Holiday Wardrobe: Simplicity in the City

New York is a city full of very stylish women. The signature style of a New Yorker appears to be simple and refined, glossy and glamourous, with just a touch of contemporary cool. I made no attempt to stylistically keep up with these sleek creatures, but tried my best to look stylish at all times.

For yet another day of sightseeing, this time on the liberty cruise, I wore a simple Topshop minidress with simple jewellery, nude ballerina flats and my new 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli.

To add a touch of individuality, I stacked up various bangles and cuffs and finished the look with a silver and gold interwoven chain from H&M.

SIMILAR STYLES:

Holiday Wardrobe: Big Yellow Taxi

From West to East, our final US stop was the city of dreams- New York.

I must say that I did not know what to expect from the ultimate metropolis. I had heard mixed opinions: some loved it, some hated it, and I had no clue into which category I would fall. However, as we flew across the city, taking in the iconic scenery, my mind was pretty much made up. And now I get why everyone wears those t-shirts... I, in fact, also love NY.

We were very lucky to stay in the luxurious Gramercy Park hotel in Manhattan, just across from the private gardens of the same name. The hotel was darkly decadent, dripping in chandeliers and oozing old-time luxury.

Our first day was spent doing all manner of tourist-y activities, including a trip to the Punk exhibition at The Met, which I would highly recommend. With everything from risqué t-shirts from SEX on The Kings Road through to delicious Balmain RTW and dangerous Givenchy Couture, the Met's Punk curation plays on the interrelation between punk and couture- namely the DIY spirit which ties the two together.

We then took a trip down Madison Avenue to the flagship Kate Spade store, which was a girly paradise complete with oodles of glittering pumps, colourful enamel jewellery and kitschy popcorn clutches.

For lunch we made our way across the road to Barneys, intending to dine at the celebrated spot for "Ladies Who Lunch": Fred's. With a half hour wait and some rather weary feet, we decided to retreat downstairs to their interactive lunch stop Genes at CO-OP.

I. Loved. It.

Genes is a little glass enclave in the corner of the contemporary designer department. Futuristic and suitably fashionable, the cafe features one long dark table made up of full-screen touch tablets, from which you can order and surf the web. Tweet while you eat? Don't mind if I do!

My order of the day was a green juice, an iced double espresso and a hearty raw superfood salad- dressing on the side, of course: ideal fuel for an afternoon spent milling around Tiffanys and SAKS. 

WHAT I WORE:

Holiday Wardrobe: St Helena Shopping

While in California, I must admit that Solage was my favourite resort. However, the nearby town of Calistoga left quite a lot to be desired. The nearby St Helena, however, was a treat.

St Helena is, quite clearly, a rather wealthy little town. With an abundance of glittering jewellers, higher end ready-to-wear boutiques and even a luxury shoe store, St Helena is a great place to treat yourself or simply window shop in the sun.

Thankfully we were there over lunch, and were able to to dine at French Blue. French Blue is the most darling little restaurant with a great varied menu including all day brunches and exotic seasonal salads. The restaurant has a distinctly European feel to it, with a bright and lively conservatory dotted with pretty wooden tables and beautiful blooms.

The glass shelves of one window are lined with antique liquor bottles for a unique vintage charm, tying in rather splendidly with their superlative cocktail list. They also have some tasty mocktails for us young'uns such as Nojito's and zesty Strawberry Lemonade.

Spoilt for choice, I kept things simple in ordering a vibrant house salad with chargrilled chicken breast, dressing on the side. Sweet, zingy and fresh, the salad made for the perfect light lunch for a sunny day. Check out the menus here if you fancy a trip.

WHAT I WORE:

For a little browse round St Helena, I opted for a simple camisole and miniskirt look. This frilled Zara skirt is actually from the SS13 collection and has sold out online, but an updated version of the Topshop camisole is available here.

The basic sandals are by Dune and are available here, but I sort of wish that I'd bought these ones instead- they would have been amazing with this look. I spotted them on someone when I was interning at Conde Nast, and I have been smitten ever since.

Accessories-wise I opted for my essential Accessorize floppy hat, this statement Urban Outfitters arm cuff, a gold caged cuff (I love this version) and my Mulberry Mini Alexa in Oak.

Holiday Wardrobe: Little Black Playsuit

While I am a more than prone to a little black dress (or eight, at last count), this Max & Co playsuit is the one little black number that has truly stood the test of time.

In silky smooth crepe de chine, this simple draped black playsuit is universally flattering.  It falls to the mid-thigh, ideal for work or evening, and the loose fit is perfect for skimming over the odd food baby.

I picked up this style in Siena a couple of years ago, and am still wearing it regularly. It is wonderfully versatile and very well made. You can find a similar black playsuit here, and this cross back Missguided one is a slightly sexier take.

