Watch This Space

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I never used to be one for watches... Until they got cool, that is. 

AW13 sees a whole host of exciting new fashion watches to lust after from the punchy to the punky. 

Here's my edit:

I have always been a little bit obsessed with leopard print, so when I laid eyes on the Larsson and Jennings Vogue Leopard watch I was smitten. In bang-on-trend ponyskin, these limited edition animal print timepieces from the cult Swedish watch brand are sure to make a statement without going over the top. Choose between zebra, leopard and crimson dalmatian and hear them roar. They retail for around £180 and you can shop them here. 

You can always count on Kate Spade New York to brighten up your Winter wardrobe, and the KSNY AW13 collection is abundant in confectionary and colour. While you may not be drawn to the donut-faced watch (though I oddly love it), this apple green style is a great shade to wear with Autumnal shades. The classic, slim studded style is pretty but punchy.

If you follow me on Instagram, you may have noticed my new wrist candy by Daniel Wellington. In brown croc-effect genuine leather with a minimal rose gold face, the watch is masculine but still elegant (a hard balance to find) while remaining wholly versatile. It works well for any occasion and has such a classic aesthetic. If your style is slightly more preppy, then i'm sure you'll love the striped styles. You can browse the watches here. 

Finally we come to the coolest watch I have seen in a while- this new style by The Kooples which is coming soon for AW13. In an elegant wraparound style complete with simple gold studs and a textured strap, this one is definitely a keeper. Stay tuned to The Kooples website to get your hands on one of these cool pieces.

Minted

Ooh, hello there sunshine, how we have missed you !

Today is the hottest day of the year thus far, so I thought i'd present to you a look based on the hottest colour of the season: aquamarine.

Or coolest, if you are being pernickety. 

Mint green is always a favourite of mine come the warmer months. It is a soft, pretty shade that works with all colours. I find it truly comes alive when paired with crisp white pieces and the softest golden tan.

For SS13, though, I am loving mint styled in a more directional, futuristic way as demonstrated above in a gorgeous spring-ready look that just exudes editorial cool. 

This is street-style snapper stuff, if you ask me.

1. These earrings from Whistles are a fabulous, space-age interpretation of classic costume jewellery. Such shapes are often associated with a certain Miss Butcher in Eastenders, but this new season version from Whistles (seriously hot at the moment) is a million miles away from Albert Square. In smoky pewter black, these slick earrings work wonderfully with this cool look. 

2. Here ye, here ye, I have a new obsession: Sophie Hulme handbags. Since laying my eyes on the marine clutch at the Atelier-To-Go blogger event at The Apartment during London Fashion Week, I have been a little bit smitten with these luxurious handbags. This simple black one with graphic hardware detail is a great investment for the new season, and it is such good value! You can buy them in Harvey Nichols among other stockists.

3. Ooh hello. I've been after this butter-soft icy leather jacket by Reiss 1971 since their press day and I am still doing all the chasing. I am seriously beginning to begrudge the fact that i'm just a poor little student, for I could give this jacket such a lovely home. I would take it everywhere... It would have such a good time (particularly with my new bone skinny jeans from Topshop - ice cream chic!)

4. Every time I get a little statement jewellery craving (which happens once a day, by the way) I head straight to the American e-boutique Bauble Bar. While I am not entirely sure whether they ship over here, I can but dream, and their collar necklaces make for the perfect addition to any outfit post. I adore this mint green offering interwoven with aqua suede and studded with punchy jade opaque crystals.

5. Another blog post, another item from The Kooples! This sculptural white miniskirt from my favourite Parisian label is a total summer must have. With an origami-esque fold at the front, this tapered white pelmet skirt has a distinctly futuristic look which would work wonderfully with a printed top and killer sandals.

6. Speaking of killer sandals, if you want a pair you should probably check out Australian shoe brand Senso. I found them, again, through Atelier-To-Go and I am absolutely in awe of their slick, contemporary designs. The SS12 collection is gorgeous, I particularly adore these SASHA II metallic marine sandals with a perspex heel and minimal strap detailing.

7. I'm not usually a fan of python print, but for this Proenza Schouler jersey top new in at Harvey Nichols, I shall make an exception. I adore this long sleeved, soft jersey top from the New York design duo, and doesn't it just look ssssssublime with the mint green?

LFW Dream Wardrobe #3

Happy Valentines Day ya'll! Hope you have a lovely day, single or not so.

Anyway, what with Pancake Day, Pancakelentines Day (The 13th... What do you MEAN you didn't celebrate?!) and now Valentines Day sort of out the way, we can focus all our attention and excitement on London Fashion Week which dawns tomorrow.

