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.

Friday Jungle Fever

Bikini by Kenzo at Matches, £185

Oh my golly gosh- it's positively tropical out there, isn't it?

(Note the hint of sarcasm there, boys and girls, I'm all too aware that my "sense of humour" does not always translate across the internet)

Unless you are on some sort of decadent holiday, or have an exceptionally high body temperature, you are probably freezing your toes off right about now just like me. May, you say? No. I don't think so.

It is unseasonably cold in London at the moment but, on the plus side, I have just finished off my final term of second year and am looking forward to beginning perhaps the most exciting work placement of my life next week.

Yaaay for Maaay.

Anywaaay, I just thought i'd do my best to brighten up what, for most, is a very dreary day with this glorious bikini which has just landed at www.matchesfashion.com.

Granted, it is not the cheapest of itsy-bitsy-teeny-weeny bikinis, but it is so bang on this season and such a fabulous style. I simply adore the flattering v wiring on the top with criss-cross straps adding an fashion-forward edge to this piece.

With a delicious jungle print that just exudes tropical charm, this little two piece is a wearable interpretation of the nouveau exotic look which made Kenzo such a resounding hit this season.

If you've been working hard on those abs, then this is the perfect way to treat yourself.

Shop this sweet little swimwear staple here.

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.

Making Bikinis Bearable

Summer is upon us, and with it comes the mighty bikini body breakdown. If you're reading this and feel 100% happy in a itsy bitsy, teeny weeny bikini, then please do jog on (not really- i'm just jeal). 

It's the one part of summer that I really do not look forward to- I HATE BIKINIS. I hate having to compare myself to other bikini-clad ladies, I hate having nothing to hide behind and I hate being unable to stuff my face with a three course breakfast, as is customary at a hotel breakfast buffet. I could write a lengthy list of complaints about my body, as well as a lengthy list of women who's body I would rather have, but I won't bore ya. 

Instead, here is my little bible of how to make the most of what you've got in time for summer- a little guide on how to feel OK in your bikini (or swimsuit). I'm not saying you'll feel, or look, like Miranda Kerr, but here are a few pearls of wisdom that make stripping down to a bikini a little more bearable in my experience.

TIME TO TAN

It is a well known fact that everyone looks a gazillion times better with a tan. Whether or not you tan naturally, if you want to feel good in a bikini I would suggest faking it a few days before you jet off. St Tropez do a great Everyday tan for beginners (here's a wee review by moi) while I love Fake Bake for something deeper. Try a gel to get one that will be pool-resistant. If you're taking on some serious poolside posing, i'd suggest some L'Oreal Glam Bronze instant. You'll be giving Doutzen Kroes a run for her money in no time! 

1. H&M (£3.99 top £3.99 bottoms)
2. Agent Provocateur (£50 top £35 bottoms)
3. Gucci (£205)
4. River Island (£17 top £13 bottoms)

ROCK A LBB

A Little Black Bikini is the way to go. You're not Rihanna, so that tiger print one was never going to feel great, and as for all those neon ones- the less said, the better! A little black bikini is failsafe. It's sexy with a tan, works under any cover up and is as forgiving as such a tiny morsel of fabric could possibly be. Always my favourite. 

POSTURE M'DEAR

Do. Not. Slouch. If you're wanting to look slender in your swimwear you need to know which angles flatter your body. I'm not saying you need to "chill" by the pool with your hand on your hip, your chest out and your best duck face on, but just make sure that you'r standing and sitting tall. When a camera comes out (shudder) do not hold your towel up over your stomach and cower away! Instead just put your hands on your hips, tighten your abdominal muscles and lean into one hip: foolproof. 

DETOX (ISH)

It's the one you don't want to read, but if you're 100% intent on rocking a bikini, you may have to put down the brownie/chip/Kopparberg, for now at least. If you start watching what you eat- nothing drastic- up to a month before you go on holiday, you will notice that a few pounds drop off. A great way to detox is to cut out the calorific alcohol and fizzy drinks or to do some smart snacking. My favourite smart (deceptively low calorie) snacks include Propercorn, Apples Snapz, THIS amazing non fat "ice cream" and plenty of rice cakes. Swap your favourite sarnie for healthy lunches like these, or this or a few bowls of this and you'll be laughing!

DON'T BE JEAL

I'll try and take my own advice on this one. Instead of hiding behind a t-shirt, be confident in your body and do not for one second start comparing yourself to others! I am a firm believer that everyone is beautiful and confidence is the most beautiful thing of all. Before you head to the beach look yourself in the mirror and instead of dissecting all the bits you hate, pick out the three things you love! Keep those in mind when you feel self conscious. You may not be a supermodel, but nobody expects you to look perfect. Love what you have!

I hope you enjoyed this post! Please don't hesitate to leave a comment :)

Meanie Bikini

What do you do when you hear the word Bikini?

a) Squirm

b) Scream and curl up under your duvet

c) Grin and whip off your dress to reveal a flawless figure in a Melissa Odabash number

Aside from the enviably and unbearably body-confident among us, most would opt for a or b. 

Let's face it: bikini's are, excuse my French, bloody terrifying.

Effectively four little triangles to cover your modesty and that is it. Everything else is on display for intense scrutiny and undeniable bitchiness. For once I am left longing for slouchy knitwear and deceptively loose t-shirts. As much as we should love our bodies, it's not unusual to be slightly critical of the skin you're in. 

It is no real secret that I am recovering from an eating disorder. Any regular reader could probably pick up on my obsession with food/skinny women/body image, and as I move into my final term of first year, I am aiming, reluctantly, to get up to a size eight. I am told to gain roughly a stone, the prospect of which fills me with dread, but I hope I can do it and HOPEFULLY won't look too repulsive in a bikini on my holidays.

What could help me, though, is someone buying me a Mulberry bikini in a size eight? Purely for motivational purposes, of course.

While these pretty patterned babies won't exactly conceal any flaws or flatter a fuller figure, they are beyond gorgeous. All swirly florals and pastel perfection, they are simple but still pack a punch and are miles away from those horrendous push-up ones available in most stores at the moment.

Prior to a full bikini edit coming soon to SW Fashion, these offer up just a splash of poolside perfection to whet your appetite.

But if your appetite is the problem when it comes to bikini confidence I have a couple of tips for you (try HERE, HERE and HERE)... Thank me from the beach ladies.

And never forget the three golden rules of bikini shopping:

* Wear PLENTY of fake tan to trick the unflattering changing room lights

* Go before lunch- even skinny girls look hideous in a bikini with a bloated belly

* Try and forget that Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Gisele Bundchen ever existed... They are mere freaks of nature.