NYE Knockout

1. Whistles Rivington Pouch, £85.00 here
2. River Island 70s chiffon jumpsuit, £60.00 here
3. Jimmy Choo Andie sunglasses, £279.00 here
4. Tom Ford Lips & Boys lipstick in Austin, £27.00 here
5. River Island tassel earrings, £10.00, sold out in black, but available in red here
6. New Look black textured faux fur jacket, £49.00 here
7. Topshop dreamy chain-embellished sandals, £68.00 here

Nobody wants a normcore NYE outfit. Nobody I know, at least. NYE is all about pulling out all the stops, looking flawless and drinking way too much Champagne/Prosecco/Cava/ English sparkling (delete as appropriate). Start as you mean to continue, they say.

This year, the best bet is to take your cue from Studio 54. Jumpsuits slit to the navel, backless lamé halternecks and a hella lot of sequins – whatever your plans, the dress code has to be pure, unadulterated glamour. We're talking Hot Stuff, baby, and River Island's daring, peek-a-boo chiffon jumpsuit is just the ticket.

Go all-out on the styling front with Topshop's too-fabulous-for-words sandals – decked out with chains to shimmer as you shimmy – New Look's fluffy evening jacket and Jimmy Choo's divine Andie sunglasses – trust me, the minute you try them on you'll be smitten.

Finish with a touch of Tom Ford Lips & Boys lipstick. This shade, Austin, is the perfect rose-tinted neutral to offset a sapphire smokey eye, plus it's perfectly proportioned to pop in your Whistles leopard-print clutch.

Now all that's left to do is shake your groove thang.

Flaring Up

1. Wishbone necklace by Astrid & Miyu – £29.00 here
2. Gold initial rings by Astrid & Miyu – £39.00 here
3. Sophie Hulme Bordeaux cross-body bag – £425.00 here
4. Topshop Premium Prowl boots – £120.00 here
5. Topshop cropped shirt – £36.00 here
6. Miss Selfridge skinny flared jeans – £38.00 here

I'm a denim devotee. Monday to Sunday, season to season, I rarely stray from my skinny jean rotation: Moto Leighs one day, Hollister Ryans the next (don't judge - they are actually not as bad as the so-called "models" would have you think) and then back to my go-to Abercrombie & Fitch pair. The sartorial equivalent of a big ole' bowl of mac'n'cheese, skinnies are my comfort, despite being nigh-on impossible to remove in a remotely elegant, or sexy, manner. Just do the skinny shimmy or shake 'em off if you're feeling Swift-y.

Back to the matter at hand: denim. This season is all about the stuff– be it Alexa Chung for AG's delectable white dungaree dress or Victoria Victoria Beckham's chic flared mini, the workaday fabric is back on the sartorial agenda for SS15, and it's looking rather foxy. Inspired by the changing demands of their ready-to-wear clientele, designers took note, debuting an array of dressed-up denim pieces. Stella McCartney ticked off two trends in one, whipping hers into utilitarian overalls, while Burberry Prorsum took the perennial jean jacket up a notch or two with exquisite tailoring and tactile trimmings. The catwalk has spoken: it's time to take your denim in a new direction.

How-To: Look Hot in Culottes

1. M&S... Is that you? This fine knit cropped sweater from the SS14 collection at M&S is undoubtedly one of their standout fashion-forward staples of the season. At £35, this tres chic transitional gem hits stores in December. Shop their knockout knits here.

2. Five Gold Rings? Just one shall suffice! This antique-look ring from ASOS certainly belies it's £15 price-tag. Dotted with clear glass stones, this delicately elegant ring is a worthwhile midweek treat. (And while ASOS have 20% for students it would be rude not to buy everything.)

3. Join the J-Crew! This month saw American label J Crew's arrival in London, and what better excuse to pop this very versatile crystal necklace on your Christmas list. What better to luxe up your obligatory Christmas knit? At £98 it is the ideal sumptuous stocking-filler. 

4. Cool Kid Culottes. We all know that culottes are a huge trend for SS14, but it goes without saying that you ought to approach this skirt/short hybrid with caution. If you get the right pair, however, contemporary culottes can actually look pretty, well, hot. In floaty crepe, this M&S interpretation is sure to fly off the shelves when it hits stores next year (£45). Style as you would a midi-skirt and make sure you are never without a slick cigarette heel.  

