Denim Skirts & Linen Shirts

The White Company Linen Pocket Shirt in Pale Blue* | & Other Stories Denim Mini Skirt in Off-White | G.H. Bass & Co. Weejuns Penny Loafers in Black* | A.P.C. Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag in Black | Komono Renee Sunglasses* | Cate & Nelson No. 165 Watch* | Merci Maman Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold* | Wacoal Classic Reinvention Bra in Black*

I’m one of those people that will buy the same thing in every colour; usually in black, white and/or blue. You’ve witnessed my growing collection of linen shirts. But my other new obsession is denim skirts, I guess it’s just an extension of my love of denim, in general. And, with the weather being a little unsuitable for jeans most days I seem to have transferred my love to their summery alternative. There’s the black one I bought from Topshop a little while ago, this off-white one from & Other Stories and a regular blue wash one that I also bought recently in Topshop. I don’t think I’ll be buying any more for a while and I hope I don’t bore you with too many denim skirt looks. This off-white one feels particularly summery so it’s definitely coming on holiday with me to Istria in a few weeks.

Postcards From Lisbon

Justine Tabak Gingham Wrap Dress* | Sandro Veinarde Leather Biker Jacket in Black | Penelope Chilvers Valenciana Espadrilles | Labour & Wait Cotton String Bag
Rouje Raphael Dress* | A.P.C. Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag in Black
Justine Tabak Linen Petticoat Dress in White* | Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Ox Plimsolls in White | A.P.C. Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag in Black

Last month, I was in Lisbon for a friend’s hen do. We were there to celebrate which meant there wasn’t much time to explore the city (outside of our busy schedule) but I still managed to take a few snaps here and there. I really had no idea what to expect and it surprised me in so many ways. It’s a stunning city, one I fell in love with straightaway and know I will return to before long. The undulating streets are unlike anywhere I’ve seen before. Beautiful tiles compete for attention with graffiti everywhere you look. Trams fly past as you wait inline outside the pasteis de nata shops. It has a little of everything, even stunning beaches if you’re willing to travel a little, to Sintra.

The food was amazing, including the aforementioned pasteis de nata, the famous Portuguese custard tarts. I also tried a local sparkling green wine which was refreshing in the sunshine. If you’re a foodie it’s worth visiting the Time Out Market, where you can sample lots of local dishes under one roof. We stopped by before taking a stroll down by the waterfront. Be prepared to walk quite a bit in Lisbon, invariably up and down hills.

French Girl Style with Rouje

Rouje Raphael Dress* | ATP AtelierRosa Sandals in Black | A.P.C. Cotton Tote Bag | Kapten & Son Berkeley Sunglasses in Tortoiseshell* | 88&Cloudless Joy Mini-Star Necklace in Solid 9ct Gold* | Larsson & Jennings Lugano Watch* | Merci Maman Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold* | Kristen Elspeth Blade Ring in Gold* | Kristen Elspeth Spear Ring in Gold*

Okay, so I’m not a French girl but I do love their style and brands, and when a French girl with immaculate style starts a new clothing brand my ears prick up. Such is the case with Rouje, a gorgeous new brand from Jeanne Damas, the model and all round cool girl that’s often mistaken for a Doillon sister. The current collection includes pretty vintage-inspired tea dresses and tops, wrap midi-skirts and minis, and flared jeans. It’s a little bit Reformation, a little bit Réalisation and very 70s. I’m utterly in love with their dresses and skirts, although I’d love to see them in natural, non-synthetic materials.

If you’re heading off to the Mediterranean this summer and want to look like you have been living there for years, this is the brand for you.

Feeling Fresh In Linen

The White Company Linen Classic Shirt in White* | Topshop MOTO Denim Mini Skirt in Black | A.P.C. Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag in Black | A. Andreassen Elskling Leather Mules in Black* | Kapten & Son Berkeley Sunglasses in Tortoiseshell* | 88&Cloudless Joy Mini-Star Necklace in Solid 9ct Gold*

We all know how amazing and versatile a crisp white cotton shirt is but how many of you own a white linen shirt? Linen has quite a different feel, often stiff when you first wear it but softening with time, the more you wear and wash it. It’s especially good in the warmer months as it helps keep you cool whilst also being breathable. The White Company have a really great selection at the moment, from the quite classic style that I’m wearing here to more bohemian styles, that are perfect for any upcoming holidays in the Mediterranean. It does crinkle easily but I think that just adds to its charm.

