Search Results for “LBD”

Preen Morgan forget-me-not print dress: Yay or Nay?

by on 2nd December 2013 0 comments

What’s an evening dress to be, if it’s not an LBD? Well, apart from being a classic turned on its head, said dress needs to elicit the same reaction when you arrive at the party, as a traditional evening look would. Making us feel like we could effortlessly betray the ease of a noir number is the Preen Morgan forget-me-not print dress (£938). Replacing embellishment with an evening-appropriate bloom, and packing in two of autumn/winter’s biggest trends: an off-the-shoulder neckline and fluted hem, the Morgan dress is a winner all round. So, are you swayed, or still unsure about ditching the trusty LBD for a look-at-me cocktail dress? Let our reasons for saying Yay and Nay to the Preen Morgan dress below help you seal the (dress) deal: Yay Great alternative: Warning: The Preen Morgan dress will make you stray from the sticking to evening wear rules. 3-in-1 Trend piece: Effortlessly packing winter florals, a fluted hemline and very now neckline into one nifty dress. Need we ask for more? Fit: The silhouette-skimming cut of this dress makes it the perfect candidate for complementing feminine curves. Nay Price: We can’t promise your pocket won’t be dealt a rough blow when it comes to forking out £938 for this beauty. But, a beauty it sure is! One-wear-then-despair: Yes, that dreaded wardrobe situation, where you discard of a dress after one outing? Could the Preen Morgan dress end up in that pile? Colour: We’re all for injecting a much needed dose of print and colour into our weary winter wardrobes, and the dark base colour of this dress has longevity. But, do consider the wear you’ll get out of this multi-hued dress before you’ve splashed the cash on it. Preen Morgan forget-me-not print dress, £938, available at Matches Fashion.

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Lizzy Caplan is Worst Dressed of the Week in Reem Acra

by on 29th November 2013 0 comments

We’re usually convinced by first sight of an LBD, no matter what form it takes. But, this week, we’re not so pleased. Lizzy Caplan slipped into a Spring 2014 Reem Acra dress at the Saban Community Clinic 37th Annual Benefit Gala earlier this week, and we’re just not diggin’ the red carpet effort. The Masters of Sex star wore a black, knee-length dress embellished with sequins and cape-like sleeves. Lizzy accessorised with a mini box clutch and cross-strap Aldo sandals, and finished off with a slick of eyeliner and soft pink lips. Side-swept bangs and a glossy, elongated bob added the final touch. We love the make-up, the hair and the accessories, but the cape-like sleeves aren’t so flattering. The dress’s high neckline warrants a wispy updo, unlike her sleek locks, which seem to clutter the overall look. An LBD, if styled the right way, can be the single most flattering item of clothing in any wardrobe. But on this occasion, Lizzy’s look just didn’t recreate that classic magic. Our rule to owning your LBD appearance: keep it fuss-free. [Image]

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Elizabeth Olsen is Worst Dressed of the Week in Christian Dior Couture

by on 7th November 2013 0 comments

Very rarely does a couture dress interrupt our style radar to inform us of its not-so-eye-pleasing presence. After all, it is couture, and its supposed to shock and inspire in equal measure. But, Elizabeth Olsen’s recent appearance in Dior couture was nothing short of a sartorially disappointed sigh. Elizabeth attended the Guggenheim International Gala in New York City, earlier this week, and sported a black, below-the-knee Dior Couture dress from the spring 2013 collection. The quirky LBD featured subtly tiered layers and a stark black and soft lemon hued petal adornment across the chest. When we spotted the dress on the runway – styled on a model with a slicked-down pixie crop and striking red lips – we placed it in the red carpet category for A-listers willing to take a style risk – a good risk, at that. But, it was Elizabeth’s styling, not so much the dress, which let her look down. Pairing the couture dress with simple black pumps, Elizabeth’s choice to wear her tousled hair down worked against her, as it ended up covering a lot of the chest area detail. Make-up was sheer, and accessories were zero, which made the overall look appear slightly bridesmaid-gone-wrong frumpy, than fashion forward a with Raf Simons approved slant. What say you, fellow fashion lovers? Thumbs up or down for E.Olsen’s non-trad little black dress? [Image]

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Saint Laurent silk and lace shirt: Yay or Nay?

by on 4th November 2013 0 comments

The holiday season has officially arrived, and planning your festive wardrobe demands putting those honed sartorial skills to good use! After all, that LBD you wore to the last office party just won’t cut it. Again. But, just for a moment, let’s move away from traditional soirée style, and look to the more daring side of eveningwear. Yes, you guessed it: seductive flashes of flesh, plentiful lace and a sensuous spin on formal party attire – without a dress in sight!  Allow us to introduce the silk and lace shirt from the fashion house that knows how make a woman ooze sex appeal, demurely: Saint Laurent. Touching, ever so elegantly, on the gothic trend for autumn/winter ’13, the sheer lace and satin detail bring a softer, more feminine edge to this party-perfect shirt, making it an ideal alternative to the tried-and-tested LBD. Just pair with tailored pants or a leather mini and heels, and you’re good to go! Can’t quite keep yourself from ‘clicking’ home this Saint Laurent beauty? We don’t blame you, but do check out the reasons were saying Yay and Nay to snapping it up, below: Yay Day-to-night appeal: Although nothing could be better than sipping cocktails in this shirt, don’t limit yourself to wearing it on your next night out. Make it more office appropriate by slipping a black cami underneath, and wear with a matching blazer and tailored trousers. Trans-seasonal investment: Lace is a perennial party favourite, and need we say more about the longevity of the colour black? You’ll wear this shirt for several seasons to come. Elegant way to do sheer style: Afraid of overexposure when channelling those wispy models, who do so well to avoid the dreaded ‘boob slip’ in the daintiest of tops on the runway? This shirt tackles all those […]

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What we really think of Tamara Mellon’s debut fashion collection

by on 31st October 2013 0 comments

When news of Tamara Mellon’s debut fashion collection fell on our ears – yes, she of the sexy Choo shoe empire – we were beyond ecstatic. Glossed to perfection, this business and fashion stalwart won the industry over a very long time, when she was busy ruling the world of fashionable footwear at the helm of Jimmy Choo. But, since her departure from the luxury brand, Tamara hasn’t wandered too far from the fashion world. Launching to complement her autobiography, In My Shoes, Tamara’s eponymous lifestyle collection is inspired by an interestingly creative mix of mirrors and Guy Bourdin, and hits selected luxury retailers from November 2013. Finding the perfect halfway house between trend-centric style and wardrobe staples, Tamara’s collection won’t be an in-then-out affair. In fact, fashion lovers can expect seasonal capsule collections to drop in stores monthly – no more coats in July and bikinis in February! Reflecting her own “sexy but not vulgar Helmut Newton” style, the collection features statement pieces aplenty: a fringed leather midi skirt; gauzy mini dresses with leather undergarments; top-to-toe leopard looks and enough LBDs to warrant leg flashing – even in winter! Check out what we thought of the collection below: What we like: A navy jumpsuit, featuring front slit bottoms, is perfect when styled with statement accessories. Luxe basics, such as billowing blouses and skinny jeans worn with leather calf and over-the-knee boots are ideal wardrobe investments. What we love: A top-to-toe white suit, inspired by Bianca Jagger in her Studio 54 heyday, punctuated with a leopard print bag. Both the updated leopard print trench and bomber jacket are set to become certified style set favourites! What we’re not sure about: Apart from being a little on the nippy side, you’ll need a strong dose of fashion courage to slip into the gauzy […]

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Steep vs.Cheap: The black jumpsuit

by on 30th June 2016 0 comments

Party season is officially here, and we can’t think of a worse situation than being in a style stitch! Rummaging through your wardrobe to find that perfect piece to impress at the office party? Or, maybe you’re planning a big night on the tiles with your BFFs, and can’t quite figure out a dance floor-worthy look? Fret not, because the LBD’s archrival – the jumpsuit – is here to save the day! A welcome update on the party dress; we think the jumpsuit rocks our night out wardrobe on so many levels. Easy to wear, and even easier to style, it’s part slick Seventies siren and part girl who wants to dodge the thigh skimming number for winter. And, given were always busy hunting the best buys for you to shop right now, we’ve tracked down two gorgeous jumpsuits to suit either end of the budget spectrum. In at the designer end is the gorgeous Valentino embellished wool and silk-blend jumpsuit, £3,145. Although the price tag screams ‘OUCH,’ if you’re looking to make a lifelong investment, this jumpsuit’s the one. Everything from the subtly tapered fit to the white leather embellished bib front ensures it’ll become your permanent party buddy (and the envy of all your friends). Not got just over three grand to hand? Thought so! But that doesn’t meant you have to miss out on the leg action when it comes to jumping into a jumpsuit (pun intended) before hailing your cab for the night. Snap up an equally stylish version at high street haunt, Mango, for £69.99 – a snip of the price! The tuxedo-style jumpsuit has an air of YSL’s Le Smoking about it, and we’re wearing ours with a crimson pout and sky high heels. So, what will it be: splurge or save? Steep: Valentino […]

