5 reasons to stay at Solage

Image by Solage

Those of you who follow me on Instagram will probably have seen my recent holiday spam. A couple of weeks ago went on a family trip to California where we stayed in Solage, an eco-friendly  resort on the outskirts of Calistoga.

There are a few resorts in the world that I can't recommend enough and Solage deserves a top spot on the list. Why? Let me count the ways...

Blooming Beautiful: Wedding Wonders

Okay, clever clogs, this post is just a couple of days late... The Chelsea Flower Show took place this weekend with a flurry of fabulous flora engulfing Chelsea. From scrumptious afternoon teas with a floral flair through to champagne pop-ups beside the Saatchi gallery - the atmosphere in Chelsea was absolutely electric, and all these pretty pop-ups proved all-too tempting, as i'm sure you can imagine.

I personally adore Chelsea... The real Chelsea, not that Made in Chelsea lark. The Kings Road has so much to offer and all the surrounding pockets of moneyed marvels. I love the Bluebird, I love the glamourous boutiques and I just adore the vibe of the area, from Sloane Square to Walton Street.

If ever you are stuck for things to do on a Sunny Sunday in London, take a trip to Chelsea and just have a wander- you won't leave disappointed. At the moment, for example, there is the most compelling Hermés exhibition on at the marvellous Saatchi gallery. I went on Saturday with the lovely Kate (check out her enviably chic blog here) but we went at peak time so hardly got a chance to look around... Guess that means we'll have to go back? What a chore (!)

Anyway, I digress, for this post is all about occasionwear, this time inspired by the beautiful blooms at the RHS Chelsea flower show. The perfect feminine look for Summer weddings, I love this Zimmermann dress paired with the painterly floral jacket and futuristic clean accents. I feel that this look balances elegance with trend-led touches for a punchy but wholly versatile look.

1) I adore the simplistic design of Whistles handbags and clutches, and the Rivington clutch is a contemporary classic- without the price-tag that usually comes with such an accolade! In this sweet vanilla shade, this spacious pouch with golden accents is a relaxed clutch that will work for day or evening. It is £75 here. 

2) I have been obsessed with Australian boutique brand Zimmermann for a fair few seasons now, with both their RTW and swim collections boasting a sexy but subtle femininity. Atelier-To-Go have tailor picked a selection of simple SS13 dresses from the brand, which you can shop here, but my favourite has to be this raspberry ruched number, also available at Austique (on the Kings Road). This dazzling Dazed dress is flirtatious and romantic but still fashion-forward with flattering ruching and the most glorious movement in the skirt. It is £375 here.

3) Kate Spade is my go-to shop for gloriously girly gifts. I accidentally stumbled upon the store Westfield a few months ago and I can't stop popping in since- there are SO many kitsch and cute things that I never need, but always want. A New York label, I can't wait to pop in this July when I head across the pond. If you have a little time to kill then do check out their Fathom for Kate Spade city guides here- they are awesome. Anyway, this golden bow bracelet is high up on my must-have list, and has been for a few seasons. You can shop it here.

4) Floral scents are a Summer essential, and this new one from Jo Malone smells every bit as pretty as it looks. The Osmanthus Blossom scent is light but sophisticated, a complex floral that balances sweet blossom notes with a touch of the exotic. With tones of peach and apricot, artfully balanced with white florals this is a dreamy daytime scent. You can treat yourself here, where the cologne is £76 for 100ml or £38 from 30ml. 

5) Essie, Essie, Essie... The things you do to me. This balletic pink nail polish- Muchi Muchi- is such a staple shade and will work all throughout Summer. 

6) I really must stop buying jackets, but this one is next on my agenda. A fabulous floral print that marries together shades of coral, magenta, aqua and lime, this flattering cropped blazer certainly belies it's £69.99 price-tag. Ideal for jazzing up a dress for a wedding, this jacket will work with everything from icy whites through to on-trend neons. You can shop the jacket at Zara here.

7) I may, just may, have purchased these ASOS shoes with the 20% student discount. Well, a girl's gotta treat herself. These white caged sandals instantly reminded me of the Alexander Wang ones I have been obsessed with since I first laid eyes on the SS13 collection, and I simply had to have these. The nude sandals just got shunnned: it's all about bright white. They are £42, but if you are quick you can still grab them with 20% off with Unidays!

The Poolside Posers Handbook #1

Image edited from THIS one found through Pinterest

I make absolutely no apology for how much of a poser I am. I have always been a poser, and always shall be, from pouting in my Barbie sunglasses as a toddler through to stupidly smiling in my Instagram "selfies" (tis a constant stream over at @SWfashion_ ).

