 4 inch heels in the photos. The dress sits on my mid calf which is a perfect cut for a vintage look. You can cinch in the waist with the belt for a classic 50’s silhouette.