You’ve probably noticed that I’ve been moving back towards a more monochrome wardrobe of late. I’m certainly not anti-colour but I do find it easier to create looks from fewer pieces with a lot of monochrome basics. There will be some colour, I promise, just styled in my minimal way. For now, this feels very me and I would encourage everyone to find what works for them. A little trial and error is not a bad thing. I have to admit this skirt was pushing it for me. I wasn’t so sure if I could still wear mini skirts but the response I’ve had from wearing this Topshop one has given me the confidence to get my legs out a bit more, plus I don’t want them to be so pale when summer hits. Maybe the last three weeks of going to the gym are finally starting to pay off.

I also wanted to mention the lovely story behind these mules from A. Andreassen. Their name ‘Elskling’ translates as little sweetheart or darling in Norwegian, and the heart motif on the top of them comes from a Scandinavian tradition when children at Christmas made paper baskets and hung them on the tree, filled with sweets.

Throw Off Those Coats

Second Female Brook Knit Short Cardigan in Cypress* | The White T-Shirt Co. Relaxed Short Sleeve T-Shirt in White* | Second Female Tally Skirt* | Adidas Originals Court Vantage in White | A.P.C. Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag in Black | Lines & Current Henning Sunglasses in Black* | Lucy Williams x Missoma Gold Graduated Fang Necklace* | CF Concept Tusk Necklace in Gold

I’m a realist when it comes to the weather here in London, when we’re lucky we get a few hot days in April, before the temperature then drops, (hopefully) rising again in July. Blue skies will always make me happy and when they come along I grab the opportunity to get out in the sun, even if that does mean I get a few strange looks, mostly from tourists wrapped up in heavy coats. I’ve been desperate to wear beautiful printed ra-ra skirt since it arrived. It has a bit of an Isabel Marant vibe but is actually from one of my favourite Danish brands, Second Female. I can’t wait to wear it with a pair of espadrilles and a camisole later in the summer. For now, the cardigan is staying on – also from Second Female.

If you’re in search of really good quality t-shirt, look no further than The White T-Shirt Co.. I don’t think these guys can be beaten on quality or for the softness of their t-shirts. They use GOTS certified organic cotton from Turkey, and they’re transparent and ethical about their production. They also wash really well, no shrinkage like lots I’ve bought in the past. I was recently interviewed by Ellie from Study 34 for The White T-Shirt Co. blog, we talked about the state of the fashion industry and what needs to be done to improve it, my wardrobe staples (like the white t-shirt, obviously) and how I tackle being a blogger whilst trying not to promote overconsumption. Read about it here.

I’ve also just discovered Adidas Court Vantage plimsolls, a much better alternative to the Stan Smiths. They’re made with a softer leather for a start, so no wearing them in. I think the sizing is actually more accurate, too. And, they’re all white, very pleasing to the eye for us minimalists.

Greens Are Good For You

Sandro Veinarde Leather Biker Jacket in Black | Second Female Fabora Blouse in White* | Samsøe & Samsøe Lucy P Skirt* | Woman by Common Projects Original Achilles Low | Retrosuperfuture Paloma Black Matte Sunglasses* | A.P.C. Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag in Black | Jessie Harris Sphere Hoop Earrings | Littionary 14k Tiny Yellow Gold Dot Stud Earrings | Hopscotch Small Gold Hoops | Merci Maman Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold* | Larsson & Jennings Lugano Watch*

I have to admit that although it looks quite warm in these pictures it was actually a touch on the chilly side but eager to embrace the change in seasons I bit the bullet and wore a little less. My transitional dressing from winter to spring often includes tights and thermals.

Green hasn’t featured much in my wardrobe before but this lovely muted green (called darkest spruce) seems to fit quite nicely with my clean aesthetic. I’ve just had a lovely cardigan delivered that’s a similar shade, which I’ll be sharing soon. A pleated skirt is always a good investment. It’s a timeless design that shows up season after season. This one is fairly similar to a Proenza Schouler one I spotted back in the winter of 2015, proof (if you needed it) that fashion goes in cycles, it’s actually from the Danish brand Samsøe & Samsøe.