It's not vanity or arrogance- trust me!- but I really do see no problem in being a poser and I hope many of you feel exactly the same way, particularly when Summer comes a-knockin'.

After all, what could make for a better photo op than a sun-drenched scene?!

Most of us are poolside posers, deep down, so let's just embrace it.

If we weren't posers then we wouldn't be so very bothered about getting ourselves bikini-ready, whether thats in tanning, toning or simply shopping.

Yes, I am writing this while sipping white wine and eating a hot crossed bun but I promise I will soon be kicking myself into tip-top bikini shape. This Summer I am thrilled to be travelling to California and NYC (any suggestions for where to eat/drink/shop are more than welcome!) but I really do need to get my act together before I even think about any poolside posing. These abs ain't gonna tone themselves.

Even though it is still positively freezing, Summer is not too far away, so I thought i'd kick things off with a series of posts all about getting ready for a season of poolside posing. I do hope you like them!

First up, I felt i'd ease you in. I am aware many of you are going for the 30 DAY SHRED (which sounds vicious, I must say) and trying all manner of cleanses, detoxes and diets, but I feel it's too early for all that stuff. I'm just going to go shopping.

There are a million and one fabulous swimwear brands around at the moment but I thought i'd bring you my latest discovery for super-flattering beachwear with a sexy, feminine touch: Huit.

My style of choice, the TREASURE ISLAND set is a summer must. You can find it on ASOS here.

The sister brand of Freya, this lovely lingerie label offers a broad selection of swimwear styles to choose from- with everything from boosting bra tops through to plunging swimsuits.

For Spring/Summer 2013, there are some glorious bikinis and one-pieces available from Huit in an assortment of poppy prints and candy sweet colours.

 Another rather fabulous little number, the CLEOPATRA swimsuit by Huit is available on ASOS here 

I was lucky enough to be sent the Magic Air bikini set in the divine Treasure Island print, along with the twist bandeau top to mix-and-match, and the fit is incredibly flattering. Let's just say I don't exactly possess an ample bosom, but the Magic Air style offers a lift that is usually devoid in swimwear and really does make quite a difference. The tropical print marries shades of cyan, yellow, fuschia and lime for a fresh and vibrant poolside statement. A tan is certainly essential, but I can't wait to wear this little number while sunning myself in the Napa Valley.

Anyway, enough wittering from me, here are some of the standout styles from Huit. You can shop online at ASOS and Figleaves.

I adore this hot pink style from Huit (to find stockists you can call (+44)1536765261) which reminds me of the iconic style worn by Ursula Andress in Dr No (in this shot) with the buckle detail bottoms.

Oh Hi, Summer!

This week I have been insanely busy, sorry that I have hardly posted, but my university deadline is just around the corner so I can promise i'll be blogging more over the next few weeks!

Following the ever so slightly hectic fashion week season, all the summer press days are now upon us and, I must say, we are in for a treat!

This week I headed along to Marks and Spencer's Marble Arch store for their high summer press day where I was greeted with all things bright and beautiful!

Aaah summer, how I have missed you. 

M&S have come a long way in the past few years and this season they have really outdone themselves, particularly in their Limited Collection range and the lingerie department, of course. 

The treats on show at the press day were pretty eclectic. From metallic blue leather pencil skirts as featured in glossy magazines through to boxy clutches reminiscent of those by Alexander McQueen, there is not a trend that has been untouched and there are some real hit pieces that are sure to enliven an ailing winter wardrobe.   

I personally loved the neon pieces and the rails of crisp white pieces in tempting textures. Though shoe-wise I was not taken aback, the handbags at M&S are one of the high street's best kept secrets and this season this is more true than ever before with glossy clutches and roomy beach bags. 

The press day itself had an adorable British summer vibe. After all, what brand is more synonymous with Britain than M&S? 

The food was predictably indulgent and delicious. I ignored the burgeoning bikini-based doom and feasted on scones with clotted cream and rhubarb jam, salted caramel profiteroles and crisp dainty macaroons. I then munched on the tangy rhubarb M&S rock on the way home.

The bikinis themselves were, of course, pretty lovely. I actually fell for a number of one-pieces, one in a graphic monochrome print with fluoro beading was a favourite. You can shop the swimwear here, just to get in the summer mood as we brace ourselves for another flurry of snow (WHY?!)

The lingerie was splendid, as ever. The silken Limited Collection balconette sets in sweet shades of mint, pistachio and lemon were particular favourites and I really can't wait to get my hands on them. I'm a little obsessed, actually!

If you're a lingerie lover like myself, then have a browse here... I can't promise you'll be able to resist a purchase though. Ah well, we've earned it.