5. Belle of Belgravia. The Kurt Geiger London B Series has been a real hit with the editorial elite, but my personal pick have to be the slick, simple Belgravia sandals. This season they are available in glossy nude, burgundy and black, and for SS14 they have been pimped up by punchy prints. And B-fore I forget (sorry) the B Series is still going strong for Spring, with Kurt Geiger London debuting the B Handbags, each one decorated with the signature golden tubes. The timeless nude style is £240 and worth every penny.

Back to School Treats at Topshop

  

Back to university this week? Soften the blow with Topshop's tempting 20% discount! With a wealth of delectable coats, glossy leathers and juicy jewel brights, Topshop's AW13 collection is certain to lift your mood post lecture.

Here are my super chic picks to tempt you away from your textbooks for a moment. With the 20% offer ending this evening, you better get your skates on!

I apologise for offering you yet another means of procrastination...

NOUVEAU NEUTRALS

1. This beautiful croc-effect leather holdall is the ideal size for weekend excursions. Top quality and ultra-practical, this bag is a fashion student saviour. 

2. A silver leather t-shirt? Why not! High shine metallics are going nowhere for SS14, so keep ahead of the curve with this genuine leather t-shirt in mirror shine metallic. 

3. A classic camel coat will never date. This woolen double breasted style is great for layering over knitwear come the chilly months.

4. A budget friendly take on the Isabel Marant shearling styles, this sweet fluffy biker jacket in off-white is a fabulous little jacket for work or play. 

5. This premium statement necklace is a great term one treat.

6. A 20% discount is a fabulous excuse to indulge in luxury, boutique pieces. This satin shirt is a sleek update on a simple cream blouse. 

7. A chunky silver chain bracelet is a minimal detail with maximum impact.

8. A perfect everyday nude with a subtle blush undertone, this creamy lipstick from Topshop Beauty is a cheap and cheerful make-up bag essential. 

SHOP BELOW: 

 

JEWEL PURPOSE

1. This tomato red oversized coat is sure to sell out soon- get it before it goes. Wear with soft neutral tones and bold monochromatic pieces to let the colour pop. 

2. I am smitten with this smart satin skirt, also available in glossy navy. A delicious emerald shade with a subtle sheen, this colour is fabulous for the festive season. 

3. In magenta suede, these heeled slippers are a luxurious update on the colour pop court.

4. Tag bracelets are a must have this season, and this gilded style is minimally modern. Wear with a chunky silver chain bracelet to clash your metals like a cool kid. 

5. In cheetah print suede, these striking heels are perfect with colour pop separates. They are also sure to stand the test of time- prints are going nowhere for SS14 so go wild now. 

6. A directional take on the silk shirt dress, straight from the AW13 Unique catwalk, the 20% student discount at Topshop makes this luxury number a little more accessible. Wear with burgundy accents to enhance the icy shade. 

SHOP BELOW:  

London Fashion Week SS14: Trend Summary

I don't know if you've noticed, but this season I have been pretty quiet on the Fashion Week front. However, if you are feeling a need to swot up on the SS14 trends, check out my LFW summary over on SUITCASE magazine and The Huffington Post.

I wrote these on behalf of Serena Guen, editor and founder of SUITCASE magazine. SUITCASE magazine, if you didn't know, is everything that is right with magazines at the moment. It is stylish, slick, approachable and directional- just like its cool-kid readers. You can buy an issue here or you can check out the online content here.

I hope you like my LFW Summary, and any comments are more than welcome!

Friday Fashion Treats

I must apologise that I have been so absent from my blog of late. I have been interning and moving, so the blog has gone a tad quiet.

I have also been without internet which makes life pretty difficult for a blogger.

Alas, I am back and felt I should share with you some glorious end of week treats to tempt you away from your pressing Friday evening work.

1. Every time Bijoux Bazaar gets a new drop, I notice a sudden drop in my bank balance. Anyone else feel this knock-on effect? This dove grey and crystal MANHATTAN style is the latest piece to catch my eye, and I am terribly worried it will sell out very soon. It is the perfect piece to throw over a casual sweater dress, or to add a healthy bit of chic to your LBD. It is a great buy... but please don't all buy one. Leave one for me, yes?