With the launch party for #HPMLFW this evening (if you're going to be there, drop me a wee tweet at @SWfashion_ ) and lots of exciting shows tomorrow, I am officially excited.

Today, though, I am shooting with the lovely team at Atelier-To-Go, so thought that I should share with you this little dress which has been miraculously reduced in the Atelier-To-Go sale to just £130 - amazing for a little slice of luxury, delivered straight to your door.

Atelier-To-Go is launching very soon so please do make sure that you follow us out on Twitter @ATELIER_TO_GO and like us on Facebook for our fashion and lifestyle musings on a daily basis. Most importantly, though, make sure you shamelessly self indulge this Valentines Day by treating yourself to some of our lovely new in.

1. This candy pink midi dress from Alice + Olivia at Atelier-To-Go is a total steal at just £130 in the sale. With fine and balletic pleats and a simple elasticated waist, this pretty pink dress is a great piece to see in Spring seamlessly. Yes, it's very girly, but the brighter shade of pink brings it bang up to date. I'll race you to the checkout, yeah?!

2. My latest discover is Shourouk jewellery, and I would be so thrilled to get my hands on this killer Venus necklace. It is available in three weeks from Shourouk's online store for €375, and is just truly beautiful. I feel that this may be my new statement jewellery obsession, Mawi who? With twinkling crystals and bright touches of orange, lime and hot pink, this bright and bold necklace would look devastatingly amazing with this pretty dress. 

3. What could be sweeter for Spring than some lemon yellow pointed stilettos from Whistles. The entire Whistles SS13 collection is a knockout, and their footwear is particularly stellar. These suede pointed courts are perfect with pretty neutrals or with other bold shades and are a great way to breathe life into simple Fashion Week looks.

4. Aaah The Kooples. If ever i'm rich and famous can we agree, Mr and Mrs Koople, that you will provide me with a full wardrobe season by season, primarily made up of these immaculate little jackets? Cool, i'm glad we've got that sorted. This creamy double breasted blazer from their new Spring collection, dotted with gleaming gold buttons, is the perfect way to keep out the chill without ruining the flirty shade of the dress. It's £315, but the cut makes it a wise little extravagance. 

5. Another season, another collection of Zara handbags to make me even poorer. In a bold, uplifting tribal print, this boxy clutch belies the £39.99 pricetag and is a great way to marry these bright shades together. Someone try and dissuade me from buying this... I don't think I can resist much longer!

6. The finishing touch? A fluoro nail polish that is just the ticket for instagram ready nails. This bright Portobello polish from Nails Inc is perhaps my favourite summer shade as it really brings a smile to my face, while also making me look nice and tanned. It'll look fabulous with this clutch as well! For £11, it's 100% worth it. 

Disguise Mince Pie Thighs!

If you can't overindulge at Christmas, when can you?

I must put my hands up and say that I have actually not eaten many mince pies this year- two mini ones to be precise- but I do feel like I am about to gain a stone in Christmas weight... I mainly blame the Champagne cocktails and mum's irresistible Christmas cake and trifle.

Christmas is a very tricky time for those who are struggling with weight, but i'm trying my best to cope! However, if worst comes to worst, I will just gain that almost inevitable seasonal weight and then have to detox- green tea in one hand, gym pass in the other.

In the mean time, though, I bring you some lovely wintry outfits that conceal a multitude of festive foodie sins. 

Nothing beats an oversized jumper with some slim fit jeans and a brilliant pair of ankle boots... It's universally flattering and makes you look every bit as slim as you are in your summertime prime.

It's not time to detox, yet, so let's enjoy the party season while we can.

Pass me the Elderflower Edinburgh gin!

1. Dark Wash Jeggings from Abercrombie and Fitch- the ultimate jeans. I'll have a pair in every colour, please? (£68)
2. This Jack Wills jumper (£69.50) is so wonderfully snug and, when worn oversized and slouchy, this is the perfect way to hide a less-than-washboard stomach (who, moi?)
3. The best way to spend Boxing Day? Hidden away under lots of layers watching Love Actually and eating Quality Streets. This super soft faux-fur gilet from Topshop is super toasty and rather forgiving (£55)
4. Let's talk diversion tactics! This studded leopard print bowling bag from Zara (£49.99) is at the top of my post-Christmas wishlist, and with rather good reason. Such a bold, stylish bag will distract from the pre-detox pounds.
5. MUST. STAY. ALWAY. FROM. THE. KOOPLES. SALE. Please, someone, stop me from buying these tidy little ankle boots. They are reduced to £185 in the sale.  

