Category: Fashion

How To Build A Sustainable Wardrobe

What we choose to wear can have a significant effect on the environment and I believe we all have a part to play in protecting the planet for future generations. By choosing your wardrobe carefully you can help make a difference.

1. Wear Your Clothes

Chances are you already own some amazing clothes. The most sustainable wardrobe is the one you already own as long as you wear it regularly. Challenge yourself to come up with new ways of wearing your clothes and accessories. I have a couple of sections on my ‘Style’ Pinterest board where I save photos of outfits for autumn/winter and spring/summer that are made up of items similar to the ones I own.

2. Choose Well

Only buy what you truly love and know you will want to wear frequently. If you choose well, you should be able to wear an item at least 30 times, if not more. Don’t buy something just because, at first glance, you think it looks nice or you saw it on someone else whose style you admire; don’t make a panic purchase. Give yourself time to consider how you’ll wear it with the things you own. If you can’t think of at least three ways you can style it, don’t buy it.

3. Buy Well Made

Look for natural fibres because they tend to wear and wash better than most synthetic materials; they also allow the skin to breathe. Good garment construction is also important, you want your clothes to last and if they’re badly made they won’t. If you’re unsure, check the quality of the seams and how well the buttons are sewn on (if there are any).

4. Only Buy What You Need

Most of the time we don’t need another coat, another pair of shoes, another pair of jeans, etc. If you choose well and buy well made then you are even less likely to need more.

5. Buy Timeless Designs

You’ll never regret it. These items never go out of fashion and often turn up in new trends anyway.

Plus, it’s worth it for the investment alone; if you do decide you no longer want an item, there’s likely to be a market for you to sell it on.

6. Clothes That Fit

How well an item fits will usually determines how many times an item is worn. If it feels uncomfortable, you’re probably not going to relax all day and, the next time you put that item on, feel reluctant to wear it again; another reason it’s important not to panic buy.

On the other hand, if you’re wearing something that fits you well, you’ll feel good about yourself and how others see you.

7. Take Care of Your Clothes

If you want to prolong the length of use of your clothes you need to treat them with care. Wash them according to their labels, you can always drop the temperature (but never raise it). Use a detergent that is eco-friendly and reduce unnecessary and damaging chemicals in our water systems. I use Ecover or Kinn, both are made with plant-based, biodegradable ingredients and still leave my clothes clean and fresh.

Mend holes, damaged seams and hems. There are plenty of tutorials online if you’re not sure how. You could consider the Japanese practice of Sashiko, if you want to add character. If you’re not comfortable mending your things yourself, get in touch with an alterations and repairs agency.

8. Secondhand & Vintage

It goes without saying that there are a lot of unworn clothes in the world, some that have never been worn at all. Secondhand and vintage clothes are often more affordable than the newly made. Though often associated with bright, cheaply made, synthetic clothes from the 60s and 70s; I’ve bought a beautiful wool jumper from Margaret Howell via eBay and a classic Belstaff jacket from a secondhand store in London. You need to think about exactly what you want/need and not deviate.

TOAST have recently started a clothes-swapping initiative called TOAST Circle. Customers can bring in items from previous seasons and swap them for other worn pieces.

9. Buy Locally Made

Supporting local artisans that produce goods using local materials means they are made with a low carbon footprint. It gives the brand the option to make-to-order, reducing deadstock. It’s also beneficial to the local economy.

Bramble Green Knitwear Aran Sweater | Baukjen Grandad-Collar Shirt in White* | Saltspin Radium Mid-Wash Mom Jean* | PB 0110 AB 52 Tote in Black* | G.H. Bass & Co. Weejuns Penny Loafers in Black* | Laura-Adèle Zodiac Wheel Medallion Necklace* | Otiumberg Small Graduated Hoops

Other things to consider…

Look for organic or Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) cotton. Less water is used in the farming process, the cotton seeds are not genetically modified and no chemicals or pesticides are used to grow them. This is better for the farm workers and pickers, better for the ground that the cotton is grown in, better for the local water supply and ecosystem and (I believe) better for your skin.

The OEKO-TEX registered trademark lets you know about fabrics that are made responsibly. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) lets you know about fabrics that have been made with a minimum of 70% organic fibres.

Make sure the brands you buy from ensure their wool is mulesing-free. It’s a painful practice that involves removing a strip of skin from the buttocks of the sheep to prevent a parasitic infection called flystrike. It’s especially common with Merino sheep.

Try to avoid polyester or nylon, unless it is recycled or vintage. Neither is biodegradable and both are thought to contribute to microplastics found in our oceans. Buy a Guppyfriend washing bag to reduce your impact.

Look for brands that are visibly working towards becoming more sustainable in their practices. They offer a lot of information on their websites about what they stand for, what they are doing and what they are working towards doing in the future.

For special events consider renting something from By Rotation, HURR, Front Row, My Wardrobe HQ

The Essential White Shirt

COS Grandad-Collar Shirt in White | Levi’s (vintage) 501 Jeans | PB 0110 AB 1 in Natural Leather* | Hanishken Raffia Slipper Shoes | Ace & Tate Heather Sunglasses in Latte* |  Cate & Nelson No. 165 Watch* | Merci Maman Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold* | Matthew Calvin Thin Meteorite Ring in Gold* |  88&Cloudless Joy Mini-Star Necklace in Solid 9ct Gold*

There’s not much in my wardrobe that beats a really good white shirt for effortless style but I know from experience that finding a good one isn’t always that straightforward. COS has been my first port of call for a couple of years now. Each season you can rely on them to make a few classic styles, as well as offering something a bit more edgy. For the summer I think a classic white grandad-collar shirt is a good option. I’ve found the longer length of this one works well with my bump. I’ve also gone up a size from my usual, which means it also fits my ever expanding chest. As I quite like an oversized style anyway I’ll still be wearing it long after the bump, as long as I can get away with wearing white (something tells me I won’t). It’s made from a nice crisp cotton poplin which I’ve found looks best if I iron it whilst it’s still damp. The curved hem is a classic detail which makes it more versatile to wear, allowing you to wear it tucked in or tied, as well as untucked, like I have.

