Mink: ASOS
If there's one 'trend' I'm totally all over this AW15, it's the Over-the-knee boot. HUGE for AW15 and, totally versatile, they are a must have for the new season. Wear them with pretty much anything in your wardrobe - I'll be wearing mine with a cute dress or over a pair of jeans.
The high street is swarming with lots of different styles. For me, Kurt Geiger has massively nailed it this season for OTK boots - I have my eyes on about 5 pairs of them from there! But, ASOS, Topshop and Zara also have some great pairs as well.
Get shopping!
Wide legged trousers seem to be a piece I keep going back to a lot recently - I even have a few pairs in my 'saved items' on ASOS. These monochrome wide leg trousers are a great piece to add to the wardrobe. Paired with one of my highest pairs of heels (short girl problems) these make a great outfit and are so comfy for running round London in for meetings.
So, we're half way through Fashion month, and SS16 is looking pretty.
I've spent the last day pouring over the shows from London (New York is already up here) and can't wait to see what Milan and Paris have in store.
I always look forward to London Fashion Week for many reasons. One of the main ones being that a couple of high street brands are now on the schedule which, I think is great.
Here are my favourite shows from LFW. Go grab yourself a cup of tea, and enjoy!
Burberry Prorsum
One of my favourite collections so far, Burberry Prorsum SS16 is beautiful, and totally up my street. I loved the military-style coat below (one trend I'm loving for AW15 is Military) and the super feminine dresses with different textures and fabrics were so dreamy.
Burberry Prorsum
One of my favourite collections so far, Burberry Prorsum SS16 is beautiful, and totally up my street. I loved the military-style coat below (one trend I'm loving for AW15 is Military) and the super feminine dresses with different textures and fabrics were so dreamy.
Crisp white tailoring, Body-con knits tiered in black with lace detailing. Prints, embellishment and tie-dye also featured, giving this collection a really fresh, grown up and sexy feel.
Mixing together ’80s power dressing with an eccentric British tea party, Topshop Unique SS16 is all sorts of perfect for us ladies. Mismatching textiles - leather trousers with sheer blouses and an animal print faux fur thrown on top is one of the looks to get excited about. Trenchcoats, jumpers and blazers were all cinched in at the waist with narrow leather belts and the make up was on point.
Next up, Milan.
All photos - Vogue.com
I'm always skipping back and forth from London so, when I can stay up there I like to think of it as a little Urban getaway.
Like any city, London is full of hotels but there's only a small handful that I like to stay at. The Hoxton Hotel is a very small, boutique chain with only two in London (at the moment). I've stayed in their Shoreditch one a few times and although it's full of cool and trendy things, it is so down-to-earth it makes you feel comfortable as soon as you set foot inside the big glass doors.
I've visited the Hoxton Holborn site before for drinks (you can see that post here) and I can only describe it as "The younger, hot sister" of the original hotel. The huge lobby is a great area for catching up with friends over a few drinks, or catching up on a few emails in one of their comfy armchairs - something I've done and ended up wiling away a few hours sitting there watching the world go by outside.
They also have Cheeky salon, where you can get pampered before heading out for the evening and the Apartment, their space for meetings and events - check out their amazingly curated events schedule , Hoxtown - from sample sales to yoga, there's something for everyone.
Room amenities are one of my favourite things about staying in a hotel. At the HH, they've designed it so that guests have everything you need, and nothing you don't. From their own toiletry range, Pen & ink (which smell amazing) to free bottled water, milk, tea and coffee. They really have you covered. There's even a 'Survival Guide' should you not know London and the area that well.
Right next door to the hotel is the Holborn Grind. If you like coffee, head here for your fix and take a seat at the window - people watching is a great thing to do here. When the clock strikes 5pm, the music gets a little louder and they make coffee-based cocktails. I love an Espresso Martini and theirs is top-notch. But their Hot Flat White Russian will knock your socks off. That and a soundtrack that includes Destiny's Child is a great way to kick off your weekend.
The Hoxton Holborn
199 - 206 High Holborn London,
WC1V 7BD,
UK
Culottes: River Island,
Parka, Leather Pinafore and Patchwork Skirt: Zara,
Jumper, Tie-front dress and scallop hem mini skirt: ASOS,
Graphic-print dress and tie-front shirt: Topshop,
Blouse:H&M
Cardigan/Jacket: Monsoon
Flats: Office,
Ankle Boots(s) & Tote: Kurt Geiger,
Nano Milner bag: Sophie Hulme @ Selfridges,
Scarf: Whistles,
Adidas Originals: JD Sports,
Cross-body bag: Zara,
Over-the-knee boots: ASOS
Now, you may have noticed that most stores on the high street have started dropping new season Autumn/Winter pieces in which, is fine by me as I LOVE a chunky knit and ankle boot over a little Summer dress any day. But, as it's still a little too warm to be wearing these, I've been trawling the internet for some transitional pieces to go in my wardrobe - things I can wear now, and also in a few months time with a few extra layers or tights.
