Is It Really Autumn?

Scotch & Soda Basic Striped T-shirt* | ME+EM Leather & Suede Wrap Skirt in Black* | Converse Chuck Taylor II Low Top in Black* | Danielle Foster Charlie Box Bag in Khaki | Ace & Tate x It’s Nice That Sunglasses | Larsson & Jennings Liten Watch c/o Farfetch* | Pilgrim Jewellery Innocence Necklace* | Jessie Harris Sphere Hoop Earrings in Gold | Felice Dahl Första Ring in Gold

I guess it must be Autumn, with Hallowe’en on Monday and Guy Fawkes’ Night just around the corner but it’s still so warm. Where has this year gone?

I’ve been stocking up on a few transitional essentials that will work just as well come winter, with some tactical layering. A stripe t-shirt is always close to my heart, this one is by Scotch & Soda. I have lots of classic stripe t-shirts in black and navy but the red stripes really bring this one to life, perfect when the dark mornings are encroaching and you need to feel awake when your eyes are barely open.

Leather is another of my cold weather essentials, warm and breathable, it will get you through those constantly changing temperatures you experience going from the hot tube to the cold street (the same does not apply to faux leather). When I saw this ME+EM wrap leather skirt I was smitten, not only is it a gorgeous design but it feels incredible, it’s made with super soft leather and the kind of suede you find yourself casually running your hand over throughout the day.

Out & About In Connaught Village

ME+EM Silk Box Blouse in Blush/Soft White | Topshop MOTO High-Waist Short Skirt in Washed Black Denim | Zara Ankle Boots | Ace & Tate x It’s Nice That Sunglasses* | Missoma Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold* | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold | Straw Bag (Bought In France)

Every tourist has heard of Notting Hill, maybe in-part due to the film but has anyone heard of Connaught Village? I’m guessing, not. It’s a pretty little area of Westminster, just west of Marylebone. There’s a small high street with a mix of shops, galleries, cafés and restaurants. ME+EM have a beautiful store there. If you fancy something substantial Korobuta have a restaurant just off Connaught Street on Kendal Street. And, if you’re looking for something nice for your home there’s handmade porcelain at Mud Australia.

At one end of Connaught Street is Connaught Square with its huge Georgian houses, one of which is the home of former-Prime Minister, Tony Blair. And off Connaught Street you’ll find lots of gorgeous mews, like the one where we shot this outfit.

Holiday Blues

ME+EM Supersoft Shirt in Blue* | AYR The Always Short* | Cambridge Satchel Company Saddle Bag in Black* | Robert Clergerie Vicolek Lace-Up Raffia Wedge Derbies | Super by Retrosuperfuture Paloma Black Matte Sunglasses* | Lucy Williams x Missoma Gold Graduated Fang Necklace* | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold

I was away quite a bit this summer, and loved every minute. I’m so lucky to live in London but to travel is a dream. And, I appreciate London all the more for having left it. Early in the summer we spent a weekend in Lucca, Italy and shot this classic look whilst there. I’m always mixing blue shirts with blue denim, it’s so simple and so comfortable. The temperature was high but this loose cotton blue shirt kept me cool in the midday sun. The raffia shoes were equally appropriate for the hot weather.

We followed the Serchio river north out of Lucca to an area that’s quite mountainous with small villages dotted either side of the river. We stayed in a resort with beautiful old olive trees and lavender bushes that lined the paths. Our room had a stunning view over the valley and in the distance you could to the tower of the nearest village, Castelvecchio Pascoli. At night we sat below the cooling jasmine on the terrace and ate classic Italian foods and drank delicious wine.

Shine On

ME+EM Luxury Leather Bomber in Soft Mink* | Mango Buckle Wrap Patent Skirt | Charli Scarlet Silk V-Neck Top c/o Jules B* | Cambridge Satchel Company Saddle Bag in Black* | Common Projects Original Achilles Low Trainers in White | Ace & Tate x It’s Nice That Sunglasses* | Missoma Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold* | Larsson & Jennings Liten Watch c/o Farfetch | CF Concept Drop Rings in Silver | Black Fedora from Portobello Road

Even though the days have been a little chilly lately, I’m sticking with skirts for as long as I can, I’m really not ready to wear jeans everyday which is usually what happens when it gets colder. I find it helps to wear silk and leather; most people assume that silk is best for the summer but it’s actually a good insulator and perfect for staying warm in the cooler months.