Spring Essentials With A Baby Bump

It’s the time of year when denim jackets take centre stage in many of our wardrobes. This is no coincidence, it’s a piece of outerwear that’s incredibly versatile, as well as being lightweight. Plus, you can layer it under a coat on chillier days. The denim jacket is without question one of my spring wardrobe essentials. I particularly love this workman style one from Parka London, for me it has a bit more edge than a classic western cut and looks a bit smarter. I’ve had it since last Autumn and have been wearing it layered, up until now. It’s not been designed for maternity but unless it’s cold outside I’ve found it doesn’t really matter.

Good classic shirts have become even more essential to me since the start of my pregnancy. With so much stretch jersey on offer to pregnant women it can all start to feel a bit too casual. Don’t get me wrong, stretch jersey has been a life saver when it comes to comfort but finding ways to still feel like I’ve made an effort is important to me and maintaining my sanity. I’ve had this ME+EM soft blue chambray shirt since the beginning, and due to its masculine cut and loose comfortable fit it has been a staple over the last few months. It’s a UK size 12 (my standard size pre-pregnancy for tops) and is probably only just reaching its limit now, at 7 months pregnant.

Parka London Grace Denim Jacket* | ME+EM Soft Cotton Chambray Shirt in Light Blue* | ME+EM Crop Palazzo Pants in Black Jersey* | PB 0110 AB 1 Tote in Natural Leather* | Air & Grace Cherub Sneakers in White Leather* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Otiumberg Gold Graduated Hoops

ME+EM have been making these jersey cropped wide-leg trousers since I first discovered the brand several seasons ago, so I’m sure they’re one of their best-sellers. I can tell you that you won’t find a more comfortable pair, pregnant or not. And again, these are not designed specifically for pregnancy, they just happen to work really well when you are. They keep their shape well and after several washes are still nice and black.

Pop of Colour

It’s funny how just one thing can make such a difference to your look. Adding a pop of colour can really give an outfit that extra oomph. I’ve never been that confident about wearing a red lip (although I’d love to). I always feel rather self-conscious about it smudging, wearing off, becoming uneven, bleeding; it’s all such a quandary for me. However, I’ve found other ways of adding a bit of colour, like this gorgeous little PB 0110 shoulder bag, I love the raspberry red, the first image shows the true colour, in the others the light makes it look a bit paler than it actually is. It’s quite a rich red that I think is rather timeless, along with the minimal design. As with all PB 0110 bags, the craftsmanship is just so beautiful. Size-wise this style (the AB 10) fits my mobile, keys, hand cream, lip balm and sunglasses all quite easily.

Subtly, I’ve co-ordinated my bag and blazer, there’s not just the fine red lines running through the check of the fabric but a red grosgrain ribbon side stripe that runs down each side, under the arm. I love this detail, it’s become quite a signature for ME+EM to include a stripe and it really works for me.

ME+EM Grosgrain Trim Checked Blazer* | ME+EM Raw Edge Silk Oversized Tee in Soft White* | ME+EM Crop Palazzo Pant in Black* | PB 0110 AB 10 Shoulder Bag* | Air & Grace Cherub Trainers in White* | Otiumberg Graduated Hoops in Gold | Merci Maman Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold* | Cate & Nelson No. 165 Watch*

Holiday Style With A Bump

Before I went away to Kos I was in a bit of a pickle about what to pack. I keep all my summer holiday clothes in a trunk in the bedroom. After going through everything I realised that about 90% of the contents wasn’t going to work this time around. I have grown a little all over since being pregnant, not just on my tummy as I’d hoped and expected. As I’m sure you can understand this left me feeling a bit disappointed, nothing some well-considered retail-therapy couldn’t fix.

Second Female Frappo Kimono in Dusty Pink* | The White Company Seagrass Circular Basket Bag* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Castañer Carina Espadrilles in Marsala

I usually spend my summer holidays in little cotton dresses, denim shorts or skirts, and bikinis. I decided to buy a pair of maternity denim shorts from Topshop (go for your pre-pregnancy size, if you do) but I ended up wearing them just once whilst I was away. I’ve become very self-conscious of my legs and I just didn’t feel that comfortable exposing that much of them. For a weekend away a month ago, I bought a Hunza G swimming costume from Net-a-Porter. It’s super stretchy and fits around my bump easily but after one swim I discovered it reveals my nipples after a few strokes. I don’t think anyone wants to be flashed by a pregnant woman so I went in search of some bikinis to take away instead. I found a great bikini from The White Company, the soft non-wired triangle style was the most comfortable to wear. I went up a size from my usual in the top and bottoms, and I found this worked well. I also wanted a couple of bikinis that were more supportive so I looked for brands that offered bikini tops in a cup size; Next offered the nicest designs.

French Connection Rhodes Poplin Relaxed Fit Shirt in White* | SEP Jordan Sinead Hijjab Shawl* | Ace & Tate Heather Sunglasses in Latte* | Annabel Brocks Bora Sun Hat in Truffle*

I lived in the three bikinis whilst I was away, they were perfect for sunbathing by our pool but for breakfast, lunch and walks along the beach I preferred to cover-up a little. Oversized shirt dresses, kaftans, and wraps worn with shirts (try French Connection) were ideal. I felt covered up but still comfortable and cool.

Second Female Tonga Silk Top in Black* | Baukjen Cecile Wrap Skirt* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Castañer Carina Espadrilles in Black | Rae Feather Macramé Clutch in Natural*

In the evenings it felt good to dress up (in England I’d been living in trousers, shirts and jackets), I’d been dying to wear a dress for weeks. Wrap dresses and skirts from my usual brands, in a size up just about covered my bump. I know I’ll be able to make them work after I’ve had the baby so they don’t feel like a waste of money. A-line dresses in soft jersey worked really well too, I felt so comfortable in the Beaumont Organic dress I wore and again it’s a style that will work post-pregnancy. Natural fabrics always work best in the heat as they’re more breathable than synthetics, linen being one of my favourites. I wore a lovely linen dress from Great Plains one evening which was the shortest length I felt comfortable in.

