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.

Date Night Dynamite

1. Olympia Le Tan Kiss Kiss clutch £677.50 at The Outnet here
2. Christopher Kane love heart macramé lace dress £2845.00 at Harvey Nichols here
3. Noir Jewellery earrings £48.19 at The Outnet here
4. Hourglass Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder in Euphoric Strobe £34.00 here
5. Tom Ford Patent Finish Lip Colour in Stolen Cherry £38.00 here
6. Bionda Castana for LK Bennett heels - launching on 11th February here
7. Orelia thread through heart pendant £12.00 here
8. Noir jewellery interlocking ring £27.50 here

Pucker up ladies – Valentine's is just around the corner!

So whether you've got yourself some dreamboat boyfriend, whisking you off to some glamorous getaway, or you're a single pringle ready and raring for a good old night out, make sure you dress to thrill.

Christopher Kane's beautiful macramé lace dress has totally stolen my heart and I would do anything to make it mine. Partnered with a lovey-dovey Olympia Le Tan clutch and Bionda Castana's flirty scalloped shoes from their upcoming collab with LK Bennett, it's totally 'The One'.

Beauty-wise, it's all about replicating that candelit glow with a little help from Tom Ford and Hourglass. Contour below the cheekbone with Tom Ford's cult Shade and Illuminate palette, add a little peachy-toned blush and finish with a light dusting of Hourglass' Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder along the high points of your face to capture the light (and, you know, everyone's hearts).

Finish off your look of love with the new Patent Finish Lip Colour from Tom Ford. The innovative, formula combines the staying power of a stain with a tempting high-shine finish. In the most ravishing red, Stolen Cherry is ideal for date night.

Kisses all round!

The loungewear label you need in your life...

1. Glen Coco sweatshirt £72.00 - pre-order here
2. Cream Tarts tee £48.00 here
3. St Tropez tee £48.00 here
4. Brunch sweatshirt £72,00 here

Party season? No thanks. 'Tis the season to be cosy.

Though you may not have a free night in your diary until March, sometimes every girl needs a little downtime with a good old-fashioned chick flick and a bowl of something gloriously carby.

So, rather than giving you another glitzy partywear edit, I thought I'd introduce you to Gem&i – my latest Instagram obsession.

The brainchild of NYC girls Gemma Henry and Lauren Barnett, Gem&i is all about comfy, cool casuals with a twist. Featuring quirky slogans like 'No Crème Brûlée before St Tropez' and 'it's not my fault, I'm on a cleanse', the collection is spot-on for self-confessed basic bitches (personally I've had far too many soy flat whites and avocado brunches to argue otherwise).

Also worthy of note is the 'Four for you Glen Coco' sweater – it's a fabulous alternative to novelty knitwear. Throw it on with matching joggers and your slippers of choice for the ultimate Christmas morning get-up.

Which is your favourite?

Starting at £48.00, the Gem&i collection is available online here. Check them out on Instagram @gemandi_ for a little bit of inspo.

Reasons to ❤️ Winter

PHOTO @SWfashion_

Guys, it's official: winter is here and it's not going anywhere anytime soon. While we could all sit here and bemoan the lack of sunshine and the inability to go bare-legged on a daily basis, resistance is futile. Winter is here, whether you like it or not, and guess what? Christmas is about six weeks away... Gross, isn't it?

So, bid adieu to daydreams of chilled rosé on the No. 32 terrace – now is the time to wrap up and wholeheartedly embrace winter 2015...

IF YOU LOVED: Terrace-hopping

YOU'LL LOVE: The new Below & Hidden clubroom at the B&H Buildings in Clerkenwell

Small but perfectly formed, Below & Hidden is an elegant, intimate alternative to the extravagance usually associated with London nightlife (no Champers'n'sparklers here, sweetie). The man behind the intriguing drinks list is Jim Wrigley, who has curated a menu of creative bottled cocktails inspired by monthly themes and seasonal ingredients. Complete with a DJ and dancefloor, the clubroom will be open until 2am every Friday and Saturday so you can shake off your winter blues with the best of them.

