Your Heatwave Tool Kit

Long time, no blog.

I recently met a very well-travelled Swede who advised me I ought to venture to Tulum, Mexico. That night, following several Scandi shots, I decided to Google Tulum in all it's glory. Lush and sun-drenched, it looks like paradise... bar one teeny, tiny detail: it's absolutely scorching, with temperatures regularly topping 35℃.

As a Scottish blonde with translucent skin, I don't do well in such high temperatures, so imagine my horror on discovering that our holiday spot this year (Sonoma, California) is actually hotter than Mexico. 40℃ to be precise. 100°F. I don't really deal in Fahrenheit, but all my American pals (i.e. the lady in WholeFoods who couldn't get enough of my wide-brim hat) tell me 100°F is unheard of.

Pretty. Damn. Hot.

BYREDO UNNAMED

So, I’ll dive straight in with a product I’m currently obsessed with – Byredo Unnamed Eau de Parfum. Now, anyone who follows me on Instagram or has seen my dressing table will know just how much I adore Byredo fragrances. Created by Ben Gorham, Byredo is the innovative Swedish brand behind some of the most modern and stylish scents around.

Tahiti Time

Image courtesy of NARS

Things are hotting up, so it's high time to get your glow on.

If like me, you're stuck on home turf, then you're just going to have to fake it. Thankfully, good old NARS has a solution – its new, Tahiti bronze collection.

Based around the bestselling Laguna bronzer, the limited edition line-up includes glistening body oils, scented shimmering powders and my new hero product: the liquid bronzer (a snip at £28).

Often on pale skintones, bronzing powders can look flat and dirty. A lightweight, silky formula, the bronzing liquid is much easier to work with, blending seamlessly to create the illusion of sun-kissed skin. Add a couple of drops to your foundation for a hint of warmth, or layer it on top of your base and dust with translucent powder for a flawless finish.

She's not like a regular mum – she's a cool mum

1. Byredo Loose Lips Candle £50 here
1. Orelia disc lariat pendant £18 here
3. Alex Monroe for Liberty pineapple pendant £150 here
4. Byredo Blanche EDP £90 here
5. Illesteva rose gold sunglasses £140 here
6. Meli Melo Aloe silk scarf £150 here
7. Malone Souliers rainbow sandals (LOVE this brand) £545 here
8. Kate Spade recipe journal £45 here
9. Fornasetti Flora candle (the cool way to do flowers) £115 here
10. Rogues brogues exclusive to Harvey Nichols £170 here
11. Luxe City Guides Europe gift box £35 here
12. Anya Hindmarch rainbow shoulder bag £695 here
13. Carven skirt £240 here
14. Delfina Delettrez multi-stone earring £450 here
15. Iosselliani gold-plated earrings £95 here

2

Mother's Day is just around the corner, but it's not too late to make your lovely mum's day as special as possible.

I don't doubt for one second that your mum is every bit as chic as you are – so make darn sure your gift matches up.

The golden rule for golden children? If you wouldn't want it yourself, it simply isn't good enough for mum.

If you've left it a touch too late to buy a present, you can get creative with experiences for Sunday. Why not arrange an at-home Champagne Afternoon Tea with finger sandwiches, homemade scones and an assortment of scrumptious cakes and sweets? Or maybe you could spoil her silly with a beautiful bouquet and a spot of brekkie in bed?

Pop over to my Pinterest for lots of recipe ideas.

P.S.
Keep your eyes peeled over the coming days for Sugarfina at Harvey Nicks. Launching exclusively this month, you can expect Bento-style boxes choc-a-block with Champagne gummy bears, Kir Royale truffles and chocolate-dipped bacon toffees. Perhaps, you could write Mum and IOU? She's such a sweetie, after all.

The Cult Beauty Products That Actually Live Up to The Hype

1. NARS Audacious mascara £21.00 here
2. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip Cheat pencil £16.00 here
3. Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish hot cloth cleanser limited edition pink pepper and mint £20.75 here
4. Hourglass Immaculate Liquid Powder foundation £50.00 here
5. Clarins Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector in Apricot Shimmer £18.00 here
6. YSL Touché Eclat Kiss & Love limited edition £21.25 here
Anya Hindmarch makeup pouch, £225.00 at Selfridges (how gorgeous!)

Working in the fashion media, surrounded by magazines, websites, bloggers and Instagram hype, it's hard to know who to trust when it comes to beauty products.

Product reviews are often paid-for, sponsored, or part of a broader brand agreement and it seems honesty is no longer the best, nor the most profitable, policy for bloggers and editors.