2. I have fallen hard for these burgundy velvet Hoxton sandals from ASOS. Velvet is so very decadent and elegant, and this rich colour just exudes opulent allure. They are the perfect shoes to buy in the run up to the party season.

3. A slip dress is foolproof for a Friday night, and this metallic one is a real dazzler. It's so 90s Kate Moss it hurts, and the silver sheen is perfect for both AW13 and SS14. It's a knockout. Sadly most small sizes are gone, but it will work on anyone.

4. This nail polish by Seche, also at ASOS is the perfect regal raspberry shade to compliment these killer ASOS heels.

What a day for a Bright Wedding

From tasteful tea parties through to sun drenched days at the beach, Summer throws up all sorts of delights particularly in a sartorial sense.

However, as far as occasionwear goes, things aren't always as simple as throwing on a silky slip dress and chunky wooden wedges, and this certainly will not suffice for a sunny day wedding.

The trickiest of Summertime soirees by a country mile, choosing a suitable outfit as a wedding guest is never easy. The best way to go about it, though, is to find a dazzling but demure dress that you can really personalise with accessories to make it your own. 

Opt for a subtle neutral shade that will carry you through the wedding season and an elegant and ethereal style that will befit the occasion.

Then really go to town on the accessories... I like this unexpected flash of neon.

1. I am a statement necklace fiend and this new one from Freedom at Topshop has just made it on to my must-have list for Summer. Paired with this blush shade it certainly provides a punchy pop of colour. It is £30 here. 

2. This wrap dress from Topshop is available in a selection of washed pastel shades and makes for a fabulous Summer party staple. An elegant length with a balletic swishy skirt and flattering pleat detail at the waist- this dress is fantastic for showing off your figure while still leaving plenty to the imagination. The best part? It is only £65 here. 

3. Accessorize have really crept up my high street radar of late. With directional perspex clutches, Shourouk-esque fluoro jewellery and trinkety treasures, it is little wonder that Accessorize have got me questioning my infatuation with the one and only Zara *. This vibrant coral lace detail box clutch is a punchy alternative to the classic neutrals and metallics that are often common place at weddings. It is limited edition so do get your skates on ladies- it is £35 here.  

4. Finding striking shoes on the high street is not always easy, but these vivid lime heels from River Island are striking to say the very least. A slick sandal complete with pretty laser cut detailing, I love the juxtaposition between this ethereal dress and the fierce fluoro heels. They are £65 here. 

5. Topshop nail polishes are always the most deliciously tempting colours and this zingy Venus Fly Trap number is just divine for Summer.  A snip at £5 here, it'd be rude not to, non?

6. Something a little brighter, this glorious neon Bottle Service shade from Essie is sure to put a smile on your face. 

7. Yet another sweetie, this Nails Inc limited edition Summer shade is as yummy as the ice cream sundae on the glossy bottletop. Chelsea Physic Garden is a pastel blue that is sure to compliment sun-kissed Summer skin.

8. You are probably wondering why I featured three nail polishes, but I promise I've not completely lost my marbles. When I spotted these Topshop nail art brushes (£10 for the set here), I knew I had to share them with you guys. Nail art can look so amazing, particularly in these juicy Summer shades. If you need some inspiration, check out my post here or Mara Hoffman's little competition here. 

* I still love you Zara... I think we need some time apart. It's not you, it's me... And my bank balance.

Friday Flirtations!

Smile girls- it's Friday!

I have been super duper busy of late, but I just thought i'd share with you these divine underwear sets from Topshop which I have been very naughty and snapped up this week.

I don't think there are many things in life more indulgent than gorgeous lingerie. I feel it is the perfect way to treat yourself without spending too much money.

New pretty lingerie + a gorgeous bottle of champagne + yummy Laura Mercier body soufflé = unparalleled happiness.

These sets are wonderful value and just gorgeous for showing off under one of Topshop's signature silky camisoles. Pair with super skinny jeans and heels for a dinner date look that is pretty but still elegant.

Go on ladies, treat yourself. It has been a rather long week!