Ooh La La: Le Crazy Horse

Image by Riccardo Tinelli 

The Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Le Crazy Horse. Though a cabaret may not be an obvious option for your first trip to Paris, Le Crazy Horse is in a league of its own.

Founded in 1951 by Alain Bernadin, the show fuses artistic impulse with incredible design, shaped by cultural influences. A Parisian institution, standing pride of place on Avenue George V, the cabaret has played host to all manner of extraordinary "Guest Creatures" including Dita Von Teese and Beyoncé (she filmed the promo for 'Partition' there, don'tcha know). Choreographed and styled to perfection, each and every show is a masterpiece.

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.

It's A Swing Thing

Aren't you a diamond? Earrings £17.00 from & Other Stories here

Okay, so it's almost been a week since pay day and, I don't know about you, but I've been really super-duper good since then. I've only eaten out once (Roti Chai, since you asked) and I've totally resisted the urge to spend all my hard-earned cash on faux suede separates and peep-toe ankle boots. I think it's called living within my means.

Still, such great behaviour surely warrants a little self-gifting? Any excuse. For a treat that won't break the bank- leaving just enough dollar to travel and eat and all those other annoying things you need to do to live- make a beeline for & Other Stories. I've fallen head over heels for the Scandi superstore's spring collection, and these swing drop earrings are le pièce de résistance.

Unique but still suitably pretty, they offer an instant update with plenty of pizzazz, adding interest to even the most boring white shirt and skinnies pairing. The best part? The kaleidoscopic glass crystals will take on the colour of whatever you're wearing, so you can rock them all around the clock. Or until you lose one, which is pretty much inevitable.

Anyways, I'll stop my rambling now, and continue compiling my 30-strong list of must-have pieces on & Other Stories' website. Standard.

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.

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.

She's La Bombe

Être Cécile's La Bombe sweater: £110.00 here

It's no secret that I am obsessed with all things French. From Brigitte Bardot through to Breton tees and Pierre Marcolini by Olympia Le Tan macarons (topping my Christmas list), I have a real penchant for all things Parisian. The fact I've never been? Details, darling, details. 

For months on end I have been lusting after Bella Freud's Je T'aime Jane jumper, imagining it layered over myriad Equipment shirts and partnered with all manner of skinny jeans, leather minis and denim cut-offs for Seine-side strolls. Sadly I am yet to make her mine, but one fateful day we will live happily ever after on a diet of cafe au lait and almond croissants.

Fit for Feb

Happy February all.

I don't know about you, but it actually makes me feel a little bit ill that we are already a month into 2014* but let's push onwards and rejoice that it's basically Spring!

Okay so I may be jumping the gun a little bit there, but I feel like Winter may have overstayed it's welcome again- will it never learn? Let's just say I am looking forward to tucking away my woolies as SS14 takes the candy coloured reigns.

On that note, I am sure you are all astute enough to have noticed the first drop of Spring delights in stores now (did somebody say & Other Stories humbug striped short suit?), and though I could bore you in writing up my extensive list of pre-Spring hits that I need in my wardrobe right now (starting with crop tops and moving swiftly on to tennis skirts and chiffon culottes) I will resist. It is also just under two weeks until Valentines day, so I will probably post lots of lingerie. In the mean time, chaps, just look to the (proper fit) Rosie Huntington Whiteley collection at M&S for a failsafe gift for your lady friend. Add some Champagne truffles and you're on to a winner.

Sale Savvy: His & Hers

 

Sometimes all that can alleviate the inevitable post-Christmas depression is a mammoth online shopping spree... Particularly when armed with Charbonnel et Walker truffles and leftover champagne. 

That said, we can all be guilty of senseless sale shopping...

"50% off you say?! Ripped zebra jeans? Yes! Perspex neon clutch? Yes! Pink fur coat? Yes, yes, a thousand times yes!"