I say this as I have spent far too much money on hyped-up products promising me Blake Lively-level hotness overnight, only to wake up looking exactly the same, if a little sad to have spent so much on a teeny-tiny pot of nothingness.

There are, however, a handful of beauty bits that I am pleased to say live up to their cult status and are worth trying out for yourself. Behold; the no-nonsense, hard-working beauty heroes that I simply can't do without.

Pre Paris Wishlist

Hefner slippers, £165.00 here

In a matter of days, I am heading to Paris for a lovely Easter mini break. This week, I have spent every lunch hour poring over guidebooks, blogs and Instagram (always a good shout for cool spots off the beaten track), trying to work out exactly where to check in. Three meals a day is just not enough- is it greedy to attempt two lunches? I've managed to find some great little places - with a big thank you to Serena Guen and Erica Berman of Hip Paris - and look forward to sharing these with you after my trip.

The Sweet Scent of Spring

Jo Malone London Blue Skies & Blossoms

Spring has sprung. Granted, it's probably still too chilly to go sans gloves in the morning, let alone bare legs, but this weekend's sunny spells have certainly spurred a little new season optimism.

Alongside pops of pastels and print, crisp March mornings call for light, delicate scents, and this year we have a lovely bunch to choose from.

Finishing Touches

Kate Moss = the dream. This = the reality. 

Trifle for breakfast, anyone?

Wrapped up in my Christmas jumper, with a box of Prestat red velvet truffles (also known as the best thing ever) by my side, I am ready and raring to do a little Boxing Day damage online.

ALL the sales are go (yup, that includes Zara, what are you still doing here?!) both in store and online, meaning I can spend, spend, spend without having to budge from my sofa.

"Muuuuum, I'll take my turkey, brie and cranberry rye toastie at one? Bring the Quality Street while you're at it. And the bubbly."

I wouldn't say I was the most sensible sale shopper, but I occasionally snap up a good bargain. As long as you steer clear of the trend pieces and stick to the right size, you can't go far wrong. 

Following my edit of the best party pieces, here are a few of my favourite finishing touches. From jewelled Boden flats through to red lippies fit for saints and sinners, these sale steals are far too good to resist... Much like that last mince pie.

The LFW Backpack

A luxury backpack is a must at London Fashion Week this season, and you will be hard pushed to find one better than this Whistles Portland edition – hot from the SS15 catwalk. In a versatile neutral tone with glossy silver hardwear, this practical backpack is spacious enough for all your show-hopping essentials, and will lend a contemporary edge to your LFW look. (Designed exclusively for London Fashion Week, it is available to purchase online here, and also in the two newest Whistles stores in Kings Cross St. Pancras and the Bullring in Birmingham.)

But it is what's inside that counts, right? Here is my wishlist of chic Fashion Week essentials. 

1. With rose-gold frames and mirror-shine lenses, these lightweight Linda Farrow sunglasses whisper understated luxury. They are £610.00 here.

2. A nourishing facial oil is a must for parched post-summer skin. Rodin's Olio Lusso is a cult product in fashion circles – the expert blend of 11 botanical oils will deliver a runway-worthy glow in no time. It is £97.00 at Net-a-Porter here.

3. My, my - what a stylish little camera you have. Launching in October, the new Olympus Pen E-Pl7 camera is designed with fashion folk in mind – it even has a 'selfie-mode'. It will retail for £499.00. 

4. Aptly called 'The Sophisticate', this Charlotte Tilbury eye palette of subtly smoky tones is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. It is £38.00 from Net-a-Porter here.

5.This Zakynthos nail polish by NARS is the perfect neutral - the sandy shade feels more modern than blush-toned nudes and was the colour of choice for the 3.1 Phillip Lim show in NYC. It is £15.00 here.

6. Last but not least, this Smythson Fashion Week notepad is the only way to jot down your front-row musings. Far chicer than an iPad, the Runway Notes' notebook is £65.00 here.

Travel Bag Treats

I have very fond memories of shopping for holiday toiletries in boots. The ultimate "chancer", I would fill my mother's basket with products for all eventualities – mountains of magicool, scores of suncare products – before trying my luck in the cosmetics section. "Muuuum of course I need another lipgloss – and, look, this one has SPF, do you WANT me to have burnt lips?!" On reflection, I sound a total brat, but hey, think of those advantage card points.

I have always been very good at spending other people's money, less so my own. As I have grown older (and started paying for my own sunscreen, plasters and travel toothbrushes) I have become rather frugal in my pre-holiday spending. Sure, there are some products necessary for the summer months - sunscreen and Autan- but who delights in buying those? Instead, I prefer to spend my money on the products I want, rather than need.