This holiday outfit was my option for dinner at Calistoga's Jole restaurant. Jole was the one restaurant I was particularly looking forward to, having been told to expect a menu similar to Nu in Girona (the best restaurant I have been to in a good while- find out more here). Unfortunately I was disappointed.

In fairness the food was well suited to me, given the smaller portion sizes, but my family were not overly impressed.

Given that I can't remember what I ordered, and that I didn't even attempt to instagram it, suggests that the meal was pretty forgettable.

For this so-so dinner I wore the playsuit with my favourite Zara two-tone heels (these Kurt Geiger ones are just as gorgeous- in either nude or white), an & Other Stories cuff and carried my Mulberry mini Alexa- the perfect size for evenings. 

Holiday Wardrobe: Sonoma Shopping

Because my blogging has been so appallingly lazy of late, I can't actually remember what I did the day I wore this outfit. I'm getting old, folks, almost old enough to legally drink in the states...

Nevertheless, I shall try and recall. I think this is the day that my family and I upped sticks and headed from Sonoma to Napa, yet another stunning wine region with even more glorious weather.

We were staying in the slick Solage resort just a few minutes from Calistoga. Solage really was my dream resort- particularly for poolside posing. The pool is Olympic sized, great for early morning lengths, while the sun loungers and poolside bar offer the perfect place to soak up some sun in a floppy hat and itsy bitsy white bikini (mine is a cheap as chips ASOS number available here and here).

The resort has a Michelin-star restaurant, SolBar (more on this later) and incredible fitness and spa resources. 

I have to say that Solage was my favourite resort of the entire holiday perhaps, even, ever. With the possible exception of Tuscany's romantic Artimino castle/hotel.

For the trip to Solage, I wore my new H&M distressed denim shorts, my Urban Outfitters cream blouse, my Dune sandals (now on sale here, also in white) and my beloved Accessorize floppy hat. 

Holiday Wardrobe: Miss American Pie

Our first trip to the States was always going to be a busy one. There are so many glorious pockets in California, and sadly we only scratched the surface. San Francisco, Napa, Yosemite and Monterey were our main stops, though I would love to have visited Los Angeles and the idyllic Malibu beach.

Following our initial days spent in San Francisco, we ventured out to SFO airport to pick up our rent-a-car. Oh, and what a car. As a family we have always gravitated towards generic family models by, the now defunct, Saab, so imagine my father’s joy at being handed the keys to a big fat Chevvy. A big ole’ American car in burnished silver, ready to drive all the way to the levvy ‘til the levvy goes dry.

Our next stop: Sonoma. Sonoma is a charming town nearby Calistoga and the world famous Napa valley. Celebrated for glorious wines and luxury resorts, Sonoma is a sweet rural town with an abundance of charming gift shops and suitably elegant dining spots.

We stayed at The Lodge in Sonoma, a complex of contemporary cottages with a main lodge building complete with a grand staircase and quaint coffee shop/wine bar, Bean & Bar. The pool is just dream, particularly when accompanied by a glass of cucumber infused mineral water and Be Awesome by Hadley Freeman (I highly recommend a read).

Having caught the last few rays of the day, I got ready for a dinner in the hotel’s popular restaurant, Carneros Bistro. Using local produce and herbs and vegetables from their impressive garden, The Lodge offers all manner of refined Californian fare from lighter fish dishes through to hearty steaks and very naughty desserts.

For dinner at this versatile establishment, I opted for my favourite Topshop wrap front playsuit in cream. I bought this last Summer, but Topshop have frequently released similar versions, such as this ethereal long-sleeved interpretation. For something near identical, Missguided have cheekily replicated the style here (I love the crisp aqua shade too). I layered with a lace trim nude camisole and added a touch of colour with No 7’s fiery orange polish “Tangy”

Keeping it suitably simple, I added my nude and white sandals from Zara, an assortment of charm bracelets and rings, my new chunky cage cuff from & Other Stories and my Mulberry mini Alexa in Oak.

Nothing highlights a tan quite like bright white, even if said “tan” is more crème than caramel. 

Holiday Wardrobe: San Francisco Shoppin'

Our second day in San Francisco was my kinda day- shopping! 

Usually, sad though this is, I spend time researching the best local boutiques before visiting a new city. However, this year all my research has focussed on our upcoming NYC jaunt (just FYI, best books for top New York tips are The Fashion Insider's Guide to New York and The Stylists Guide to New York- both are fabulous).

Sadly, San Francisco shopping was pushed to one side and we ended up spending our day milling around generic designer shops, with obligatory detours to Zara and H&M. I worry that we did miss a trick in San Fran shopping, but there were still a few gems in and around Union Square.

We began our day with a lovely breakfast at the Grand Café. I had creamy porridge topped off with sweet strawberries and a wonderfully strong skinny capp. We then began our shopping trip, despite the chilling breeze and grey skies.