It is easy to get carried away when you see those hefty designer price-tags whittled down to the £100/£200 mark, but there are a few rules one must remember when it comes to sale shopping:

1. If you wouldn't buy it full price, don't buy it on sale.

2. NEVER buy a size down/up. 

3. Remember the three-year rule. Will you still be wearing this piece in three years time? No? Step away from the cashpoint missy/mr!

To reiterate, I know it's all too tempting- heck, while compiling this post I spent £400 on The Kooples website (the title of my upcoming memoir shall be SW Fashion: From Blogging to Bankruptcy pre-order on Amazon now)- but it is also easy to find some great pieces that will last a lifetime.

Ladies and gentlemen, here are some of my favourite sensible sale buys of the season. Enjoy! 

 

1. This Zimmermann dress is the perfect LBD to add to your party dress collection. The delicate broderie anglaise fabric is slightly summery, but the backless detailing makes it a sexy party season staple. Did somebody say New Years Eve? It is on sale at Net-A-Porter for £237 here. 

2. Luxurious lingerie is best to buy on sale, and my favourite brand this year is Myla. Last year I was obsessed with Mimi Holliday, but this December I have fallen for Myla's subtly sensual styles. This Layla bra in champagne pink with black lace is far too beautiful to keep under-wraps. Complete with rose gold fittings and ornate lace, the Layla bra is available here for £67. Sadly they have run out of my size (and I have got WAY too much lingerie already) but had I been quicker I would have paired this with my new satin camisole from ASOS (here).

3. Reduced from £120 to £36 (!!!!!), this Devon bra by Myla is another dazzler. It is great for A and B cups in particular, and the full set is sure to go down a storm come Valentines Day. I may, just may, purchase this as an early birthday treat.

4. Lingerie to one side, Myla are also renowned for their decadent nightwear in high quality silk, satin and eyelash lace. Their sultry lace kimonos of black and ivory (ideal for honeymooners) are reduced from £1000 to £500 this season, and their satiny slips, babydolls and pyjama sets are also on sale. This black Angelica babydoll is the ultimate nightdress for the contemporary glamour puss, reduced to just £87 here.

5. Beauty Bay is a great place to look for slash-priced beauty staples, and these Essie polishes can be found on sale here, alongside some other great seasonal hues. Pictured are Spaghetti Strap, a light peony pink (£7.82 here) and Cabi au Lait, a sheer ballet pink (£6.38 here). Beauty Bay also have free delivery at the moment for guilt-free post-Christmas spending. 

6. Selfridges have a lot of great scents on sale following the festive period, and these jam-jar natural scents by Honore Des Pres are great to stock up on for gifts. Originally £53, each scent is now £19.50. My personal favourite is the Sexy Angel scent which is fruity with a touch of spice and a sugared almond base. You can shop them here.

7. A little sparkle goes a long way, so add oodles of glamour to any evening look with these Tom Binns earrings at Net-A-Porter, reduced to £99 here. I won't tell anyone they aren't antique if you don't. 

8. While compiling this post, I may have been led astray by The Kooples sale. The Kooples is always my first port of call for sale bargains as I find the pieces are classic and timeless and great quality. This silk blouse in muted blush pink is sure to work hard in your wardrobe, and is the perfect piece to wear slightly undone to show off your new Myla lingerie. It is now reduced to £99 here.

9. Saint Laurent Paris court shoes under £300? Need I say more? These are just £280 at Matches and come in crimson too. A great pair of court shoes will last you a lifetime, and this slick pointed style are sure to delight for work or play.

 

1. I know it doesn't seem like the most sensible sales purchase, but this silk Carven camisole in zebra print will look amazing for SS14, tapping into the Wanderlust trend for all things wild (roar). Wear with a split front pencil skirt such as this ridiculously bargain-ous ASOS style (£11 = lunch at Pret or split front skirt?) and classic courts (I can only assume you've bought the Saint Laurent ones already?) for a sophisticated look with just a nod to the trend. It is reduced to £204 here. 

2. If you like to smell as delicious as you look (such a charmer), then you will doubtless be familiar with the popular Laura Mercier Eau Gourmande collection. With delectable scents of Créme Brulée, Tarte au Citron, Toasted Chestnut and Almond Coconut, these miniature candles are great to dot around the house or to keep on standby for future presents. Reduced from £42, these Laura Mercier candles are available at Space NK for £21 here.