The White Company Cotton Stripe Beach Shirt Dress* | The White Company Pom-Pom Edge Bikini Top* | The White Company Pom-Pom Edge Bikini Briefs* | The White Company Seagrass Circular Basket Bag* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black*

This is the best time to invest in a good pair of espadrilles. Personally, I love Castañer and have a couple of their Carina wedge style. I bought a pair in Seville last year and another from Net-a-Porter this year. It’s not good for your back to wear heels when you’re pregnant but I’ve found these to be quite supportive. I wouldn’t suggest wearing them all day although I’ve survived a wedding in one pair. They’ll give you a some extra height in the evenings and help you feel a little more elegant.

Beaumont Organic Penny Dress in Black* | Rae Feather Macramé Clutch in Natural* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Hanishken Raffia Slipper Shoes | Merci Maman Personalised Flat Bangle* | Matthew Calvin Thin Meteorite Ring in Gold*

Overall, I would suggest buying some good swimwear and loose fitting dresses in natural fabrics, that you feel good in (I found longer dresses more flattering). Don’t stress out and don’t spend too much money on things you might only wear a handful of times.

Rae Feather Cross Stitch Kaftan in Red* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | The White Company Pom-Pom Edge Bikini Top* | The White Company Pom-Pom Edge Bikini Briefs*

Cooler Spring Nights

Spring isn’t always that warm in England, it gets brighter and the days get longer but warm sunny days don’t always equal warm evenings. When the cooler temperatures descend upon us I usually throw on a jumper, as I can feel the cold quite easily. When it comes to knitwear, there’s nothing quite like a cashmere jumper, super soft and effective at keeping out a chill, and if looked after correctly will last you many years. I’ve been wearing this 100% cashmere jumper from ME+EM whenever it’s chilly. It’s fairly lightweight (so ideal for this time of year) and the pale cream colour feels nice and fresh for spring. I’ve been investing in cream items quite a lot recently, as it’s such an easy colour to work with.

ME+EM Longline Cocoon Cashmere Jumper in Cream* | ME+EM Crop Palazzo Pant in Black* | PB 0110 AB 52 Tote in Black* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Merci Maman Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold* | Cate & Nelson No. 165 Watch* | Littionary 14k Tiny Gold Dot Stud | Dinny Hall Bijou Star Stud in Gold* | Otiumberg Small Gold Graduated Hoops

I’ve been living in these soft jersey cropped palazzo pants since I got pregnant. They’re not a maternity style but as they have a roll top waistband, similar to some maternity pieces I’ve tried on, they’ve been a valuable addition to my current wardrobe. They fitted me comfortably before I had a big bump, they’re still really comfortable now I do, and I know they’ll work for me after my bump has gone. They’re a regular size 10 which makes me feel good as not many of my clothes are at the moment and although size doesn’t matter it does help, mentally, when you feel like you’re just getting bigger and bigger.

Spring Style Staples with Baukjen

Baukjen Rhian Cargo Jacket in Khaki* | Baukjen Drue Cotton Shirt in White* | Baukjen Neath Jersey Pant in Black* | PB 0110 AB 52 Shoulder Bag in Black Leather* | Air & Grace Cherub Sneakers in White Leather*

I’m eternally on the hunt for the best style staples, the building blocks to a good versatile wardrobe. I’ve teamed up with Baukjen to share a few of my favourites from their current collection. They’re an obvious choice for staples as they form a large part of their collections each season. They mix in some great on-trend pieces but always have a good selection of versatile essentials.

I’ve had an original French army field jacket for many years, bought in Camden one sunny day many moons ago. I love the style but it was never designed to by worn by a woman, it is wide across the shoulders and I’m never going to have the sort of biceps that will fill out the arms. I feel it’s finally time to retire it, now that I’ve found one that fits beautifully from Baukjen. My new (incredibly soft) cargo jacket is a classic “shacket” style, perfect for layering over shirts and t-shirts. It’s warm enough for this time of year and I’m sure will work well over a summer dress in a couple of months when it warms up properly.

The white shirt epitomises the concept of a style staple. This one from Baukjen has a Mandarin collar (otherwise know as a grandad collar) and a long straight masculine cut. It’s made from a lovely crisp white cotton that hold its shape well. I know I’ll be wearing it long after my pregnancy for that borrowed from the boys look.

Jersey pants have taken over where my beloved jeans left off. It’s been sad to say goodbye to some of my favourite denim styles (they just do not work with a bump) but it’s not going to be for forever. I once thought stretchy waistbands were only for toddlers but I was wrong. Finding a comfortable pair of black trousers has been a game-changer. They’re versatile enough to wear for work or at the weekend, depending on how you style them. I’ve been wearing them with the waistband rolled down (under my bump) with a longer length top. They’re not maternity trousers but they’ve been working just as well. I would rather not spend money on maternity trousers if I can help it as I hate the idea of buying something for such a short period of my life.

None of the pieces I’ve picked out from Baukjen have been designed specifically for maternity, they’re just versatile pieces that work for all shapes and sizes, as a good style staple should.

Leather Care Tips

PB 0110 AB 52 Shoulder Bag in Black* | Tangent Garment Care Shoe Grease | Tangent Garment Care Shine Cloth

I own some beautiful, well-designed handbags and it’s important to me that they remain as beautiful as the day they were made. I’ve always taken care of my belongings and with leather that means giving them back the moisture and protection they need to remain in good condition. I thought I’d share a few tips on how I take care of mine.

I use Tangent Garment Care products because they’re good quality and use natural ingredients. Their Shoe Grease is made with beeswax, coconut fat, rapeseed oil, wool wax and rosemary. It gives the leather water protection whilst allowing it to breath. Their Shine Cloth is made in Italy from organic cotton flannel and is lovely and soft so it won’t damage the leather.

One of my favourite bags at the moment is this PB 0110 AB 52 shoulder bag. I’ve had it since Christmas and I love its lovely smooth patina. If left untouched it’s likely that it will lose this finish and eventually begin to crack. This is how I look after it and prevent this from happening.