The silk top I’m wearing is by Charli, a British brand I’ve only just discovered thanks to the multi-brand website, Jules B. Charli make luxury separates like cashmere jumpers and crisp cotton shirts, all of which I love.

The black patent skirt I’m wearing is from Mango which, I’ve noticed, has already sold out in their London stores (I bought mine online). Patent is going to be showing up everywhere this season but this is my first foray. The big round silver buckle made this particular patent skirt stand out; Hoops are another big trend I’m keen on this season.

Where Does The Time Go?

Custommade Leanne Gingham Shirt* | Pepe London Black Leather Skirt | UNIQLO x Lemaire Cream Wool Jumper | Penelope Chilvers Valenciana Espadrilles | Cambridge Satchel Company Saddle Bag in Black* | Retrosuperfuture Flat Top Sunglasses in Havana* | Pilgrim Jewellery Innocence Necklace* | Pilgrim Jewellery Spring Disc Earrings* | Littionary 14k Tiny Yellow Gold Dot Stud Earrings | Larsson & Jennings Liten Watch c/o Farfetch* | Pilgrim Jewellery Dignity Bracelet* | Gemporia Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring*

It was only the other day that I was running around town in a skirt and espadrilles, what’s happened to our Indian summer? Every year I think we’re going to get lucky and have an extended summer but here we are in October and the warm weather a long forgotten memory, until I spotted these unpublished images we took a few weeks back. The espadrilles have now been wrapped up in their box, longing for a warm winter getaway to release them, and the jumpers are no longer tied around my waist but keeping my body warm, preventing that icy wind from chilling me to the bone.

It’s been a busy few weeks. First there was a trip to Zurich to shoot my current favourites from ME+EM‘s AW16 collection and a wonderful stay at the Marktgasse Hotel. Then there was London Fashion Week, whizzing between shows and presentations, and the odd lunch or shoot in-between. And now finally, I’m trying to get my life and blog back in order, whilst also attending some amazing blogger breakfasts (#TLCxAuree), a few lunch meetings and some evening events. If you think blogging is all socialising, pretty pictures and a few words, it’s really not. Any given day I’m a photographer, a stylist, a model (of sorts), a picture editor, a writer, a social media manager, a trend researcher, a coder, a brand consultant, and a networker. It’s tough juggling all these roles but it’s such a creative job and I really enjoy everything it offers. As I mentioned recently in my sportswear post, time keeping is not my forte but that’s going to have to change if I’m going to keep moving forward. If you have some tips for better timekeeping, please leave a comment below or drop me an email.

Good Sportswear Makes A Difference

Vaara Racerback Vest in White* | Vaara Performance Sports Bra in Black* | Vaara Sports Shorts in Black* | Nike Air Max Tavas Essential in Armory Slate/White/Midnight Navy | Retrosuperfuture Flat Top Sunglasses in Havana* | Missoma Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold*

Opening up the bag my Vaara sportswear came in, gave me a little rush. A lot of care has been taken to create a brand that reflects the quality of the sports and leisurewear they create, and the Vaara lifestyle they envisage for its wearers. I worked as a graphic designer for over ten years before I started my blog and its these details I really appreciate, not to mention when things are made very well. So when a brand like Vaara goes out of its way to create both, it gives me a little spark of joy.

Is it me or is there something psychosomatic about putting on good sportswear and actually wanting to exercise? I often struggle to keep up a consistent regime, it’s not so much that I don’t want to exercise, more that I’m not the best timekeeper. Every day is always so different and I’m always so busy. I feel like there’s so much I need to do and that exercise is an indulgence. It may just be 30 minutes of exercise but it’s the hour and half afterwards getting showered and washing my hair that causes the problem. My dad put it best the other day though when he said, if you’re going to feel guilty for something it should be for not taking care of yourself, not for not working. So with that in mind I try to get into my sportswear as quickly as possible in the morning. I don’t know about you but I find it hard to back down once I’m dressed and ready. And, wearing sportswear I feel good in, has such a positive affect on me.