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4 dresses every woman should own!

by on 15th June 2016 0 comments

Is your wardrobe literally bursting with clothes, yet you still find yourself uttering the phrase “I’ve got nothing to wear?” on a regular basis? If that sounds like you, you’ll be pleased to know that you’re not alone. However you don’t need to go on a Clueless style shopping trip to fix the problem; all you need are these four dresses that are perfect for each and every occasion. Never will you have a sartorial crisis again! LBD You don’t need us to tell you that no woman’s wardrobe is complete without a signature little black dress. Whether you want it for date night or cocktails with the girls, you can never go wrong by slipping it on and accessorising around it. Wear with a statement necklace, a bling-tastic clutch bag and sky-high heels to really command attention, or a chic yet totally wow-worthy selection of fine jewellery that unrivalled understated look. The beauty of an LBD is that there are no wrong ways to accessorise! Wrap Dress Diane von Furstenberg will tell you that every woman needs a wrap dress in her life; of course she would because she is the Queen of wrap dresses. They’re super figure flattering and are great for all occasions and women of all ages – especially those who have been blessed in the curves department. The Kelly Brooks and Kim Kardashians of this world. Occasion Dress We all have those occasions that creep up on us; we’re really excited about the lavish event yet become more and more stressed when the big day approaches as we find out that we don’t have anything to wear. Cocktail dresses are the perfect solution for such dilemmas and can be worn for all occasions whatever the weather. Statement Dress And when no other dress will do, […]

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Dakota Fanning vs. Olivia Wilde…Who wore A.L.C. better?

by on 15th October 2013 0 comments

This week’s fash-off is quite the monochrome style match. With Dakota Fanning in white and Olivia Wilde in black, both ladies donned the A.L.C. Petra dress months apart, complete with head turning effect. First up to slip into the form-flattering dress was Olivia Wilde, who took the classic LBD route on the red carpet at the For the Love of Cinema event at the Tribeca Film Festival, back in April. Accessorising with a black clutch and Tabitha Simmons Dee sandals, neutral make-up and softly tousled hair nicely rounded off Olivia’s look. But giving the gorgeous Hollywood darling a run for her money was Dakota Fanning, who went with the white version at last month’s Festival du Film International of Rio de Janeiro. Sleek hair and barely-there make-up was on offer, whilst an unexpected flash of colour was delivered courtesy of deep red, patent-leather Christian Louboutin Iriza pumps. So, whose look will be victorious in securing this week’s coveted title of style champion? Given our penchant for LBDs, we’d love to say Olivia, but, a twist on a clean look is just as welcome. Therefore, we duly crown Dakota this week’s winner – especially when it comes to playing down the angelic tones of a white look. Those red Loubs has us at hello! Agree with our style verdict? Tell us your thoughts below. [Images: Olivia; Dakota]

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Steep vs. Cheap: Chain detail shoulder bag

by on 2nd October 2013 0 comments

Much like the LBD, a LBB (Little Black Bag, if you’re guessin’) is a crucial element for perfecting that Friday night look. After all, carrying your essentials in a painfully stylish bag is as important as slipping into the most perfectly crafted heels, non? But which one to pick from a sea of noir, buttery soft, suitably embellished bags? Well, read on to find out (and devour the handbag goodness!) Long having acquired cult status, much like THE Balenciaga boot, and, more recently, Stella McCartney’s boxy tartan intarsia knit; the Falabella bag, also by the latter designer, has long been (and remained, unfortunately) on our wish list of want-now bags. Ringing in as this week’s steep option, the Falabella shoulder bag is a compact, chain-trimmed option, perfect for popping over your shoulder and hitting the town. How to make it yours?  Well, it involves parting with a wholesome £510! (Ouch!) Still need it in your life? Forget moping over Stella’s stratospheric price tag, and head straight to Marisota, where you can pick up a similar style for a fraction of the price. At £35, the chain detail bag is a pocket-friendly option to consider, and one that won’t affect your style cred, one bit! What’s not to love? Will you save or splurge?

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Balmain embellished T-shirt: Yay or Nay?

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

After the priced-induced furore J.Crew caused with its overpriced and over- embellished t-shirt for autumn/winter 2013, earlier this year, sceptics started to fish out basics with unjustified prices to slate like they were going out of fashion (pardon the pun). So when we landed on this week’s Yay or Nay option, we couldn’t help but think of the above mentioned top troubles, except, this time round we were dealing with a high fashion heavyweight, Balmain. Yes, you know the brand with ballsy price tags and a whole lotta intricately embellished, hard-to-lift dresses and jackets? Making us gawk at its fine existence, and mentally battle out the possibilities of adding it to our wardrobes, is the Balmain embellished cotton-jersey T-shirt (£1,165). An all black affair, the slightly oversized t-shirt is decorated with sequins, crystals and strips of metallic faux patent-leather. Eyes already popping out? Read on to see this show-off tee’s basket-dropping credentials…  Yay Great alternative to an evening dress: Please your inner tomboy by slipping this t-shirt over leather leggings, and accessorising with killer heels and a clutch. What LBD? Classic colour: Black is always going to be ‘in’, regardless of how much colour and print Diane von Furstenberg throws at us every season! Timeless and chic, this t-shirt is guaranteed to go with almost anything in your wardrobe. Day-to-night investment: For work, pair with a blazer, smart pants and suede pumps. For after-work cocktails leading to the dance floor, ditch the blazer and swap the pumps for show-stopping sandals. Nay Price: A hefty price is certain for all Balmain pieces, so were not particularly shocked by the rather expected £1,165 price tag this t-shirt comes with. Although, were not too sure bank accounts are designed to absorb such financial shock… Faux leather trim: Hmpfh! Paying a grand fee of £1,165 (if you are […]

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6 things we learnt from Miley Cyrus’s latest (twerk-free) music video

by on 26th September 2013 0 comments

OK, we had to. Had to what? We had to dissect the latest in-yer-face offering from the House of Cyrus and all things non-Disney: 23 Alluding to Michael Jordan’s jersey number for the Chicago Bulls, 23 is indeed the name of Mike Will Made It’s latest song, featuring Miley– one that racked up over 3million YouTube hits within three hours of Team MFL hitting play (see the video below), and left us wondering how much of that number jumping was thanks to MC. After a sombre, twerk-free, sledgehammer licking affair in Wrecking Ball, 23 highlights Miley’s welcoming into the world of leather pant-clad, molten-mouthed, suspicious roll up smoking rappers (she even opens the song with ‘I’m in the club, high off purp’ – referring to a  recreational drug), and she succeeds in shocking and amusing in equal measure. But as were pretty accustomed to the near nude twerking antics (of which there weren’t many in this video), it was more her fashion choices we were looking at this time round, and here’s what we deduced: 1. Miley isn’t immune to the ortho sandal. She loves a pair of blingin’ Birkenstocks – embellished, fur-lined, Céline ones worn with soccer socks, in fact. 2. We want that patent pinafore dress. Worn with sneakers, or ‘J’s’ if you prefer Miley-speak, it’s the ultimate rebel’s LBD. 3. The deflated derriere is making a comeback. Brid-Jones-meets-basketball-uniform underwear is du jour, and we all know it’s not forgiving on the bum, or going to deliver a miracle buttock lift! Miley makes unflattering underwear look easy in 23, and justifies giving that killer session of squats a miss! 4. More is more when it comes to Chanel. Our need to wear Chanel accessories, in opposing proportions, all at once, has gone into overdrive since watching the video. […]

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Lunchtime Buy: Jimmy Choo glittered pumps

by on 19th September 2013 0 comments

Here’s something for the weekend! Or for any day where you want to feel good about yourself and really sparkle. Heck you can wear these Jimmy Choo glittered pumps around the house to do the washing up in – we won’t judge! These Jimmy Choo glittered pumps are suitable for all occasions where looking fabulous is expected. Wear them with a sexy LBD to a lavish soiree if you want to go all out, or wear them with skinny jeans and a simple top to add some sparkle and wow factor to your otherwise casual look. Your eyes aren’t deceiving you either, you really can get these babies for under £400 – click the link below if you don’t believe us! Jimmy Choo glittered pumps, £545 £399