Leather Care Tips

  • Wash-off any stains with a damp sponge and allow to dry.
  • Test the shoe grease on an inconspicuous area.
  • Stuff the bag with tissue paper so the bag holds its shape.
  • Apply the grease all over with a soft cotton cloth (don’t forget the base).
  • Buff lightly with the cloth.
  • Place in its dust bag. If it doesn’t have one you can use a pillowcase or (if small enough) one of the cotton bags from Aesop.
  • Store somewhere cool and dry.

Hoopla

Otiumberg Gold Graduated Hoops | Normann CopenhagenMoon Tray in Black* | Monica Vinader Fiji Mini Hoop Earrings* | Otiumberg Small Gold Graduated Hoops | Otiumberg Yellow Gold Huggie Hoop | Murmur Rare Earth Candle*

Gold hoop earrings are in the spotlight once again but for me they’re a classic style that will forever be relevant. Large hoops are the perfect solution when you want to elevate a simple outfit, like a classic white shirt and black trousers. I also find that small hoops are a good everyday alternative to studs. As I have a few piercings in each ear, I like to layer a couple of different sizes.

I started wearing only gold jewellery a little while back. I’d become bored of opening my jewellery box only to find my silver pieces looking tarnished and, frankly, unappealing. Fortunately, I have the sort of skin tone which allows me to wear either. So I made the switch over to gold plated or gold vermeil silver pieces (never brass, unless they’re really big designs) and, whenever I can, I’ll opt for solid gold. Obviously, there’s a big cost involved with buying solid gold jewellery so I only buy it when it’s an investment piece that I can guarantee I will wear for many years. And the great thing about it is if I become bored with the style I can always have it melted down and create a new piece.

I’ve been buying a lot of my jewellery from Otiumberg, lately. They’re a relatively new brand that sell both their own designs and those of a well-curated selection of jewellery designers. A lot of their pieces are fine jewellery (i.e. solid gold) but they have incorporated gold vermeil into their own collection which is much more affordable, and it lasts longer than gold plating. Their own designs include a huge selection of hoops, some of which you can see in my photos; I think they have something for everyone. There’s also a lovely collaboration with Laura Fantacci from Wardrobe Icons. (A word of warning if you’re looking for small hoops: I bought the small huggie earring for my helix piercing but it’s far too small. Unfortunately, I can’t exchange it as it’s not possible to return earrings, understandably. So I’ve been wearing it lower down my ear.)

Monica Vinader have recently expanded on their collection of hoops. Their Fiji collection is one of their more minimal, and includes some really nice hoops. It’s their mini hoops in 18 ct yellow gold vermeil that I’ve recently been wearing instead of my studs. I really like their large hoops too, they’re not that big but a classic design anyone can wear.

Céline Resort 2018

If you want some fresh style inspiration for Spring look no further than the Céline Resort 2018 collection, it will definitely have you sorted. It has everything from pretty slips in soft silk and eyelash lace, to slick black suits with lapel-less blazers that tie at the waist, there’s even a voluminous trench coat for good measure. The neutral palette will slide nicely into most wardrobes; blues, blushes, nudes, beige and classic black are all hard working essential foundation colours that suit most skin tones. The cuts are soft, floaty and feminine without loosing touch with Céline’s DNA of strong classic design. The collection is practical and wearable, appealing to many in a way so many fashion brands are unable to. The accessories remain simple but bold, such as organic shaped gold hoops as well as more classic hoop styles, simple bangles, silk scarves and tote bags.

As Hedi Slimane takes over the reins from Phoebe Philo, as new artistic director, it’s hard to imagine the iconic brand she has made it into in someone else’s hands. Slimane has certainly left his mark on Saint Laurent, what will he do with Céline?

Best Organic Cotton T-Shirts

Just like non-organic t-shirts, organic cotton t-shirts vary widely in how they feel, their shape and the density of the fabric. I’ve been buying organic cotton t-shirts for a little while now (switching over when I discovered how much better they are for the environment and the people that farm the cotton; not to mention, the quality). I thought I’d share some of the best I’ve found.

The White T-Shirt Co.

The White T-Shirt Co. focus solely on making perfect t-shirts and they’ve been doing it since 2004. They work with The Green Cotton Group, a Danish textile manufacturer that produce organic cotton using the most sustainable methods. The White T-Shirt Co. produce incredibly soft t-shirts that don’t lose their softness after washing. Their long-sleeve t-shirts are made with a fairly dense jersey whereas their short-sleeve t-shirts are much thinner, good for layering in the winter or on their own in warmer months. I recommend their Fitted Long Sleeve Round Neck T-Shirt and Relaxed Short Sleeve Round Neck T-Shirt (I go up a size in both for a looser fit).

ARKET

New kid on the block, ARKET are part of the immense H&M group. Their raison d’être is to create quality products that are accessible to all, that will last, an ‘archive’ of wardrobe essentials. Only a few of their products are currently made with organic cotton, mostly t-shirts and vests and the odd pair of jeans but they do also use recycled cashmere in some of their jumpers (I have one and it’s so nice). I have a couple of their Organic Cotton T-Shirts in black and blush (which they refer to as orange). It’s a classic crew neck style that hangs beautifully and has a flattering longer cut short sleeve. They’re very lightweight with a slightly coarse texture. They have stayed exactly the same wash after wash.

Organic Basics

If you’re looking for a classic crew-neck t-shirt look no further than Organic Basics. They’re a Danish brand that specialise in basics, such as t-shirts and underwear, all made from Turkish organic cotton. They are constantly pushing for a higher level of sustainability, environmentally as well as socio-economically. Their t-shirts fall somewhere in-between the other two brands, they are lightweight with a soft texture. They’re straight cut and hang really nicely. I have their Organic Cotton Stretch Tee in white and black, both of which I’ve worn quite a bit. They seem to get a bit looser and softer the more you wash them.