AYR Wardrobe Essentials

This post was created in collaboration with AYR

AYR The Dune Shirt in White Silk* | AYR The Skinny in Jet Black* | Vintage French F2 Army Field Jacket | COS Black Strap Heels | Cambridge Satchel Company Saddle Bag in Black* | Retrosuperfuture Flat Top Sunglasses in Havana* | Vintage Black Leather Belt | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold | Nixon The Time Teller* | Felice Dahl Första Earcuff in Gold*

I’ve written about AYR once before a little while back, they’re an independent American label with a love of timeless essentials that could easily rival my own. Think perfect pairs of jeans that fit well and feel amazing on, spaghetti strap silk camisoles that go with everything, chambray shirts for casual days and camel coats made from soft Italian camel hair. The fabrics and fits are some of the best I’ve come across which makes their designs not only incredible wardrobe essentials but excellent value for money.

The Skinny black jeans I’m wearing are a deep dark velvety black, exactly how I like them as I always feel immediately slimmer when they’re this dark. They’re super soft and, with 30% stretch recovery, they keep their shape. Even with the shape of denim changing all the time I still always return to a skinny cut.

A Weekend In Lucca

Splendid Long Sleeve Top in White* | Isabel Marant Étoile Lyne Wrap Skirt in Blue | ATP Atelier Rosa Sandals in Black | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold | Lucy Williams x Missoma Gold Graduated Fang Necklace* | Retrosuperfuture Flat Top Sunglasses in Havana* | Sophie Wallgren Marta Bracelet in Gold* | Gemporia 9k Yellow Gold Stacker Ring* | Gemporia Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring*
Topshop Natural Straw Boater Hat | Stripe Scarf (old)

Before our wedding in France we spent a wonderful weekend in Italy. Two very good friends of ours had chosen to get married there in a little town just outside Lucca in Tuscany. I don’t need an excuse to go to Italy, it’s a country I love very much, but their wedding was a fantastic reason to return. Its breathtaking landscapes, delicious food, great wine and friendly people will always see me coming back for more.

Having had some pretty disappointing summer weather in London, it was a great opportunity to wear some pieces from my new summer wardrobe. I bought a few Isabel Marant Étoile pieces this summer and I’d been dying to wear them. This skirt is a little shorter than I would usually wear and probably not that appropriate for London but in the Tuscan heat it was perfect.


Accommodation

Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa

Summer In The City

Armor-Lux Breton Sailor Sweater* | Closed Pedal Position Blue Denim Jeans* | Danielle Foster Charlie Box Bag in Khaki | ATP Atelier Rosa Sandals in Black | Ace & Tate Sebastian Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Nixon The Time Teller* | Gemporia Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring* | Gemporia 9k Yellow Gold Stacker Ring* | Missoma Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold* | Lucy Williams x Missoma Gold Graduated Fang Necklace*

If you follow me on Instagram, I apologise if you’ve already seen some of these photos. We shot them a little while ago but I’ve been travelling around and haven’t had the chance to post them until now.

A Breton sweater is a timeless classic and this one from Armor-Lux is made with 100% pure wool; some of the wool ones I’ve tried have been be a bit wiry and stiff but this one is neither, it’s soft and very comfortable. I’m going to be taking it with me to France for throwing on after a day at the beach when the sun has gone down and you start to feel a chill after a day of salt and sand. I can’t wait!

I live in denim and recently discovered a German brand called Closed, they specialise in denim but you can actually buy your whole wardrobe from them; I’ve already spied some gorgeous winter coats on their site. They manufacture everything in Italy so as you can imagine the quality is excellent. I have a couple of pairs of their jeans and they’re made with a soft denim that has quite a lot of give, I’d go down a size if you plan on buying some, as mine are quite loose.

Park(a)life

This post was created in collaboration with Parka London

Parka London Cecile Women’s Classic Dry Wax Parka* | C/meo Collective Golden Age Top in Ivory* | Hush Denim Shorts* | Cambridge Satchel Company Saddle Bag in Black* | Robert Clergerie Vicolek Lace-Up Raffia Wedge Derbies | Retrosuperfuture Flat Top Sunglasses in Havana | Missoma Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold Gemporia Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring | Gemporia 9k Yellow Gold Stacker Ring | Nixon The Time Teller Watch

With Glastonbury at the weekend, we’re clearly well into festival season now. I’m wearing a few of my favourite festival pieces here; a parka, denim shorts and a shoulder bag (that fits all my essentials). If you think you’re going to be lucky enough to see some sun, a camisole is a must.