1. These slouchy ripped boyfriend jeans from Moto at Topshop (the Lacey jeans- £40) are ultra forgiving and the perfect way to disguise mince pie thighs! I'll take a couple of pairs...
2. Slip on a cosy cardigan (River Island, £40) and cocoon yourself in the knowledge that you've got a good few months before bikini season...
* shudder *
3. Where have all the good men gone?.. Need a post Christmas hero that isn't of the Cadbury's variety, well you aren't alone. Send out a message loud and clear with this ultra cool beaded t-shirt from Markus Lupfer (£140)
4. These are biker boots and then some. Balance out the soft pieces with these edgy studded Zara boots (£129)
5. Got a few spare Christmas pennies going?.. Indulge in some new season Mulberry like this glossy Cecily tote (£1100) which adds a polished finish to any outfit... It would also act as a marvellous diversion from my Champagne-enduced bloat (yes, i'm pretty much Bridget Jones)

1. Another sale hit from The Kooples, I adore this slick Oxblood woolen cape. It will certainly hide a multitude of sins! £220.50 on sale- i'll be keeping my eyes peeled for further reductions.
2. Nothing beats a simple cream knit, i'd buy this one several sizes too big. It's £35 from Miss Selfridge.
3. My favourite high street jeans are the super-skinny stretchy Leigh jeans from Topshop. This simple dark denim pair is super slimming and just £38.
3. Ooh la la, did someone say Mulberry? Well, they were wrong. This warm tan handbag with gleaming gold hardware is a snip at £70 from ASOS. Yum.
5. Ankle boots are my one true love, and these new season burgundy buckle boots from Office are a new favourite of mine. The stacked heel lengthens legs while the cut out detail makes them a great partner to flirty minis come spring! (£85)
6. Alex Monroe jewellery is the cutest, and this fox charm bracelet is delicate and sure to attract many an admiring glance. (£135)

1. Alas, yet another pair of killer skinny jeans, this time from Hollister. These have a perfect stretch and the dark wash is slimming. I find they make my bum look a million times better as well, at £40 they are certainly cheaper than a trip to Harley Street!
2. This cutesy Wildfox sweater, embroidered with "I'll Keep You Warm" in shimmery bronze sequins will cover you up without looking even remotely boring. I absolutely love this sweater (£150)
3. I have two faux-fur scarves from Zara that I wear religiously, primarily because they are super cosy and also very forgiving when i'm feeling a little less than body confident. Though my lovely fur stoles have sold out, this cool snood from Topshop is silky soft and a lovely toffee hue (£25)
4. Another day, another ankle boot. These buckled Topshop black booties have a chunky heel which balances out slightly shapely legs. (£110)
5. Et Voila! You could balloon up ten dress sizes and it still wouldn't matter with a Celine Luggage Mini on your arm. I don't even know how much this Cream Python offering is- I don't doubt that it is too much for me to even comprehend- but I love it, and always shall.  

Wild Thaaang.

Christmas is just around the corner, so I thought i'd do a little outfit post- this look is the perfect understated look for Christmas cocktails... Just be careful on the ice with these fabulous Zara booties, okay?!

1. This little Topshop camisole is my new hero piece- it is flattering, pretty and glamourous with a lovely lacy back. On top of it all, it's got a double-layered front to avoid an embarrassing bra clash! I love it tucked into high waisted jeans/shorts, or worn loose over leather leggings (try Miss Selfridge for a great pair at just £18) This little beauty will set you back a rather reasonable £28.

2. Psssst! The Kooples have their sale on- get in line! I absolutely adore The Kooples, particularly their razor sharp tailoring. They have some gorgeous pieces reduced in their latest sale including this perfect black jacket and a slightly more festive offering with a gold leather collar- snazzy! This lovely jacket- which is a real winner in cost per wear terms is reduced to £238. 

3. I am a firm believer that when Christmas shopping, one really must have the "one for you, one for me" approach. After buying some Christmas cards in Paperchase, I felt it only fair that I had a little gander round Miss Selfridge. I then saw these studded super stretch jeans and accidentally bought them... They are glitzy but not OTT and the fit is truly fabulous- tight but with a little stretch. Cut a fine figure and pair with a silky cami. £45

4. This is my new favourite perfume - L'Ombre Dans L'Eau by Diptyque. Though Tom Ford Violet Blonde made the Christmas list this year, I am madly in love with this delectable scent. It is floral but fresh, sweet but seductive and I just love it! Anyone want to treat me?... £50 from Liberty

5. All together now... AWW! This Alex Monroe charm bracelet is the perfect gift for a loved one this Christmas- delicate but a little edgy, I love the key charms- £135

6. This Rock'N'Rose Key charm necklace at £21 is a lovely partner to this dainty Alex Monroe bracelet and is the perfect understated pendant to go with everything from sexy separates through to grecian maxi dresses with decadent layered pendants.