The Rosie for Autograph collection is looking rather tip-top as well. With the classic rose bra interpreted in rich raspberry satin and softer shades of peach and cream, there is something for everyone: from sexy to subtle.

My favourite fact of the day? Rosie's lunch of choice at M&S meetings is an egg sandwich with a packet of crisps- no mad raw-food cleanses here, ladies!

I have a list as long as my arm of all the things I fancied adding to my summer wardrobe... And it mostly consists of lingerie!

Thank you to the lovely team at M&S for having me along- here's to summer!

Beach Me, Baby

An image from the ZIMMERMANN Swim SS13 campaign- see more envy-inducing shots here

Aah, if I were a rich girl.

There are so many things I want to do with my life. At the moment, my big dream is to travel to Australia to work with Vogue Australia... I did say it was a BIG dream, but you have to aim high. If I am truly honest, though, any Australian fashion company would do the trick. Australia is the one place in the world I truly long to visit but I just can't seem to find the time to go or, rather, I simply lack the organisation/motivation to just book this trip of a lifetime. 

I'm working on it, I promise. 

It just so happens, to add salt to the wound, that Australia has joined the ranks of Sweden and Denmark and become one of the most exciting countries in the fashion industry. This is particularly true of the affordable luxury market with a number of boutique labels emerging straight from the heart of Oz, specialising in decadent resortwear and the most incredible swimwear. 

Back in London, and back down to earth, today I witnessed what is perhaps the first sunshine of 2013, and I immediately started daydreaming of swimming pools, summer and icy cool champagne. 

Incidentally, also found myself navigating the ZIMMERMANN website simply lusting after their RTW and, of course, their divine swimwear. 

ZIMMERMANN is one of the hottest labels in Australia, and they are making waves over here with stockists including Austique. Their trademark look is feminine but sexy, swimwear and dresses that are designed to look amazing on, without sacrificing any sensual style or modernity.

Check out their website here, as they are now shipping worldwide, but I warn you: it's a little tricky to resist...  

While the price point does reach rather far beyond my fashion student budget, I can but dream, for these little bikinis are certainly dreamy. 

1. First up, this little coral bikini is a surefire summer hit. With frill detail on the cups, this bikini is feminine in the most glamourous way possible, and the colour is sure to sparkle with a softly sunkissed skin. The Brightside Bikini retails at $245, available here.

2. Nothing makes poolside posing quite like perfectly manicured nails, and the Leighton Denny Spring 2013 'Riviera' collection offers the most delectable shades for spring ranging from this sugary Promenade Pink through to yummy pistachio green. They are available from March 1st and shall retail at £11.

3. It's not all about bikinis, as the self-conscious among us will know all too well! I personally have had far too many occasions where I have splurged on bikinis, only to revert to my faithful black and white swimming cossie. One pieces, however, need not be stuffy, and this ruched halter number is just lovely. In a watercolour floral print, this flirty number is perfect for summertime frolicking.  The Locket one piece retails at $260 available here.

4 + 5. Alongside sexy little sets, Zimmermann also offer a selection of swim separates. My favourite is undoubtedly this zingy marigold pair. I love the frill detailing on the bra and that plunge neckline is just delightful. The top retails for $115 here and the matching bottoms are $60 here. While the colour is rather bright, doesn't it just put a smile on your face?

6. Another sweet shade from the Leighton Denny 'Riviera' collection , this peachy number is just gorgeous with softly blooming prints.

7. Speaking of softly blooming prints, how perfect is this flirty bikini? In the same print as the aforementioned Locket one piece, this fabulous frill bikini with a plunge neck and underwiring is a fabulous way to flaunt your flat tummy this coming summer. I'll take one bikini, and one flat tummy, please. The Locket frill bikini is available here at $210.

8. Not only do Zimmermann make the most lovely swimwear, they also offer effortlessly chic RTW and beach cover-ups. This lacy playsuit is my favourite piece for the new season. How elegant is this for a poolside cover-up? Ethereal and beautifully crafted, this long-sleeved playsuit would look particularly scrumptious worn over the periwinkle blue bikini. The Zoe Chiffon playsuit retails for $375 here.

9. Complete with glamourous gold detailing, this Locket bikini in periwinkle is another favourite of mine. I just can't comprehend how delightful this would look with a rich tan. In a flattering cupped style, this icy colour is seriously on trend this season. It retails for $230 here.

Sneak Peek: S/S13 At Reiss

REISS is undoubtedly one of my favourite high-end high street brands and I was lucky enough to be invited along to the Handpicked Media Blogger preview of the S/S13 collection, oh, and what a treat it was!