3. The key to a good little black dress is to keep it relaxed and nonchalant, and who could do that better than Maje? A brand synonymous with Parisian chic, this ultra-flattering dress is effortlessly elegant. With a draped silk satin top and a crepe layered skirt, this dress is just calling for a little Isabel Marant boucle jacket and some killer heeled ankle boots. Party season perfection à la Emmanuelle Alt. Maje dress, £162 at Net-A-Porter here.

4. One of my favourite gifts this year was my Rosie for Autograph dusky pink silk pyjamas. They feel so luxurious and elegant, and are the ultimate lounge-wear. Come Summer, though, a short alternative is a must, and these ones at Avenue 32 should do just nicely. The vibrant raspberry shade will really pop with a tan, and the quality is superlative. Raspberry Silk Pyjamas at Avenue 32 by Alöe £98 here.

5. In terms of value, I think Phillip Lim handbags are a great investment. I bought my Pashli this Summer and I have already seen the price go up, so it is always a good idea to get a bargain while you can. This shoulder bag is wonderfully discreet and simple, making it a safe and smart sale buy. 3.1 Phillip Lim Scout Shoulder bag at Avenue 32 £351 here. 

6. Jewellery is usually a bit of a silly sales buy, but this Dogeared charm bracelet is an exception. Granted, it is hardly even reduced, but this gold-plate bracelet is great to keep for a special present such as an impromptu 21st or promotion. Dogeared Lucky Star bracelet exclusively at ASOS reduced to £40.50 here.

7. My first (of many!) sale purchases this year were the Kurt Geiger London Belgravia sandals in nude. For something punchier, opt for the Isabella's in vibrant coral. The shade will be a knockout with a Summer tan and sunset brights are big for SS14. At £49, surely it would be rude not to? Kurt Geiger Isabella reduced to £49 here.

 

1. Richard Nicoll's menswear line has always been slick but understated, and a lot of his trend-led wardrobe staples can be found in the fantastic Matches Fashion sale. These light grey chinos are a great weekend alternative to denim, and also come in rich french navy. They will also transition well into Summer. Richard Nicoll trousers at Matches here. 

2. If you don't have a really fabulous dinner jacket yet, head to The Kooples for a great selection of classic jackets with seasonal reductions. I featured this slim fit navy jacket in one of my menswear pages as it has such a sharp cut. It will work just as well with relaxed Chinos and a simple tee as it would with the matching pants and a buttoned up shirt with a leather collar. Navy Blazer at The Kooples reduced to £294 here.

3. Givenchy is one of the coolest brands of the moment in menswear, so add a little edge to your working wardrobe with these gold wing cufflinks, also available in silver. Givenchy Wing Cufflinks now £105 here. Psst! Ladies, these make for a great gift.

4. This woolen jacket, also by Richard Nicoll, is a contemporary weekend essential. In a biker style, this deep petrol blue jacket is effortlessly stylish and will add a little edge to even the most simple ensemble. The quality is fantastic, and this jacket is sure to impress your other half come date night. Richard Nicoll Wool Melton Biker Jacket reduced to £444 here. 

5. The ruckack is back in a big way, and this leather style from Zara is a particularly stylish offering. Zara brown leather rucksack £39.99 here.

6. Never neglect the shoes- they can make or break an outfit. In the Winter sales it is always a great idea to pick up some classic Chelsea boots, such as these battered brown ankle boots from The Kooples. Kurt Geiger also have some strong offerings, as do Sandro at Selfridges. The Kooples battered brown biker/chelsea boots reduced to £198 here.

7. A favourite of slick city boys, Reiss never fail to impress with their inventive menswear collections and dapper detailing. Often it is quite difficult to distinguish between higher-end brands and Reiss, for the quality is often on a par, and this grey cashmere sweater is a great example. Reiss cashmere sweater in dove grey reduced to £119 here.