I am referring to my travel bag treats; the luxuries that prove you needn't abandon your beauty regime just because weight restrictions apply. Here are this year's picks.

Isn't He Marvelous?

Father's Day is just around the corner, so if you're looking for a fabulous gift for your number one man, then look no further than Byredo's charming Mister Marvelous eau de parfum.

Byredo is my preferred perfume house of the moment, for I am obsessed with the vibrant Flowerhead scent of wild jasmine blossoms and angelica seeds. I like to find an unusual scent, and Byredo's complex blends fit the bill. Based in Stockholm, Byredo was founded by Ben Gorham in 2006 and the line can now be found in Liberty.

The earthy Gypsy Water scent, perhaps the most popular, is unisex, but Mister Marvelous is just pour hommes.  Mister Marvelous is inspired by hairstylist Christiaan Houtenbos, the man who Ben Gorham sees to embody the Byredo brand. The scent is fresh at first with notes of mandarin leaf and neroli bloom, a heart of bamboo and lavender, and an inviting base of black amber and cedarwood.

Encased in the signature Byredo bottle, the scent makes for an elegant father's day gift for all manner of marvelous misters.

The eau de parfum is £130 for 100ml, available here.

Tres Cheeky: The New Girl in Town

 

In New York City, a daily blow dry is practically an essential. In such a fast-paced city of ultra-glossy girls, it is inevitable that blow-dry bars are as commonplace as chi-chi coffee bars and Scandi-chic boutiques. In Manhattan there is practically one on every corner, full of  Proenza-clad ladies chit-chatting over Americanos, while beauty girls are busy buffing and bouffant-ing.

Blow dry bars have undoubtedly made an impact in London, but they are often replicas of hit NYC haunts, not to mention ludicrously expensive. The latest addition to the scene, however, is so uniquely London it hurts.  Say hello to your new home-from-home: Cheeky Parlour on Redchurch Street.

On approach, I couldn't help but feel a little déjà-New York. Redchurch Street is like a little pocket of Nolita in London's hipster hub, and at the top of the road by the cool kid Aubin cinema is the Cheeky Parlour, the latest venture from those clever cats that brought you Cowshed and Neville.

Cheeky is all about affordable, fun preening- a kitschy beauty brand that has been winning over beauty aficionados across the land since it's launch. 

The Parlour is a bright lofty space with a nail bar, blow dry stations and a cafe/bar for post or pre-pamper treats. You can then nip over to the "Selfie Station" and dress up for a few snaps (check them out on Instagram with #urcheeky). It is the ultimate hub for a girly day out- unpretentious and oodles of fun. 

The express manicures are great for busy girls, and fantastic value compared to competitors (£10 for a manicure, and you get to take the polish home to keep chips at bay). In addition, you can add a little feature nail to your manicure, with festive favourites including cutesy Tiffany-esque gift boxes.

You can plump for a healthy brunch while browsing the blow dry menu, or sip a cheeky Cherry B (a super sweet drink of cherry wine topped up with lemonade) while pondering a little naughty nail art. Or, if you're feeling flush, you can top up your beauty cabinet with some of Cheeky's cheap and cheerful beauty buys, all of which you can buy online.

From shampoos to plumping powders and colourful polishes, Cheeky's beauty range is ideal for last minute secret Santa pressies. 

So whether you pop over on your lunch break or you make a day of it, it's time to get Cheeky.

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.

My Fashion Week Face Savers

1. MAC Limited Edition Blush Brush - I have had this brush for a fair few years now. My first ever MAC purchase, I treated myself to this decorative brush in Milan and I just cannot seem to part with it. It still works well (regularly refreshed with the MAC brush cleanser) and blends blush beautifully. 

2. No7 Powder Blush Brush - Despite it's plain appearance, this classic blusher is a great portable staple to use for setting powder. During fashion week, I often find myself a bit flustered which takes it's toll on my face. I carry this soft brush around with me to apply a little powder here and there to banish the inevitable shine. 

3. Urban Decay NAKED Finishing Powder - My hero product of the moment is this finishing powder from Urban Decay. It is finely milled and almost translucent, offering an airbrushing effect which blurs imperfections. Because the powder is so fine, it does not cake, and the glossy packaging is great for touch-ups on the go. 