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Hero piece: Emilio Pucci beaded collar silk dress

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

If you only had one minute to get ready for a dress to impress themed event, we think you’d make a beeline for this Emilio Pucci beaded collar silk dress that was sitting pretty in your wardrobe. That is, if you smartly chose to invest in it in the first place. This is a decadent and glamorous approach to the classic LBD as it offers so much more than any standard little black dress would. It boasts a diamante and bead collar, cap sleeves, sheer buttoned panels at the chest, a gathered panel at the front and concealed zip fastening at the back. It pretty much speaks for itself, so you don’t need to overdo it on the accessories. While a glamorous clutch bag, demure pair of pointy heels and a Kate Middleton style blowdry would be heartily encouraged, a simple bun and nude accessories wouldn’t be out of place either. After all, there’s no point having your tanned back on display if your hair is covering it, and there’s no point having an uber sparkly collar if it blends in with the rest of your glitzy accessories. This dress is the very definition of a hero piece; take care of it and in turn it will take care of you and see you through event after event after event. Get it now ahead of the party season and never look back! Emilio Pucci beaded collar silk dress, £1,200

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Rosamund Pike is sleek and sexy in Marios Schwab

by on 22nd August 2013 0 comments

Do you love the power, simplicity and chicness of a black dress but want to mix it up a bit at the same time? Look no further than Rosamund Pike’s latest look for a prime example of how you can get the best of both worlds. The actress showcased the ultimate LBD with a difference while attending the premiere of The World’s End at the ArcLight Cinemas Cinerama Dome in Hollywood yesterday. Rosamund opted to wear a stunning black dress from the Marios Schwab Resort 2014 collection, getting that chic yet sexy balance just right. Had a celeb with longer hair worn the dress, we would have expected a fierce high ponytail, but Rosamund’s cute crop didn’t take any attention away from the intricate detail of the dress. We love how she kept the rest of her look simple by opting for minimal accessories and barely there make-up. Another red (well, technically blue) carpet win!

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Who wore Jaeger better…Mollie King vs. Caroline Flack?

by on 17th July 2013 0 comments

Keeping it super-casual this week, we’re taking a little break from red carpet power looks and, instead, giving the high street a chance at taking part in a fash-off war. Stepping in out in the same Jaeger leopard print coat recently, were two Brit babes who regularly make the headlines for their individual style. Mollie King and Caroline Flack, both famed for their polished and preppy-meets-quirky preferences, respectively, sported the high street cover-up just a day apart! Ms. Flack was the first to step out in the £275 ovoid coat at Glastonbury, back in June. Teaming the stylish cover up with a white shirt, wide brim fedora hat, black shorts, ankle boots and oversized sunnies, she brought a fresh twist to festival dressing. Second in line was Mollie King, who was spotted in the same coat on her way to the KISS FM studios in London, earlier this month.  Mollie styled the coat with a LBD, tan pumps and matching Aspinal ‘Barbarella’ bag. Rayban wayfarers completed her look. So, whose look’s a winner? It’s a tough one, because both ladies effortlessly put their personal stamp on the chic coat, but we’re going with the ever-polished Mollie King on this one. Flackers, we love you, but those rolled up sleeves just won’t cut it! Do you agree?

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Alexa Chung does Chanel chic at the Grand Palais in Paris

by on 3rd July 2013 0 comments

  Sure Alexa Chung does dressed-down androgynous meets schoolgirl chic like no other, but she knows how to do ladylike and classy too. In fact not only does she know how to do it, but she knows how to excel in it; rock it, if you will. Take her look for the Chanel Haute Couture show at the Grand Palais in Paris, for example… Alexa took a leaf out of Jennifer Aniston’s book by opting for a short, little black dress, but unlike Jen who considers her LBD her go-to, safe outfit, this was sort of out of Alexa’s sartorial comfort zone. The ladylike lace sleeves are something we would expect from Kate Middleton (in fact it was one of the defining aspects of her wedding dress, remember?) but not from Alexa. That being said, she pulled them – and the entire look – off perfectly, and her personal style wasn’t lost either thanks to the chic but slightly messy updo and the quirky buckle sandals. And her look wouldn’t have been complete without that stunning Chanel bag draped over her shoulder! The Chungmeister got it right once again – no surprises there!

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Inject some fun into your wardrobe with these 5 quirky pieces

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

Sometimes, a shopping spree calls for steering clear of the straight of narrow sartorial path, and instead introducing some interesting pieces in to your wardrobe Seasoned shoppers know the thrill of picking up a zany piece, probably ignored by every other ‘safe’ shopper, and thinking: how would Anna Dello Russo wear this? And when that happens, consider it a fashion gold moment, because no one does quirky quite like the empress of eclecticism herself, ADR! Not only do quirky additions to your closet refresh an all-black, editrix-style wardrobe, but injecting a little fun in to your style is really what fashion is all about. But fear not. If you’re a colour/print/embellishment prude, let our top five quirky picks take you out of your comfort zone, without looking silly! A smattering of raffia tassels here and an animated pout there; here are five crazy, quirky and partially bonkers pieces we want to wear right now. Statement sweatshirts have reigned supreme over the fashion scene for some time now, and were totally digging this Zebra Sequin Embellished one from high street favourite, River Island. Give it a grown up edge by wearing with an asymmetric mini and white pumps. Delivering an unbeatable burst of colour, the Dolce & Gabbana Dea Raffia-tasselled Woven Clutch will make you the envy of accessory aficionados. Wear with a slinky LBD for maximum impact. Available at Net-a-Porter. Sexy and playful, these Frida Suede Slingbacks by Rupert Sanderson will fast become a party favourite. Wear with a feminine summer dress for a flirty slant, or inject some glam fun into an off-duty jeans and tee ensemble. Available at Browns. Forget demure studs and go all monochrome earlobes on your accessory-drobe this season, by investing in these fun clip-on earrings from Marni. We say brave the boardroom in an […]

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Five lust-worthy pieces from Ark.co.uk

by on 17th June 2013 0 comments

We were looking for a bright coloured pair of flats on Ark this morning, and one click turned to another and before we knew it we had a whole wishlist on our hands. Dangerous stuff, this online shopping business. Luckily the prices on Ark.co.uk are far from dangerous, so we don’t feel as bad for getting tempted by the wonderful products on offer. And don’t think it’s just us girls that can do a whole lot of shopping on www.ark.co.uk; the boys can have a field day on the website too as there are tons of brands that will tempt them to part with their credit cards. There’s men’s Superdry, Religion Clothing, Pretty Green by Liam Gallagher and Fred Perry among others, so make sure you send the bf a cheeky link for him to peruse on his lunch hour. You never know, you might get a present out of it as a thank you gesture. Here are five items that we are currently lusting after; can you blame us? 1. Hearts & Bows Black Janks Playsuit – Forget the LBD, it’s all about the LBP, the little black playsuit. This is both the ‘safe’ black option, and the daring option all rolled into one. Winner! 2. Ark Black Wispy False Eye Lashes – When eyeliner and mascara just isn’t enough, look no further than a pair of false eyelashes; these falsies as cheap as they are attention-grabbing. Stock up – you never know when you’ll need an instant injection of glamour! 3. Ark Pink Orla Leather Look Foil Skater Skirt – Loved the Carrie Bradshaw tutu skirt? Well this is the 2013 update, and we want it in our wardrobes right now! Go casual with a slogan tee or go glam with a sparkly bralet, this hard-working skirt is […]

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Balenciaga Wave Frill Ankle Boots: Yay or Nay?