8. If you're after something a little more exciting than plain grey, look no further than this printed jacquard sweater. Come Spring, this one shall be available in pale grey with lemon print, so this neutral style is bang-on. Reiss jaguar sweater reduced to £65 here.  

1. A great pair of slim-fit jeans is a worthwhile investment, and this season's best value label is BLK DNM. Only a few sizes remain of this wash, but stay tuned to Matches for new lines and other brands such as J Brand and ACNE. BLK DNM Jeans at Matches reduced to £82 here.  

2. Unleash your wild side with these casual ponyskin flats by Kurt Geiger. They are a little outlandish, yes, but worn with simple jeans and a great teddy jacket they are sure to liven up your look a treat. They also come in patent navy croc. Leopard Print Plimsolls at Kurt Geiger here.

3. A good t-shirt should be light, soft and slightly loose-fitting, and James Perse t-shirts are arguably among the best for men and women. This dark grey tee with black trim is a smart style that will work well under a leather jacket. Grey James Perse t-shirt at Matches here.

4. T-shirts are great to buy on sale, and this navy one with leather pocket detailing is great value for a souped-up staple. Navy t-shirt with leather pocket reduced to £48 at The Kooples here. 

5. The varsity jacket has been on the up for a few seasons now, so now is a great time to invest in a neutral style to add a little modernity to a casual look. I love this one by Reiss 1971, which is reduced to £109 here.

6. Worn well, a statement sneaker can give any look a fashion-forward twist. These Sandro Interstellar high-tops feature a tonal, Alexander Wang-esque graffiti print on the side, and will look fantastic with black denim and an embroidered varsity jacket. Sandro Interstellar High-Top Sneakers at Selfridges here.

7. For something a little more conservative, these black leather sneakers are great for casual weekend wear. They are smart but still comfortable, and the high-top style feels distinctly modern. Sandro Cha Vision High-Top Sneakers at Selfridges here. 

SALE PICKS: HIM

 SALE PICKS: HER

Last Chance to Get Personal

 

Alex Monroe  is my go-to for delicate, beautifully crafted jewellery that will work for any occasion. The latest addition to the Alex Monroe collection is the idiosyncratic Enchanted Twig Alphabet Necklace in 18ct gold. At £375, these dainty, elegant necklaces are future classics. You can shop these here, or if you're in London this weekend pop along to the Alex Monroe sample sale which you can find out about here. 

Come Christmas, everybody wants something a little bit special. 

When I begin to think about Christmas shopping, my imagination really does run wild. I have so many great ideas for gifts, but sadly my student budget restricts my delusions of gifting grandeur.

However, to quote my darling Mum, "it's the thought that counts". A thoughtful gift, such as a photo album chock-a-block full of memories, can be every bit as adorable as a pair of Manolo Blahnik BBs... Well, not quite that adorable. Let's not be daft now. 

So if you're look for something special and thoughtful that won't break the bank, then look no further than the latest influx of personalised pieces to delight your darlings on Christmas day.

From ID tag bracelets through to jewel tone suede slippers, there is something for every giftee, no matter how fussy he/she may be. (PS boys yours is to follow so hold your horses.)

With a cool 19 days until you lay out your miniature mince piece for Santa's sustenance (yes, that IS your cue to panic), it is time to get personal and place your orders. 

Here is my edit.

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.

Tick Tock Hot to Trot

 

Charlotte Olympia Timeless Pumps £525 here

There was a time when I dreamed in Louboutin: my heart and soul longed for a flash of scarlet sole.

These days, though, Louboutin stands alongside a number of other fabulous footwear fancies: notably Charlotte Olympia and Sophia Webster, both of whom combine wearability and wit in their designs. 

My latest obsession are these adorable "Timeless" pumps from the new Fall 2013 collection. A classic heeled slipper style, akin to those purr-fect Kitty heels (sorry), these velvety black pumps feature a golden clock for an idiosyncratic twist on a failsafe pump. 

A charming addition to any shoe collection, these timeless courts will work with everything from the new vinyl A-lines through to your sculpted new season coat. 