Ethical & Beautiful Resortwear From Cloe Cassandro

Cloe Cassandro Kimi Wrap Mini Dress* | Sandro Veinarde Leather Biker Jacket in Black | Converse Chuck Taylors in Black | Ace & Tate Vivian Sunglasses in Matte Black* | A Weathered Penny Gold Wire Circle Hoops* | Merci Maman Large Hammered 10th Anniversary Necklace in Gold* | Merci Maman The Merci Maman Necklace*

This year, I’ve finally embraced the dress (more specifically, the wrap dress) and I’m not alone, if Instagram is anything to go by. It’s more than likely that you’ve already discovered both Réalisation Par and Reformation but there’s another brand I’ve been wearing that’s a little more under the radar, Cloe Cassandro.

Cloe Cassandro make beautiful silk-chiffon dresses (as well as other resort wear, including swimwear). They work with local artisans in Bali where everything is handmade, hand dyed and hand printed using traditional Balinese batik printing techniques. They describe themselves as an ‘ethical luxury beachwear brand’ that aim ‘to create simple, classic pieces’ that ‘are produced ethically and to the highest standard’. Basically, all good things I love to hear.

I took the Kimi dress out to Seville and, with the weather being unseasonably mild, it was ideal with a biker thrown over the top and a pair on Converse. It’s quite sheer but it comes with a slip dress you can wear underneath when you need to be more modest. Otherwise, it’s the perfect cover-up by the pool or at the beach.

Keeping It Basic with Organic Basics

Organic Basics White Female Tee* | Mango Committed Relaxed Jeans in White | Wåven Men’s Denim Jacket | Loewe Repeat Espadrille in Burgundy | Baukjen Classic Gold Buckle Belt* | Ace & Tate Heather Sunglasses in Latte* | A Weathered Penny Gold Wire Circle Hoops* | Merci Maman Large Hammered 10th Anniversary Necklace in Gold* | Merci Maman The Merci Maman Necklace* |  Kristen Elspeth Spear Ring in Gold* | Rotary Oxford Watch in Black* | Matthew Calvin Meteorite Ring in Rose Gold* | Merci Maman Pastille Bracelet in Gold*

So I’m a bit of a t-shirt and jeans girl a lot of the time. I own way too many of each, all in the search for the perfect one/pair. Lately I’ve been living in my Weekday Voyage jeans and these Mango Committed ones (which I bought in the sale at the end of the summer). I’ve been much more choosy about the denim I buy since I learnt what a huge impact both denim manufacturing and cotton growing has on the environment. Both the Weekday Voyage and Mango Committed pairs were made with organic cotton which uses far less water and no harmful chemical fertilisers, pesticides or insecticides. These are harmful not only to the land but also to the people that farm it.

Everyone should own a good white tee. If you ask me, it’s THE wardrobe essential of all essentials. A classic crew in a non-fitted cut is my preferred style, the looser fit just feels more comfortable to me. I recently discovered quite a new brand that have chosen to do a few basics really well, including a classic crew. Organic Basics are from Denmark where they take sustainability a lot more seriously than most countries. As the name suggests they use organic cotton in all their products which currently range from super soft undies to t-shirts. They’re a sustainable brand challenging the industry to improve its processes. They grow their cotton in Turkey, just outside Izmir. The farmers they work with have a long history of producing high quality Turkish long fibre. The long fibre is important because it gives the smooth texture to the finished garment.

Love, Travel, Laugh

This post was created in collaboration with Auree Jewellery.


LOVE, TRAVEL, LAUGH; three things that mean a lot to me. They’re the three things that I most like to do, and am lucky enough to do regularly. I carry these words with me on my necklace, a small reminder of what I believe is important. My mind is often distracted and I’ve found that by working out what is most important to me, I’m able to let go of the things and thoughts that aren’t.

Growing up I was told that it was important for me to be my own person, not to copy others but to discover the things I liked and enjoyed. The older I get the more that makes sense to me. We’re all individuals with our own passions and although it’s easy to get swept along with what everyone else is doing, it’s more fun to discover something more personal to you. Some things are universal though, we all need and gain from having and building good relationships. Without the LOVE of our partners, friends and family, life would be dull. Having someone to share the good and bad times with is important for all of us and allows us to grow as people. TRAVEL always offers me the opportunity to meet you new people, be inspired by new places and learn about different cultures. It’s the chance to escape the ordinary that is a breath of fresh air to me. And, life shouldn’t always be taken too seriously, there is something so energising about really LAUGHing with someone, the friends that have me in fits of giggles are my best friends. I’m unguarded with them and utterly relaxed.

The necklace I’m wearing is Auree’s Seychelles Spinning Love, Travel, Laugh Pendant. It’s a classic Victorian design that hides the message until you spin it. Auree are kindly offering you a discount code to use on their website until 18/12/17. If you type in AUREEANGEL7 you will receive 15% off all pendants and necklaces, just in time for you to buy some lovely Christmas presents. If you’d like to know which items are my favourite, head over to Auree’s Journal. If you follow me on Instagram, there’s a chance for you to win one of the Seychelles Spinning Pendants, either to give as a gift this Christmas or to keep for yourself. And, if you sign up to the Auree newsletter you’ll be entered into a competition to win a £250 necklace. Good luck!

Christmas Gift Guide: For Her 2017

So I’ve been a bit sneaky this year, instead of creating a women’s gift guide and a wish list like I usually do, I’ve combined them. I always want everything that’s on the women’s gift guide anyway so it made sense. The result is a bumper list of amazing products which I highly recommend. Each of the brands I’ve featured create the most amazing products and even if you don’t see something suitable here, please click through to their websites using the product links below, I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.