7. I have always been a big fan of Marks & Spencers handbags- they are very much design led, and not everyone knows to look in good old M&S when hunting for a handbag. This quilted patent number with glossy gold detail is beautifully made and has a real high-end quality, plus it's only £25

8. Last but not least, I give you my favourite ankle boots ever! Okay... This week. I love these Zara leopard print heels. They are just so ferociously hot and I want them... NOW. After all, I haven't met a leopard print I didn't like! 

What do you lovely lot think of this look?!

Dapper Darlings

1. Slick Black Jacket from The Kooples £340
2. Chain and Bead Clutch from Zara £49.99
3. Sequin Skinny Trousers from Reiss £99
4. Céline tee from Farfetch- currently sold out, but if you're desperate, check THIS out.
5. Stunning chain detail heels from Zara £69.99

I know that the party season is not the easiest time when it comes to fashion- so many parties/events, such little time ! It's a hard life, isn't it?

Anyway, I thought i'd put together a few little posts about some killer evening looks with a little bit of a difference. First up, we have something for the more sophisticated sort.

If you're bored of the old LBD, then a two piece suit could be just the thing for you.

1. Blazer from River Island £40
2. Glitter Heels from Topshop £50
3. Grey Wide Leg Trousers from Reiss £125
4. Cocktail Ring from Accessorize £12
5. Embellished Clutch bag from Topshop £70
6. Delicate embellished top from Miss Selfridge £45

 It doesn't need to be a black tux with a classic white blouse, though, this season ever brand from The Kooples through to River Island have come up with a more party-ready take on this classic look.

Whether you decide to add a touch of glamour with sequinned trousers, or keep it understated with a muted dove grey palette, the suit is always a sexy alternative to a little dress!

1. Multi-Row Cross Pendants from River Island £12
2. Topshop Bralet £32
3. Metallic Bronze Blazer from The Kooples £350
4. Matching Bronze Shorts from The Kooples £150
5. Black Velvet Wedges by Kurt Geiger £220
6. Lovely Stud Detail Clutch by Missguided £22.99

Add a few sparkly accessories and sophisticated shoes to add a feminine touch to a sharp tailored suit. And if you really can't bare to cover up head-to-toe, then try a short suit.

The Kooples have such wonderful tailoring season by season, and for the party season they really have pulled out all the stops with this metallic shorts suit- a real favourite with fashion bloggers and celebrities alike.   

1. Tweed Blazer from Topshop £68
2. Young Hearts Run Free t-shirt by Wildfox £70
3. Tweed Trousers from Topshop £40
4. Gorgeous grey pouch bag from Whistles £55 (great price)
5. Beautiful Violet Heels from Zara £39.99
6. Collar Necklace by Dannijo $445
7. Revlon Nails in Plum Seduction (at Boots) £6.99

Finally, to stop a simple grey or black suit veering into office territory, keep it bright and bold with colour pop accessories and kitsch touches, like a cute Wildfox tee or Markus Lupfer knit.

Ultimately, a suit is smart, clean and sure to make you stand out from the hoards of girls in cutaway body-con dresses. 

Her Dark Materials...

1. Topshop Rings £8.50
2. Chelsea Doll Claw Ring £10
3. Zoe & Morgan Ring with sapphires (in. love!) £400
4. INCREDIBLE ACNE dress at Liberty £550
5. The Kooples Sleeveless Aviator £425
6. Revlon nail polish in Impulsive (love it!)
7. Mulberry Boots £550
8. Zara Handbag £89.99

Wow, wow, wow. This dress is incredible! I love the dark floral print and the feminine but demure shape- it's sexy but not over the top. If only I had a spare £550, eh? One day...

Another Day, Another Gilet

So it's the first gilet i've featured. Chill out. I will happily Koople up with anyone who buys me this so-gorgeous-I-could-cry gilet from the new Kooples collection in stores now.  It's only £425. Don't be cheap boys. 

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?

Cut Price Kooples!

It's no secret that i'm a little bit obsessed with The Kooples. That chic, androgynous gamine look, all sexy separates and cool accessories, is what I aim for daily, though I often fall short due to being so skint.

But here's a little secret to brighten up your day- The Kooples are having a big fat sale with up to 50% off ladies and gents! 

Enjoy- but leave some for me? 

How To: Ripped Jeans

I Love The Kooples