1. This balconette bra is wonderfully flattering, complete with a little flourish of double eyelash mint lace against a cream background. It is £18 here.

2. For something even prettier, opt for this unpadded lace bra with soft lace detailing and flirty bow detail. It is also £18 here.

3. The matching briefs are £8 here.

4. The matching thong is £8 here. 

Graphic and Kaleidoscopic

1. I love browsing Atelier-To-Go for the most exciting luxury labels and the freshest edit of the moment, and their latest drop from Rebecca Minkoff is worth a peek. This bright yellow Markey oversized clutch has been a huge hit at the office, and I have certainly got my eye on it. High quality leather with edgy zip detailing, this punchy piece is a unique and practical pop of colour for the season ahead. You can purchase it here for £243.

2. I am always on the look out for exciting jewellery labels to satisfy my sparkle cravings, and Joomi Lim jewellery is my new favourite. Available in Liberty and online here, New York label Joomi Lim's jewellery marries twinkling Swarovski crystals with futuristic neon accents and slightly punky detailing. This  delightful necklace from the Let Them Eat Cake collection would be the perfect way to pep up a simple outfit or add a touch of gloss to your failsafe black dress. Follow them on twitter @JoomiLim 

3. I am a sucker for Essie nail polishes and their Spring 2013 collection is yummy to say the least. Check out the stunning shades here for some Summer sun inspiration. My pick has to be the fresh marine shade, charmingly titled Avenue Maintain, which is an uplifting sunny day treat- a pretty Parisian blue. You can shop them here for £9.95.

4. Zara's shoes really are bang on this season and I was pretty much spoilt for choice when putting together this collage. These cobalt strappies are simple, minimal and elegant but still punchy enough to make an impact. They are a great heel height as well for daytime, while the open sandal style is ideal for the warmer months. Check them out here.

5. Oops i've been rather naughty and have spent yet MORE money. This week I treated myself to not one, not two but three silky spaghetti strap camisoles from Topshop. I wear creamy camis all the time so it would have been rude not to treat myself to this infinitely versatile style from good old Toppers- a snip at just £18 here. I love these slouchy tops worn with a really pretty bra (Marks & Spencer have some delicious macaroon shade lingerie coming in this season- sneak peek here but post will follow), super skinny jeans and heels- perfect for a relaxed first date. 

6. When I laid eyes on this Clover Canyon skirt I was torn. It's so bold, so statement and so NOT me, but the more I see it the more I love it and I am now a little bit obsessed. It doesn't look it, but this neoprene skirt is ultra flattering, clinging softly to the hips for a sexy but fun aesthetic with a futuristic and flamboyant floral. A totally reasonable £175 here, this sculpting skirt is a hypnotic Summer hit.I love Californian label Clover Canyon, one of British Vogue's labels to watch, and we have such a delicious collection at Atelier-To-Go here. 

FutureFab

Today I have submitted my LCF project for the term- yay! Future based, I felt it all too apt to post this lovely Topshop Unique dress which just exudes a space age sex appeal. Who knew there was such a thing?

1. I know it's not a handcuff... But it really looks like one... This Zara "Bracelet" clutch is a fabulous update on the classic black pouch clutch with a directional silver frame and silver cuff detailing. It would look so great with this organza panelled dress.

2. I adore these Zara peep-toe ankle strap pumps. In glossy mirror metallic silver, these sandals are futuristic and comfortable and look so high end.

3. My favourite dress on the Topshop site at the moment, this Topshop Unique dress with sheer organza panelling is fresh and modern and looks wonderful with silver accents.

4. For a luxe touch, add this MAWI pewter honeycomb cuff with bold gem detailing.

5. Midi rings are back in a big way and these £6.50 rings from Topshop are a cheap and cheerful way to tap into the trend.

6. In terms of beauty, take a look at my LFW beauty post for some inspiration and slick back your hair with some glossy gel like this one from Catwalk by TIGI. 

Hey, Hot Stuff

So it's bloody freezing again... Just when I thought I was okay to go out in ballet pumps, to dance into spring in my balletic maxiskirts and cycle around London with flowers in my hair, the temperature plummets below zero and I once again forget what my hands feel like.

(Maybe i've not quite braved the maxis and hippy cycling, but I have worn ballet pumps, okay?)

