Round the Block

During the winter months I am rarely seen without a heeled ankle boot. From where I am sitting I can see eight pairs of black, almond-toe leather ankle boots, and that is but a sample of my expansive  collection. I have, however, reached a seasonal turning point: it's hot, hot, hot in London, and there really is no place for boots when it is above 20ºc. Also, nothing looks more confused than a sunshine yellow chiffon dress with black Chelsea boots.

I love ankle boots as they are versatile, practical and flattering. Heels are simultaneously powerful and feminine, but they must always be comfortable, for no one wants throbbing feet by lunchtime.

Behold, my spring/summer 2014 solution: the block heeled sandal. When in Barcelona for a friend's 21st earlier this year, I visited the ZARA mothership and treated myself to these tan leather strappies. Often ZARA shoes can cut feet up, but these are crafted from soft leather, making them comfy enough for everyday wear. The tan shade is totally versatile, not as harsh as black but not too girlish like nude.

My next purchase will be a black version. Though I am dreaming of the Whistles Gia style, I think I may opt for these H&M leather strappies with gold buckle detailing. Wear with structured midi skirts for an elegant city chic look.

1. ZARA tan buckled sandals in leather, £79.99 here

2. H&M imitation leather sandals with statement buckle, £24.99 here

3. H&M leather sandals with glossy heel, also available in nude with tortoiseshell heel, £39.99 here

4. Whistles Gia leather sandals in white, also in black and silver, £185 here

BEST OF THE REST

Barca Barca Take 2

If you read my previous posts, you will know that i've been a wee bit of a jet-setter and have been enjoying a week of sunbathing and Cava in lovely Barcelona. I have been twice this summer, and with good reason- if you've never been to Barca, go go go! The nightlife is beyond incredible and the city itself is beautiful with all that stunning Modernista architecture. 

The city is perfect for a city break as it has everything one wants from a cracking holiday (they even have a Topshop, just sayin'). The hotels, bars, clubs and restaurants are plentiful, and there are some truly amazing places to see. 

Katherine and I stayed in the Eixample district in a beautiful hotel just beside Hermes and around the corner from Gaudi's phenomenal Casa Battló. We felt in rather good company.

With a rooftop pool with a plush bar serving lovely bubbly, I certainly was in my element. Everyone needs a little sun now and again, eh? Doesn't look like Edinburgh/London are going to be giving me that any time soon. 

Lets Get Down in Barcelona

I'm all about spontaneity, me.

On Sunday, a friend and I are jetting off to Barcelona for five days (yes, this will be the second time i've been this summer...) to soak up a little bit of sun !

Here are my top tips for Barcelona.

If you're a local or have been there before and found some great hidden gems please do comment below and let me know- i'm dying to find some really cool places :) 

Holiday Wardrobe #6

Welcome to the SW Fashion Zara Lookbook S/S12. Apologies- I promise I shop elsewhere (sometimes)

Holiday Wardrobe #3

Yes... Most of my summer clothes are from Zara... so shoot me.

Hope you're enjoying my posts! I'm having a great time back in London (even though it is ridiculously busy- two weeks until Olympic mayhem!) as i'm working on guest editing the October issue of Company Magazine (read more about it here) which is super duper exciting. Yesterday me and the other grads styled and interviewed Fazer and i've spent today working on my feature for the issue- how very exciting!

Very much looking forward to another day at Company HQ tomorrow- I WANT TO WORK THERE SO MUCH. 

City Slickers: Barcelona

1. Susana Monaco at The Outnet £90 this cut-out tee dress is a wardrobe staple
2. Topshop £12 add interest with this beaded cuff
3. Urban Outfitters £28 contrast your jewellery with this leopard watch
4. Zara £39.99 a gorgeous bag for a city break complete with studs and tassels
5. Mango £69.99 jewel encrusted sandals add a touch of luxury to simple look

This summer I am jetting off to Barcelona, so today's City Slicker's guide is rather relevant. I've only ever been to Barcelona once before, but it is a beautiful and lively city.

Yes, we may have had our bag stolen, but it was still a lovely holiday and i'm very much looking forward to returning! As far as restaurants go, i'm not hugely clued up, but we are hoping to visit Koy Shunka- a Japanese restaurant- and a number of tapas bars to gorge on Paella and croquettas. I will be sure to post some salivating snaps after my wee break!

Unfortunately, we did not manage to book into Tickets tapas bar but if you are keen to feast on some world-class tapas i'd suggest calling up 6 months in advance. If you can be bothered. 

As far as styling goes, Barcelona is all about simple and comfortable style. This relaxed jersey dress needs little more than a few sit-ups and a deep tan (see my tanning pick here) but add a bit of sophisticated glamour with cool sandals and a gorgeous handbag.