Brands such as Topshop, Zara, ASOS, Kurt Geiger and River Island have got you covered. Ankle boots are the best accessory to purchase (the ones above are both on my 'to get' list) as they literally go with everything. As for clothes, I'm trying not to wear my 'Boyfriend' jeans every day but, I'm failing massively - when you find a pair of jeans that fit perfectly and go with every shoe in your wardrobe, how can you not?! More on that in another post soon though. I'm still fairly new when it comes to wearing culottes - they take me back to the 90's, and not in a good way! But I'm teaming them with basic tops and a heeled sandal and it's totally working for me.
What can I say? I LOVE a good transitional piece.
In the same week I've talked about trends for AW15, I'm now talking to you about SS16.
Confusing? Maybe. Exciting? hells yeah!
New York Fashion Week has packed up for another season, and what a week it was! I've kept an eye on what's been going on across the pond and, I have to say, SS16 is looking gorgeous. I'm glad to see that colour and print are still going to be around but I must admit, I'm loving the classic and chic trends coming through.
Here are my favourite shows from NYFW. There were quite a few, so grab yourself a cup of tea and get comfortable.
Victoria Beckham
My favourite collection from VB so far, and completely different to when she first started out. The pieces are gorgeous, with swing dresses, midi-lengths and flats. Perfect for Summer, and totally on my SS16 designer wardrobe wish list. One can dream that the high street will take inspiration...
My favourite collection from VB so far, and completely different to when she first started out. The pieces are gorgeous, with swing dresses, midi-lengths and flats. Perfect for Summer, and totally on my SS16 designer wardrobe wish list. One can dream that the high street will take inspiration...
Tibi
Long and loose silhouettes in silk or cotton, drop-shoulder pieces and sophisticated sequins. I want to be a Tibi girl for SS16!
Diane Von Furstenberg
This collection had me at the first look. DVF always manages to create so much sass in her looks she puts together for her shows. These looks below have me all inspired for SS16 already - the olive green leather jacket is an absolute fave.
J Crew
I love a bit of J Crew, especially now it's so accessible to us Brits! Gingham, nautical stripes, tomboy favorites such as the shrunken military jacket - these were all my favourites and, will be so appealing to so many women.
London Fashion Week has been and (nearly) gone. I've been keeping an eye on what designers have been showing, and there has been some gorgeous collections. I can't wait to show you my favourites very soon.
This collection had me at the first look. DVF always manages to create so much sass in her looks she puts together for her shows. These looks below have me all inspired for SS16 already - the olive green leather jacket is an absolute fave.
I love a bit of J Crew, especially now it's so accessible to us Brits! Gingham, nautical stripes, tomboy favorites such as the shrunken military jacket - these were all my favourites and, will be so appealing to so many women.
With this Autumn Winter offering up some proper game changers trend-wise, I have compiled my favourite trends for Autumn/Winter 2015. If money was no object, I would be kicking off the new season with a wardrobe full of looks from the runways but sadly, that is a dream and not reality. So, I'm letting you know where you can buy into these trends on the High Street without blowing the bank!
Let's begin....
That Seventies show
If you purchased a pair of denim flares this year already, fear not! You will get some more wear out of them as the 70's trend is not going anywhere. You may be feeling a little bohemian over the uptown chic or vice or versa - whatever way, there is a version of this trend you will love. Michael Kors, Anna Sui, Burberry and Chloe had models walking their runway in 70's style. On the high street - Topshop, River Island and Zara are good stores to shop at for this.
Layering
From what I can gather with this trend, anything in your wardrobe goes! From a shirt under a dress or over a polo neck, to chunky cardigans under a coat, this is a budget-friendly trend as it means you don't need to go on a big shop - just open your wardrobe doors and embrace your current clothing!
Victoriana
If you purchased a pair of denim flares this year already, fear not! You will get some more wear out of them as the 70's trend is not going anywhere. You may be feeling a little bohemian over the uptown chic or vice or versa - whatever way, there is a version of this trend you will love. Michael Kors, Anna Sui, Burberry and Chloe had models walking their runway in 70's style. On the high street - Topshop, River Island and Zara are good stores to shop at for this.
