AW15 Fashion Trend #1

Ciao ♥ Much to my dismay autumn is menacingly creeping up on our doorsteps. Its official arrival will unwelcomingly be taking place in exactly 11 days' time. Although I am deeply (allow me to emphasise this by making it bold) saddened by summer’s nearing departure, I am somewhat relieved that I still have a fair bit of time to get you ladies fashionably prepared for the upcoming season.

Over the new few weeks I will be showcasing a selection of the hottest fashion trends in an ‘AW15 Fashion Trends’ blog post series. In today’s instalment I will be focusing upon the 70s trend. This revival kick-started off last season, which you can read about here: SS15 Fashion Trend – The 70s, and has been back in fashion ever since. Before I begin, a little word of advice… grab yourself a cuppa and some biscuits as there’s lots of fashionable advice and tips to soak in.

Fashion in the 1970s, famously known as the “Me Decade”, has continued to be the biggest source of style inspiration this year. Some of the biggest names in the fashion industry including Anna Sui, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Chloe and Jonathan Saunders have all incorporated the 70s trend into their AW15 RTW collection. Featured below are some of my favourite looks from their catwalk shows.

Fashion in the early 70s was a continuation of the bohemian hippy culture that was popular in the mid-to-late 60s. An everyday go-to outfit consisted of a pair of bell-bottoms, otherwise known as flares, which were worn by both men and women. Personally, I feel that these look best when worn with a tight-fitting top such as a metallic, ribbed jumper featuring a chevron or stripe pattern or a silk pussybow blouse. I'd also suggest you finish off your outfit by draping on a suede or leather trench coat, an oversize faux-fur coat or a suede sherling or fringed coat. Remember, coats and jackets are the ultimate finishing touch to any outfit so invest in at least one statement piece as it can instantly give you the "I want her outfit" factor.

• #FashionTrendFact: Last season the high-street stores were overflowing with denim flares. This season these have been surpassed with an array of fabrics including corduroy, wool and suede.
• #FashionTrendTip: A tight-fitting top helps to compliment the structured silhouette of flares.

Moreover, a great thing about this trend is that it won't leave you penniless halfway through the month, desperately waiting for payday, because you've naughtily overspent trying to update your wardrobe. No siree! In fact, as this trend oozes an effortless retro vibe you're probably better off having a good rummage through your wardrobe, and making use of what you already have. Ha! As if people think they have to splash a load of cash to be bang-on-trend (you really don't). I feel that this idea stems from people failing to realise that trends are constantly being recycled and often come back into fashion every few seasons. I'm sure that's a massive relief to hear, especially for those ladies who heavily invest in the seasonal trends. If it makes you feel better, consider your spending a smart move ;)

I'd also suggest you invest in a few accessories that can be worn with an array of different outfits. These can include a felt floppy hat, skinny scarf, faux-fur stole, turban style headband or a suede fringed handbag. All are relatively affordable and are available to purchase from the majority of the high-street and online stores. This is also perfect for those ladies who only want to incorporate a subtly hint of the 70s trend opposed to rockin' it full-on.

• #FashionTrendFact: Outwear garments in the 70s mostly consisted of a suede or faux-fur composition and included detailing such as laser cutting, tassels and patchwork.
• #FashionTrendTip: Textures are a great way of adding some character and dimension to an outfit. It's also quite fun to stroke (LOL). 

Below is a selection of my favourite 70s find from the high-street and online stores, all of which are currently available to purchase. What are you favourite pieces? Mine has to be the leather high-heel courts and Miu Miu sunglasses ♥

Striped Funnel Neck Top - £18 from Topshop (click here to view)

Wool Hat - £19.99 from H&M (click here to view)

Leather High Heel Courts by Unique - £135 from Topshop (click here to view)

Mango Zipped Suede Jacket - £89.99 from House of Fraser (click here to view)

Floral Embroidered A-Line Skirt - £55 from Topshop (click here to view)

Fish Drop Earrings by Patricia Nicolas - £40 from Topshop (click here to view)

Brown Swirl Print Roll Neck Top - £20 from River Island (click here to view)