The first SF gem we found was the charming San Francisco T-We Tea shop. I am a bit of a tea enthusiast and this colourful, uplifting store was a must visit for me. I hope to do a bigger post on this store in the coming weeks, but it really is quite a treat and a great stop for gifts. The T-We Tea store is in Crocker Galleria, 50 Post Street. 

My mother and I absolutely adored Neiman Marcus, which feels just like Harvey Nichols, and spent a good few hours perusing the beauty and homeware departments. I also found myself stroking Balenciaga leather bikers and Saint Laurent claret shifts… One day, my pretties, one day.

We stopped for a lunch in Neiman Marcus' restaurant, The Rotunda, which was divine.  I opted for a light salad and mocktail, my virtuous choices immediately spoilt by a scrumptious creamy coffee and massive complimentary brioche roll with strawberry infused butter. Oh well, as my father says, you’re a long time dead.

For this trip I wore a demure pleated midi-dress from Topshop, paired with bejewelled ballet flats from Zara. In an attempt to beat off the chill, I slung on my lightweight Zara khaki jacket (online they only appear to have a stone version left), but ended up having to buy a decidedly inelegant H&M hoodie, just as the colour started to drain from my extremities. I finished off the look with my new Zara tote and a bohemian ring from H&M (like this but in cream).

Note to self: Raynauds Phenomenon is not so chic. Bring gloves. 

Holiday Wardrobe: San Francisco Sightseein'

Firstly, I would like to apologise that my blog has been a little neglected of late. I have, in fact, been on holiday in California and have had reasonably limited access to internet (I have also had NO access to Champagne which has been difficult. On my return to the UK please send bubbly.)

California has been truly phenomenal and I have so many lovely restaurants, stores, spas and retreats to share with you from this holiday of a lifetime, but in the meanwhile I will be super boring and simply post shots from holiday wardrobe!

I know that i'm no Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and my wardrobe doesn't exactly rival Poppy Delevingne's, but I am a real nosy parker when it comes to holiday style and I hoped you may be too!

The first part of our wonderful West Coast journey was a few days spent in San Francisco. My only niggle? It is much colder than I had anticipated- so excuse the abundance of goosebumps in my SF posts.

We began our first day with a glorious breakfast by Union Square (porridge -or oatmeal- for moi and strawberry studded French Toast for my companions) and then went on to spend the rest of the day down by Fisherman's Wharf. We feasted on glorious fresh crab (with stolen sips of dad's fiery Blood Mary) by the bay before heading out on a boat across to Alcatraz, a must see for all other keen tourists.

For this trip I wore my beloved Zara lace midi-dress (a similar style here), my faithful Zara jacket with aztec embroidery (on sale now) my H&M aviators and my sandals du jour from Dune (see them here).

I carried about my ultra heavy DSLR in my panic-bought Zara studded tote (also on sale), which I have found to be a great bag for Shona the Explorer.

Dora, eat yer heart out.

Easy Breezy Spring Dressing

Okay so this dress is so not one i'd usually go for, but the minute I saw it, I kind of fell for it and thought i'd share it with ya... Along with some killer accessories, of course.

1. Dogeared necklaces, bracelets and trinkets are some of the cutest around and really do make wonderful gifts. This little Key to Happiness pendant, available from ASOS for £56, is a gold-dipped delight that is sure to put a smile on your face, whatever the weather.

2. Aah Mulberry, you simply MUST stop. I've been fawning over this new Willow tote style for months now, and this crisp white edition is just what my summer wardrobe needs. In leather with ostrich detailing and golden hardware, this bag just exudes luxurious Spring elegance. A spacious tote with a zip-off clutch bag, what more could you ask for? It almost makes the £2000 price tag feel like a steal (!!). Shop the white Willow and other equally divine shades here. 

3. A simple shirt dress always requires a pair of cool, chunky heels and these Kurt Geiger London sandals are just the ticket to add an edge to this Chambray shift. They are £140 here. 

4. Stacked rings are an easy way to add a little individuality to a look, and these Monica Vinader rings are a little bit bohemian providing this dress with a hefty dose of West-Coast everyday glamour. This on trend pastel green shade is just delightful. It is £65 here.

5. Keeping things lovely and tonal, this Monica Vinader stack ring (also £65 here) comes in this delightful shade of deep denim blue- the perfect partner to a Chambray shift. 

6. This light Chambray shift by Joie is my latest obsession. It is so delightfully simple, yet so stylish and is perfect to dress up for the office or down for lounging by the poolside. With an optional belt (which i'd need to nip in at the waist!), this dress is an easy-breezy Springtime hit. You can buy it for £149.81 on Shopbop here.

Holiday Wardrobe #10

Holiday Wardrobe #9

Barca Barca Take 2

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

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

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

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

Holiday Wardrobe #8

My £7 maxi 

beautiful!

sunshiney treat (nothing on Samba Swirl!)

Holiday Wardrobe #7