From what I can gather with this trend, anything in your wardrobe goes! From a shirt under a dress or over a polo neck, to chunky cardigans under a coat, this is a budget-friendly trend as it means you don't need to go on a big shop - just open your wardrobe doors and embrace your current clothing!
Gothic styles for this trend were at McQueen, Givenchy and Giles. Think decadent but dark - sheer fabrics, embellishment and lots of frills. Head to Dorothy Perkins, Zara and Topshop to pick up some Victoriana separates to style.
Modern Military
This trend is set to be huge for AW15. Mainly masculine and dark, with strong attention to finishing
details such as military style buttons and pockets. Shop it at Zara (again) and Wallis
This trend is set to be huge for AW15. Mainly masculine and dark, with strong attention to finishing
details such as military style buttons and pockets. Shop it at Zara (again) and Wallis
So, there you have it, four of my favourite trends for AW15. What trends stood out for you and what are you looking forward to coveting for the new season?
I've said it before, and will probably say it quite a few more times but Autumn Winter is my favourite season. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Summer but for me, I'm most happiest and comfortable rocking cosy knits, faux fur coats and cute dresses teamed with tights.
One thing that I love having in the flat is a bunch of bright flowers - it instantly brightens the room and leaves such a lovely smell. Plus, they are an instant boost for cheering yourself up. Having flowers delivered is always a nice way t
Debenhams kindly sent me their Summer Sun bouquet via their next day flowers service. It brightened up a very grey and rainy day and lasted just over a week which is their guarantee.
The Summer Sun bouquet is beautiful, with a range of bright flowers including a few roses and sunflowers which always put a smile on my face. As well as a variety of lovely bouquets, Debenhams also offer a range of luxury flowers, which are perfect for a special occasion and, are delivered across the UK 7 days a week.
Debenhams Flowers, have kindly given my lovely readers 25% off - just use this discount code: DFBLOG25 when you place your order. This code is to use on ALL flower bouquets, EXCEPT the flowers by post range
Debenhams Flowers, have kindly given my lovely readers 25% off - just use this discount code: DFBLOG25 when you place your order. This code is to use on ALL flower bouquets, EXCEPT the flowers by post range
Fashion week is fun but, can be very hectic so I thought I'd show you what goes in my bag to help me survive!
Sunglasses
Early starts and late nights are a huge part of London Fashion Week so, I love to hide behind a pair of sunglasses. These are great and tend to go with any outfit.
Beauty products
I always have a tube of hand cream in my bag as well as lip balm. My Touche Eclat goes everywhere with me, as do a couple of lip colours - a slick of bold colour on your lips can brighten up anything!
Blister plasters
Not that glam but, such an essential when you're prancing around London in your heels. These have saved my feet many a time!
Oyster card
As much as I would love the guys at Uber to drive me around London all day, every day, I simply can't afford that. I'd rather spend my money on pretty things so, my mode of transport is the tube or bus.
Notebook
My notebook has to come everywhere with me - I would forget everything otherwise! Plus, it's great to keep a note of any looks you see at the shows and on the streets.
Phone & charger
My phone rarely leaves my hand and I wouldn't know what to do if I didn't have it, which is why I carry a portable charger around. I'm always checking Twitter for updates, answering emails and logging everything on Instagram.
Happy Fashion week everyone!
Most of you will be reading this, and have had the same thought that crosses my mind every morning.
What shall I wear today?
I'm putting my hand up and admitting to the fact that I will have a morning wardrobe-based tantrum at least once a week which always has me stomping around my bedroom and shouting "I have nothing to wear"
Which, in fact is so untrue and always has my boyfriend reassuring me that I do indeed have something to wear and to stop being so dramatic.
I tend to shop for simple, yet stylish pieces that I can wear with different things throughout the week. For example, having a couple of white shirts/blouses in your wardrobe can go along way - paired with trousers, skirts, jeans and even under some styles of dresses - it's the perfect wardrobe staple to start with.
The British high street have some great pieces both in store and online. I tend to start with the brands below when shopping for some work- wardrobe pieces.
Finery London (above)
If you're a regular WLDN reader, you'll remember my post on this brand back in May. My love for Finery continues to grow as quickly as their collections do. They're online only but, the fit and quality is spot on plus, delivery is quick!
Cos
To say I'm a huge fan of this brand is an understatement - I can't go into a Cos store without coming back out with a purchase! I love their pieces and, although I only have tops and dresses from them, their trousers and other bits are so lovely and fit like a dream to.