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

Balenciaga is a brand that sure knows how to start a shoe/accessory-induced frenzy. From the uber-desirable cut-out boots that every fashion body is sporting, to the perennially classic textured stud totes and the sport-meets-sexy sandals we just can’t get enough of. So when we laid eyes on this week’s Balenciaga beauty for Yay or Nay, we couldn’t stop our shoe hoarding selves from waxing lyrical about the Wave Frill Ankle Boots! A heel-tastic mash-up of hot pink flamenco-esque ruffles against a classic black peep-toe boot, the Wave Frill Ankle Boot is perfect for shoe lovers looking to inject some fun into their footwear collection. The sling-back heel strap and four inch stiletto heel brings a sexy sandal vibe, and the jolt of colour the frill detail delivers makes the Wave Frill Ankle Boot the ideal pick for a glam-but-fun finish to any ensemble. Pair with an off-duty outfit for an interesting edge, or wear with your favourite LBD and minimal accessories, as the Wave Frill Ankle Boot will naturally do all the look-at-me muscle work. But before you click these beauties home, check out the reasons for and against giving into your Balenciag-addiction! Yay 2-in-1 shoe: Is it a sandal, or is it a boot? The best thing about a shoe that falls into this category: you can wear it as many times, with as many look as you like! Hot with jeans, or a dress, is how heels should be! Classic colours: Black, for the classic end of the spectrum, and pink to add a grown up girly flash, you won’t have any trouble pepping up a muted ensemble with the Wave Frill Ankle Boot. Stand out from the crowd: After the cut-out boot frenzy, the ‘It’ boot has peaked, calling for a refreshing change. Snap up the Wave […]

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Rihanna for River Island, take two: Here’s what we really think!

by on 30th May 2013 0 comments

After enticing Ri-wannabe’s with her debut collection for River Island, the queen of everything is back with more fashion to feed our sartorial souls. Following her hotly anticipated London Fashion Week show, Rihanna’s summer collection for high street giant, River Island finally landed in stores and online on May 25, and after sizing up the fashion credentials of the superstar’s wares, we naturally weighed in with our own opinion. Celebrity-retail giant collaborations are often a frightening matter, with more questions circulating through the fashion press than pieces in the collection itself: did she/he design it? Is it a touch-and-go type of thing? It is even a real depiction of the celebrity in question? But Rihanna, a star in the off-stage style stakes without a doubt, knows a thing or two about constructing a dress to perfectly show of her envious bod, or how cropped a crop top should really be, in order to show the extent of work she’s putting in at the gym. Returning to the real stuff, the summer collection is a mix of staple pieces we often see the Bajan beauty sporting, punctuated with splashes of print, statement embellishment and jolts of colour. The collection really is the epitome of summer, with a lack of longer hemlines (probably owing to Rihanna’s love of flesh flashing), and nearly everything is either sheer, or sports a slit or a spindly strap. Much of the collection harks back to some iconic looks worn by Rihanna, which have now become a recognisable part of her signature style. Take the floral boys shorts, for example, which take us back Ri’s Alexander Wang leather shorts and tee look at the Battleship photo call in Sydney. Or the black stiletto sandals from the collection, which are reminiscent of Rihanna’s love affair with the Manolo […]

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Mollie King is beautiful in black for Esquire party

by on 30th May 2013 0 comments

A lot of women consider their trusty LBD to be a safe, fuss-free option – just ask Jennifer Aniston – but Mollie King is proof that black most definitely doesn’t mean boring! Mollie, i.e. one fifth of The Saturdays, donned a strapless black lace dress for the Esquire and Stella Artois summer party in London last night, but still managed to stand out from the crowd despite her colourless not-at-all-summery ensemble. A below-the-knee lace black dress might be a bit vampy for a summer party, but Mollie added some much-needed colour to her outfit with a juicy multi-coloured clutch bag (you can’t see it in the pic above, so just trust us on this one), bright red talons and cute, baby pink lippie. Plus, we haven’t seen a vamp with luscious golden locks like Mollie’s so we don’t think she’ll get mistaken for a Twilight extra any time soon. Gorgeous!

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Stay super stylish in this season’s top 7 statement dresses!

by on 27th May 2013 0 comments

We all know the feeling of having a packed social diary and nothing to wear for each event, so, dress-associated naturally panic sets in! Weddings, summer barbecues, birthday parties, or just a good old knees up with friends; a statement dress will be your go-to sartorial savour for all of these occasions. The right dress speaks volumes about your style, and where you’re going with it: ample length is key for a day on the beach, as nothing beats a floaty maxi, and embellishment paired with the right length is a winning formula for the perfect summer wedding guest look. So, to take the drudgery out of dress shopping, we’ve rounded up 7 of this season top statement dresses guaranteed to turn heads. We’ve carefully selected striking options with different occasions in mind, (so you don’t have to worry about that bit), and all you have to do is click your fave home and slip into it! Consider this two-tone crystal dress from Mango the answer to your wedding guest wardrobe prayers. A smattering of crystal embellishment on the neckline and the beautiful, two-tone colour detail make this dress a stand out addition to your wardrobe. Nothing says summer quite like a head-turning floral print, and we love the dizzying effect this botanical floral print dress from Topshop  has! Perfect for adding a splash of colour at a late afternoon barbecue, wear with summer sandals for day, or pair with heels to take the look from barbecue to bar. A subtly sexy LBD is the way to go when it comes to date night, and we love the eye-opening detail this deep plunge keyhole bodycon dress from Asos has. Pair with a statement clutch,  and you’re good to go. So versatile, thanks to its flesh-flashing detail and bold colour, we want […]

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The Great Gatsby Edit: Top picks even Daisy Buchanan would approve!

by on 11th May 2013 0 comments

So, The Great Gatsby fever has well and truly gripped Britain, ahead of its UK release on May 16, and we couldn’t help but sneakily slide into the action a slice of decadent Twenties fashion. With no less than 40 outfits from the film painstakingly slaved over by none other than the very high priestess of fashion herself, Miuccia Prada, we can’t begin to put into words the excitement we’re feeling on a sartorial level! So, to celebrate the release of Baz Luhrmann’s reinterpretation of the F.Scott Fitzgerald classic, we’ve picked out our favourite pieces inspired by the Gatsby era. But we’re not talking literal, fancy dress-esque pieces here, rather separates that hark back to the Roaring Twenties, but with a fresh and wearable feel. Capture Daisy Buchanan’s glamour with plenty of embellishment, art deco-inspired finishes and enough feather trims and luxe accessories to guarantee bagging your very own Jay Gatsby! Shop our top Twenties picks below. Tucker Gold Sequin Embroidered Cropped Jacket, £325, My Wardrobe: The perfect cover up with a retro feel; slip this over a slinky LBD and dance the night away. Gedebe Mini Cliky Bijoux Snake Shoulder Bag, £422, Luisaviaroma: The Twenties were all about ornate accessories, and this bejewelled bag hits the spot! Black Double Feather Shoulder Chain Cape, £30, River Island: A Twenties sartorial affair wouldn’t be complete without a smattering of feathers. Wear this atop a simple, drop-waist dress for maximum effect. Drop Waist Ruffle Hem Dress, £95, Reiss: A classic Gatsby era silhouette, subtly updated for the 21st century woman. Lanvin Dedale Silver-tone Swarovski Crystal Clip Earrings, £585, Net-a-Porter: We love the art deco vibe these earrings exude; perfect show stoppers for an evening look. Miu Miu Satin Pumps with Faceted Crystals, £610, My Theresa: We can’t think of a better pair of heels […]

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7 neon pieces worth being noticed in

by on 3rd May 2013 0 comments

Splashed and splices of neon were one of the biggest colour stories to come out of spring/summer 2013. From Erdem’s angelic lace dresses, updated with shots of zingy floral embroidery in neon orange and pink to Simone Rocha’s blinding neon daisies and delectably charged green and blue at Rag & Bone; it was the certified colourway of the new season, and one we’re not shying away from. Although fashion has a habit of repeating embarrassing mistakes from a bygone era, albeit in a slightly more modern, tasteful way, our top neon picks to be noticed don’t include any 80s disco references, or stomach-turning Day-Glo lycra workout gear. From sweeping dresses to look-at-me accessories and shoes so beautifully bright, you’ll need to get out the Ray Bans (in a good way, of course), shop our top seven neon picks below. Sophie Hulme Geometric Shorts, £278, My Wardrobe: The perfect preppy piece for pairing with a crisp shirt and flats.  Neon Animal Print Tunic Dress, £38, Topshop: This dress is guaranteed to become a festival favourite for all discerning fashionistas! Box Clutch with Gems, £25.99, Zara: Packing a punch like no other, we love the tiny price tag and massive impact this clutch will have paired with a simple LBD. Pleated Contrast Panel Skirt, £110, Reiss: The easiest way to incorporate colour into work wear; pair with a soft knit and suede pumps for a chic finish. Diane von Furstenberg Starr Neon Silk-chiffon Dress, £755, Harvey Nichols: We love how smoothly neon takes on a glam, feminine silhouette – red carpet glamour at your fingertips! Markus Lupfer Lips Sequin-Embellished Neon Knitted Sweater, £282, Net-a-Porter: Nothing comes close to the cheer associated with wearing the loudest statement sweater around. Wear this one with skinny jeans and sneakers for ultimate comfort with a quirky touch.  Charlotte Olympia […]