High-Waisted Cord Flares by Topshop Archive - £65 from Topshop (click here to view)

The Regent Bag - £190 from Karen Millen (click here to view)

Miu Miu 13NS 49 Gold & Brown Sunglasses - £205/£137 from Sunglass Hut (click here to view)

Over The Knee High Heel Leather Boot - £79.99 from Zara (click here to view)

Leather Clutch Bag - £39.99 from H&M (click here to view)

Casio Unisex Gold LCD Bracelet Watch - £35.99 from Argos (click here to view)

Bronze Circle Pendant Collar - £12.50 from Dorothy Perkins (click here to view)

Brown Laser Cut Suede Fringed Cape - £95 from River Island (click here to view)

Limited Edition Floral Midi Shift Dress - £45 from M&S (click here to view)

Faux Fur Scarf - £19.99 from H&M (click here to view)

Felt Floppy Hat - £25 from Oasis (click here to view)

Tom Ford Lip Color Sheer in Sweet Spot - £38 from Selfridges (click here to view)

Are you guys following me on Instagram and Twitter? Get following if you’d like to be updated with my day-to-day thoughts and adventures.

Ciao ♥ Xx 

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My holiday to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Ciao ♥ At the beginning of this month I managed to escape the constant hustle and bustle of London life to the serenity of Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. I went away for just under two weeks with one of my closest childhood friends. As it was her first girls' holiday we really wanted to make the most of our time away together by exploring and taking on as many excursions as possible.

All of ours were booked via Sharm Excursions prior to flying out. This site offers a range of excursions at affordable prices which work out to be a lot cheaper than those prices offered in Egypt. Better yet, at checkout you’re only required to pay a 10% deposit as the remainder of the cost will be collected upon your arrival. This is a great benefit for those who are slightly weary about making a payment with a site they’re not familiar with.

Our first excursion took place in the desert on the outskirts of Sharm and consisted of camel riding, dinner with a Bedouin tribe and star gazing. Despite doing this excursion the last time I was in Egypt, I just had to do it again as it's such a fun experience.

Our next excursion was a trip to Cairo which, as you can imagine, is bustling with character and has a history so rich it’s hard not to feel overwhelmed. Our first visit was to The Egyptian Museum which was absolutely phenomenal and my favourite part of my trip to Cairo. Yes! Even more than the pyramids. I was in awe of the many different artifacts which are more than a thousand years old. You wouldn't dare think it as they're in immaculate condition and preserved exceptionally well. My favourite part of the museum has to be the section displaying an array of mummified animals, including a crocodile the length of a double-decker bus, if not longer. Amazing, right? Unfortunately, I'm unable to show you guys any of this as you're not allowed to take photos inside of the museum (wah!). Here I am in the museum's garden...

After visiting the museum we then had a boat ride along the River Nile before stopping off for some lunch.

After filling up our bellies it was finally time to pay the magnificent pyramids a visit.

For our final excursion we went quad biking in the desert.

On two separate occasions we managed to drag ourselves away from the hotel's pool and head into town to visit the old market. The old market is flowing with merchants sitting on stools as they smoke tobacco and sip on glasses of hot chai, infused with mint. Handmade jewellery of a wooden and mother of pearl composition can be found dangling from metal fixtures affixed to shop windows and doors. Stray, lounging cats take refuge during the hottest hours of the day as the sun beams down, unforgiveable to those who dare get in its way.

I put my haggling skills to good use as I bought a ton of souvenirs for a fraction of the original asking price. This was helped massively by the fact that I can speak some Arabic and wouldn’t take no for an answer. Trust me, haggling is my thang. One shop owner even called me ‘big mafia’ as I refused to back down. LOL! I rest my case.

