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.

Always In Denim

The White Company Three Quarter Sleeve Linen Blouse in White* | Sandro Veinarde Leather Biker Jacket in Black | Levi’s 501 (Vintage) Jeans | G.H. Bass & Co. Weejuns Penny Loafers in Black* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Finery London Flora Fan Peel Earrings* | 88&Cloudless Joy Mini-Star Necklace in Solid 9ct Gold* | Merci Maman Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold* | Straw Bag (Bought In France)

It probably became clear some time ago that I’m always in denim. It’s one of those fabrics that’s never out of fashion, it’s unisex and crosses classes. It’s a leveller, and that suits me down to the ground. I don’t choose to stand out so it’s quite strange to have ended up as a blogger, sharing my style on a regular basis. I’m not the stereotypical loud, centre of attention kind of person that bloggers are perceived to be (and I’ve met many others who aren’t either). Even when I speak normally I’m softly spoken, I really have to project my voice to be heard.

“…finding my comfort zone has actually given me the confidence to experiment more with my style.”

I would never describe myself as glamorous. I don’t feel comfortable with hairspray in my hair, let alone when it’s styled. I feel overwhelmed by make-up, if I wear a lot it seems to wear me, which is why I stick with a natural look. And, I like to wear simple clothes with subtle details, it’s what I feel most comfortable in. That’s not to say I don’t wear dresses or that I don’t dress up for special occasions, I do, but just not in the same way others might do.

Being comfortable has always been an important factor in what I wear, not just physically but emotionally, too. I hate dress codes, I often don’t conform because they usually make me feel more conspicuous. And who likes being told what to wear anyway?

Believe it or not, finding my comfort zone has actually given me the confidence to experiment more with my style. I love to elevate the ordinary, taking my simple style and adding in a detail that changes things up. At the moment, I love adding a pair of statement earrings or a small splash of red. I’m actually thinking about trying a red lip on occasion. There’s one that MAC do, I think it’s ‘Dangerous’ that’s not too red and I reckon I might be able to carry off without feeling like everyone is staring at my lips.

I’m always going to love the classic, timeless styles and quality wardrobe investments but there’s nothing wrong with trying something new sometimes. Stay tuned for more denim and, occasionally, something a little bit different.

Black, In Summer?

Sandro Veinarde Leather Biker Jacket in Black | The White Company Silk Maxi Drawstring Dress in Black | Baia Trio Bag in Dove Grey* | Ace & Tate Suzy Sunglasses in Bio Black* | Cate & Nelson No. 165 Watch* | Merci Maman Personalised Flat Bangle in Gold* | Auree Jewellery Tembo Shina Bracelet in Rose Gold* | Kristen Elspeth Blade Ring & Axe Ring* | Lines & Current The Bar Earrings in Gold* |  Littionary 14k Tiny Yellow Gold Dot Stud Earrings | Dinny Hall Bijou Geode Stud in Gold* | Merci Maman Graduation Chain Charm Necklace*

I admit black may not be your colour of choice when it comes to what to wear on a hot summer day but come the evening, when the temperature drops a little and the sun’s rays no longer penetrate, it’s perfect. And if you have a golden tan then all the better for showing it off.

This loose fitting black silk dress feels amazing on, it’s soft on the skin, floaty and hangs really nicely. I knew from the moment that I first tried it on that I had to have it. It’s another piece in my growing collection of wardrobe essentials from The White Company. I’ve been so impressed with their collection this season and it’s been hard not to go in and buy up half the shop. I can see myself wearing this dress beyond summer and into next season, with the addition of a long sleeved t-shirt or jumper it may even make it into winter.

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.

Feeling Good In Gingham with Justine Tabak

Justine Tabak Gingham Wrap Dress* | Sandro Veinarde Leather Biker Jacket in Black | Penelope Chilvers Valenciana Espadrilles | Labour & Wait Cotton String 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*

A couple of months ago I discovered British brand, Justine Tabak. I met Justine and was introduced to her namesake label at a pop-up shop in Chelsea. I immediately warmed to her and her label. She works with small local manufacturers and uses mostly British made fabrics. She’s passionate about British design and takes her inspiration from all walks of life, from the Pearly Queens of the East End to the Lancashire Mill Girls. Her designs have quite a vintage feel but can be styled to look more or less vintage, however you prefer.

I took a couple of her dresses out to Lisbon last month and they couldn’t have been more appropriate for the city and its weather.  This gingham wrap dress caught my eye straightaway at the pop-up and I was waiting for the perfect opportunity to wear it. I’ve always loved gingham and it’s been great to see it back on everyone’s radar. For ages I’ve struggled to find it anywhere.

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.

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.

Cashmere Is King with Chinti and Parker

Chinti and Parker Star Slouchy Cashmere Sweater in Black* | Levi’s Vintage 501 Jeans | Sandro Veinarde Leather Biker Jacket in Black | Adidas Originals Stan Smith Trainers* | Jaeger Mini Oxford Cross-Body Bag in Black (sold out)* | 88&Cloudless Joy Mini-Star Necklace in Solid 9ct Gold* | Felice Dahl Första Ring in Gold* | Kristen Elspeth Blade Ring in Gold* | Myia Bonner Mini Diamond Circle Stud Earrings in Gold | Retrosuperfuture Paloma Black Matte Sunglasses*

It may sound like a cliche but once you’ve worn cashmere it’s hard to go back. When it comes to knitwear, cashmere really is king. It’s incredibly soft, lightweight and ever so warm – it’s said to be three times warmer than sheep’s wool.

Cashmere comes from the finer undercoat fibres of the cashmere goat. It’s usually combed from the goats during their moulting season and is then separated from the course guard hairs that are moulted at the same time. Each goat is said to produce around 115g each year, meaning for just one sweater the wool of 3-4 goats is required. This is one of the reasons for its elevated cost. There are several grades of cashmere depending on the diameter of the hairs, the best, Grade A is 14-15.5 microns thick and, the worst, Grade C is around double that at 30 microns.

“…for just one sweater the wool of 3-4 goats is required.”

I’ve tested out a lot of high-street cashmere. Initially I’ve been impressed but a couple of wears and washes later and it no longer resembles the jumper I bought. It’s moulted onto everything I’ve touched, there are bobbles on high-friction areas and it’s shrunk. Don’t believe the hype, it’s just not worth it. If you’re ready to invest in cashmere look to the high-end brands that work with the most respected mills. One brand I can highly recommend is Chinti and Parker, a London based clothing brand that specialise in a ‘classic-with-a-twist essence’. They cater for those of us with a more minimalist aesthetic as well as those looking for designs with personality (they collaborated with Miffy last year and have another exciting collaboration coming soon).

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