Nails #2

I recently had my nails done so I thought I'd share them with you. I kept the same pointed shape but I decided to go for a dark purple colour this time. I asked for a triangle cut out shape and I'm really glad I did. I love them!

 

 

What shall I get done next time!? Decisions...

 

Sian x

Christopher Kane A/W '13

I love Christopher Kane! I never make any secret about it: I LOVE him. He is a young Scottish designer who burst onto the scene in 2006 with his first collection. Since then, he has been wowing fashion critics and winning prestigious awards.

Today his latest collection, which was his Autumn/Winter '13, was showcased at London Fashion Week. I've picked my favourite looks:

I love the Autumnal colours: the wines, burgundies, blacks, navys, royal blues, purples and the flashes of orange are beautiful. They're so appropriate for the season but they're not boring because Kane re-invents them in a fresh and innovative way. The use of cutouts, applique, beading and feathers make this collection a real unique showstopper!

 

We get gorgeous silhouettes, which is to be expected with Kane. We get Kane's signature quirks with the use of velvet, the applique and the kilts. We also get intricate beading, knit, camo print, feathers and fur - which is territory Kane hasn't played with before. But, naturally, he handles them with such ease. Is there anything he can't do!? He even added brain motifs and got away with it. I'm sold, are you?

 

My favourite look of the whole collection has to be the velvet, off the shoulder dress (bottom right). I love velvet, it is one of my favourite fabrics.  I think the risky cut outs highlight Kane's astounding ability - they could easily look too much but Kane makes the dress look beautiful, dainty and modest instead of overly sexy. The off the shoulder cut and the knee length are fab - they're a winning combination when creating a strong but feminine look.

 

What do you think of the collection?

 

Sian x

Wishlist #9

I've wanted the infamous little, blue box and the pretty, white ribbon for as long as I can remember... yep, you guessed it! A bit of Tiffany is what I'm lusting over. I've had my eye on this Tiffany silver ring for a while now.

 

How pretty is it? I'd wear it every single day! It's my birthday coming up soon... hint hint everyone! At a £160, I think it's a reasonable price for a slice of the Tiffany legacy. Love, love, love.

 

Sian x



Wishlist #8

I'm OBSESSED with this American Apparel large suede clutch in 'Pumpkin'.

It is such a nice bag - it looks so luxurious! At £48, it is on the expensive side. I keep asking myself 'Will you use it? What will it go with? Is it too bright? Is it too big? Will it ruin easily?' - I always worry when it comes to buying clutch bags because I know I won't use them that often. But I know American Apparel are really high quality and I love suede - it's such a gorgeous fabric.

I can picture myself on a classy night out holding this clutch and wearing this Aqua 'Joker' dress, these Topshop 'Super' heels, lots of gold rings and a gold cuff bracelet, purple lipstick and my hair in a messy top knot. Then I could shove it under my arm and take it to a gig wearing this American Apparel tube dress and some black boots like these Office 'Domino' boots, lots of silver jewellery, a checked shirt for when it gets chilly outside and my hair styled in a casual, high pony.

LOVE it! What do you think?

Sian x

February Topshop Hot List

You know I LOVE Topshop so it's no surprise I've got my eyes on SO many things in Topshop at the minute! It's literally a haven of ALL of my fave fashion styles and looks at the minute. I thought I'd share a few with you:

1. This Topshop crepe notch neck jacket is so stylish! I love the fact it is cropped - it goes SO perfectly with the trousers (below). The shorter sleeves and quirky neckline give it charisma. It's such a versatile piece, it doesn't have to be just worn with the matching trousers. I'd slip it over a white cropped tee and rock it with some high-waisted leather pants, leopard print boots and a black fedora hat for a dramatic look. Fab.

2. These Topshop crepe cigarette trousers are amazing. I love a good pair of tailored trousers! This pair certainly nail the bright trend too so they're perfect. I'd wear it with the matching jacket (above); a thin, white vest; a chunky, gold necklace; an oversized, floppy, black clutch; and some strappy heels (these JC Tilda platforms are stunning) for a classy, on trend look.