Some funny-ish things to expect when in Egypt:

• Taxi drivers transporting you to your chosen destination at a speed of 80-100mph.
• The constant honking of car horns for no apparent reason. 
• Camels parked up at the side of the road. 
• Merchants mimicking English expressions (i.e. lovely jubbly, cheap as chips and etc.).
• Being offered herds of animals as a dowry for marriage (I was offered 50 cows LOL)

If you want to see some more of my photos from Egypt then make sure you follow me on Instagram. Also, do let me know if any of you guys went away this summer? If so, where to? :)

Ciao ♥ Xx 

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Wish List | August

MOTO Washed Black Ripped Jamie Jeans - £42 from Topshop (click here to view)

Ray Ban RB2447 Havana Phantos Sunglasses - £135 from Selfridges (click here to view)

Dogtooth-Checked Coat - £59.99 from H&M (click here to view)

Nike Roshe Run Flyknit Lt Armory Platinum - £94.99 from Office (click here to view)

Sidney Suede Mini Fringe Bag - £175 from Whistles (click here to view)

Casio Ladies' Rose Tone Digital Watch - £40.49 from Argos (click here to view)

Wool Hat - £19.99 from H&M (click here to view)

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick in Sunset Pink - £33 from John Lewis (click here to view)

Black Faux Fur Stole - £25 from Miss Selfridge (click here to view)

Ciao ♥ Xx 

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Dolly Rockin' It's Pop-Up Store

Ciao ♥ Long time no see. How are you? It’s been just over two weeks since I last published a post but I have a valid excuse, I swear. I was away in Egypt sunning it up and had very limited access to WiFi. I told you it was valid :P Despite experiencing social media withdrawal symptoms I had an amazing time and cannot wait to share it all with you. Keep your eyes peeled as I’ll be showing you guys what I got up to and what I wore on a day-to-day basis in the next few posts. For those who’d like to have a sneak peek make sure you check out my Instagram as I’ve already uploaded some photos and videos.

Upon returning back to the UK on Friday morning I thought I'd have a quiet-ish type of weekend before returning to work on Monday morning. Ha! Oh how wrong I was. On Saturday afternoon I went to Portobello and in the evening I went to Shaka Zulu. On Sunday I was kindly invited along to Dolly Rockin’It’s pop-up store where I got to meet the founder of the brand and have an exclusive look at her collection. Oh, but the fun didn’t end there as I shamelessly put my pouting skills to good use in the photo-booth, gulped down three cups full of slush and had my nails done by the lovely Erika. There was also a tanning bar for those ladies who wanted to radiate a sun-kissed glow.

Everything in the store was beautifully presented and organised using an elegant range of shabby chic furniture. People walking by were clearly intrigued by what was on show as they couldn’t help but pop in even though the store wasn’t officially open at the time to the public. If you guys are around the North London area (more specifically North Finchley) then make sure you pay Dolly Rockin’It a visit.

All garments sold come in an array of sizes as well as a range of colours so there's something for everyone. They also stock accessories such as clutches, jewellery and keyrings. The only thing that you might need to take into consideration is that some sizes tend to sell out fairly quickly. Thankfully, I managed to get my hands on a white tee which I cannot wait to style.

What do you guys think?

Ciao ♥ Xx 

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Outfit of the Day (#OOTD)

Ciao ♥ Wah! This is going to be one of those extremely short but sweet kinda things. Simply because it's currently 02:55am and my body has gone into autodrive. I'm off on holiday in a few hours time so I really should be sleeping, but I didn't want to jet off without leaving you guys with something new to feast your fashion craving eyes on. Please note that there won't be any blog posts going live during my time away. I hope you guys don't mind :) Anyways, what do you guys think of this outfit? Is it something you'd wear? Do let me know X

 

Faux Leather Jacket from Primark

Knitted Knot Dress from Zara

Ribbed Top from Topshop

Vagabond Boots from Office

Bag from Zara 

Ciao ♥ Xx

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Interview Outfit Ideas

Ciao ♥ Although my blog has a fairly small audience, there are still quite a few of you who are regular readers. For that matter I feel as if I should take it upon myself to help you guys out. Besides from doing that fashion and beauty wise (at least I hope I do), I think it’s important to discuss a range of topics and offer advice which can make somewhat of a difference and be beneficial to your everyday life. In today’s post I will be briefly touching upon job interviews and how to present yourself when in attendance of one.