My coat is from Parka London who specialise in parkas, they have a brilliant selection of designs both in the summer and winter. This one is so beautifully made, I was really impressed when it arrived, as I’ve not come across the same level of quality in a parka before.

I’m hoping to make a cool flower crown with these beautiful giant hydrangeas.

Feeling Pumped

Bon Label Tie Sweater in Marl Grey* | Closed Pedal Position Blue Denim Jeans* | Jimmy Choo Rebel Shoulder Bag | Ace & Tate Sebastian Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Whistles Cornel Suede Pointed Pumps in Black | Missoma Gold Engravable Initial Necklace* | Sophie Wallgren Marta Bracelet in Gold* | Renné Halo Bangle in Silver*

Sweatshirts have always been considered a casual wardrobe item but recently I’ve seen them elevated to a new level. Both this season and last, Joseph featured beautiful separates in soft jersey which we can’t seem to get enough of. Comfortable but chic these pieces have changed the way we think of the humble sweatshirt.

the brand exists to provide women with luxury everyday pieces which are effortless, interesting and chic

Designer, Linda Smyth

Recently, I discovered a lovely Australian brand called Bon Label. I’ve since collaborated with them to show you how I would style a couple of pieces from their new collection, their tie sweater and sweater dress (as seen in this post). I love the way they’ve looked at the basic design and creating something much more unique. A simple tie in the same grey jersey fabric and a curved, unfinished hem make it a much more feminine piece.

A Few (More) Wardrobe Essentials

Armor-Lux Cap Sizun Wool Peacoat in Navy* | Bon Label Sweater Dress in Marl Grey* | Common Projects Original Achilles Low | Baia Drawstring Bucket Bag in Duck Egg Blue* | & Other Stories Leather Obi Belt | Saint James Marine Cap | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold | Nixon The Time Teller Watch* | Brandts Jewellery Daisy Ring in Rose Gold | Gemporia Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring*

I may be starting to sound like a broken record but I do love good wardrobe essentials, classic pieces that I know I’ll keep for years to come; it’s my thing. It came about when I realised that I had lots of clothes but couldn’t easily combine them to create outfits I wanted to wear. I decided to look for items that would be more versatile. When I buy a new item I challenge myself to envisage at least three outfits I could create, combining it with pieces I already own, before I allow myself to buy it.

In this outfit I’m wearing a few pieces I would consider essentials, a grey sweatshirt dress, a navy peacoat and white leather trainers. Each piece is well-made from good quality materials. If you’re looking for essentials that you’re going to wear regularly they need to be made to last.

Little Black (Summer) Dress

Grey Fedora from Portobello Road | Prism Cat-Eye Sunglasses in Bronze | Hush Evangeline Dress in Black* | Common Projects Original Achilles Low | Straw Basket Bag (from Italy) | Missoma Engravable Initial Necklace in Gold* | Renné Halo Bangle in Silver* | Sophie Wallgren Marta Bracelet in Gold*

I’ve recently started to focus on the little black dress section of my wardrobe. Every magazine, style icon and blog has told me over and over again how important the little black dress is to your wardrobe. I’ve had many but as my style has evolved I’ve let them go and only now started to think about what a great essential it is. I have a couple of new ones, this one by Hush and another by Second Female (which I’ll feature soon).

My style is always about balance, I don’t like to look too girly as it doesn’t feel comfortable to me but that doesn’t mean I want to dress like a boy either. I look for ways to create a neutral look that balances feminine and masculine details. Wearing trainers with a dress is something I do quite often. I live in trainers since I’m always running across town for various events and meetings, and heels aren’t practical. I also try to only carry a small shoulder bag most of the time so carrying a pair of heels around is an extra effort I try to avoid.

Spring To Summer

ME+EM Leather Bomber Jacket in Soft Mink* | UNIQLO Breton Stripe Long-Sleeved Dress | AYR Sleeveless Shirt in White)* | Baia Leather Bucket Bag in Duck Egg Blue* | Diemme Garda Slip-ons* | Ace & Tate Sebastian Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Nixon The Time Teller Watch* | Brandts Jewellery Daisy Ring in Rose Gold | Gemporia Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring* | Sophie Wallgren Marta Bracelet in Gold*

Transitioning from spring to summer can be difficult, you leave the house when the sun’s out and it’s a rather pleasant 18°C and then the next thing you know it’s down to 12°C before you’ve even reached lunchtime. Choosing the right layers and fabrics is important for getting your trans-seasonal wardrobe right. A leather jacket over a summer dress is one easy way. Leather can be light but warm and the beautiful taupe colour of this leather bomber by ME+EM is perfect for a summer wardrobe.