Whistles
A little more at the high end of the high street, Whistles is a great place for that 'investment' piece you'll have in your wardrobe for years. I find their collections get better each season - they're also the brand that has pieces that you can wear to the office but, also for drinks after work without looking too 'Friday night early' at your desk. Perfect.
Topshop
The place where 9-5'vers flock to for a smart, but on-trend look. Topshop is great for affordable pieces and keeping up with the current trends, if that's your thang....
Zara
One of my favourite high street stores, Zara is perfect for any occasion. I tend to go here when I need something a little smarter than normal but don't want to spend a fortune. I just wish their sizing was a little better. The day I can fit my hips into one of their gorgeous A-line skirts will be a triumph....
Finding something to wear each morning should not be a stressful start to the day. These brands, plus many more including Zara, River Island and ASOS have our backs from now on.
Sometimes, the only thing I need after a busy or stressful day is to wind down in the bath. The phone gets put on silent and left in the bedroom and, I a catch up on reading my favourite book. It really is a great way to unwind.
I'm still a bit of a newbie when it comes to Lush. Gone are the days where I cross the street to avoid the overwhelming smell coming from their stores - you'll now find me diving in to the bath bombs, nose first and coming out with several products, covered in glitter and smelling like their stores.
On a recent trip to London, I popped in to the new (and absolutely massive) Lush store on Oxford Street. Spread over three floors, this is their biggest store and even has the Lush Spa tucked away inside. They also have around 200 products that are exclusive to this store. Eventually, some of them will become available across the UK but, as I'm a slightly impatient girl, some of the exclusives made their way into my basket and to the till.
Pink Flamingo Reusable Bubble Bar - I mean, how could I not buy this? I'm a huge fan of the long, pink-legged birds so this was a must. Plus it smells amazing.
Milky bath Bubble Bar - This comforting little milk bottle bubble bar is filled with uplifting orange oil and skimmed milk. A cocoa butter bottle top adds a little bit of extra softness.
Flowering Tea Reusable Bubble Bar - I love a cup of tea so when I saw this, it went straight into my basket! Created to look like a tea bag, this will see you through a good 2-3 baths. Made from a combination of orange blossom and jasmine, I did find this a little overpowering when I used it so, it's one I probably won't pick up again.
Double Vitality Bath Oil - These are a total new kid on the block. There were quite a few different versions of these, and at £2 - I could've easily got carried away! Made from two stars sandwiched together with a generous helping of essential oils and butters, the scent of lemon and peppermint oil is refreshing and is so lovely for an uplifting bath.
“When you wake up in the morning, Pooh," said Piglet at last, "what's the first thing you say to yourself?"
"What's for breakfast?" said Pooh. "What do you say, Piglet?"
"I say, I wonder what's going to happen exciting today?" said Piglet.
Pooh nodded thoughtfully. "It's the same thing," he said.”
Set up in the dizzying heights of the Heron Tower, Duck & Waffle is in the heart of London's city district, offering exceptional seasonal food with 360 degree views of gorgeous London.
When you arrive, there is a glass lift waiting to whizz you up to the 40th floor.
Speeding past some of London’s best known landmarks, your ears pop and you just can’t help but think you're in the Roald Dahl Classic, 'Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator'
The interior design is a dream - I spent as much time gazing out of the floor-to-ceiling windows than I did taking photos of the floor tiles.
I mean, look at them - they are totally instagram worthy. One day, I'll have these in my kitchen.
It may have been just after 10am but, somewhere in the world it was after 5pm - Mimosa's all round!
You can't take me anywhere.
I mean, look at them - they are totally instagram worthy. One day, I'll have these in my kitchen.
We settled in to our seats and ordered drinks, taking in the amazing view of (East) London and beyond.
It may have been just after 10am but, somewhere in the world it was after 5pm - Mimosa's all round!
Duck & Waffle is headed up by Executive Chef, Dan Doherty (who was in the open kitchen when we were there) who focuses on local, rustic, seasonal and sustainable British ingredients.
The brunch menu was full of delicious dishes but, there was only one dish I was really interested in (aside from the 'Full Elvis' which, I intend on having in the not-so-distant future).
How could I not order the restaurant’s namesake?
How could I not order the restaurant’s namesake?
Crispy confit duck leg, on top of a waffle with a fried duck egg and mustard maple syrup.
It really is a thing of beauty. Take a look close up
*dribbles on keyboard*
Clearly, I didn't want anything to go to waste.....