Okay so we’ve all been there. Interviews can be pretty daunting stuff especially as there’s quite a few things to consider. Primarily, it is important you look professional and presentable. First impressions are everything and can be the deal breaker with any given job (or situation for that matter). Remember, you want to stand out and for all of the right reasons. “How do I do that?” some of you may ask. Well as cliché as it may sound this can be achieved by allowing your personality to shine through in both your behaviour and outfit. I always try to inject some of my personality into my outfit regardless of whether I’m expected to dress in a formal manner. You can do this by adding some colour to your outfit or incorporating different silhouettes, prints and textures to it. For instance, you could swap your frumpy, shapeless trousers for a pair of fitted cigarette ones or simply add a skinny black belt to your straight-cut dress.

Below is a selection of outfits that I’ve put together to have you feeling and looking as good as can be. After all… if you look good, you feel good. For those of you who are hoping to replicate these looks, all items featured are currently available to purchase on the high-street or online. Happy shopping!

Black Crepe Blazer - £24.99 from New Look (click here to view)

Chiffon Blouse - £19.99/£15 from H&M (click here to view)

Seam Back Cigarette Trousers - £22 from Topshop (click here to view)

Lavish Almond Toe Tassel Loafer - £65 from Office (click here to view)

The 13" Batchel With Magnetic Closure - £145 from The Cambridge Satchel Company (click here to view) 

Black Pinstripe Pencil Skirt - £25 from Miss Selfridge (click here to view)

Anita Plain White Shirt - £29.95 from T.M Lewin (click here to view)

Leather Pleated Apron Tote Bag - £69 from M&S (click here to view)

On Tops Black Patent - £65 from Office (click here to view)

Shell Circle Disc Drop Earrings - £7.50 from Topshop (click here to view)

 Black & White Dress Workwear - £38 from Next (click here to view)
Breanna Pale Grey - £89 from Dune (click here to view)
De Beauvoir Cross Body Bag - £149/£74.50 from Radley (click here to view)
Crinkle Effect Scarf With Wool - £18 from M&S (click here to view)

Before I get ahead of myself and forget, how many of you have recently graduated and currently looking for a job? Or, how many of you are in need of a new challenge and thereby looking to transition to a new company? Hmm! Quite a few of you I see. I can imagine you’ve spent a fair bit of time looking through countless job sites hoping to find your ‘dream’ job. It’s a lot harder than you had anticipated right?... especially when you’ve already applied to all of the current positions on all of the job sites you’re familiar with. Ah! Well what if I told you there's a new job site in town. Yes, you heard right. Browse thousands of jobs online with City Calling. Ha! I bet I have your full attention now ey? Make sure you guys check them out as I know how difficult it can be to get your foot in the door within the working world. For each job advertised there’s hundreds of candidates, if not more, applying for that position. Competition is FIERCE but let’s not forget that once you’re in, you’re in.

I also feel it’s important of me to tell you guys not to be disheartened if the final outcome of your interview is not successful. Instead consider it to be a part of your working experience and a way to better prepare yourself for the next one. After all, interviews are a great way of strengthening your ability to conduct yourself in a professional manner and enables you to practice selling your expertise. Practice makes perfect and you’ll soon find that once you have been to a few interviews the rest will almost be a breeze. Good luck :)

Ciao ♥ Xx

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This post is in collaboration with City Calling.

Wish List | June

Striped Midi Slip Dress - £36 from Topshop (click here to view)

Sudan Bag - £125/£87 from Pinko (click here to view)

Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow - £49 from Harvey Nichols (click here to view)

Sunglasses - £5.99 from H&M (click here to view)

Mini Oyster Shell Drop Earrings By Patricia Nicolas - £15 from Topshop (click here to view)

Nike Roshe Run Flyknit - £94.99 from Office (click here to view)

Khaki Fedora - £25 from Miss Selfridge (click here to view)

2-Pack Bracelets - £12.99 from H&M (click here to view)

Tom Ford Lip Colour In Sable Smoke - £37 from Selfridges (click here to view)

Chloe Love Story Eau De Parfum 50ml - £64.50 from John Lewis (click here to view)

Ciao ♥ Xx

Product Review | L'Oréal False Lash Superstar Mascara

Ciao ♥ Every once in a while I come across a product that I want to shout from the rooftops about. This time around it’s L’Oréal’s False Lash Superstar which has me losing my voice, and rightfully so. But before I begin and in case anyone is interested, I previously reviewed two other L’Oréal mascaras which you can read by simply selecting: Miss Manga or Volume Million Lashes So Couture. Now the unintentional plugging is out of the way, let’s get on with it.