3. These Topshop 'Amnesty' sandals are AMAZING. Chunky, man-ish sandals are SO me - I'm definitely not one for strappy, dainty things - so these boot-like beauties are perfect. I want to rock these on holiday with high-waisted Levi short shorts, a leopard print bandeau bikini top, lots of gold jewellery and a long, beaded kimono style jacket (this Lost in Time vintage kimono on ASOS Marketplace is gorgeous).

4. I love this Topshop high neck cami! It's such a versatile piece which will fit perfectly into anyones wardrobe. It is definitely a transitional piece which will last years! I'd wear mine with everything: jeans, shorts, trousers, mini-skirts, maxi-skirts... it really works with everything. The thin straps are my fave and the high neck line is gorgeous. At £28, it's a steal too!

5. This Topshop Boutique dress is the cutest! I love the lilac colour and the popper buttons. I'd style this with a white blouse underneath, some frilly socks, a pair of black Dr Marten shoes and a high pony-tail (this Topshop metal hair bobble cuff is a nice addition) for a girly, day-time look. Too cute.

6. This MOTO denim dress is to die for! I love a denim smock so that, combined with the quirky checked pattern, makes this dress ideal.  The different shades of denim with the white lined pattern make it such a unique item. I think this might be my next purchase! I can see it lasting me through the months. In summer I want to rock it with a pair of white high-top Converse, sun kissed bare legs, a pair of Raybans and a tan rucksack. Gorgeous.  

7. This Topshop tassel necklace is so quirky! I love the choker necklace look and the gold metal. The long tassel would look fab with an American Apparel black leotard as the cut of the leotard is so low. I'd add some high-waisted jeans (like 'Joni' pair featured below in this post), these Topshop 'Artemis' heels, an oversized leopard print clutch and lots of gold rings and cuffs for a night time look.

8. These MOTO 'Joni' high-waisted jeans are my favourite! They're so stylish! I can picture them with an oversized, chiffon shirt (this American Apparel shirt in creme and black polka dot with a cream triange bra underneath is one of my faves) and a pair of loafers for a smart/casual look; with a crop top and Superga trainers for a laid back feel; with a thin, white vest and sandals (the 'Amnesty' pair in this post would be fab) for a summery look. At £36, they're totally worth it.

9. These Topshop 'Aristotle' boots are fabulous! I LOVE a chunky sole, gold detailing and black leather so these beauties definitely fit the brief. I think the subtle brogue-like detailing is such a fresh take on the traditional black, leather boot - it's a clash of tough and casual with classic and smart. At £98, they are expensive but I think they're worth it. Topshop boots last for years!

10. I'm SO glad this Topshop fedora hat has come back into stock! It's such a beauty! I want to rock it at a summer BBQ wearing a short, white, smock dress; a pair of Doc Martens; wavy, beach hair; silver jewellery and pale lipstick. Dreamy.

11. Now, I know this Topshop cardigan isn't for everyone but I've really fallen for it. Normally, I'm not drawn to pink but the mesh knit and the hints of glitter (which you can't really see in the photograph but you can in real life) have really done something to me! It's risky and a little naughty - I think that's why I like it. Do I dare buy? Decisions.

12. This Topshop bracelet is lovely. I'm really into bangles and cuffs so this is perfect. I love the thin band contrasted with the chunky arrows. At only £6.50, it's a COMPLETE bargain.

Are you lusting over anything from Topshop too?

Sian x

Nails #1

Recently, I got my nails done for the first time - I know, I'm behind the times! Before then, I'd always just painted my nails myself. I used to do cute, little patterns on them with pens I bought from an independent shop at home. I never thought I'd be going to the shop to get acrylics because I always said I couldn't cope with long nails. How wrong I was!

I loved the whole experience. I went to a shop in my hometown called Unique. The very kind nail artist made me feel welcome straight away. I got the acrylics put on, then they were filed to a rounded point then I had red gel polish put on top in the shape of hearts.

I've had them on for two weeks now and they're still going strong! The gel polish is AMAZING! It hasn't chipped or peeled and it's still really shiny. The whole process of putting the gel polish on is so fun - you're hand gets placed under a UV gel-curing lamp which sets it and dries it in no time! Lots of people have been commenting on my new nails which has made me really chuffed! Who knew getting your nails done could make you so happy?

Now the biggest decision I've got to make is... what to have next!?