I worried a little when I first put on this Second Female top that I might be mistaken for an off-duty dentist but however I may appear to some I love this alternative take on a white shirt. I think I might try it under a dress next. In truth, I’ll probably try it with half my wardrobe, after-all, a white shirt goes with everything.

Spring In Stripes

Samsøe & Samsøe Sanella T-Neck Stripe Sweater* | ME+EM Leather Wrap Skirt in Black* | Air & Grace Copeland Trainers in Leopard* | A.P.C. Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag in Black | Finery London Flora Fan Peel Earrings* | Kristen Elspeth Blade Ring, Axe Ring & Spear Ring* | 88&Cloudless Joy Mini-Star Necklace in Solid 9ct Gold* | Ace & Tate x It’s Nice That Sunglasses*

The clocks have just gone back so I guess it’s time to start getting my legs out, pale as they may be right now; I’m getting out the St Tropez tout suite. There’s always space in my wardrobe for a stripe. The French and Danish are two of my favourite nations for culture, style, food and design; and they each do stripes like no one else. I’m heavily influenced in my style choices by these two countries. This time around it’s the stripes of Danish brand Samsøe & Samsøe that I’m championing. Although I’ve thrown a little French into the mix with my beloved A.P.C. bag. Have you also noticed that the French tend to mix leopard print and stripes? It feels like a very Parisienne thing to do, I hope I’m channeling that vibe today.

New Boyfriend (Jeans)

Samsøe & Samsøe Kahlia Coat in Navy* | Armor-Lux Mariniere Top in Navy/White* | The White Company Brompton Jeans in Indigo* | Converse Chuck Taylor II Plimsolls | A.P.C. Demi-Lune Bag in Black | Abbott Lyon Silver Chain Kensington Watch* | Saint James Mariner’s Cap in Navy | 88&Cloudless Gold Star Necklace*

I’ve discovered the softest, comfiest boyfriend jeans from The White Company. When you choose to wear a pair of boyfriend jeans comfort is usually on your mind. I’ve tried quite a few in my time but none feel as soft as these. They also come in a pale wash, white and grey; no points for guessing where I’ll be buying my boyfriend jeans from now on.

I’ve spent much of the last few months in stripes, what can I say, I’m a bit of an addict. I would really recommend Armor-Lux if you’re looking for a good Breton top, also known as a mariniere in France. They are well-made, soft and traditional in style, and they have a huge range of styles. They’re unisex so choose wisely when ordering, mine’s a size 3.

I’ll be sharing more spring looks soon, now it’s officially spring.

Gold A-Peel

Sandro Veinarde Leather Biker Jacket in Black | Kirei Madina Shirt in Cream* | Joe’s Jeans The Vixen Skinny Jeans in Regan* | Whistles Cornel Suede Pointed Pumps in Nude | A.P.C. Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag in Black | Ace & Tate x It’s Nice That Sunglasses | Larsson & Jennings Lugano Watch* | Merci Maman Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold* | Finery Flora Fan Peel Earrings* | 88&Cloudless Joy Mini-Star Necklace in Solid 9ct Gold*

Finally, I’ve got hold of a pair of these amazing earrings from Finery. I spotted them ages ago but only took the plunge last week when they came back on the site, and it was definitely worth the wait. I’ve worn them just once and have already been complimented on them many times.

Have you heard of a little British brand called Kirei? It’s pronounced ‘kee-ray’ and means beautiful in Japanese. They make incredible clothes, reminiscent of a couple of my favourite brands, Isabel Marant and Masscob. Aside from great designs they work with natural fibres, a prerequisite for me these days. They use embroidery and lace to elevate their simple, flattering shapes to create timeless clothes that I know will be in my wardrobe for years to come. Their new SS17 collection has just been released and it’s gorgeous.

I love the details on this shirt, the little tassels around the bottom and the embellishment along the edge of the placket. I can’t wait for the warmer days when I can wear it with a pair of denim shorts.