4. MAC Lipstick in Snob - No matter how many lipsticks I have tried, nothing compares to MAC. With a broad array of finishes, colours and formulas, the MAC lip range has something for everyone. My current pick is this matte sugared almond shade. It is a light candy pink with bluish notes for a contemporary pale lip. I love it with matte skin and my trademark eyeliner flicks. 

5. Blush Exclusif by Bourjois - A satiny cream blush with a scientific touch, Blush Exclusif is the latest beauty innovation from Bourjois. Following the success of their Exclusif lip gloss, this easy-to-apply blusher reacts with the skin for a bespoke blush shade with a matte finish. You can apply with your fingertips, which is great for on-the-go fashion girls. 

6. Bourjois Happy Light Foundation- Complete with light-reflecting, skin-perfecting pigments, this new foundation is great for getting that photo-perfect finish. A light liquid with buildable coverage, Happy Light enhances the skin without masking for a light and natural finish.  

7. Bourjous Effet 3D Lipgloss - I will never stop being a glossy girl. Though I can occasionally go over to the matte side, I find nothing completes my make-up look quite like a slick of shimmery gloss. I have tried a fair few over the years, but I always go back to this pearlescent pale pink shade from Bourjois. It is ultra-glossy and gives lips a healthy look. 

8. Bourjois Twist Up The Volume Mascara- A handbag essential for day-to-night make-up, this new mascara from Bourjois offers two different effects for any occasion. Take it as it comes for a lengthening effect, or give it a twist for dramatic volume. 

9. Shu Uemura Eyelash Curlers - These really need no explanation. No eyelash curler works quite as well as these do, so try it for yourself and you will not be disappointed. 

10. Bourjois Poudre de Riz - This year, Bourjois have reissued their iridescent rice powder in traditional packaging. The fine peachy powder is great for setting your make up and mattifying, and it also has the most glorious scent. Why is it an LFW essential? Silly question- just look at that intricate packaging! 

11. No 7 Eyeliner- I am a bit of an eyeliner floozy. My current flirtation is this No 7 felt-tip liner which is great for fast-track flicks and lasts pretty well too.

12. Bourjois Happy Light Concealer - The partner to the aforementioned Happy Light foundation, this compact concealer covers up all manners of fashion week sins, and works brilliantly alongside the light foundation. Dab it under eyes and no one will ever know how little sleep you have had!

I don't know about you, but New York Fashion Week has certainly reignited my excitement for LFW. I must admit that this year I have been a bit of a Fashion Week scrooge, but the hype surrounding NYFW has made an impression and I am now ready and raring to descend on Somerset House this coming Friday.

London Fashion Week is always a rather eccentric affair, both on and off the catwalk, with the industry's biggest peacocks flaunting their tail-feathers for the flashbulbs. However, this season I predict something of a sartorial u-turn, with a return to the classic, minimal aesthetic favoured by the real editorial elite.

For this reason, I think my LFW wardrobe will be suitably reserved. My new masculine Zara coat shall be making an appearance, as shall simple A-line skirts and classic mohair knits. It's all about details for me, which is why my make-up bag has also had something of an overhaul this season.

Pared back make-up is just the ticket for fashion week. While it may be a different story for the notorious fashion week parties, by day it is all about the flawless finish and new neutral lip.

My go-to brand this season- and Zoë Jordan's too, as so it happens- is Bourjois. Affordable and effective, the latest offerings from the Parisian beauty brand are rather impressive.

So what is in your fashion week beauty bag? Above are my favourites at the moment, but let me know your picks on Twitter @SWfashion_ !

Also who will I be seeing at LFW this season? Bubbly all round! 

Best in Beauty: August

I am so sorry that it has taken me this long to post my August Best in Beauty picks but better late than never, no?

This month I headed off to Lanzarote for a chilled holiday with a few of my girlfriends for sun, sea and sangria. I had a wonderful time in Spain, and was grateful for the opportunity to try out some sweet Summery beauty products.  

So, here are some of my top beauty picks for the month of August, with each and every product tried and tested by yours truly.

If you have any questions about any of the products please do just post below or tweet me @SWfashion_ .

Ooh what's that? Urban Decay NAKED Skin Face Ultra Definition Finishing Powder - £22 here
And what does it do? The latest addition from Urban Decay's NAKED collection, this finishing powder proposes a high-tec alternative to traditional chalky products. The product is jet-milled for a fine, buttery texture that works to airbrush imperfections without masking skin or caking with foundation.
How do I use it? Just as you would any other finishing powder. Though the product comes with a sponge, I far prefer to use a small dense brush to apply the powder in swirling motions. Apply your foundation or base of choice, dab on concealer wherever necessary and set your base with this light, almost invisible powder.
So does it work? I have to admit that I was very impressed with this product. I have always worn a powder with my foundation, as my skin is prone to oiliness, but even my favourite powders have the tendency to go rather dense. This powder is lighter and far more subtle on the skin. Provided you don't overload your skin and use sparingly, this product blends seamlessly and gently mattifies without dulling. 