Every so often I get the odd person or two asking me what mascara I use as they’re super impressed with the length of my lashes. Heck! I’ve even had a few people ask if I have eyelash extensions. I don’t but what I do have is clearly more mascara than sense. I know which ones work and which ones don’t. Now that’s saying something as if you’ve read my previous product reviews you’d know that I don’t usually take very well to new products, especially mascara, upon first application. It’s almost as if there’s an instant dislike button in my head and the product has to do everything in its power to gain my affection. 

L’Oréal’s False Lash Superstar mascara is made up of two wands, on opposite ends, featuring two different products. The first is a primer which individually coats your lashes in a white formula helping to thicken its appearance. The second is a top coat which ‘applies a black fibre enriched formula that perfectly coats your lashes’. Like all mascaras, I find this one works best when you wiggle the brush at the root of your lashes from side-to-side and work it through to the end.

Upon seeing the size of the brushes I was a bit apprehensive as to how much I’d like this product as I’ve NEVER been a fan of a skinny mascara brush. I’ve always said the bigger the brush, the more volumised your eyelashes are going to be. However, after using this mascara for a good month or so, I can happily confirm that it has exceeded my expectations and has become a go-to product in my make-up routine. Not only does it separate and lengthens my lashes but I haven't had a single eyelash clumping together problem. I've also found that it doesn't cause my eyelashes to go hard after application but still leaves them feeling quite soft, meaning that make-up removal at the end of the day is rather easy. The only downside to this product is that although the top coat formula is black, it's not an intense enough black for me. Therefore, I often use it in combination with Maybelline's Lash Sensational mascara which does the job. Overall, L’Oréal has got it right yet again. 

 

Not the best picture or pose but I wanted you guys to see what this mascara looks like on.

Have any of you tried this product? If so, what are your thoughts? Also, what is your current favourite mascara, or beauty product for that matter? I’d love to know :)

Ciao ♥ Xx

SS15 Fashion Trend #3

Ciao ♥ Welcome to the third and most exciting instalment of my SS15 Fashion Trends blog post series. In this post I will be focusing upon the upcoming festival season which will soon be in full swing. Eek! How exciting! Before I begin, if anyone is interested in having a read of either of the first two instalments, simply select: Flared Trousers or The 70s, but do hurry back though as I can barely control my excitement #FestivalJunkieAlert.

When it comes to fashion, festivals are the perfect place for y'all to go all out and experiment as much as your wee heart desires. There are no restrictions as to what is considered fashionable or stylishly correct. You can be as adventurous and wild as you want. All within reason of course. I certainly wouldn't want my encouraging words of wildness to be responsible for anyone roaming around topless. "Don't be silly" you mutter under your breath. Ha! You'd be surprised by the things that go down at festivals :P In all seriousness, don't be afraid of wearing something that is outside of your comfort zone. Give it a go. Festivals are a great way of enabling you to express your creativity as you can be as bold, flamboyant and daring as you'd like.

 

Festivals are usually correlated to a bohemian/70s vibe and are the perfect place to channel your inner flower child. Isabel Lucas, Nicole Richie, Rachel Bilson and Vanessa Hudgens are just some of our generation's style icons who perfect this look on a day-to-day basis. If this is a look you are hoping to replicate then simply incorporate some of the following into your outfit: fringing, tassels, suede, lace and crochet. It really is that simple. You can also add some character and edge to your outfit by accessorising it with floral head pieces, layers and stacking of jewellery, body art (i.e. temporary tattoos), bindis and a statement floppy hat or a pair of sunglasses. Accessories really are a girl's best friend at any festival. Oh and it's very much the more, the better.