1. Toast Lotus Print Flannel Gown | 2. Otiumberg Gold Graduated Hoops | 3. Print Club London ‘Swimmers’ by Nadia Taylor | 4. Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash | 5. Sarah & Sebastian Small Disc Ring in Gold | 6. PB 0110 AB 52 Shoulder Bag in Black | 7. ‘House of Plants – Living with Succulents, Air Plants and Cacti’ Book | 8. Immunocologie The Luminous Kit | 9. Sort of Coal Bincho Water Purifier | 10. ARKET Recycled Cashmere Jumper in Grey | 11. Merci Maman Personalised Pastille Chain Bracelet | 12. Comme des Garçons Medium Classic Leather Wallet in Black | 13. An Organised Life 2018 Daily Planner | 14. Murmur Mura Wash Bag in Warm White & Indigo | 15. Geo Fleur Cacti Selection Box | 16. Rathbornes Bitter Orange, Birch Tar & Balsam Classic Candle | 17. Laboratory Perfumes Amber Eau de Toilette | 18. SEP Jordan Koutubia Embroidered Cushion Cover | 19. ‘Bowls of Goodness’ Cookery Book by Nina Olsson | 20. Another Country Mug | 21. True Grace Candle Wick Trimmer | 22. Everlane The Twill Weekender in Black

I’ve included all sorts in my gift guide, some obvious gifts like earrings, beauty products and candles as well as something a little more unusual like this beautiful print by Nadia Taylor at Print Club London and a box of cacti from the cool plant people at Geo Fleur. The gorgeous hoop earrings are from Otiumberg, a brand whose website I find myself returning to over and over again because I just can’t decide which pair of earrings I want most. Women will always tell you they need another handbag but they might not feel that way if they own one of PB 0110’s timeless designs. As long as it fits the world in (well a nice make-up bag and a few other bits) and is versatile enough to go with almost everything, it’ll be a big hit. Immunocologie’s The Luminous Set is perfect for anyone struggling with their skin in this cold weather, oil based products will keep them protected. And if they’re feeling really cold and just want to cosy up at home, a beautiful dressing gown should do the trick, I’ve not seen one more beautiful than this one from Toast. SEP Jordan’s geometric cushion covers are designed and made in Jordan by female refugees. The brand has given these women a chance to make their own money so they no longer have to beg for even the most basic things. I hope you find something wonderful for the important women in your life. Happy shopping.

Christmas Gift Guide: For Him 2017

Christmas is just around the corner and I’m finally thinking about gift ideas. I always aim to buy presents that are useful. Unless I know someone needs something specific, I try to keep it quite simple. I love to buy things that people can eat, drink or use in the home, as I know they’re not likely to go to waste.

1. David Mellor Rosewood Starter Knife Set | 2. Prévu Core Combed Cotton Hoodie in Olive | 3. Cate & Nelson Nº 173 40 mm Watch in Black | 4. Gestalten Small Homes, Grand Living – Interior Design for Compact Spaces Book | 5. Iris Hantverk Shoehorn | 6. Murmur Speck Throw in Grey, White & Black | 7. Native Union Lightning Cable Collection | 8. Moleskine Wine Journal | 9. Muuto Corky Carafe | 10. Willow Organic Men’s Shower Set | 11. Sunspel Pima Cotton Lounge Pants in Navy | 12. Sunspel Cotton Cellulock Long Sleeve T-Shirt in Navy | 13. ferm LIVING Brass Semicircle Stand | 14. ARKET Vetiver Hand Wash 500ml | 15. Toast Christmas Hamper | 16. PB 0110 CM39 Coin Case in Black | 17. Herbivore Beard Tonic Sampler

Toast‘s Christmas hamper contains enough goodies to keep most men happy, at least until the start of the new year. There are some things I know will always go down well. Most men will not be disappointed to receive a watch for Christmas, as long as it’s a classic style and I think Cate & Nelson make some pretty awesome watches. They’re great value as the quality is very good, with supple leather straps and Swiss movements. Loungewear has come a long way in the last few years, it’s much smarter and much more comfortable, perfect for those lazy Sundays on the sofa. I love the soft cotton of Sunspel and have my eye on so many pieces from new menswear label, Prévu (I may end up having to steal anything I do buy, so naughty). If anyone else finds their man “borrowing” their phone charger cable on a regular basis Native Union have some very nice designs that he’ll know are his (or ask for a set yourself so that he can’t suggest it’s his). Hopefully there’s something in my list that will be a good fit or will inspire you to buy something nice for the men in your life. I’ve only selected pieces from brands that I believe produce good quality products. Happy shopping.

Styling Davina Mulford’s AW17 Campaign

Davina Mulford Fedora in Wine with Burgundy Band (Closed now) | ME+EM Icon Cable Knit Sweater in Cream* | Weekday Voyage Jeans in Wow Blue | Adidas Court Vantage in White | Davina Mulford Fringed Cross Body Bag in Black* (Closed now) | Cate & Nelson No. 165 Watch* | CFconcept Tusk Necklace

Last month, just before I headed off to Seville, Davina Mulford asked me if I would style and model some looks for her AW17 campaign. I’m a genuine fan of her namesake brand; I practically lived in one of her Panama hats over the summer and her cross body bag has seen me through many sartorial situations. Davina is lovely, talented and passionate; she’s also been very supportive of Style&Minimalism, always encouraging and there for a chat.

Her new collection features four colour variations of her traditional fedora (eight if you include her new monogram service which allows you to have your initials embroidered on the ribbon). She’s chosen a classic palette of navy, burgundy, pale grey and camel – so there’s something to suit everyone. They’re well-structured fedoras (no flimsy, floppy brims) that sit comfortably on the head. They come with a few sticky felt strips that you can place under the inner rim if you need to adjust the fit slightly.

For the campaign I styled four looks, each to compliment one of the four colour variations. I chose to style my looks with pieces from brands I regularly wear; including ME+EM, Baukjen and AllSaints. If you’d like to see some of the other looks, please visit the Davina Mulford blog where Davina has kindly shared an interview she did with me at the time. In it I share some styling tips and advice. If you have a read please do come back and leave a comment below to let me know what you think.

On a side note, I just wanted to mention how amazing this jumper is from ME+EM. It’s a merino-cashmere-mix and comes with a detachable collar that converts it into a polo-neck, a clever design that will see me through the winter.

Sadly since this post went live Davina decided to close-up shop. The struggle for small businesses to survive in this industry in the early years is such a huge challenge, even when you have an incredible product.