Anyway, I thought that i'd try and keep my spirits up by posting this bold and exciting little dream outfit of mine, boasting the most sunny colours imaginable. I'll take that Sophie Hulme handbag and these J Brand jeans now, please.

1. A perfect coral pout will never go amiss during spring, and I love this shade by MAC. I picked this up in a MAC goodie bag but passed it onto a friend as coral lippy doesn't tend to suit me, but this Vegas Volt lipstick is a great shade for warmer skintones, not pasty Scottish birds like me.

2. Aaah The Kooples, someone tear me away! This little lace trim camisole from the new collection at The Kooples is top of my new season wishlist, purely for it is so very versatile. Perfect with little denim shorts or with distressed skinny jeans, this is a little gem right here (£65) 

3. When we first shot these jeans at Atelier-To-Go, I think I fell a little bit in love. Dishevelled denim at it's most stylish, these J Brand 620 Skinnies in Revenge are the most wonderfully soft blend and they fit a dream. J Brand skinnies are a modern classic... If only I could justify treating myself!

4. You probably all know that i'm a statement jewellery obsessive, and this necklace from Jolita has been on my radar for a little while now. It is coming soon, but will retail at £480. Featuring a rainbow of  acid bright matte gems in a bold collar style, this necklace marries together all these warm shades for a lively look that exudes modern style.

5. I have been loving Sophie Hulme handbags for a good while now, and this orange number is certainly a new favourite. Around the £400 mark, these handbags aren't ludicrously expensive, but they are beautifully made and totally timeless. This soft apricot shade is bang on trend for spring and also looks rather delicious with this particular outfit.

6. "Aw, Topshop have so many nice wooden shoes at the moment"

These words perplexed my flatmates a little bit earlier this evening, but they'll know what I mean if they take a look at this post. The wooden wedges in at Topshop for Spring at just gorgeous, and I am particularly drawn to these clompy but cool wedges in a soft sandy suede. The perfect neutral to balance the bold shades in the rest of this outfit.

7. Last but not least, make like Rosie Huntington Whiteley in a crisp red jacket, like this little number from The Kooples. In a corally red, this slick tailored jacket is a great buy and will see you through season upon season... Okay, maybe not, but it will look fit this season. Try with a cute creamy lace dress for a modern look. 

A Spring Fling

1. Everybody say HEY to the bag of my dreams. This Prada tote in clay grey leather has overtaken the navy Céline in the dreamy bag stakes... It is just such a beautiful neutral, a lovely alternative to black or tan, and is just divine. I want it so much but I can't seem to find that spare £1290, did anyone see where I left it?

2. This lemon yellow cropped sweater from Topshop is a SS13 must have. While the colour may not be for everyone, it was a huge hit at the Balenciaga SS13 show (see my new season references here) and looks gorgeous with a geometric black and white print. Wear this chunky sweater (£30) now with a long skirt and boots, and channel with a flirty mini come spring... If it ever arrives, of course.

3. This Accessorize necklace is such a lovely way to instantly update your look. The turquoise shade will lift neutral pieces to new heights, but it is also a great colour to make other brights sing- especially this zesty yellow. Shades of marine are going to be a huge hit for spring, so this is a great way to get ahead without feeling like you've splurged. It also has an alluring Elizabeth Taylor vibe which certainly belies it's £15 price-tag.

4. Any excuse for a new accessory, eh? Ever since my friend Nicole pointed me in the direction of the Kate Spade store in Westfield, I have been smitten with this bow-detail iPhone case. It is around £30 but is such a lovely way to treat yourself on pay day, not to mention a great way to lift your spirits in this horrible, horrible snow.

5. I am in love with these new season Kurt Geiger ELLA shoes. While white shoes may have horrible connotations of fake tan, Malibu and bleached hair (and no that is NOT a description of my Friday night look), in recent years they have been given a sartorial update and have become a beacon of modern elegance. Just ask Sarah Harris, the incredible fashion features writer at British Vogue, who wrote a great piece a few issues back about why white stilettos were her new season must have. If the Vogue girls are doing it, why shant we? White shoes are actually rather chic and lend a contemporary and fresh edge to everything from simple skinnies to little black dresses. These block heel shoes from Kurt Geiger (at £195) are just the ticket and I really rather fancy a pair.