Cotton is great for layering, it’s breathable so if it does heat up you’ll still feel fresh. I avoid synthetic fabrics 90% of the time, I never feel very comfortable in them and this I find is especially important in warmer weather when they can make you feel clammy. So you won’t be surprised to find that both the shirt and dress I’m wearing here are cotton.

Walking Tall In Marylebone

Samsøe & Samsøe Lisa Jeans* | Topshop MA1 Bomber in Navy | Second Female Eileen Stripe Shirt | Triwa Clyde Sunglasses in Havana | PB 0110 AB 21 Shoulder Bag in Navy | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold | La Redoute Chunky Sole Brogue*

There are a few things in my wardrobe that I continue to buy season after season, pieces that are good, timeless basics. One of which is a blue and white stripe shirt and the other is a good pair of blue jeans. They’re two things I wear all the time and find great satisfaction in discovering new versions.

The Second Female stripe shirt in the outfit above has a pale blue stripe and is made from a cotton-linen textured fabric which holds its shape. It’s such a classic and could be worn in so many ways. One of my favourite ways is with a pair of blue jeans, and my current favourite jeans are these Samsøe & Samsøe straight-leg mid-rise ones. I love the fit, the straight cut with a slight taper and the little bit of distressing below the knee.

Less Layers, More Light

Second Female Sao Coat in Grey* | ME+EM Silk Shirt with Piping* | Paige Verdugo Skinny Black Jeans* | MICHAEL Michael Kors Saylor Ankle Boots in Black* | Danielle Foster Charlie Box Bag in Khaki | Jil Sander Sunglasses in Grey) | Missoma Gold Engravable Initial Necklace* | Lucy Williams x Missoma Gold Graduated Fang Necklace* | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold | Gemporia Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring* | Brandts Jewellery Daisy Ring

I love catching the late afternoon light, it’s my favourite time to shoot, when you’re bathed in a warm glow. It makes both your skin and hair glow.

With the weather improving by the day, I’m slowly peeling off the layers. There are no jumpers in this post, just a beautiful cream silk blouse from ME+EM, under my new oversize grey coat. I’ve been looking for a great pale grey marl coat for a while and I’m so pleased with this one, it’s soft and warm, and just the right length. I love being able to wear less layers come this time of year although six months from now you can guarantee I’ll be getting excited about how to layer things again.

These skinny jeans are a regular in my wardrobe, rain or shine. I’ve had them for ages and though they’re not the velvety black they once were, they’re still by favourite skinny black jeans.

Let The Sun Shine

Second Female Kayser Suede Biker Jacket in Cognac* | Samsøe & Samsøe Kinna Top in Navy | Samsøe & Samsøe Judah Skirt in Navy | PB 0110 AB21 Shoulder Bag in Navy | Triwa Clyde Sunglasses in Havana | Adidas Originals Stan Smith Trainers c/o MonShowroom*

It’s almost time to get those legs out, the sun has been trying its best to show its face, which means it’s time for me to start using a little St Tropez Gradual Tan! The clocks changed today so officially it’s British Summer Time and soon we’ll be staying out later in London and enjoying a drink or two with friends in the evenings (bring it on). We’re an unsociable lot in the darker months and then everything transforms here as soon as we have the light and warmer temperatures.

I’ve gone for an in-between look (a warm suede jacket and navy co-ord) to wean myself out of my jeans. I find a leather or suede biker jacket is perfect at this time of the year, it’s a great piece for layering. I will quite often layer a coat and biker jacket so I can discard the knits and wear a silk shirt or t-shirt instead.

Daytime Pyjamas?

Triwa Clyde Sunglasses in Havana | Topshop MA1 Bomber in Navy Blue | Samsøe & Samsøe Sanella Sweater in Cream | The White T-Shirt Co. Long Sleeve Round Neck T-Shirt in White* | Samsøe & Samsøe Tuersen Wide-Leg Trousers in Red & White Stripe | Adidas Originals Stan Smith Trainers via MonShowroom* | PB 0110 AB21 Shoulder Bag in Navy | Littionary Tiny Dot Stud Earringsin Gold | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold

The closest I’ve come so far to the pyjama trend are these amazing wide-led trousers from Samsøe & Samsøe; they’re soft, loose and super comfy. Lots of friends have asked me my thoughts on the pyjama look, most have said that they don’t really get it, I’m still on the fence. I love a classic navy silk pyjama shirt with white piping (perfect over jeans) and I love a co-ord (a two-piece in the same fabric and print) so that would suggest that I’d have fully embraced the daytime pyjama look by now. I probably would wear it but only in a particular scenario and in my own way.