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5 spring-to-summer strapless dresses we love!

by on 16th April 2013 0 comments

Unsightly straps can be off-putting, especially when you find THE perfect dress for that impossible-to-shop-for occasion. Strapless dresses are a wardrobe necessity for two important reasons: avoiding tan lines whilst holidaying, and showing off your sculpted (read: not Madonna-like) arms you’ve worked so hard for in the gym! And with the warmer climes fast approaching, (or so we hope), we’ve rounded up the top five strapless dresses that’ll easily see you from spring to summer. And styling a strapless dress couldn’t’ be easier. With the unpredictable weather in Blighty, (yes, we envy you, Coachella-goers!), popping a jacket over your shoulders as a cover up works well, and makes a strapless dress ideal for both work and play. Make a strapless dress boardroom appropriate by wearing it with a sharp tailored blazer, pair with statement heels and clutch for a night on the town, or dress it down for drinks with the girls by slipping into leather jacket. Although we’re patiently waiting for the clouds to clear, so we can show off our strapless dresses in all their glory, prepare by browsing our top picks below and get shopping! The luxe affair: £1,867, available at Net-a-Porter. If you’re looking to splurge on an investment piece for a big occasion, this leopard-print, chiffon Giambattista Valli dress is the perfect purchase for a summer wedding. The High Street hit: £35, available at River Island. No need to dig deep for this dress, we love the cut out detail at the waist and the transitional lemon colour. Geometric glam: £267.54, available at Shopbop. The tri-colour, geometric print is perfect if you’re looking for a statement-making dress, and we love the sweetheart neckline. Classic (S)LBD: £42.99, available at Mango. A fail-safe option, easily dressed down for work with heels and a blazer, or up for a […]

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Its bloomin’ spring, lovelies! Here are 3 great ways to wear floral prints this spring

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

Spring is upon is, and although the weather will have you believe otherwise, it doesn’t mean your wardrobe cannot blossom into the new season. Floral fashion is like a rite of passage when it comes to lighter climes, but we’re not talking ditsy, Little House on the Praire florals. Hyper-florals are interesting: taking a wardrobe staple such as a blazer and updating it with a fashion-forward botanical print adds a stylish edge to your everyday look. A little over whelmed by the statement making print? Well, fear not, because it isn’t as all-consuming (not unlike the Venus flytrap – how apt!) as it looks, and with a little style guidance, we can show you three easy ways to incorporate it in to your wardrobe. We’ve picked out three uber-cool options to bring a burst of floweriness to your burgeoning clothes collection, so check out our tips below on how to style florals for spring. Cash splash: Tucker floral-print silk-georgette jumpsuit, Net-a-Porter If you’re looking to take a no-expenses spared approach to wearing florals, then going all out (we mean this literally) is the only way. Hit a high-end note in this statement floral-print jumpsuit by Tucker. Paired with heels and a clutch, it’s the perfect party alternative to the predictable LBD. Trend dip: Tropical floral print scarf, Whistles If you’re a little wary of trying out the floral trend this spring, then investing in a pocket-friendly accessory that doesn’t compromise on quality is key. We love the tropical floral print splashed across this scarf, and it provides the perfect injection of colour to take an off-duty outfit from drab to fab. Statement staple: Piqué floral blazer, Zara The blazer receives a resounding nod from the fash pack when it comes to stealing the coveted title of best buy. Although it is fab […]

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Erickson Beamon Swarovski Crystal Bib Necklace: Yay or Nay?

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

A statement necklace is to a fashionista’s wardrobe what a Chanel show (and show-stopping dress) is to Diane Kruger: a crucial necessity. Far removed from its previous decorative evening only label, a statement necklace is now just as well-placed with an office ensemble as it is with an LBD. That said, just as with any statement item, it requires a healthy dose of fashion confidence with a handful of style chutzpah to carry off. Many of you may worry about accessory overkill with only one item of jewellery, or looking too overdone to jump on the tube/subway home; if you’re one of those people, look away now. Let us present to you this mammoth neck adornment from haute jewellery crafter, Erickson Beamon. The Swarovski crystal bib necklace is, well, quite the eye-opener, not to mention the ultimate in attention-grabbing accessories! Maybe not one for statement necklace virgins, we weigh up the pros and cons of landing this beauty around your neck, over a very cosy looking J.Crew knit (natch). YAY Outfit transforming qualities: This goes without saying: you put it on and, just like that, you’re transported to Planet Dello Russo, the land of the street style darling. Whether that’s a good or bad thing, we’ll leave that up to you. Mix of trends and textures: The bib necklace combines an Ethno-Twenties vibe to perfection; the raffia tassels and exquisite multicoloured Swarovski crystals, lapis lazuli and jade tug at our heart (and purse) strings. One piece show: This necklace is so show-stopping all on its own, it cancels out the need for any other form of accessorising. Forget fussing with rings, earrings and bracelets, and just pop this corker on! NAY Price: A mildly (OK, majorly) strangulating (pardon the pun) £1,240 price tag. Caution: You may find it difficult to […]

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Yay or Nay: Charlotte Olympia Dolly Feather Platform Pumps

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

Her box clutches, Alexa-approved Kitty flats and the instantly recognisable gold metallic platform underlining her quirky designs have acquired a cult following. And taking you into new season, Charlotte Olympia’s creativity once again knows no bounds. It’s safe to say that the Dolly Feather platform pumps more than caught our eye! Exploring a rainbow spectrum of colour, these heels are conversation starters, and we can only suspect to see a few pairs popping up around fashion month. Adopting the classic Dolly shape and heels, goose feathers artfully line the shoe’s exterior to give that 90s tropical tie dye look (see how she expertly revived the era of grunge with not a single plaid shirt or Kate Moss reference in sight?), whilst a red suede platform and blue leather heel amp up the colour credentials. But such out-there shoes do come with their limitations, especially if you’re not a repeat (fashion) offender. Although statement shoes are considered an investment, where do you draw the line with footwear that makes both your imagination and wardrobe run wild? We round up the reasons we’re screaming YAY, and why sensible Sally who lives in the part of our brain dedicated to shopping (that’s almost all of it, then) is quietly whispering NAY to these wake-me-up CO’s: Yay Perfect for amping up an LBD: Yes, just that. If you don’t like to veer into colour territory when getting ready to go out, and prefer an understated outfit, then loud heels or accessories could be all you need. The Dolly Feather Pumps would be the perfect way to pep up a simple party look without adding anything else. Shoe investor paradise: Remember all those times when your mum would gently advise you to stop spending your life savings on in-then-out, bunion-inducing footwear, and instead save up […]

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Steep vs Cheap: Wet Look Leggings

by on 16th January 2013 0 comments

Our go-to for ultimate comfort, leggings are a godsend on days when trusty denim just won’t do! But don’t be fooled by its casual-cool credentials, because the humble legging has been at the receiving end of a major luxe-over, and is now available in a plethora of luxury fabrics and colour ways. For this week’s Steep vs. Cheap, we scoured both the high and low ends of the market to bring you our top two wet look legging picks: a bank buster and it’s pocket-friendlier alternative. If you’re an invest-a-holic (another term for those who justify extreme spending with the elation-per-wear theory), consider these cash burning spray-on beauties from luxury Italian fashion house, Gucci. Super sleek and 100% leather; what more does a fashionista with a generous fashion fund need? But, if like the majority of the recession-stricken population you’re looking to make your moola stretch further, whilst still keeping abreast with the latest fashions, High Street haven Topshop offers a more cost-effective version that won’t leave a gaping hole in your pocket. These shiny wet look leggings are perfect for dressing up or down, guilt free. Whether you choose to splurge or play the savvy spender card, style these wet look leggings with a billowing blouse and heels for a party-perfect alternative to pulling out the LBD. Steep: Gucci Stretch-leather skinny pants, £1,320, available at Net-a-Porter Cheap: Shiny wet look leggings, £18, available at Topshop

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Get over the January blues with a gorgeous jewel (or two)!