6. My latest purchase is this flirty little miniskirt from Topshop, which I initially bought as a piece for work, but have unfortunately been very short of opportunities in which to brave the opaques. I am dotty for this miniskirt (£22) which looks fun worn with a little white crop top (channelling Balenciaga the very best I can) or with a crisp white shirt tucked in. It also looks playful and modern when paired with bold brights like this sherbet sweet sweater.

7. This is a classic nude polish from Nails Inc which has a soft caramel tone to it. Basil Street (£11) is a warm and elegant shade which goes with everything yet looks particularly delicious when paired with zingy aqua.

8. In time for last summer, I featured these fabulous nude and neon nails by Nails Inc, and I felt that they would look particularly fab with this look, as a way of marrying in the cyan blue. Simply paint the base of your in the afore mentioned Basil Street (two coats), then leave to dry before applying a french manicure sticker to the nail and painting the tip in this refreshing Pool Party shade from Topshop. Simple and quirky nail art that is sure to put a smile on your face.

Jingle and Mingle

1. Candy Cane minty lip gloss by Philosophy
2. Once Bitten Twice Shy t-shirt £90 by Markus Lupfer
3. My favourite super-skinny jeans from Topshop £38
4. Wonderful rich crimson lipstick from Topshop (in Hazard) £8
5. The cutest little ring ever by Alex Monroe £180
6. I simply adore these Jingle Bell Dolly heels from Charlotte Olympia £625
7. This Gagarin cuff at ATELIER-TO-GO is such a lovely piece by Lara Bohinc £680

1. These Topshop Leigh jeans in bone are my latest purchase and I simply can't wait to wear them! £38
2. This Love ring by Zoe & Morgan is just adorable £99
3. This Céline Dion tee from Browns is brilliant- and a bargain! £30
4. Another fabulous pair of heels from Charlotte Olympia, these Kiss Me Dolly heels will have them lining up under the mistletoe! £625
5. I love this NARS lipstick in Jungle Fever- a classic pillarbox red that is so very festive
6. Layer up your lipstick with this almost patent Paul & Joe Lip Lacquer in 09 - the perfect present
7. Finish off the look with a gorgeously luscious chain-detail clutch from my beloved Zara £79.99  

Wild Thaaang.

Christmas is just around the corner, so I thought i'd do a little outfit post- this look is the perfect understated look for Christmas cocktails... Just be careful on the ice with these fabulous Zara booties, okay?!

1. This little Topshop camisole is my new hero piece- it is flattering, pretty and glamourous with a lovely lacy back. On top of it all, it's got a double-layered front to avoid an embarrassing bra clash! I love it tucked into high waisted jeans/shorts, or worn loose over leather leggings (try Miss Selfridge for a great pair at just £18) This little beauty will set you back a rather reasonable £28.

2. Psssst! The Kooples have their sale on- get in line! I absolutely adore The Kooples, particularly their razor sharp tailoring. They have some gorgeous pieces reduced in their latest sale including this perfect black jacket and a slightly more festive offering with a gold leather collar- snazzy! This lovely jacket- which is a real winner in cost per wear terms is reduced to £238. 

3. I am a firm believer that when Christmas shopping, one really must have the "one for you, one for me" approach. After buying some Christmas cards in Paperchase, I felt it only fair that I had a little gander round Miss Selfridge. I then saw these studded super stretch jeans and accidentally bought them... They are glitzy but not OTT and the fit is truly fabulous- tight but with a little stretch. Cut a fine figure and pair with a silky cami. £45

4. This is my new favourite perfume - L'Ombre Dans L'Eau by Diptyque. Though Tom Ford Violet Blonde made the Christmas list this year, I am madly in love with this delectable scent. It is floral but fresh, sweet but seductive and I just love it! Anyone want to treat me?... £50 from Liberty

5. All together now... AWW! This Alex Monroe charm bracelet is the perfect gift for a loved one this Christmas- delicate but a little edgy, I love the key charms- £135

6. This Rock'N'Rose Key charm necklace at £21 is a lovely partner to this dainty Alex Monroe bracelet and is the perfect understated pendant to go with everything from sexy separates through to grecian maxi dresses with decadent layered pendants.