Autumn In Copenhagen

Weekday Voyage Jeans in Black | Jaeger Camel Coat | Amplified Ramones T-shirt in Grey | Oliver Sweeney Montemerano Trainers in Gold* | KayK Goods Leather Clutch in Black via Etsy UK* | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold | Sally Lane Boomerang Earrings in Gold* | Ace & Tate Heather Sunglasses in Latte* | Cate & Nelson No. 165 Watch* | Auree Jewellery Tembo Shina Bracelet in Rose Gold*

Copenhagen is one of my favourite cities for design and that extends to architecture, too. There are some incredible buildings all over this city. We were staying in Islands Brygge, so it was the architecture here that we saw the most, and got pretty excited by. Everyday we walked past the incredible Frøsilo, two huge dockside silos that have been converted into private housing. We stayed nearby in one of the penthouse apartments at STAY Copenhagen, an old industrial building that was renovated by Holgaard Architects. The roof of the building has been converted into a huge roof-terrace. Large wooden steps undulate up and down over the 6th floor apartments, along the A-shape of the building, like a zig-zagging amphitheatre, with a large open area at the apex of the ‘A’, where we shot these photos.

My style in the last few years has been highly influenced by Copenhagen style. When I’m there I feel quite inconspicuous, most people dress the way I do and that makes me feel at home. Although, don’t even think about asking me to speak Danish, I’ve tried and failed so many times. Food-wise I’m always impressed and eat so well. This time around we ate out for dinner at Bæst and Scarpetta (one of the Cofoco restaurants), and had the most delicious porridge on Saturday morning at Grød in the Torvehallerne. I would recommend all three, Scarpetta also for its beautiful interior design. Eating out is a casual affair in Copenhagen, people dress well but they don’t get dressed up. It’s more about getting together with friends and family, and eating well in a relaxed environment; something I can totally relate to.

City Break Style: Milan

ME+EM Polka Dot Swing Blouse in Navy/White* | Topshop Denim Mini Skirt | Converse Chuck Taylor Plimsolls in White | Jones Bootmakers Lacerta Leather Tote Bag in Black* | Ace & Tate Heather Sunglasses in Latte* | Sally Lane Boomerang Earrings in Gold* | 88&Cloudless Gold Star Necklace*

Early in September I headed out to Milan for a few days. I had mixed expectations about this particular Italian city but came back home with plans to return before long; I really loved it. The weather in September was warm and pleasant, perfect for ambling around the city, taking-in the chilled atmosphere and looking at some pretty impressive architecture. Many had told me it was quite an industrial city with ugly buildings but I guess it’s just a question of what you do and don’t appreciate. The Italian laid-back attitude is apparent here, people don’t rush around like headless chickens they take their time to enjoy the small things, like a simple coffee. Everywhere I went the service was exceptional, people were friendly and helpful.

I expected the Milanese style to be quite flamboyant (and not very me) with lots of clashing prints and gold details but the reality wasn’t so obvious. The women I met were well-dressed in elegant prints, usually with heels and little to no make-up, just a healthy glow. The men I spotted were mostly in tailored suits, white shirts and leather shoes. Only the younger women seem to wear denim, often very short shorts showing off their slim legs. I can’t say I felt like I fit in but I was comfortable, mixing print with denim, smart with casual. My tote bag from Jones Bootmaker was the perfect travel bag, fitting in lots for the flight (including my laptop and Kindle) and concealing my camera as I explored the city.

Good Resort Wear with Caroline Constas

Caroline Constas Lou Off-The-Shoulder Top | Levi’s Cut-Off Denim Shorts | Converse Chuck Taylor Plimsolls in White | Davina Mulford Panama Hat* (Now Closed) | Ace & Tate Heather Sunglasses in Latte* | Felice Dahl Första Earrings* | Felice Dahl Ljus Necklace | Felice Dahl Första Cuff Bracelet in Gold | Matthew Calvin Thin Meteorite Ring in Gold*

As you may have noticed from my Instagram and some of my recent posts, I’m starting to travel much more regularly now. This summer I’ve been to Portugal, France, Croatia and Italy, and soon I’m off to Denmark and Spain. Travel is something I’ve always enjoyed and I made the decision earlier this year that I wanted to make it a priority in my life, as it has such a positive affect on me. I’m going to continue to share my trips here on my blog and my social media, and will do my best to inspire you with some beautiful places.

I don’t think it will be long before I’m travelling out of season and I know it’s going to be much harder to find suitable clothing. All is not lost, however, as in the last few years there have been some great resort wear brands popping up. Resort wear brands specialise in clothing, footwear and accessories for hot weather. In keeping their offering small they are able to focus on creating a well made, functional product. And another benefit is that they are available throughout the year, not just in spring and summer.

Caroline Constas is one of the new breed of resort wear brands I’m referring to. Caroline is a Canadian designer based in New York and surprise, surprise she loves to travel. Recently, I discovered their core offering which includes their Signature Cambridge Stripe collection – pretty tops and dresses in classic blue and white stripes, they specialise in off-the-shoulder tops and shirt dresses. They are incredibly well made, in a light twill cotton that holds its shape.

We photographed this look whilst away in Croatia in the little town we stayed in, Sveti Lovreč. There were lots of old buildings in pretty pastel colours, some with crumbling walls and a few derelict ones with hidden wild gardens that had sprouted up inside their walls.

An Evening In Bale

Mads Nørgaard Stripe Top* | & Other Stories Denim Skirt in Off-White | Air & Grace Shimmie Espadrilles in Red* | Wood/Grey Round Woven Bag* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Felice Dahl Första Cuff Bracelet | Felice Dahl Ljus Pendant Necklace | Larsson & Jennings Lugano Watch* | Auree Jewellery Tembo Shina Bracelet in Rose Gold* | Matthew Calvin Thin Meteorite Ring in Gold*

The little village of Bale in Croatia was definitely one of my favourites out of all we visited in Istria. It’s not a hilltop town in the Tuscan sense but it was built on slightly higher ground than the land surrounding it. Small pretty cobbled streets seem to wind in all directions and the walls of the buildings have that beautiful disheveled look that you find in the Mediterranean. There are a few little cafés, restaurants and konoba (tavernas). The central part of the town is much older and centres around a big old church.

We visited for lunch one day when passing through and then returned for dinner a couple of days later. We had a lovely three course meal in the pretty little courtyard of the Hotel La Grisa. We didn’t stay but the hotel has some simple but nice rooms and apartments.