One of the main factors to take into consideration when choosing a festival outfit is the weather. Fingers crossed the sun will be on its best behaviour as I certainly don't want my festival weekend to be plagued with the stereotypical British weather. However, if worse comes to worse and it's pouring down (definitely something to consider but let's not jinx it), do not let this dampen your mood. Sod it! All you have to do is switch your outfit up a little bit. Swap your distressed denim shorts or flowy mini dress for a pair of high-waisted jeans, flares or culottes. Not only will these be kinder to your legs and keep you warm but you will also still be bang on trend in the fashion stakes.

Gah! There's so much I could talk about but we'd be here all friggin' day so I'm going to quickly speed through some of the best festival hairstyles. Plaits are always a winner as they can be styled in several different ways (i.e. fish or french plait and halo braids), are hella easy to do and require very little time and effort. They're particularly favoured by those attending a weekend festival as they can be kept in for the duration of the time and still look tidy. Loose waves are another festival staple and look great with a floral headpiece, head chain, turban or a floppy hat. Finally, a messy chignon and top knot bun are great for those ladies who want their hair whipped back and out of their face.

Having popped my festival cherry last year I've already experienced the whole "Omg! What do I wear?", "Do you think this outfit is okay?" and "I HAVE ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO WEAR" kinda dilemma. I know what works and what doesn't so allow me to offer you some helpful tips.

• #FestivalTip1:  When it comes to footwear ensure you wear something that is comfortable as you'll be on your feet for the entire day. I'd also suggest you wear something that you don't mind getting dirty as there's likely to be mud and you're likely to get your feet stepped on at least once. Why not opt for a pair of biker boots, chelsea boots, wellington boots (that's enough of the boots, I promise) or trainers.
• #FestivalTip2: Whether you're festivaling for a day or a weekend ensure you only pack the bare necessities. Also, don't forget to choose a style of bag you wouldn't mind carrying all day long. Last year I wore a rucksack and let's just say, never again. I found it to be slightly annoying as all I wanted to do was have a good ol' boogie so I had to constantly take off my rucksack and rest it on the ground. This year I've chosen to wear a small-medium sized cross-body bag as it won't weigh me down as much. Remember, DO NOT overpack as you'll regret it.
• #FestivalTip3: Make sure you bring enough money to see you through the duration of the festival. It's sensible to bring that tad bit more rather than not bringing enough as you will not be able to leave and re-enter the festival grounds.

Below is a collection of my favourite festival season finds from the high-street and online stores, all of which are currently available to purchase. I've fallen head over heels in love with the suede dungaree and 70s bell sleeve playsuit ♥ What are your favourite pieces from this selection?

The Libby Kimono - £45 from Oasis (click here to view)

Bead Drop Tikka Hair Slide - £6.50 from Topshop (click here to view)

Hairband With Flowers - £9.99 from H&M (click here to view)

Tile Border Print Culottes - £36 from Topshop (click here to view)

4-Pack Ear Decorations - £7.99 from H&M (click here to view)

Mid Wash 70s Button A-Line Denim Skirt - £35 from River Island (click here to view)

Women's Original Short Fringe Wellington Boots - £130 from Hunter (click here to view)

Suede Dungaree - £75 from Miss Selfridge (click here to view)

Neutral Suede Rucksack - £62 from Next (click here to view)

Brown Smart 70s Bell Sleeve Playsuit - £45 from River Island (click here to view)

Metal Bridge Sunglasses - £17.99 from Mango (click here to view)

Watermelon Across Body Bag - £29 from Accessorize (click here to view)

Stone Stripe Floppy Hat - £12.99 from New Look (click here to view)

Metallic Temporary Tattoos - £3.47 from TotesU (click here to view)

Pearl Mini Bindi - £4.50 from Topshop (click here to view)

Arid Fringe Ankle Boots - £78 from Topshop (click here to view)

 

Are you going to a festival this year? Have you guys got any festival tips? If so, leave them in the comment box below :) Also, make sure you follow my blog as I'll be putting together a bunch of festival outfits over the next two weeks. I'd honestly hate for you guys to miss out.