7. I have always been a big fan of Marks & Spencers handbags- they are very much design led, and not everyone knows to look in good old M&S when hunting for a handbag. This quilted patent number with glossy gold detail is beautifully made and has a real high-end quality, plus it's only £25

8. Last but not least, I give you my favourite ankle boots ever! Okay... This week. I love these Zara leopard print heels. They are just so ferociously hot and I want them... NOW. After all, I haven't met a leopard print I didn't like! 

What do you lovely lot think of this look?!

Dapper Darlings

1. Slick Black Jacket from The Kooples £340
2. Chain and Bead Clutch from Zara £49.99
3. Sequin Skinny Trousers from Reiss £99
4. Céline tee from Farfetch- currently sold out, but if you're desperate, check THIS out.
5. Stunning chain detail heels from Zara £69.99

I know that the party season is not the easiest time when it comes to fashion- so many parties/events, such little time ! It's a hard life, isn't it?

Anyway, I thought i'd put together a few little posts about some killer evening looks with a little bit of a difference. First up, we have something for the more sophisticated sort.

If you're bored of the old LBD, then a two piece suit could be just the thing for you.

1. Blazer from River Island £40
2. Glitter Heels from Topshop £50
3. Grey Wide Leg Trousers from Reiss £125
4. Cocktail Ring from Accessorize £12
5. Embellished Clutch bag from Topshop £70
6. Delicate embellished top from Miss Selfridge £45

 It doesn't need to be a black tux with a classic white blouse, though, this season ever brand from The Kooples through to River Island have come up with a more party-ready take on this classic look.

Whether you decide to add a touch of glamour with sequinned trousers, or keep it understated with a muted dove grey palette, the suit is always a sexy alternative to a little dress!

1. Multi-Row Cross Pendants from River Island £12
2. Topshop Bralet £32
3. Metallic Bronze Blazer from The Kooples £350
4. Matching Bronze Shorts from The Kooples £150
5. Black Velvet Wedges by Kurt Geiger £220
6. Lovely Stud Detail Clutch by Missguided £22.99

Add a few sparkly accessories and sophisticated shoes to add a feminine touch to a sharp tailored suit. And if you really can't bare to cover up head-to-toe, then try a short suit.

The Kooples have such wonderful tailoring season by season, and for the party season they really have pulled out all the stops with this metallic shorts suit- a real favourite with fashion bloggers and celebrities alike.   

1. Tweed Blazer from Topshop £68
2. Young Hearts Run Free t-shirt by Wildfox £70
3. Tweed Trousers from Topshop £40
4. Gorgeous grey pouch bag from Whistles £55 (great price)
5. Beautiful Violet Heels from Zara £39.99
6. Collar Necklace by Dannijo $445
7. Revlon Nails in Plum Seduction (at Boots) £6.99

Finally, to stop a simple grey or black suit veering into office territory, keep it bright and bold with colour pop accessories and kitsch touches, like a cute Wildfox tee or Markus Lupfer knit.

Ultimately, a suit is smart, clean and sure to make you stand out from the hoards of girls in cutaway body-con dresses. 

The Prettiest Dresses Are Worn To Be Taken Off...

1. Fur Slouchy Clutch at River Island £55

2. INCREDIBLE Fuschia lace dress at Three Floor Fashion £98 (buy, buy, buuuuuy!)

3. Balenciaga-style studded cuff at Chelsea Doll £11

4. Spike Earrings at Topshop £8.99

5. Incredible studded Zara heels at £79.99

The internet is full of all sorts of wisdom isn't it? Todays blog post nabbed it's title from a little phrase I saw on Facebook this morning and fell in love with.

And this dress by Three Floor Fashion is very much a case in point.

I have been crazy about Three Floor since I spotted their dresses in The Evening Standard (see my initial post here) and there new collection is their strongest yet, in my view.

This hot pink lace dress is just so beautiful and totally belies it's £98 price tag. It is unique, stunning and wonderfully made. I won't tell them it's not McQueen if you don't. Pair with black accessories to tone down the pretty pink lace and add an almost sinister edge. 