Sian x

ASOS Africa A/W '12 Hot List

I love ASOS, especially their 'Africa' collection. It's a wonderful, eclectic mix of paisley prints, florals, grey marl and textured jacquard fabrics. For the collection, ASOS have collaborated with SOKO Kenya to give underprivileged communities the chance to establish sustainable businesses through local craftsmanship. So not only are the clothes gorgeous but the cause is really worthwhile too. Brilliant. I've picked my favourite four pieces:

 

 

1. I LOVE this ASOS Africa jacquard pinafore dress so much! I'm a major fan of the pinafore dress so this is right up my street. The fabric is wonderful - it looks so expensive. The wrap style skirt with the chunky straps are such a cute look. The straps are detachable too, making it a really versatile piece. The dress is £40 which I think is a fab price for such an expensive looking, statement buy. LOVE.

 

2. This ASOS Africa checked peplum shirt is so cute. At £40, it's a really good price for a premium wool blend, classic style shirt. I love it with the matching shorts but sadly they're no longer on the website. I'd wear it for a day at uni with this Topshop Boutique wrap skirt, some thin black tights, some black leather boots, a camel coloured boyfriend coat and a black backpack. Very Blair Waldorf!

 

3. This ASOS Africa peplum dress is so exquisite. It looks designer! The colours are so rich and the pop of blue at the back is really nice surprise. I love the drop peplum style and the fact it's sleeveless. The exposed zip at the back is a sexy addition too! Gorgeous.

 

4. I want these ASOS Africa floral jacquard trousers so much! I'm a bit obsessed with this fabric and the printed trousers are here to stay so they're perfect in my eyes. I'm not that keen on the styling on ASOS in this case. If I was to wear these trousers during the day I'd add a simple white tee like this ASOS 'New Forever' one tucked in; a luxurious coat like this ASOS wool one with PU sleeves; a chunky gold necklace like this Urban Outfitters vintage one; a lady-like bag like this Zara one and some casual boots like these Topshop 'Alert' ones. I'd wear my hair pulled back in a high pony-tail and I'd keep my make-up minimal. LOVE.

 

What do you think of the ASOS Africa collection?

 

Sian x

 



Wishlist Items #6 and #7

At the minute, I'm a bit obsessed with shorts/skirts and blazer suits.

For my wishlist items today, I've picked 1. Topshop's Aztec Boucle blazer and 2. the matching shorts. I love the cropped cut of the blazer and the fact the shorts are high-waisted. The fact the blazer has an open front is really cute. The print is stunning and boucle is very in at the minute. The fact the colours are muted means it'll last through the seasons.

For a casual day time look I'd wear this mini suit with a simple white polo-neck tee or a white chiffon shirt, black tights and some smart, black boots (these Topshop 'Physics' boots would be perfect! I've had my eye on them for a while). I'd keep my make-up and hair simple. A chunky, gold watch is all that's needed. For a night time look I'd add a thin, V-neck, white vest; a delicate, gold chain necklace; bare legs with some strappy heels (these ASOS 'Hollywood' heels are gorgeous!); a slick of matte red lipstick; hair scraped back in a tight, high pony-tail and a muted, metal box clutch.

What do you think?

Sian x

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Style Guide

I'm obsessed with Rosie! She is definitely my main girl crush. She is certainly one girl who seems to have it all - I mean look at those luscious locks, those long limbs, the lips, the face, the clothes, the shoes, the bags... I've picked out a few of my favourite looks of hers:

Event Looks

1. Rosie stuns in this white, backless Max Mara dress. I'm looking for the perfect white dress at the minute and this one certainly wows on Rosie. The leopard print clutch really pops against the crisp white and looks amazing.  Her Sergio Rossi 'Asteria' heels continue the minimal, simple style of the outfit. She looks amazing.

2. This custom-made Burberry dress is breath-taking. It's certainly risky - a backless silk dress with such a plunging neckline could stray into trashy territory but on Rosie, it looks anything but. She oozes class and sophistication. Her simple make-up and understated jewellery are perfect for the dress. Her updo adds some old-school glamour.

3. Rosie wows in this skin-tight, nude coloured Burberry number. I LOVE the spaghetti straps and little triangle cups. The satin material is wonderful and the cut is perfect. Her subtle tan looks gorgeous against the champagne colour. As usual, Rosie keeps her hair and make-up understated. Sigh, how is she so perfect?