by on 11th January 2013 0 comments

[noskim] Christmas is well and truly over which means it’s time to say goodbye to the generosity (i.e. gift giving) and hello to a little selfishness (i.e. treating yourself to some truly-deserved sparkle), and there’s no better way of doing that than browsing jewellery online from the comfort of your own home. We’ve been rather distracted by John Greed Jewellery these past few days, and if you take a peek at the site we think you’ll understand why. There’s something in there for everyone, with a great selection of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, watches and more.  While you could get lost in the selection of wonderful jewellery for hours, a personal favourite definitely has to be the bright and beautiful Coeur de Lion Multi Gold Necklace with polaris cubes and gold plated alloyed steel. One of the more intricate and unusual items on the website, it will certainly make you stand out from the crowd for all the right reasons. And if like us you can’t get enough of it, you may be pleased to know that it comes with a matching bracelet and earrings too! Style tip? We’d recommend wearing it with your favourite LBD to add a splash of colour and a hint of fun to your otherwise monochrome, sophisticated ensemble. No one can resist a bit of rainbow! [/noskim]

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10 of the best trends of 2012

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

We can’t believe 2012 is drawing to a close so fast, and with festive prep in full blast, we’ve taken out a little time to help you reflect on the trends that defined the runways of 2012. From ornate embellishment to luxe leather; gym gear gone glam to shirtless collars – 2012 brought several lasting pieces and styles to our wardrobes. To refresh your memory, as next season creeps upon the ever-moving world of fashion, here’s to a trip down trend memory lane to refresh your fashion mindset, and cleanse the mental palate to make way for next season’s stunning wares. Sports luxe: Olympic fever gripped the globe this year, and with so much fitness apparel, fine abs and Tom Daley in full view, designers couldn’t help but take gym gear up a few chic notches; off the treadmill and straight onto the runway(with a few modifications, obvs). Embellishment: The SS’12 shows marked the beginning of our obsession with festooning everything from cardis to clutches and slippers to socks. Even for a/w’12, Lanvin and Balmain delivered heavy smatterings of crystals and beading to their fashionable wares, whilst Christopher Kane’s embellished clutches and jeans became summer staples. We approved. Collars: Dismantling the shirt, a firm wardrobe staple, left us with a collar and free reign to do anything to it! What started out as a pretty and prim game of peek-a-boo atop cosy knits Alexa (yes, she) wore with dresses and shirts underneath became a full-blown global phenomenon. Encrusted with stones; crisp white; metallic; printed or Peter Pan versions, the collar did pretty well at pushing the statement necklace of its pedestal. Candy shades: Probably the biggest summer trend to slip into our wardrobes, pastel shades were everywhere! We blame the house of Louis Vuitton for getting us unhealthily hooked on shades of […]

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5 of the best cocktail trousers to slip into right now!

by on 14th December 2012 0 comments

Beware, LBD lovers. The party dress has found its sartorial match, and there’s about to be a trouser takeover… Cocktail trousers are the party investment piece du jour, available in an array of stunning prints and textures, and with all the pizzazz of a statement dress. Just look to the autumn/winter catwalks to see the influence of the humble trouser, in all its brocade, metallic and printed glory! Update your soirée style by teaming a cocktail trouser with a silk t-shirt or blouse, and don’t forget to throw in a statement necklace or earrings, and a clutch to complete your look. Here are our top five picks for a little dress-free inspiration… Ladylike lace will always be a winner and we love the statement style but muted tone of this cocktail trouser. Ankle-grazing and super-flattering, this trouser is a staple that’ll see you through from work to drinks with total ease. Moschino Cheap & Chic lace trouser, £355, available at Harvey Nichols Opulence was a major trend for a/w’12, and you don’t get more opulent than brocade. We love the mermaid green colour of this Elizabeth and James cigarette pant, and would happily team it with a cosy knit and statement heels for a luxe, winter-appropriate look. Elizabeth and James Green brocade effect cigarette trouser, £324, available at My Wardrobe Marc Jacobs. Metallic. Major want! The perfect twist on sharp tailoring for a fun evening look – need we say more? Marc Jacobs Cropped metallic bouclé wool-blend pant, £760, available at Net-a-Porter If you’re tiring of leopard print, turn to the reptilian version with these beautifully cut, snake print jacquard trousers. High-end look at a High Street price? Don’t mind if we do! Snake print jacquard trouser, £30, available at Warehouse If you’re looking to snap up a bold and bright cocktail trouser […]

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What to wear on Christmas day? Here are three festive-ready outfits

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

Waking up to a Christmas Eve hangover on The Big Day is made better by finding the entire contents of Selfridges under the Christmas tree. OK, so maybe that’s an exaggeration, but shed loads of naughty delicious food, drink and wide-eyed effect pressies aside, you’ve got to think about your outfit for Christmas day. For those of you not keen on recovering from the persistent food coma by slouching around in an onesie all day, we’ve selected three fabulous Christmas day looks for you to slip into once you’ve crawled out from beneath the mountain of wrapping paper! Considering the entire month of December is one big festive party, there’s no excuse not to go all out come 25th December. From a print-tastic ensemble to a dazzling display of sequins and an LBD with a twist, here are three festive ready outfits that’ll have you rockin’ around the Christmas tree!  Print addict Christmas at home with the family doesn’t have to mean getting all formal in the wardrobe department. Inject some fun into your look with a bold print and embellishment – this bracelet is perfect for monitoring your food intake with so many ‘bad’ foods on offer! The geometric print on this pencil skirt means no need for accessorising. Just add heels for perfect, fuss-free style. Sequin devotee A splash of sequin wouldn’t go amiss as Crimbo approaches, and with the party season in full swing, so should your sequin wardrobe be! We love this cropped cardigan for artfully topping off a slinky devore velvet maxi skirt and satin top. A statement cuff is all you need, because, let’s face it, sequins are the biggest attention grabbers! The ideal outfit if you’re looking to dodge the dress department but still want to channel a feminine vibe. LBD loyalty Yep, it’s […]

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Salma Hayek vs. Anne Hathaway: Who wore Stella McCartney better?

by on 4th December 2012 0 comments

Stella McCartney’s beautiful creations grace the super-toned bodies of several celebrity-supes daily. And given the Designer of the Year gong she picked up at this year’s British Fashion Awards, we’re not surprised. So when we spotted gorgeous ladies Salma Hayek and Anne Hathaway in the same Resort 2013 fringed frock by said designer, we couldn’t fight off the urge of an inevitable fash-off! Anne Hathaway was the first to give the fringed number an outing, when she wore it for an appearance on the David Letterman show back in July, teamed with her signature pixie crop. Her look was rather vanilla for our liking, but she still looked nothing short of fabulous. Salma Hayek was second in line to don the fringed frock. Bringing a little LBD fun to the British Fashion Awards 2012 red carpet, Salma topped off her look with a chic top knot, Guiseppe Zanotti pumps and Boucheron jewellery. An LBD with a twist – in this case, the Twenties-inspired fringing – is always a winner, and props to the both ladies for doing the dress justice in their own way. But being a fash-off, there can only be one winner… Anne Hathaway steals the show this week with her simple-yet-effective take on dressing an LBD. The detail on the dress warrants an overall subtle look, and we think Anne’s minimal make up, pixie crop and simple black pumps add to that appeal. Salma, although looking super-hot in her LBD, went a little overboard with the uber-glam hairdo. Teaming a stunning (read: super expensive) diamond necklace with a high neckline is jewellery suicide – that necklace would sit better with a lower neckline. Salma’s look is a little too busy for our fashioned-out peepers! Do you agree with our style verdict? Whose look do you prefer?