Ciao ♥ Xx

Wish List | May

Cotton Trench Coat - £79 from Topshop (click here to view)

Pure Wool Fedora Hat - £25 from Marks & Spencer (click here to view)

Star Mela Estee Double Bird Purse - £39 from ASOS (click here to view)

Brown Round Sunglasses - £13 from River Island (click here to view)

Embroidered Bralet - £30 from Topshop (click here to view)

Amelia - £195 from Kat Maconie (click here to view)

Tribal Bangle Pack - £16.50 from Topshop (click here to view)

Viktor & Rolf  Bonbon EDP 50ml - £68.50 from John Lewis (click here to view)

Ciao ♥ Xx

House of Fraser British Academy Television Awards

Ciao ♥ On the 16th of February, The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTAs) made the exciting announcement that House of Fraser is their new title sponsor. This means that not only will the renowned department store be lending their style credentials to this spectacular red-carpet event, but they will also be reporting on all of the behind the scenes action in the run up and on the night. To find out more simply click HERE.

In celebration of this exciting news I have put together a menswear fashion edit. I have no doubt that my good friend Isaac will be best pleased with this post as he's always badgering on about me putting together something that he can actually refer to. Happy now dude? :P

Okay! So like most women I am a complete and utter sucker for a guy wearing a suit. There's just something extremely handsome, and sexy shall I say, about it. So you can imagine the difficulty I had in choosing just four of my favourite red-carpet looks. I particularly love the double-breasted suit and suede tassel loafers that Michael Keaton is wearing. Who is your favourite?

 

On the night I'm sure that many of you will be looking to your favourite style icons for some fashion inspiration. Although the majority of you will have no trouble in incorporating this fashionable creativity into your everyday outfits, there are still a few who require some additional guidance. Well your wish has been granted as that's exactly what you're about to get. Featured below are three fashionable formal looks which are suitable for wearing to work, an event or a night out.

Hugo Boss Jenno Print Geometric Flower Slim Fit Shirt - £129/£64.50 (click here to view)

Tom Ford Noir Extreme Eau De Parfum 50ml - £70 (click here to view)

Paul Costelloe Fuchsia Twill Tie - £29/£23.20 (click here to view)

Loake Jones Wingtip Lace Up Brogues - £160 (click here to view)

Pierre Cardin Twill Formal Suit Trousers - £49/£37 (click here to view)

Ted Baker Timeless Slim Fit Solid Suit Trouser - £120/£96 (click here to view)

Tommy Hilfiger Aly Belt - £35/£28 (click here to view)

Thomas Pink Solid Regular Fit Double Cuff Shirt - £89 (click here to view)

Loake Fearnley Wingtip Brogue Oxford Shoes - £160 (click here to view)

Howick Tailored Square Honeycomb Mother Of Pearl Cufflinks - £22/£15.40 (click here to view)

Kenneth Cole Lance Front Flat Suit Trouser - £120/£72 (click here to view)

TM Lewin Luxury Twill Slim Fit Shirt - £29.95 (click here to view)

Dune Rodney Sleek Tassel Loafers - £89 (click here to view)

Fred Bennett Stainless Steel Mother of Pearl Cufflink - £39 (click here to view)

Calvin Klein Casual Leather Belt - £45/£36 (click here to view)

Which of these three outfits is your favourite?

Make sure you click HERE and see what House of Fraser have to offer as they have over 1500 shirts from a selection of brands including TM Lewin, Thomas Pink, Hugo Boss and Polo Ralph Lauren. What's even better is that many of these shirts, alongside many other products, are currently reduced in price so you're sure to find yourself a bargain. Happy shopping! :)

Ciao ♥ Xx

This post is in collaboration with House of Fraser.

SS15 Fashion Trend #2

Ciao ♥ A good pick-me-up is often called for on a Wednesday morning, especially as you're in that middle-of-the-week stage where the weekend seems so near yet so far away. Well I guess you're in luck as I'm right on cue to give you exactly that. Before I do, a few words of wisdom... Ignore the ton of emails you've so desperately been told to reply back to, mute your office telephone and hush anyone who dares to even breathe loudly around you. A bit extreme? Ha! Not extreme enough. After all, fashion is life.