Ooh what's that? Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-oxidant Serum- £45 here

And what does it do? A daily-use moisturiser, rather than a post-CTM boost, this is a simple but effective product.  With extracts of virtuous grape seed, panthenol and parsley seed, Aesop's fresh serum offers deep nourishment for dehydrated skin, particularly in humid climates. 

How do I use it? A little goes a very long way with this aromatic serum. Simply remove make-up, cleanse thoroughly once again and then apply a few drops of the serum to your face in sweeping upward motions. It will feel light but nourishing, cool but conditioning. 

So does it work? To say I am obsessed with Aesop is to put it very lightly, but this product really is worth an investment. It smells so beautiful and refreshing, making it a great product for high Summer or for those living in sunnier climes. My skin is dry in parts, and this serum brightens and softens my skin without clogging pores. This is an essential, whatever the season. 

Ooh what's that? Herbal Essences Bee Strong Strengthening Cream - £4.79 here

And what does it do? The Bee Strong collection is the latest from good old Herbal Essences, and this leave-in conditioner is one of two styling products in the range. Enriched with honey and apricot extracts,  this sweet scented spray-on conditioning creme claims to simultaneously strengthen and protect damaged hair while leaving a great shine. 

How do I use it? Spray a three-five times into hands and work into towel dried hair. If you have fine hair just work it into the midlengths and ends. Don't be tempted to use too much product- it could weigh the hair down. 

So does it work? I actually bought this product right before going to the US. I was having a bit of a trolley-dash around Boots, searching for a strengthening or conditioning creme to stop my hair drying out on holiday. I grabbed this one without really thinking much of it- it's such a bargain!- and didn't realise how impressive it was until I actually used it. The first treat is the sweet honeyed fruit scent, closely followed by the light but moisturising texture and the ease of application. It was the only styling product I used on holiday, save a few droplets of MoroccanOil light, and it really was my Summer hair saviour. . 

Ooh what's that? Soap & Glory One Night Tanned Instant Beach-Bronze Buttergel - £11.50 here or here

And what does it do? With such a fabulous name, it's hard to believe that this delicious treat is actually an instant tan. Boasting a tropical coconut scent, a rich blend of shea and illipe butters and unique "tanwrap" technology, this "buttergel" sounds just like a beach body in a bottle! 

How do I use it? As per other self tans, I would suggest applying this luxurious product with a mitt. The chocolatey tan gives an instant caramel colour, so it is easy to see any streaks or imperfections, but do make sure you work the product in fully to ensure a natural appearance. Prep skin beforehand with a sugary scrub (Soap & Glory do the best budget ones) and skip the moisturiser if tanning.  

So does it work? Though the only tan for me this year is the pHenomenal 2-3 Week Tan by Vita Liberata, this one comes in a close second. Firstly it smells like a creamy tropical cocktail and secondly it has a gloriously rich texture which just glides effortlessly. It is an easy-breezy instant tan that lasts well and softens skin. 

Ooh what's that? Vita Liberata Capture the Light Translucent Illuminator in Gold - £29.95 here

And what does it do? The ultimate tan enhancer, Capture the Light highlights skin with a golden luminescence while also protecting skin with SPF 25. It is a rich, creamy texture to be used on both the face and the body to invigorate dull skin. 

How do I use it? There are a number of ways to use Capture the Light. You can use it to highlight a tanned decolletage, arms, legs and even an exposed back. It also works well on the face worn over a dewy base on cheekbones, cupids bow and under the eyebrow arch. It is quite a powerful product, so use sparingly as a little goes a long way. For a gentler sheen mix a couple of pumps with your favourite moisturiser and use all over your body to brighten your skin tone. 

So does it work? This is the first body illuminator that I have actually liked. I found it made my skin look glossy and healthy, rather than glittery and cheap. I used it in Spain when wearing low-cut and strapless dresses to highlight my collarbones, and also mixed with my Philosophy Almonds and Cream body lotion to give my legs a subtle sheen.

At First Blush

1. Fluffy Topshop Sweater here
2. Lola Rose Boutique ring from AW13 collection, £59, shop here
3. Zara Studio coat £179 here
4. Smythson notebook here
5. Topshop Limited Edition dress here

You don't need me to tell you that the colour of the season is powder pink. A million miles away from Summery sweetness, the Autumn/Winter collections, both high end and high street, propose a sophisticated take on the girlish hue. 