Baby, You're A Firework

1. Necklace by ASOS £40
2.Tinsel tassel dress by Topshop £60
3. Black Earrings by River Island £12
4. Tailored black jacket at The Kooples £340
5. Gem clutch at Accessorize £45
6. AH-mazing Topshop wedges at £65

Okay, i'm a magpie, and therefore these Topshop wedges may- just may- have set my little heart all a-flutter.

So, while tomorrow night may be bonfire night, set a few sparks flying yourself by shimmying into this little tinsel dress. Sparkly accessories are an absolute must. 

Far safer than a Catherine wheel as well! 

Halloween Hibernation

an assortment of Halloween recipes  

1. Pink Cocoon Coat £85
2. Grey Wool Coat by Miso at Republic £60
3. Navy Coat by Chalayan at Avenue 32 £1350

Muuuhahahaha. Happy Halloween my lovely readers!

And also congratulations to Mum and Dad who are celebrating their 25th Wedding Anniversary today in Paris... Yes, they married on Halloween. That's why i'm such a gargoyle/witch/devil-child/gremlin/demon goat (delete as appropriate lads)

Oh, and, if you're reading this Dad, there is a gorgeous handbag in Céline with my name on it, I feel it's only fair given that i'm am the glue that holds your marriage together, obvs.

OKAY so back to Halloween. You may be wondering what relevance this selection of cocoon coats has to Halloween, and rightly so... Well, my pretties, I have come to the conclusion that this season fashion has decided to be a little more forgiving... -ish.

One huge trend is the oversized look which I have come to realise is the PERFECT excuse to stuff our faces with the delectable, devilish treats I have included above.

Pair these cocooning, cosy, roomy old coats with your faithful black skinny jeans, towering Jeffrey Campbells and you're good to go! No one will ever know (or care) that you're hiding too many cakes under that big fat Toppers coat. 

If you're more interested in satisfying your sweet tooth, then check out these ghoulish but glorious recipes!

BLOOD ORANGE COCKTAILS

PERFECTLY POISONOUS OREO PARFAITS

PEANUT BUTTERED'S PUMPKIN CUPCAKES

RIP CHOCCY PUDS

BLOODTHIRSTY VAMPIRE CUPCAKES

BEJEWELLED HALLOWEEN CANDY BARK

PUMPKIN CHEESE CAKE ICE CREAM

SALTED CARAMEL DRAGON SCALES

If  you have any more delicious dastardly recipes, trick-or-tweet me @SWfashion_ or pop a comment below. 

Self Depreciation is the New Black

1. Ashish at Topshop £20 in SALE (act fast - only sizes 6 and 10 left online as I write this)
2. GEEK tee at Topshop Petite £18 (it comes in regular too but it's a tad too long for my liking!)

Yesterday, standing in the Topshop changing rooms, I faced a dramatic dilemma. Which of these self depreciating t-shirts should I make my own?

A truly life-changing decision, I know. I am aware that I am both a geek and a loser, but which one is more apt?.. Perhaps I should have done a public vote. 

 

In the heat of the moment, though, I plumped for the ASHISH at Topshop number, a tee that I have been lusting over since Fashion Week, purely because I preferred the sleeves (the GEEK one isn't such a fan of my doughy upper arms.) 

You may find my fondness for these slogan tees somewhat odd, but arrogance is far overrated. I am willing, now more than ever, to embrace my LOSER status because...

A) I love cheese jokes. Not cheesy jokes...Jokes about cheese.

WHAT CHEESE DO YOU USE TO ENCOURAGE A BEAR?

CAMEMBERT...

B) I have a list of my top five dog breeds. Sexy.

C) I wear thermals, a lot, and I have even worn them to nightclubs. 

See, self depreciation is so in this season!

Her Dark Materials...

1. Topshop Rings £8.50
2. Chelsea Doll Claw Ring £10
3. Zoe & Morgan Ring with sapphires (in. love!) £400
4. INCREDIBLE ACNE dress at Liberty £550
5. The Kooples Sleeveless Aviator £425
6. Revlon nail polish in Impulsive (love it!)
7. Mulberry Boots £550
8. Zara Handbag £89.99

Wow, wow, wow. This dress is incredible! I love the dark floral print and the feminine but demure shape- it's sexy but not over the top. If only I had a spare £550, eh? One day...