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Your top 5 party season dilemmas solved

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

The Christmas tree is out, the smell of mulled wine is wafting through the house and you’ve already binged on one too many mini mince pies (they’re mini so it doesn’t count, right?). All of these festive activities can only mean one thing: party season has well and truly arrived and it’s time to get your wardrobe in check! Stylish soireés aplenty, you’re probably fighting your way through a scrum of eager Christmas shoppers in weird winter gear to get to that perfect party dress or bag, but party season can also give rise to a whole load of sartorial situations that require a speedy and stylish solution. So, as an early Christmas present to you, we’ve answered your top party season dilemmas to ensure your social calendar works out swimmingly, without the added worry of suffering a last minute sartorial glitch! (Sorry, but we can’t do anything about the painfully unfunny cracker jokes.) Problem: “I have a few parties to attend, but I don’t want to wear high heels. What other party-appropriate options are available?” Solution: It’s good news for heel-dodgers all round because entry to the latest hip party no longer depends on how many inches you can teeter in! Take your shoe inspiration from British Style Award winner, Alexa Chung, who’s rarely spotted in anything other than stylish flats and low heels. Give sky high heels a miss and pair your party dress with uber-stylish, ladylike kitten heels. But if you want to go completely heel-less, opt for a pair of for glitter-splashed, girly flats for added wow factor (minus the ‘oww!’ factor)! Problem: “I want to stylishly block out the winter chill!” Solution: Covering up when stepping out in your party gear doesn’t have to equal frumpy. There are several stylish throw-overs available to keep you […]

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Yaaay, its party season! Here’s our guide to the 20 best party pieces under £100

by on 25th October 2021 0 comments

Worried the regular Christmas present shopping marathons will eat into your beloved party season clothing budget? Fear not! We’ve tracked down 20 of the best pound stretching party pieces under £100 to ensure you have a head-turning wardrobe for the festive season, without having any awkward ‘Sorry, I forgot your present’ moments. Sequins and eye-opening embellishment on evening dresses are key to hitting the right party wear note, and you don’t have to do it on a Kardashian-sized budget! An OTT embellished evening clutch will accessorize an LBD to perfection, whilst statement detail on sky-high heels is sure to up the glam ante, adding the wow factor to your soiree style. Land a fash-tastic bargain with our pick of the best party buys under £100, and maybe splash the leftover cash on a few ‘To Me, from Me’ presents in the process. Happy bargain-snapping! Clutches: 1. Metalized box clutch, Mango, 2. Edithea studded box clutch, Missguided, 3. Embellished box clutch, River Island, 4. Korea spot box bag, Oasis, 5. Hesser clutch, Aldo Dresses: 1. Lipsy red cocktail dress, Zalando, 2. Embellished cutaway maxi dress, Topshop, 3. Contrasted belt lace dress, Mango, 4. Lipsy silver cocktail dress, Zalando, 5. Geri black sequin shift dress, Next Heels: 1. Hideout diamante embellished strappy heel sandals, Dune, 2. Noemi black metal detail cross strap sandals, Stylistpick, 3. Seville red asymmetric heel, Miss Selfridge, 4. Silver platform sandals, Dorothy Perkins, 5. Nude black microsuede T-bar sandals, Next Accessories: 1. Viladomaio bracelet, Aldo, 2. Premium jewelled bib necklace, Asos, 3. Camira jewel earrings, Missguided, 4. Pearl and rhinestone bow, Topshop, 5. Spectacle ring, Swarovski

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3 key high street black leather buys

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

Fash fanatics will be well informed that leather was the order of the season for autumn/winter’12. A sexed up guise took form for Fall as black leather made an appearance in glossy, patent and belted versions. Designers such as Valentino took the trend up a few notches by offering our leather hungry eyes the pleasure of viewing sleek, all-leather gowns, forcing us to rethink traditional evening wear choices. From the high-sheen, super desirable, oversized black leather jackets seen at Alexander Wang, to the leather-clad romantic Goth witnessed at Givenchy; leather is set to be far from a predictable new season statement maker. But for those fretting about the three figure prices for these high end designer garbs, have no fear! We’ve rounded up three of the best new season high street leather buys to update your wardrobe in a pocket-friendly flash! The leather biker jacket is a perennially cool must-have every style maven should own.  But this season we’re not talking about conventional biker, no. We’re opting to oversize (another major trend) and wearing ours slouchy over a plaid trouser and loose tee. Oversized leather biker jacket, £200, available at Topshop Ankle boots are the shoe-cessory of the season, and nothing beats a trusty leather version! The berry-hued Chelsea boot inserts are a perfect way to update a classic. KG Susie boots, £160, available at Kurt Geiger It’s the LBD reimagined! The clean silhouette and corset detail are the prefect nod to this season’s refreshed take on the Black Dress, and paired with statement accessories this minimalist dress promises maximum effect! Theodora corseted leather dress, £295, available at Reiss

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Victoria Pendleton vs. Katherine Jenkins in Stella McCartney

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

It’s a known fashion fact that nearly every A-lister, from Kate Moss to Yasmin Le Bon, has had a taste of the delicious visual feast that is the Stella McCartney panelled dress – a.k.a the optical illusion dress to the wonder-working Hollywood elite – and Team GB superstar Victoria Pendleton is no stranger to the British designer’s lustworthy wares. Stepping out of her Stella McCartney cycling gear, the Olympic gold medallist slipped into a stunning panelled dress, complete with sheer mesh panels at the waist, at the 2012 GQ Man of the Year Awards. And the slickness of Victoria’s style didn’t stop there, continuing with a standout brass belt, clutch and nude, rubber-platform faux croc pumps. Slicked back hair and smouldering eyes polished off her red carpet look. What could’ve been a potentially serious style faux pas on the part of Katherine Jenkins’ stylist was mildly averted, when the opera singer took to the red carpet in the floor-length version of the same dress…at the same event! Opting for a softer up-do with loose tendrils of hair framing her face, Katherine stuck with a nude makeup palette for a subtle evening look, accessorising with only a crystal bracelet. Stella McCartney is a hot red carpet favourite with the A-listers (it was pretty much Stella McCartney galore at the GQ Awards this year!), and both ladies pulled of the renowned dress with equal flair. Ms. Pendleton tapped into the sexy side of Stella McCartney’s designs, by opting for the form-fitting, shorter length, whilst Katherine channelled dreamy Hollywood glamour with a floor-sweeping version – making it near impossible for us to decide between the two looks! Fash-off champion: Although we adore Katherine’s take on the dress,Victoria’s easy-to-wear knee-length stops the dress from falling into swallow-me-up territory, and the addition of a belt adds to the waist-trimming illusion. The sharp accessories […]

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Three ways to wear the flared skirt

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

The flared skirt is one of those versatile pieces that every wardrobe needs! In fact, akin to the classic failsafe, iconic LBD, you can never have enough. There will always be a time and a place for a flared skirt – the secret to wearing it well and appropriately lies within what you wear with it. In other words, accessorise around it! We were overwhelmed with choice when it came to choosing just one, but we settled on this houndstooth flared skirt from McQ by Alexander McQueen. A fine choice even if we do say so ourselves! The fact that it’s printed means that it’s already a standalone bold piece, and even teaming it with the most minimal of other items will still be enough to make a statement. The colour’s not too ‘in your face’ either, which means you can go as subtle or as crazy as you like. Here are just three ways you can wear it: For the office Sleeveless linen shirt, £55, East available at John Lewis; Belle headband, £17.50, available at French Connection; Link and plate waist belt, £12, ASOS Collection available at ASOS; Black court heels, £22.99, available at New Look. Style tip: add with some white or subtle patterned tights and if it’s chilly, take a polo cardi. For a rockin’ gig  Fabric band, £10, available at Esprit; Converse, £44.99, available at Cloggs; Rolling Stones T-shirt, £29.99, Amplified Vintage available at Amazon. Style tip: Wear the scarf around your head and pair with a red crossbody bag for the effortless rock chick look. For casual summer strolling Sleeveless racer back top, £12, Only available at House of Fraser; Braided rope belt,£17.06, available at J Crew; Deer brown Del Rey, £795, available at Mulberry; Black ankle boots, £75, SPM available at Zalando. Style tip: Tuck the top in to showcase the skirt in all its glory.

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Five Powerful Habits To Keep Your Wardrobe Organised

by on 20th July 2023 0 comments

For those who don’t have Carrie Bradshaw style walk-in wardrobes (and that is actually most of us!), organising one can be quite a daunting task. We’ve all been there – unable to find that one thing we are looking for and, as a result, end up throwing out the contents of our wardrobes onto a pile on the floor only to find it had slipped off the hanger and was the bottom of the wardrobe all along. So, we’ve put together a short, simple, but very effective list to help you keep your wardrobe organised through all seasons. Never again will you rummage through your wardrobe in a frenzy trying to find that trusty LBD… 1. Keep it season specific Admittedly, this is easier said than done, especially in a country that had sweltering heat in early March and currently has bucket-loads of rain in July, but you get the general idea. Tuck the winter staples away during sunnier months and vice versa. It also helps to have a clear-out at the end of each season. Sort your clothes into “keep” and “donate” piles to ensure it stays current and you’re always as fashion forward as possible. As you sort through your clothes, you may decide that it’s time to upgrade or change your fashion style. As you age and fashion trends evolve, you may want to keep up by investing in new pieces. Remember that what you wear reflects your personality and affects your interpersonal relationships and career image. Hence, diversifying your wardrobe can help boost your self-confidence when facing others.  If you’re looking to replace your old or out-of-season clothes, there are many reputable clothing stores online, such as Diesel Outlet, and physical shops that sell high-quality shirts, jeans, and other items. Ensure you buy the best designs […]

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Lily Donaldson lands Best Dressed of the Week in Nina Ricci

by on 29th June 2012 0 comments

This week’s Best Dressed brings you the LBD but not as you know it! Lily Donaldson looked stunning in a Long Black Dress by Nina Ricci, at the Glamour Spain 10th Anniversary party – a perfect vision of simple yet stunning style! Accessorising with a bold red lip, and sexy side swept curls, Lily hardly needed anything else to enhance her glamorous presence, save for the delicate, crystal embellishment on the shoulders and ruched detailing of the dress. Being a model, we expect Lily to look nothing less than perfect, thanks to a killer bod and never ending pins, and oh-so-perfect did she look! A classic red carpet look, worn to perfection.