Treat yourself- they are timeless, after all.

MORE TEMPTING TREATS FROM @CHARLOTTES_WEB

PFW SS14 Summary

As the editorial elite bid adieu to Paris, Fashion Week SS14 has officially come to a close. As can only be expected, Paris rounded things off in spectacular style with a wealth of dazzling shows from those cool-kids at Kenzo through to Marc Jacobs' final bow at Louis Vuitton

The home of Haute Couture certainly delivered this season, with an array of breathtaking collections putting the Ooh in Ooh La La.

Without further ado, here is our edit of the most glorious collections from PFW... Best enjoyed with a box of Ladurée macaroons, of course.

NEW OPULENCE

Paris wouldn't be Paris without a generous dosage of ooh-la luxury. This season designers took a global approach to glamour.

At Valentino, the ladylike collection was influenced by the opera, with multicultural references and intricate embroidery. The colour palette was notably darker than seasons hence, but the gilded and appliquéd dresses made up for a lack of pretty pretty pastels. It seems that Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli's success at Valentino shows no signs of slowing.

Dries Van Noten has long been an insider favourite, and this season the line is as 'wow' as it is wearable. Opening with burgundy dresses adorned in poppies and ending with a procession of baroque golden pieces, the collection feels truly fresh. Look out for those metallic ruffles on the front row come Fall fashion week. 

WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE

Transporting audiences from the urban jungle to the rainforest canopy, this season's designers appear to have a bout of jungle fever.

Inspired by French artist Henri Rousseau, Christophe Lemaire's superlative Hermés collection offers an elegant take on jungle floral. Alongside fluid printed pieces, signature buttery leathers were interpreted in forest green, claret and sunset orange. The runway was transformed into a vibrant jungle, embracing the Hermés woman's adventurous side. A wild success, as far as we are concerned.

Moncler often pull out all the stops when it comes to setting, and this season is no exception. For SS14, Giambattista Valli turned his attention to urban Africa with a runway bedecked in vines and a soundtrack of roaring sirens. Naturally, such a powerful setting wills the designer to deliver something special, and Valli did just that with signature sleek pieces in luxurious fabrics and contemporary prints.

ART ATTACK

If the Paris shows are anything to go by, SS14 is all about embracing your inner artiste.

Karl Lagerfeld went beyond the conventions of Chanel with a vibrant line abundant in Pantone shades and pop-art detailing. In keeping with his vision, Lagerfled decorated the Grand Palais with his own artwork, created over the Summer in preparation for the show. The collection itself was extensive and expressive, with artful craftsmanship and powerful poster paint shades. Fashion and art have never been quite so entwined.

With such hype surrounding her work, the industry always puts great pressure on Phoebe Philo to deliver at Céline. Following Winters' curiously chic laundry checks and fluted skirts, you could be forgiven for expecting something a little more restrained this season. With Céline, though, you should know to expect the unexpected. Once again,  Philo delivered a wholly unique collection, breaking new ground for the high end Parisian house in seeking inspiration from graffiti and global street culture.

A label plagued by controversy, this season it appears that the house of Galliano is back with a vengeance. Taking direction from Bill Gaytten, the Spring collection at Galliano has had the fashion crowd abuzz. Standout pieces include neoprene skater dresses in eye-popping shades, razor sharp suiting and futuristic visors by Stephen Jones. The collection is youthful and directional with a charming cartoon-ish palette.

FRONT ROW THEATRICS

Now for the main event: the front row theatrics.

No stranger to drama, Jean-Paul Gaultier opted for a talent show themed performance. Models danced down the runway, showcasing Gaultier's eccentric attire as a panel of judges held up score cards. Witty frivolity at its finest, JPG always puts the fun in fashion week.

There really is no stopping Kenzo now, and with a dominant presence across the globe, this season designers Carol Lim and Humberto Leon chose to take a stand against overfishing. The aquatic influence was crytal clear, with the runway situated parallel to a column of circular fountains. The collection was full of creative, clever pieces with the melted fish motif sure to pick up where this season's evil eye left off.