Last season the fashion world took a step back in time as it sought and found inspiration from the swingin' 60s. Flash forward an entire decade and that's exactly where SS15 has landed. The runway shows of designers such as Chloe, Emilio Pucci, Gucci and Louis Vuitton were swamped with a 1970s retro revival. Featured below are some of my favourite looks from these shows.

Fashion in the early 70s was a continuation of the bohemian hippy culture that was popular in the mid-to-late 60s. An everyday go-to outfit consisted of a pair of bell-bottoms, otherwise known as flares, which were often high-waisted, patched and denim. These were worn by both males and females and were usually of a floor sweeping length. Ladies would tackle the trousers dragging on the floor business by strutting their stuff in a pair of platforms or boots. The additional height also helped to compliment the slim, structured silhouette of the trouser and did a great job of elongating their legs. These were paired with loose-fitting tops in the form of peasant blouses and wraparounds or tight-fitting t-shirts and crop tops.

• #FashionTrendFact: During this era, wardrobe staples included bell-bottoms, broderie anglaise, patchwork denim, fringing and suede.

• #FashionTrendTip: If you intend on incorporating a bold print into your outfit, pair it with something that is quite neutral to ensure you do not have a clash or mix-match of prints. 

Debbie Harry, Farrah Fawcett and Bianca Jagger were some of the biggest style icons in the 70s. Females from far and wide lusted over their every outfit and did their best to replicate their effortless fashion ensembles. This is of no surprise as all three ladies have left a fashionable imprint to this very day. I'm sure all of you have seen, possibly even drooled slightly, over that red swimsuit photo of Farrah? I rest my case :)

A great thing about this trend is that very little effort and time is needed to rock it as it can easily be pulled off simply through the use of accessories (i.e. a fringed handbag and a floppy hat). Also, if you're a student who is quite strapped for cash or someone who isn't interested in buying into fashion trends, due to them changing every season, but still want to look fashionably up-to-date then simply make use of what you already have. I'm 99.9% certain that you'll find something in your wardrobe, or even your mum's for that matter, that will illustrate this trend perfectly. Not so easily convinced? Ah! Well, how many of you have a dress or skirt that is cut in an A-line shape? A loose-fitting blouse perhaps? Or even a denim jacket? Ha! I thought so. This trend is centred around a vintage and retro look so don't be afraid to pull out that 'old' top you have hiding at the back of your wardrobe :) 

• #FashionTrendTip: This trend goes hand-in-hand with the upcoming festival season meaning it's extremely versatile. Instead of spending lots of money trying to accommodate both trends, why don't you integrate the contents of your wardrobe across both.

• #FashionTrendFact: Bold prints (paisley and chevron stripes), a mixture of fabrics such as suede and denim and an array of bright colours were extremely popular in the 70s. 

Below is a collection of my favourite 70s finds from the high-street and online stores, all of which are currently available to purchase. What are you favourite pieces from this selection? I'm loving the
patent platform sandals and wraparound suede dress (♥) Not so much the price though lol :P

White Rubber Chunky Frame Sunglasses - £10 from River Island (click here to view)

Street Style Weaving & Tassels Crossbody Bag - £19.20 from Rosegal (click here to view)

Wide Leather Belt and Square Buckle - £25.99 from Zara (click here to view)

Button Through Floral Print Skirt - £36 from Topshop (click here to view)

Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G Hepburn Honey Lipstick - £23 from Selfridges (click here to view)

Dark Orange Wool Floppy Hat - £14.99 from New Look (click here to view)

Imitation Suede Waistcoat - £39.99 from H&M (click here to view)

Lena2 Patent Platform Sandals - £56 from Topshop (click here to view)

Fringed Necklace - £14.99 from H&M (click here to view)

Floral Peasant Blouse - £35 from Marks and Spencer (click here to view)

Paisley Crepe Shorts - £22 from Dorothy Perkins (click here to view)

Wraparound Suede Dress - £199.99 from H&M (click here to view)

Faux Suede A-Line Skirt - £39.50 from Marks and Spencer (click here to view)

Ciao ♥ Xx