Be it Zara's ankle-length masculine coat in sugared almond or MGSM's rosy interpretation of the urban sweatshirt, there is something to suit every style. 

Take your cue from the wonderful Simone Rocha, who brought a new dimension to candied pinks with her fall collection. Balancing feminine princess coats and sculpted shift dresses with contemporary bed-head and mannish brogues, Simone's directional collection is arguably one of the most successful of the season. 

Steer clear of any Barbie comparisons by pairing oyster pink with red (see here) or teaming pastel hues with varying shades of grey. Add glossy metallic accents, such as the Zara brogues below, and some Hoxton Blush earrings by Bijoux Bazaar for a fresh look. 

For a blushing beauty update, look out for the latest limited edition fragrance by Jo Malone. Peony & Blush Suede, launching September 2nd, is a complex full floral with sparkling apple top notes and a unique suede base. Inspired by Cecil Beaton and the intricacies of haute couture, the scent is suitably refined, working in perfect harmony with this season's sweet colour story. 

1. MSGM floral sweater here
2. Jo Malone Peony and Blush Suede cologne launching September
3. Topshop Pink Sunglasses here
4. Topshop pale pink satchel here
5. Bijoux Bazaar Hoxton Blush earrings £12 here
6. Zara metallic brogues £49.99 here

BEST OF THE REST: 

American Beauty

Why must all good things come to an end? Sadly my (long overdue) holiday to the USA has been and gone, and now it's back to reality.

I have absolutely loved every last moment spent in the States, from Yosemite through to Manhattan, and have had the most wonderful holiday. 

I have also spent some money. And by some, I mean too much.

Personalised perfumes, dazzling statement necklaces, quirky handmade cards and dessert flavoured chewing gum- I literally could not say no this year. 

The only time I have said "NO" is when my bank emailed me offering me my latest statement. No, I am not mentally prepared to see that just yet. 

I have had particular difficulty trying to resist beauty products, and felt I had to share some of my favourite finds from my travels with you. Alas, I did not manage to fit all the below in my case (not through lack of trying) and ended up with an all-too careful selection of beauty loot to take back to the UK with me. 

A Swingin' Summer Soiree

A red hot Vogue shoot featuring Karlie Kloss, sourced via Pinterest

There are a million and one reasons why I am not a sporty sort (no, one of these is not a fear of "breaking a nail") and although I have always been preoccupied with conventionally "girly" pursuits, my lack of sporting prowess has nothing to do with this. 

On the contrary, I simply have no hand-eye coordination and no interest. Why play or watch sports when you can tune in to Style.com or SHOWSTUDIO? Priorities, darling, priorities. 

However, this past week I have ventured into pastures new and I have actually been watching (and enjoying) Wimbledon... And not just for the comedic value of the player's grunts. 

I simply love the spirit of Wimbledon and all the merry traditions. Strawberries and cream, pitchers of Pimm's and the good-old game itself- Wimbledon is a bit of a winner for me. 

I really would love to go along, but this year I do not have the time or patience, so instead I shall be rooting for Murray from my own home. Thankfully, this season there are a whole host of tennis treats around to help you host a swingin' Summer soiree with a nod to England's chic-est sporting event- from the stylish to the sweet.

If you are a sweet tooth, then best take a trip to The Primrose Bakery for these wonderful Wimbledon inspired cupcakes. Complete with sugary sport-themed adornments, these tasty cupcakes are every bit as delightful as they look.

I am no cupcake expert, despite a wealth of research in this field, but those at the Primrose Bakery are some of the very best in London. Light sponge, delicately flavoured, with just the right amount of smooth buttercream icing- these cupcakes are a surefire hit. The Wimbledon collection is available now in either chocolate or vanilla to tantalise the taste buds. For a complimentary flavour hit, try the delicious Strawberry & White Chocolate cupcake or the Summer Cup Cocktail cupcake with a sweet, sticky cucumber and mint sponge and fruity icing. 

Bon appetit!

Give tennis whites a lift with a splash of deep blue and neon yellow highlights. A match made in heaven! 

1. Every year Links of London release a special collection of Wimbledon inspired jewellery. My favourite piece this year is this acid yellow friendship bracelet interwoven with little silver tennis balls. What a darling souvenir. Links of London, £150 here.

2. The current apple of my eye is this Proenza Schouler PS1 tote in vibrant marine. It is an understated but luxurious handbag that will certainly stand the test of time. What's more, it is the perfect way to smarten up classic white pieces. From Browns Fashion £1120 here. 