Lets Talk About Leopard Print

Jaeger Wool Bomber in Black* | WoolOvers Cashmere Roll-Neck in Dove Grey* | ME+EM Day To Evening Tux Trousers in Black* | Air & Grace Copeland Trainers in Leopard Print* | A.P.C. Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag in Black | Timex Weekender Fairfield Watch in Khaki*

In my childhood the only reference to leopard print I can remember is of the characters on Eastenders. It was seen as tacky, a bit slutty, and not the sort of thing nice girls wore. Fast forward a few years and my associations are quite different, I think of cool Parisiens like Jeanne Damas and Emmanuelle Alt, wearing chic little ankle boots and faux fur coats with style.

“I think of cool Parisiens like Jeanne Damas and Emmanuelle Alt”

It is with great joy that I’ve finally joined the leopard print club, thanks to my new trainers from a lovely British brand called Air & Grace. My friend Julia from Stylonylon kindly introduced me to Claire Burrows (their founder) back in October. Claire’s lovely and she’s passionate about making beautiful shoes that are comfortable, comfortable enough to run around in all day. Given this is a common occurrence for me I’ve been putting them to the test, these little leopard print toes have been all over London in the last few weeks, and I’m still very happy to slip my feet into them.

Never one to go overboard, I kept the rest of my outfit minimal. The wool bomber is from Jaeger and such a great find. I’ve searched for a well cut black wool bomber for so long and I’ve only ever found very expensive ones that are out of my league. This one fits so well and is made with 100% soft wool.

Christmas Wish List 2016

I have to admit that I love receiving presents as much as I love giving them, especially when you unwrap something that you have been thinking about buying for some time. My Christmas wish list is made up of all the things I’m currently in love with and know I will appreciate over the next year, not just the next month.

1. Isabel Marant Étoile Olga Cotton-Twill Wrap Skirt | 2. A.P.C. Demi-Lune Shoulder Bag in Black | 3. Taschen Peter Lindbergh – A Different Vision on Fashion Photography | 4. Isabel Marant Étoile Clifton Mohair-Blend Sweater in Grey | 5. HAY Large Dot Wash Bag | 6. Isabel Marant Étoile Checked Wool Scarf | 7. London Tea Club Crème Earl Grey Loose Black Tea (now closed) | 8. HAY Mirror Mirror Handheld Mirror | 9. Lucy Williams x Missoma Horn Hoops in Gold Vermeil | 10. Gucci Double G Buckle Leather Belt | 11. HAY Kaleido Large Metal Tray in Light Grey

I’m pretty obsessed with all things Isabel Marant Étoile and A.P.C. when it comes to my wardrobe; there’s a pretty high chance that if I open something from either of them that I’ll be thrilled but the pieces above are my current favourites. Likewise for the home, HAY has my heart, their designs are super simple and fit in our house really easily.

I’m always looking for shoot inspiration and Peter Lindbergh’s beautiful black and white images really capture my imagination. I’d love to spend an hour or two once a month pouring over his photography whilst enjoying a cup of my all time favourite tea, the London Tea Club Crème Earl Grey. I met their founder, Cecelia, in the summer and attended one of their tea ceremonies not long after. If you sign up to their club they will send you three teas to try each month.

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

A Perfect Shirt (Part I)

Baukjen Teresa Cotton Shirt* | Samsøe & Samsøe Hoff Coat Hat in Sand Grey | Topshop Cigarette Trousers in Black | Sekonda Seksy Leather Strap Watch in Blush* | Whistles Cornel Suede Point Pump in Black | Ace & Tate Nina Glasses in Autumn Leaves* | Fedora Hat (from a small shop on Portobello Road)

I own a few shirts, they’re a weakness of mine but with good reason, I tend to wear them a lot. If I’m wearing a shirt I don’t feel scruffy, even when I’m going for a casual look. They also reflect the androgynous style to which I’m so often drawn. They’re the foundation pieces of many of my outfits, and it’s taken me years to find shirts that work for my style and shape.

Baukjen are a brand that I often turn to for shirts. The fabrics they use are soft on the skin and hang beautifully. The cut is well-tailored across the shoulders but not too fitted around the chest and stomach, they have that borrowed from the boyfriend feel but without completely swamping you.

I’ve styled two of my favourites which you can find in their current sale, the Teresa cotton shirt (which I’m wearing in this post) and the Coco chambray shirt which I’ll be sharing in my next post. I will be wearing these all year round as they’re season-less styles. The Teresa, with its longer length, will also make the perfect beach cover-up.

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