On The List: AW17

With autumn just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about my wardrobe for the new season and what’s missing. I’m sharing a few brands you might not have heard of before and also some of the trends I think would suit my style.

Autumn Wish List

1. Alighieri No Lie Hoop Earrings in Gold-Plated Brass | 2. Anine Bing Madeleine Plaid Blazer | 3. Chinti & Parker Heart Aran Cashmere Blend Sweater in Red | 4. Re/Done Originals Distressed Denim Mini Skirt | 5. Cuyana Saddle Bag in Black | 6. Mango Slingback Shoes in Black

I’ve known Rosh from Alighieri for a few years, we met rather randomly at an exhibition at The Photographer’s Gallery in London. She’s so lovely and incredibly eloquent. Her collections are all inspired by Dante Alighieri’s ‘Divine Comedy’ which she studied whilst reading French and Italian at Oxford University. She describes the pieces as modern heirlooms, and they do have a timeless quality. It’s worth taking a look at her site even if it’s just to admire the beautiful photography.

If you haven’t heard of Anine Bing, where have you been? The Danish blogger and fashion empire owner has all your timeless wardrobe essentials covered. They’re a bit pricey but worth the investment, I think. The brand is well-known for its pretty lace bralettes but it’s their check blazer that I have my eye on this season. We’re going to be seeing check blazers everywhere, DAKS and Calvin Klein have some beautiful examples in their collections but this is one of my favourites.

Another firm trend for AW17 is red; red sweaters, red coats, red boots, red hoodies; RED IS BIG NEWS! I’m not one to jump on a bandwagon but I’m actually quite fond of red and have found a lovely sweater from one of my favourite British knitwear brands, Chinti & Parker. An Aran sweater is a wardrobe classic but the subtle heart pattern gives it a modern feel. It’s a cashmere blend so will be super soft, too.

I’m sure it hasn’t gone unnoticed that I love a denim skirt! I’m also a big fan of RE/DONE, they take vintage Levi’s jeans, unpick the seams and then remake them in the most gorgeous modern fits. There are many ways to be sustainable and this way of using vintage denim definitely ticks a box for me. They’re not the cheapest jeans you’ll find on the market but there are a few discount codes to be found online.

Cuyana is an American fashion brand that shares a lot of my values, they specialise in creating timeless, premium essentials. Their designs are simple and classic, focusing on quality and craftsmanship. Their Saddle bags are made in Italy and are perfect as an everyday bag, a decent size but minimal in design.

All summer I’ve been looking for a good pair of sling-backs, ones that don’t have a kitten heel as I always feel a bit stumpy in them. Mango have come through with these elegant pumps that will go perfectly with my vintage Levi’s and ME+EM Tux Trousers. This is definitely a look I’ll b sharing.

Exploring Rovinj

Cloe Cassandro Tessa Top in Blue | Topshop MOTO Denim Skirt in Black | Wood/Grey Round Woven Bag* | Ancient Greek Sandals Taygete Sandals in Tan* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Felice Dahl Första Cuff Bracelet | Felice Dahl Första Pendant Necklace in Gold | Felice Dahl Ljus Earrings

Whilst in Istria we visited the coastal town of Rovinj. It has a very Italian feel with pretty pastel coloured buildings and a large marina. We sat in one of the many cafés along the waterfront, sipping on coffee and nibbling on croissants, one morning during our trip around Istria. It’s a bustling town in the summer, overwhelmed by tourists but you’ll still find a table at any time of the day.

I would highly recommend a walk around Rovinj’s beautiful old town. It has stunning steep narrow alleyways, lined with buildings that have stood there for centuries. There are archways around every corner and pretty bougainvillea trailing up many of the houses. It’s all pedestrianised but be warned the cobbled streets are hard to walk down as they have been polished by many feet over the years.

I don’t often talk about the negative (I much prefer to focus on the positive) but I’d rather warn you in case you plan to visit, that it’s not somewhere I would return to for dinner. I booked a table in the old town one evening at a restaurant that was, in all honesty, all about the view. I hadn’t checked the reviews and, had I, would have thought twice. The staff were so rude when we got there (unlike the experiences we had throughout the rest of Istria, I hasten to mention) and, to cut a long story short, after being called a liar and having water thrown over me, we didn’t eat there. My experience in another restaurant in Rovinj was not much better. This is a tourist town and being so busy the restaurants seemed to see us for the money we would spend.

I wish we’d had time to visit:

Mediterraneo
A chilled little bar/café with a stunning view over the sea and great reviews

Hotel Adriatic
A dreamy minimalist hotel with a simple palette of white and grey, with pops of green-gold

AIDA Shoreditch Style Edit III: SS17

This post was created in collaboration with AIDA Shoreditch

Libertine-Libertine Logic Shirt Dress in Blue & White | Louise Kragh Hangaround 0401 Ring in Gold | Louise Kragh Hangaround 0402 Ring in Gold | Matthew Calvin Meteorite Ring in Rose Gold | Good Life London Eros Pendant in Gold

This is the third and final look from my AIDA Shoreditch Style Edit. You can see the first look here and second here. Once again I’m in blue and white, maintaining the theme of the shoot. For this look I picked out a cotton shirt dress from Libertine-Libertine. They’re another Danish brand that I’ve known about for a little while but have yet to feature, until now. Their summer collection spans from bold prints in bright colours to plain fabrics in muted shades, with lots of classic cuts. The styling of the collection is stunning and an education in how you can wear bold prints whilst not feeling too obvious. It’s certainly tempting me to be a bit bolder with my choices, although I think I’ll always prefer a more minimal look. Most people assume that because my style is minimal I never wear bright colours or bold prints but I do. I think it’s really about how you style your clothes, I’d always tone down everything else I’m wearing, hence the need for such great basics in my wardrobe.

A huge thank you to Rowan for inviting me to collaborate with AIDA on this project. It’s always lovely to do something a bit different and I loved taking a step away from my usual photographic style to create something unique for their site with her. I would love to know what you think about my Style Edit and whether you think I should take part in more shoots like this.

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