Chilly Spring Layers

Massimo Dutti Cashmere Coat in Beige | Wåven AW15 Mikel Men’s Denim Jacket | Finders Keepers Just My Luck Shirt in White* | Zara Skinny Jeans in Washed Black | Adidas Originals Stan Smith Trainers via MonShowroom* | Black Fedora (from a little hat shop on Portobello Road) | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold | Gemporia Arezzo D’oro Diamond & Gold Ring* | Nixon The Time Teller* | Sophie Wallgren Marta Small Disc Bracelet in Gold* | Jessie Harris Sphere Hoop Earrings in Gold | Russian Wedding Ring

In spring it’s so hard to know what to wear. I left the house yesterday in a black t-shirt, skinny jeans and mohair cardigan only to discover it was just a bit too chilly to be out without a coat. I opt for layers when the weather is hard to read. I pick out non-bulky pieces that work well together, even when you discard one of them. Keeping the palette of my wardrobe quite simple and neutral gives me lots of options for layering. I’ll quite often layer a wool coat over this denim jacket or my black leather biker, two essentials most people have in their wardrobe, and then wear either a t-shirt or shirt underneath. I love a layered look visually too, there’s a depth to this type of look that makes it feel much more complete.

Chalet Style

ME+EM Cashmere Pick and Mix Beanie in Navy* | Ille De Coco Merino Wool Roll-Neck Tunic in Navy* | NYDJ Skinny Jeans in Black* | Adidas Originals Stan Smith Trainers via MonShowroom* | Gemporia Arezzo D’oro Diamond Gold Ring* | Clarice Price Thomas Penumbra Ring in Gold*

Val-d’Isère was the perfect place to test out Ille De Coco‘s wonderful warm knits. Their roll-neck tunic (made with soft merino wool) kept every bit of me warm and cosy. There was no need for a scarf as the roll-neck comes up high and is quite a snug fit around the neck. I love this tunic, it was just so perfect for the weather in the resort and made so well. I’ll definitely be taking lots of their chunky knits with me next time I go skiing. I’m usually drawn to clothing that isn’t appropriate for a ski resorts (note the Stan Smiths I’m wearing in these photos) but on this occasion I found something appropriate that I really wanted to wear.

I also wore my favourite woolly hat which sadly has now sold out. If you’ve got your eye on one, given they were so popular, I’m sure they’ll be back in stock next autumn.

In The Alps

G-LAB Bellevue Jacket in Olive | ME+EM Stripe Layering Tee* | NYDJ Skinny Jeans in Black* | Adidas Originals Stan Smith Trainers c/o MonShowroom* | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold

I love being in the mountains, I grew up skiing from a young age (I was first put on skis at three) and have always found the fresh air, sun (when it’s out), and all-day exercise makes me feel so good. Being in such beautiful surroundings also helps. I’ve been going to Val-d’Isère in France regularly since I was 14, it’s such a great area to ski as it’s joined to Tignes forming the Espace Killy. We were so lucky to be staying in a ski-in ski-out chalet this time, oh the luxury of not carrying skis around.

I found just the right jacket for our holiday for après-ski, G-LAB make functional outerwear so their jackets and coats are technically perfect. They also look and feel really good. The Bellevue has an inner jacket and collar that you can remove in warmer weather but with temperatures below freezing there was no chance of me taking it out. In these photos I’m just wearing a long-sleeve t-shirt under the jacket and was fine.

Fewer, Better Things

What Is Slow Fashion?

Slow fashion is the antithesis of fast fashion, it’s a backlash against cheap labour, poor quality, environmental damage and unnecessary consumerism. It’s about buying well-made products that will be used again and again until they finally fall apart and can’t be mended, or (with beauty products) you have scraped the last drop from the pot. More is not always better, certainly not for the environment and the welfare of factory workers around the world. And more can mean harder decisions for you every day.