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Katy Perry goes chic and classy in Roland Mouret

by on 25th June 2012 0 comments

Katy Perry has gone for the gothic look quite a bit since dying her locks a vampy shade of deep purple – but we think you’ll agree the look above was anything but! There was nothing Morticia Adams about Katy when she arrived at The Tonight Show as she looked chic and very feminine in an elegant Roland Mouret number from the spring/summer 2012 collection. It wouldn’t have been very Katy if it was a simple LBD though – the red tulip appliqués are just the perfect amount of quirkiness for Katy to stay true to herself. This is the lady who sported bubblegum pink and Smurf blue hair after all! Her fierce red heels, bold scarlet lips and soft Hollywood pin-up waves completed her goth to glam transition perfectly. Definitely one of our fave Katy Perry looks in a long time. What do you guys think? [Image] 

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Fashion Finance Famine Sale Edit: Bank Holiday Bargains!

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

The long awaited long weekend is finally upon us, and what better way to celebrate the extra holiday than indulging in some much needed retail therapy. We’ve rounded up the best fash bargains to suit the kind of weekend you may have planned. If it’s a weekend away partying and sipping cocktails, maybe a sophisticated Reiss LBD and heels would be just what you need. Or, for a relaxed weekend channel city chic with the Equipment Mina blouse, tapered trousers and loafers. Killer accessories are a must have for all those bank holiday parties, and we’re digging this Fiona Paxton Frida necklace to do all the talking, so you don’t have to! Or, maybe you’ve opted for a quieter affair this weekend, in which case you’ll be more than spoilt for choice shopping up a storm with a little inspiration from this week’s sale edit. Go ahead, shop yourself happy and kick off the three-day weekend in style! 1. Lorna dress, £189 £124, Reiss 2. Pablo courts, £70 £35, Topshop 3. Roberto Cavalli Edith cuff, £989 £495, mytheresa 4. Fiona Paxton Frida necklace, £230 £115, TheOutnet 5. Boucle yarn jacket, £29.99 £19.99, H&M 6. Tapered trouser, £29.99 £14.99, H&M 7. Popover tunic in Lifesaver print, £162.21 £114.69, J.Crew 8. Versace Cutout patent-leather sandals, £520 £208, TheOutnet 9. Diane Von Furstenberg sporty Drew embossed python bucket tote, £554.20 £401.70, shopbop 10. Les Nereides mini gem drop earrings, £95 £45, Asos 11. Equipment Mina blouse, £160 £70, Oxygen Boutique 12. American Retro leapord print ponyskin loafers, £252.79 £176.95, LuisaViaRoma

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Best Dressed of the Week: Charlize Theron in Dion Lee at the Cinecon 2012 Awards Ceremony

by on 28th April 2012 0 comments

We’re taking a break from grand red carpet style gestures and going back to basics, this week, with a classic LBD. But not any bland, yawn-inducing LBD, in fact we’re digging a rather directional, head-turner version. The stunning Charlize Theron wowed in a Dion Lee Fall 2012 dress at the 2012 Cinecon Awards held in LasVegas this week. Looking gorgeous, Charlize picked up the Distinguished Decade of Achievement in Film award at the event.  The dress showcased the illusion trend – a really hot-right-now statement many celebs are making in Stella McCartney dresses – although, so lean and model-like, Charlize definitely doesn’t need to trick a silhouette! Completing her look with strappy black Giuseppe Zanotti sandals, subtly smoky eyes and hair casually down, Charlize reminded us just how powerful the humble little black dress can be amongst other glitzy event heavyweight looks.

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British Independent Film Awards 2011: Best Dressed

by on 6th December 2011 0 comments

The stars turned out in full force Monday night for the annual Moet British Independent Awards Ceremony in London. The event is a celebration of the small film market and, although it is nowhere near as glitzy as the Oscars or Baftas, that didn’t stop the celebs pulling out the stops for the event. While the main focus of the night is talent, that doesn’t mean we can’t be frivolous and obsess over dresses now, does it? We took a look at the winners of the night in the style stakes… Olivia Grant stood out on the red carpet in this extravagant multi-tonal dress. Rebecca Hall did masculine tailoring paired with red lippie. French seductress and Mark Ronson’s other half Josephine de La Baume looked sweet in a printed blue midi dress. Gemma Arterton kept it simple and chic in a failsafe LBD. Brit actress Georgia King also opted for black, but went for a much more voluminous design. [poll id=”250″]

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Get the look: Carey Mulligan in Bottega Veneta

by on 16th November 2011 0 comments

When it comes to dressing up for a night out, you can’t go wrong with a failsafe LBD. This was definitely proved correct when Carey Mulligan showed up at the 15th annual Hollywood Film Awards Gala in Beverly Hills recently wearing this gorgeous black Bottega Veneta number. The transparent halter straps and pulled-in waist were utterly flattering and sparkling sequin embellishment made it perfect for such a glittering night out. Of course, with the party season quickly approaching, the sparkly dress turns into somewhat of a hero piece and perhaps that’s why Carey’s one seems so perfect for now. She chose to accessorise with a simple pair of black Ferragamo peep-toe heels and a chic black studded boxy clutch bag. We love. If you want to achieve Carey’s young Hollywood look, here’s how to do it: This sequined number from Michael Kors is the perfect little black party dress. The flattering shape means it’s utterly chic without compromising on pizzazz. Michael by Michael Kors Crew Neck Dress, £250, available at my-wardrobe. Keep things simple but completely fabulous with a pair of black peep-toe heels. These from Christian Louboutin might be pricey, but you’ll love them forever. Christian Louboutin Bambou Suede Shoes, £495, available at Matches. An eye-catching sparkly box clutch will complete your look – this one from Oasis is our favourite find. Glitter Box Clutch Bag, £26, available at Oasis.

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From failed singer to stylish soon-to-be mum: what’s Jessica Simpson’s fashion secret?

by on 19th October 2013 0 comments

Actress, singer and all-American sweetheart Jessica Simpson last week announced she was pregnant with her first child. We’re super excited for the 31-year-old and, while we can’t proclaim to be die-hard fans of her acting or singing abilities, we give respect where it’s due to her talents as a fashion designer. Honestly, this woman generates some serious dosh. As the first celebrity whose clothing line has topped $1 billion in sales, it’s no wonder New York Magazine featured her on their cover with the tagline ‘Jessica Simpson, Fashion Mogul’. Her empire includes clothing, accessories, shoes and fragrances and, more recently, she launched a ready-to-wear line which has brought in huge profit. While she might have been ridiculed as an airhead in her reality TV show years ago, it seems Jessica is a very savvy business woman indeed. Famous for her ‘girl next door’ qualities, she’s channelled that sweet quality into a line that America’s gone absolutely mad for. Her clothing is girly, feminine and wholesome – she makes the kind of dresses teenagers would dream of wearing to the prom and, at around the £100 mark, many of them do. While her label isn’t available in the UK (yet), for our fashionable friends over the pond it’s readily available. Take this classic LBD, for example, which, with its A-line cut is both classic and ultra-flattering: Bubble Hem Dress, $148.00.   Or how about the the nipped-in waist and old school glamour of this coat:  Faux Fur Collar Coat, $228.00 $169.99.   And then there’s the wedges with bags of attitude: Esteen Wedge Boots, $139.00. Surprisingly stylish, we think you’ll agree. So we’re going to say this: watch out for Ms. Simpson, she’s quietly taking over a well-subscribed section of fashion with unrivalled success.

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