The press day took place at the REISS HQ and was showing off the very first glimpse of the pieces to come from the esteemed British brand, which has become a household name since the Duchess of Cambridge wore a number of pieces, including the sell-out Shola dress.

I must admit, though, that REISS is sadly a little out my price range, but it really is the perfect place to look if you want something a bit special, or are looking for some really killer staple pieces- trust me, their jackets are a real treat!

For SS13, though, REISS have kind of split their collections off in two. I'm sure you're all aware of the 1971 collection (check out their inspiration Tumblr here), which is a slightly younger, casual look with a more directional stance. The 1971 collection has a slightly lower pricepoint, but the quality is certainly not compromised (mint leather jacket: a case in point!) 

The 1971 collection is full of versatile pieces inspired by nonchalant West-Coast cool, airy, sporty pieces that can be dressed up or down with edgy details like clashing prints and beachy motifs. I felt it had echoes of Isabel Marant which is always a huge selling point in my book!

The mainline collection was slightly more sophisticated, but still highly trend led. My favourite pieces had to be the beautiful white pieces. White really is going to be huge for SS13, and what I loved about the REISS take on this trend was the array of beautiful textures, from a snake-textured dress to a soft edge-to-edge jacket with a feminine peplum waist (my favourite!) 

Anyway, I won't ramble on- I'm sure you can make up your own mind about the collection from my images above!

PS

Just because I love ya, I thought i'd let you know about a little competition REISS are running to win your wishlist! Check out the T's and C's here. 

all items from the REISS SS13 collection, all images my own, if you would like to use any images feel free to ask.

Lets Get Down in Barcelona

I'm all about spontaneity, me.

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

Here are my top tips for Barcelona.

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

City Slickers: Barcelona

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

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

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

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

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

City Slickers: Paris

1. IRO €108 a new take on the Breton stripe tee
2. Sandro €345 a statement jacket is an essential
3. The Kooples £94.50 (in sale) white jeans are a city style staple
4. Alexander Wang Rocco £730 keep it sexy with a studded bag
5. Zara £79.99 Swarovski studded sandals add a luxe edge

Venturing on a city break this summer? Let SW Fashion help with my new "City Slickers" guide on what to wear in some of the world's most beautiful cities.

First up we have the city of luuuurve: Paris. Whether you're going on a self-indulgent trip to visit your true love, Chanel, or you are on a sickly sweet romantic trip, Paris is all about style.

This is no place for your extravagant MeadhamKirchoff tees or your zingy neon denim, this is a city that is all about minimal chic. Think Iro, Sandro, The Kooples and Maje.

As far as style icons go, it's all about the beautiful Clemence Poesy. She does elegance with a idiosyncratic touch that makes her the ultimate Parisian girl crush.

I personally have never been to Paris (save a Disneyland trip as a wee one) so cannot offer you any hints on where to eat, drink and shop, but I don't think you can go wrong with plenty of champagne and Laduree macaroons.

My tip? Get the Parisian look ASAP as the sales at The Kooples, Maje, Sandro and Zadig & Voltaire are absolutely amazing. Emmanuelle Alt, eat yer heart out.

What City Slickers guide would you like to see next?

Flight of Fancy

!. The Kooples £63 in SALE
2. Topshop £35
3. ACNE £770 in Net-A-Porter SALE
4. Kurt Geiger £95

1. Mulberry £325 and Archie Grand "Jetsetters I
Met and Liked" notebook £12
2. Urban Outfitters £16
3. Eve Lom Rescue Cream £45
4. NARS Multiple in Orgasm
5. Clinique Chubby Stick in
Woppin' Watermelon £16
6. Ted Baker iPad cover £89
7. Canon Powershot G12 

It's always a nightmare to know what to wear to fly in. We always see those impossibly perfect style icons swanning on and off their trans-Atlantic flights and it is baffling. How can they look flawless after hours of obligatory excessive peanut and vodka consumption? Or is that just me?...

However, you're in luck as it really is not impossible to look cool after even the most stressful days travel. Opt for comfortable pyjama style pants with a cool jacket and sandals- simple but very off-duty Miranda Kerr. Make sure you've got a generous carry on and DO NOT overfill!

As far as beauty goes, make sure you have a super nourishing cream to hand to stop cabin conditions destroying your skin. Then simply add a little flush with a NARS Multiple and give lips a healthy sheen with a new Clinique Chubby Stick.

My top tip for a stress free holiday? Make lists!

FLIGHT BAG

* Travel docs?

* iPad?

* Camera?

* Make-up?

* Purse?

* Tickets?

* Hairbrush?

* Notepad?

* Pen?

* Shades?

* Headphones?

* Hand sanitiser?

* Phone

What else is essential in your carry on?