The name on everyone's lips this PFW was Rick Owens. The American born designer is all about challenging convention, but there was no preparing for his Vicious Women show for SS14. Never before has a designer instructed his models to look as ugly as possible on the runway, but, given the success of the show, maybe more should. Ugly in theory, beautiful in practice, the collection was modeled by a dance troupe of women with the most incredible, strong bodies, each one bringing a new dimension to the neutral draped pieces. 

 

FUTURE CLASSICS

While on one hand you have the showmen, on the other you have the new icons, quietly confident in their own unique formula.

One such example is, of course, Isabel Marant The queen of insouciant Parisian cool, Marant is very much the woman of the moment. This season Madame Marant went back to Bohemia, with lace miniskirts, gypsy blouses and gilded lace-up gladiators. The show was modern and sexy, brought up to date by lashings of leather and tailoring. Instantly recognisable and wholly covetable, this collection is sure to stand the test of time.

Alexander Wang's work at Balenciaga has been as criticised as it has praised. It must be noted, though, that Wang is still finding his footing: after all, he has some pretty big shoes to fill. For Spring/Summer, Wang brought a touch of edge to classic Balenciaga pieces, experimenting with innovative fabrics and textures for a minimal but modern look. With each collection, he is subtly reinventing the Parisian house, and this collection is full of promise.

For a girlish take on timeless tailoring, look to Carven, where signature two-piece suits were re-imagined in sugary organza.  

MARC LEAVES HIS MARK

Following a decade at the helm of Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs has officially stepped down from his position at the Parisian powerhouse. Quite possibly the busiest man in fashion, Marc Jacobs is leaving LV to focus on his own eponymous brand. But what a way to go.

Jacobs is undoubtedly leaving on a high, his collection serving as a retrospective of his work at Vuitton to date. Showing in the dazzling Carrée of the Louvre, the setting was a mélange of Jacobs' finest moments, this time re-imagined  in funereal black. 

The models wore incredible black headdresses, each one a showgirl in this beautiful midnight carnival.

Hats- or headdresses- off to Marc on this one, he will be missed.  

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Nostalgia to one side, it is time to focus on what's next for fashion in Paris.

Though London prides itself on emerging talent, Paris is not far behind, and this season there are a number of new names to note.

Danish designer Ilja presented a collection of slick dresses, with the sateen charcoal minidress a particular highlight. Similarly directional was Hexa by Kuho where sharp dresses were matched with sci-fi hair styling.

The collection at Jacquemus was a little Alexander Wang, a little Simone Rocha and a little Lacoste with futuristic tennis skirts, pastel pink crop tops and crisp white plimsolls.

 Ooh la la indeed.

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.

Schoolgirl Chic

Back to school, boys and girls! Uni kicks off again next week, so I thought I'd post a little student-y style post (featured on The Guardian Students here)

Dressing for your university debut is no mean feat. For the first time in your educational journey you do not have the ease or reassurance of a uniform. No gingham dresses or boxy blazers to soften the blow: this time, the ball is in your court. 

My first day of university came during an Indian Summer in London. The temperatures were soaring and there was no place at London College of Fashion for my winter woollies. I decided to keep it simple in pairing my favourite cream silk shirt with black leather shorts, practical patent ballet flats and a big tan handbag with my MacBook Pro crammed in. The outfit was smart but classic, a tried-and-tested look that I felt I could truly be myself in. 

This season my back-to-uni look also features the ubiquitous cream blouse, this time paired with a dark checked mini skirt and lashings of metallics. The finishing touch is my expandable handbag, the perfect size for all my study essentials. 

The way we dress plays an intrinsic role in making those all-important first impressions, so bear this in mind when putting together your first-day ensemble. There is a lot to consider, but ultimately you should aim for an outfit that stays true to your own personal style. 

My blouse is Urban Outfitters (similar style here), my mini is by Zara (sold out but check similar styles below), my bag is a medium black Pashli (try here), my necklace is by J Crew (love this one but this J Crew style is slightly more affordable) and my shoes are also Zara (here)

SIMILAR STYLES