Heron Tower,
110 Bishopsgate,
London
EC2N 4AY.
For more information and booking, visit the Duck & Waffle website.
I'm very partial to a good pair of ankle boots. They are the perfect addition to your wardrobe and, are a great transitional shoe - perfect in the Summer with bare legs and a short dress, or in the Winter with a mini skirt, tights and chunky knit.
With any pair of boots I see them as an investment, usually working out the cost per wear as I'm trying them on in the shop. The high street have got some great styles for AW15 and, you don't need to pay a small fortune.
Any excuse for not just buying one pair...
When it comes to footwear, it's all about comfort for me. Don't get me wrong - I still love a good high heel! Superga have been on my radar for a while. But, it's only recently that I've really got to know the brand and, got my feet in to a pair of their shoes.
Now, they are most definitely not a new brand on the high street - they've been around for a very long time and when they have Alexa Chung as their brand ambassador, how can you ignore them? Over the last few years, they've collaborated with various designers such as House of Holland and Giles Deacon, and they've had babes such as Suki Waterhouse front their campaigns.
The Body Shop was a brand that I loved when I was in my teens. I used to spend my pocket money on their Fuzzy Peach perfume and animal shaped soaps.
Fast forward to 2015, and the brand has had a little 'lick of paint'. They've recently launched an indulgent, and gorgeous looking spa collection. Designed to get the pampering moments you treat yourself to at an actual spa into your very own bathroom.
'Spa Of The World' is inspired by traditional beauty rituals from across the globe. Whether your body needs to be awakened, cherished or calmed completely, each of our three spa body rituals will take your senses places they’ve never been before.
My favourite products from the range have to be the Dead Sea Salt Scrub which is amazing. Large crystals of Dead Sea salt are an effective exfoliator, lifting off dead skin cells to leave smoother skin - I use it at the end of the week and, my skin feels brand new afterwards.
The Polynesian Monoi Radiance Oil is another favourite and smells all sorts of dreamy. You can use this on your body and hair. I like to massage this all over when I've just had a shower. It gives you a luxurious and indulgent feel.
The 'Spa Of The World' collection is now available in store and online.
Keep an eye on The Body Shop as they have a few more launches up their sleeves.
If you'd have told me about 18 months ago that I would start to include beauty content on here, I would've probably laughed in your face! I've never worn that much make up but, in the last year or so, I've definitely become more interested in beauty, and will now spend time in Selfridges and Liberty's beauty halls swatching away to my hearts content instead of walking through at a fast pace to get out of there!
There are a fair few new products that I have on my radar to try out. Some that have been out for a while and, a couple that are just about to launch (and may have done so by the time this goes live). One beauty brand that I've recently been introduced to is Charlotte Tilbury. I recently purchased a couple of her products and, they are serious game changers (more on that soon). Her Magic foundation has just launched this week which, going on what my fav beauty bloggers have been saying - it sounds a dream! I can't wait to snap it up when I'm next in London.
Also launching in September is a the new Audacious mascara by NARS. I'm intrigued to see what it's like as I'm a massive fan of the brand and always love their new products.
The Bobbi Brown Griege eye palette is high up on my list. Word on the street is that we're getting a Bobbi Brown boutique in Brighton in the next few months so, I'll be in there as soon as it opens.
I missed out on MAC's Look in a box collection the first time round, so when I saw these pop up on their website a couple of weeks ago, I let out a little squeal! Featuring two powder blushes, six eye shadows, two lipsticks and a duo-handled brush, this would be perfect for travelling with instead of taking a big bag of make up. It also comes with its own face chart to guide you through your look for effortless application. Perfect.
Last but not least is the Estee Lauder Pure colour envy matte sculpting lipstick in Restless. Designed by the gorgeous Kendall Jenner, this matte lipstick is a smoothing and hydrating formula which combines hues of poppy and orange crush to create an essential, stand-out shade.
I think I'll know where I'll be spending my well earned pennies this month.
If you want to be 'on-trend' for the new season, purchase a pair of cropped flared jeans or a pair of high-rise flared jeans. The cropped flare styles are the perfect way to showcase your heels and sandals, during the slightly milder Autumn months, and the high-rise flares elongate your legs and make your waist look slimmer. These cuts are perfect for the new season as they totally nail to 70's trend which, is going to be a big one for AW15.
However, if like me you don't really buy into trends too much, denim is so easy to style without having to break the bank. The styles above are my current favourites on the High Street. That Forever 21 denim jacket may even have been a payday treat - a bargain at under £20!
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