3. If anyone can do a stylish shirt dress, it's going to be Equipment, and this lacy lovely is a case in point. Reduced in their sale, this sleeveless broderie anglais shirt dress is a crisp piece for all manner of Summer soirees. Equipment Kennedy dress $328 here. 

4. A classic white jacket is a worthwhile investment, and this Alice + Olivia option is a sophisticated style. Nipping in at the waist with 3/4 sleeves and a frayed hem, this tweedy delight is the very definition of courtside cool. The best part? It's on sale at Atelier-To-Go for £305 here!

5. I have featured these acid yellow sandals numerous times, and I am still smitten. Perhaps you should just bite the bullet and buy me them? Thanks guys- appreciate it. The Lance sandals by Jimmy Choo are £495 here. 

There is nothing more refreshing than a gloriously fruity pitcher of syrupy sweet Pimm's. Naughty but nice, I shall always look forward to Pimm's o'clock. 

If you are also a fan of the classic Pimm's No 1, then why not throw caution to the wind and mix things up with this sharper, darker version flavoured with fragrant Blackberry and Elderflower. Check out some cocktail inspiration here. 

Though these sweets have been the subject of a great deal of controversy, I must admit that the Sugarpova sweets from Russian tennis star Maria Sherapova look rather adorable. 

Fill bowls with these tennis ball SPORTY sweeties at your Wimbledon party for a fun and vibrant table topper. They are available from the Sugarpova website here or you can buy the lemon-lime gumballs at Selfridges for £3.99 here or the multi-flavour mix here.

Keep it casual and cool with these sporty but sophisticated staples, in store now.

1. I bought this dress on a bit of a whim, but I am so glad I did so as it is the most glorious shade of buttercup yellow. A flattering and feminine shift with elegant pleating and a softly floaty skirt, this dress is ideal for garden parties- particularly when paired with crisp white plimsolls.  Topshop £42 here. 

2. A tennis dress is surprisingly flattering and elegant, and nobody does it better than Fred Perry (makes me feel sad for the rest). This racer back bright white style with the elegant drop waist and flirty pleated skirt is just divine. A reasonable £60, this is great for channeling your inner tennis ace. Buy it here. 

3. Converse? So last season. This year is all about Superga sneakers. This classic white style looks great with everyone from relaxed distressed denim through to pretty pleated minis. Perfect for the garden party- old chum! £45 here.

4. A super sweet Superga style, this petal pink plimsoll looks perfect with white for sipping Champagne on Murray Mound. £45 here. 

5. Pack up your troubles in this classic navy backpack by Lacoste. A simple style that shall never date- who'd have thought that the humble rucksack would become a style staple? Available from House of Fraser for £48 here. 

I began writing this post on the train home last night, and found myself with an unbearable craving for fresh strawberries and whipped vanilla scented cream.

A Wimbledon staple, if you too are tempted by strawbs and cream but are looking to maintain that bikini body, then check out this lighter take on the Great British classic. 

Of course cream is delightful, but it is also sinfully naughty, so for a lighter option serve up your sweet strawberries with a lower calorie dip. Mix half quantities of zero fat Greek yogurt with half fat sour cream until you have a rich, thick consistency. Fold in 2 tbsp or a generous drizzle of honey or agave syrup and finish with half a teaspoon of vanilla extract. 

How very virtuous!

Game set and match, my lovelies!

Pursuit of Prettiness: June's Best in Beauty

It's been a long time coming, yes, but June has been a very busy month so I have only just had time to pull together this rather comprehensive edit of my favourite new (and some, not-so new) beauty products, ideal for all manner of pre-Summer preening.

Here are my seven favourite products of the moment for top-to-toe pampering. So whether you are jetting off somewhere exotic, or simply soaking up some home-grown sunshine, make sure you give yourself a little bit of extra pamper time. It's only fair, after all. 

As ever, if you have any other products you are particularly loving, please do tweet me at @SWfashion_ or comment below!

1. ESPA Pink Hair and Scalp Mud, £31 tub here

If you're reading this, Mum, I am sorry for pinching this when you were on holiday, but desperate times... 

During my internship, I absolutely destroyed my feet by wearing impractical Zara shoes, and they have since needed some serious TLC. When I was last home, my Mum told me the ESPA assistant in Harvey Nicks had recommend this hair masque for use on dry feet, which I laughed off with "don't be daft- it's for hair." Still, I threw caution to the wind this weekend and tried this rich creamy masque on both my hair and my heels and it made an immeasurable difference to both.