Off-Duty Looks

 

1. Rosie looks so cool and laid-back with this look. This is a PERFECT example of how to wear leather trousers during the day - keep everything else simple. She dresses down the skin-tight pants down with an over-sized jumper and cute Chloe ballerina pumps. She keeps her make-up understated and her hair simple. Her Gucci Fall 2011 hat tops the look off perfectly.

 

2. Rosie tones down her leather shorts with a simple white vest and Isabel Marant boots. She adds aviators and a chain strapped shoulder bag for a casual day-time appropriate look. With pins like those, I'd constantly have them on show. Beautiful.

 

3. This is one of my favourite looks of Rosie's. I'm a sucker for some denim and these Citizens of Humanity 'Dylan' drop rise, loose fit jeans in 'Seychelles' really are something. I love the asymmetric cut of the white tank tee - it's subtly funky. The nude Chloe heels and the Celine 'Yuri' shoulder bag add some sophistication. But Rosie's messy braid and the aviators keep the look casual and perfect for day-time. Amazing.

 

4. Wow. Rosie shows how to smart/casual perfectly here. The crisp white shirt and black trousers are a fashion combo that will NEVER date. The slouchy, over-sized fit of the shirt and the rolled up trousers keep the look fresh and casual. That Alexander Wang 'Coco' duffle bag is something dreams are made of - I've wanted it in black for ages. Nude heels and sunglasses top the outfit off perfectly.

 

Which look of Rosie's is your fave?

 

Sian x



H&M Hot List

I love H&M for their good quality basics and their easy-going European style. H&M is a Swedish brand with over 2,600 stores across 43 countries - this is definitely noticeable in their products as they appeal to people of all shapes, sizes and ages. H&M is also cheap which is a bonus! I've picked my favourites for you:

1. This black H&M bag reminds me of the Alexander Wang Diego bucket bag so much! The H&M version is £524.45 cheaper so if, like me, you can't afford to splash out on the designer then this copy cat is perfect.

2. I know that these H&M loop earrings could look cheap and trashy... but styled correctly I think they would look fab! I'd wear them with a leather skirt (the one featured in this post is perfect!); black tights; chunky, black leather boots; a white, chiffon shirt; a thin, pastel coloured sweater on top tucked in (yet again, the one featured would be gorgeous); a luxurious black, tweed boyfriend coat and lady-like, structured black bag. With an outfit so sophisticated these £3.99 earrings will look anything but cheap!

3. This H&M dress is so versatile. I love how it is styled on the model on the website with the addition of the grungey, black boots and the slick back hair - it's cool and relaxed. I love how such a girly dress can be toughened up. At the same time though I can see this dress with tan sandals, wavy beach hair, a straw bag, a fedora and delicate, gold jewellery - all topped of with a bronzed tan. Picture a stylish, sunkissed goddess on a hot, sandy beach. Buy it now and keep wearing it through 'til autumn. Perfect and all for only £14.99.

4. I love leather so when I spotted this H&M skirt I loved it instantly. I long to wear it with a black, velvet crop top; a long, thin, leopard print kimono style jacket; a black fedora; lots of jewellery and sky high platform boots for a rebellious kind of look. Love it.

5. This H&M light turquoise jumper is adorable. £34.99 for such a good quality sweater is amazing and the colour is to die for. I can see this jumper being a staple in anyones wardrobe. Last year I bought Topshop's ombré cream and baby blue jumper and I really can't imagine my wardrobe without it. Jumpers are always perfect for throwing on on wintery days as well as keeping in your bag for when summer nights get chilly. Perfect.

6. These H&M boots are AMAZING! At only £29.99, they're a complete steal! I love the chunky rubber soles and the silver zips. The heel height is perfect for day-to-night wear. I love them.

7. Everyone needs a staple tee in their wardrobe and this H&M grey marl tee is perfect. The soft jersey and the V-neck are lovely. You can wear this top with everything from leather trousers to skinny jeans to fitted trousers to maxi skirts - it really is versatile. At only £6.99, you could buy it in an array of colours. I've got my eyes on 'natural white', 'black' and 'burgundy' (which has now gone down in the sale to £2!).

Have you been buying any H&M beauties lately?

Sian x