When I go into a shop and try on clothes I don’t just look to see how they fit, I look for good craftsmanship and quality materials, whether they’re organic and where they’ve been made. I want to know as much as possible about a product and where it comes from before I commit to investing in the company that’s made it. Every time you buy from a brand that’s what you’re doing, saying that you want to give them your money to keep doing what they are doing, and that you approve of what they are doing.

Why not invest in brands that are not only making something beautiful but also doing something that’s good for the world. Knowing which brands are isn’t always that obvious so my research often starts before I leave home. Slow fashion brands are not trend lend, they look to create something that is timeless and often classic. They tend to be the brands that create wardrobe basics and essentials.

Favourite Slow Fashion Brands:

A.P.C.ATP Atelier | Baserange | Blake LDN | Bon | Building Block | Cuyana | Eileen Fisher | Everlane | Filippa K | Håndværk | Janessa Leoné | Kowtow | Lou Dungate | Madewell | Maison Standards | Mansur Gavriel | Marina London | Maska | O My Bag | G. Viteri | SGB Goods | Skall Studio | Sunspel | ThisIsNon | Vege Threads | Veja | Veryan | The White T-Shirt Co. | Zady

Favourite Pieces:

1. Janessa Leoné Clay Fedora in Light Brown | 2. Sunspel Vintage Wool Bomber Jacket | 3. A.P.C. Sac Soho Shoulder Bag in Black | 4. Filippa K Light Silk Pullover in Grey | 5. Cuyana Silk Tee in Blush | 6. Crippen Lover Jean in Light Vintage (brand closed) | 7. ATP Atelier Rosa Sandals in Black | 8. SGB Goods Natural Petite Messenger Bag | 9. G.Viteri Waterdrop Beige Toquilla Hat | 10. Kowtow Building Block Swing Dress in Black | 11. Veja Esplar Low Leather Trainers in White | 12. Marina London Blake Shirt in White (brand closed) | 13. Baserange Mississipi Bra in Black | 14. Maison Standards Le Sweatshirt Uni in Navy | 15. Everlane The Modern Ankle Boot in Black | 16. Building Block Bucket Bag in Nude

LFW AW16: Day 4

Jonathan Saunders Quilted Bomber Jacket in White | Marina London Dree Shirt Dress in Navy (brand closed) | Samsøe & Samsøe Lisa Jeans | Common Projects Original Achilles Low Trainers | Ace & Tate Sebastian Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Renné Halo Bangle in Silver* | Jenny Sweetnam Drop Ring/Necklace* | Nixon The Time Teller Watch* | Gemporia Arezzo D’oro Gold & Diamond Ring* | Brandts Jewellery Daisy Ring

It was time for comfort on LFW Day 4, out came my favourite white bomber jacket by incredible British designer, Jonathan Saunders. This beauty rarely comes out as I’m paranoid about getting it dirty but it felt like the right occasion. As it was a bit chilly I layered a gorgeous silk shirt dress by the talented silk magician Marina London over some straight-leg jeans. These ones by Samsoe & Samsoe fit me so perfectly, they’re non-stretch, mid-rise, in a blue wash that’s not too rinsed. I finished off the look with my best white trainers, that’s right, the Woman by Common Projects got another outing even though it was raining a little, I’m such a risk taker.

LFW AW16: Day 3

This post was created in collaboration with La Redoute

Saint James Mariner Cap | Carven x La Redoute Tailored Coat in Khaki* | La Redoute Soft Grey Embroidered Cotton Blouse* | La Redoute Les Petits Pris A-Line Mini Skirt* | La Redoute Mademoiselle R Chunky Sole Brogue* | EA Burns Forge Necklace in Gold (Brand closed) | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold

For LFW Day 3 this season I wore a full look from La Redoute, whilst I took over their Instagram for the day (I hope you followed along). I have always loved French women’s style, they always look effortlessly stylish and I’ve tried my best to do the same for this look. I wore a khaki tailored coat from from La Redoute’s recent collaboration with luxury French fashion house, Carven. Evoking a little of my favourite French designer Isabel Marant, I chose a cream boho blouse with a high ruffle collar, delicate embroidery and wide bell sleeves. The flatforms were a great decision for Fashion Week, they gave me a few essential centimetres whilst also being very comfortable. I actually ended up wearing them a couple of times during LFW.

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