For my hair, I applied a generous dollop to damp hair and wrapped up in a towel for 20 minutes to work all that pink mud magic. When I then rough dried my hair, I was astounded at how silky it was- the purifying pink mud works wonders in soothing the scalp and adding oodles of gloss to hair. 

For my feet, I simply pumiced my soles before showering - where I also scrubbed top-to-toe with Laura Mercier Almond Coconut scrub- and after towel drying my feet I slathered on a little masque and put on some cotton socks. Et voila.

2. L'Occitane Almond Supple Skin Oil, £32 here 

It is all about the oil for beauty buffs these days, and this sweet, satisfying L'Occitane offering is my absolute all-time favourite. 

I find that skin can get horribly dry during warmer months, and this oil is nourishing but not greasy, leaving skin strokeably soft and smooth. However, do not use it before sun exposure- that's just silly now. You don't want to look like this. 

1. Burt's Bees Coconut Foot Creme, £12.99 here

Do you like Piña Colada? Good, then i'm sure you'll be all over this Bounty-tastic natural foot balm from Burt's Bees. With a scent slightly infused with cooling peppermint, this buttery Coconut foot creme is so nourishing. It is the perfect way to tackle post-sandal feet.

4. Origins GinZing Energizing Moisturiser, £23 here

I must admit that I have never really used Origins products before, but when I was sent this lovely moisturiser I fell a little in love... Primarily with the scent, but that's not important.

A morning "espresso for the skin", this light moisturiser is oil free and charged with Panax Gingseng Coffee Bean optimise hydration. 

1. Le Labo Eau de Parfum in LYS 41, £95 for 100 ml here

When I sampled the two new scents from Le Labo, a New York fragrance institution, I was truly impressed with their new interpretation of florals. LYS 41, in particular, struck me as a unique, fresh and feminine scent with a little edge.

The artfully balanced white floral is sweet but still sophisticated with light floral notes dancing alongside sweet vanilla and subtle jasmine tones. It is long lasting and distinctive, without being overpowering or overbearing. I really am quite enthralled with this scent, and feel a purchase coming on when holidaying in New York this Summer... At £95 for 100ml, Le Labo scents are not a throwaway purchase, but with personalised labels and wonderfully innovative scents, surely you deserve the treat.

6. Soap and Glory No Clogs Allowed Mask, £11

Think you've seen all Soap and Glory have to offer? Think again ! Their repackaged, revamped "SkinGenius" skincare collection is worth getting excited about. At the recent blogger launch event, the lovely Soap & Glory team set up a skincare dispensary, with each blogger handing over a skin prescription following an evening spent chatting over sushi, detox juices and, of course, bubbly.

The revamped collection has a retro/clinical look and is split into four different ranges of cleansers, treatments, moisturisers and serums. As someone with seriously stressed out skin, I was immediately drawn to the No Clogs Allowed self-heating mask and I have since become something of an addict.

This thermal mask feels like a high-tech facial, without the cost, and leaves skin totally clear and smooth.

1. Vita Liberata pHenomenal 2-3 Week Tan, £37.50 here

If you are looking for a fake tan that goes the extra mile, then you really are in luck. I have always been intrigued to try Vita Liberata, having heard great things, and I have not been disappointed.

This high-tech mousse formula is the first long-lasting tan I have seen on the market, and so far, so good. It goes on smoothly, and the colour is wonderfully golden brown, not even remotely orangey. It also doesn't leave the hideous tell-tale tanning smell, which is such a bonus! Definitely worth an investment if you are going off on holiday, ready to bare all in that itsy-bitsy bikini.

The Poolside Poser's Handbook #2

Image edited from THIS one found through Pinterest

Okay so i've been absolutely awful at updating my blog of late, but I cannot even fathom how busy i've been these past few weeks. I have almost been too busy to sunbathe while sipping Rekorderlig in the park... Well, okay, I made time for that, but drinking requires a little bit less effort than blogging. Just a bit, of course.

I promise, though, that i've got loads and loads of posts lined up... I just need to keep my eyes open long enough to write them!

First on the agenda, though, is the second instalment of The Poolside Poser's Handbook (read the first here, if you fancy) which is all about cheery Summer music for 2013.

Nothing beats a glorious day spent by the pool, basking in the sun with your recently-updated iPod/iPhone/iPad/iWhatever on shuffle. A memorable holiday playlist is every bit as important as a glorious collection of bikinis and a flawless golden tan, and is a great way to stave off sunbathing boredom.