The Post Holiday Mess

After 10 days in the beautiful town of Puerto del Carmen in Lanzarote, I returned last night to rain in the UK (but also to my wonderful family). This morning the process of emptying my suitcase soon took over most of the lounge, oops; but all of the items in this photograph now hold special memories of the holiday. My denim shorts and trilby hat will now always be associated with traditional Spanish markets. While my chiffon feather print maxi will remind me of delicious fresh salmon and champagne sangria. Happy holidays!

Style de la Semaine

This week's gong for best dressed has me divided. There are two looks which I just love.

Leighton Meester has upped her game this week. At the launch for Vera Wang's new perfume Miss Meester opted for a refreshingly new take on launch party glamour.

A pale pink pleated top and slim black leather look trousers were the perfect combination of feminine and edgy. The nude platform sandals by Brian Atwood are worth extra style points.

The Duchess of Cambridge continues to pleasantly surprise me with her choices. She is without doubt a new muse for the fashion world. For the ARK 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner in London, Kate wore a shimmering pale pink gown by Jenny Packman. The dress was floor length and beautifully embellished.

Kate continued her love affair with the high street by pairing the dress with LK Bennett's Agata shoe and pink satin box clutch. The shoes alone were stunning - a pale pink peep toe, with stiletto heel and a side bow on the ankle strap.

The Palazzo Trouser: Yay or Nay?

So far, I've been unable to join in with the fashion set's enthusiasm for the Palazzo trouser. A trouser so wide on first impressions it can be mistaken for a skirt, is an item I wasn't convinced I needed in my wardrobe. Yet, I couldn't help but fall in love with this black pair from River Island.

The essence of the palazzo trouser is grown-up, effortless elegance and comfort - perfect for summer evenings on holiday. Whats more, every time I look at this pair it takes me back to my younger years, watching Charlie's Angels repeats and longing to wear those seventies flares; all I need to do now is add some wedges and gold jewellery and I'm 'Angel-ready'.

When it comes to gold jewellery for evening wear, my first choice is always an oversized, chunky watch. It will toughen up any outfit and adds a air of sophistication. And speaking of gold, this bag is a must for me too. It will look great against the black of the trousers, and looks luxurious enough to be designer.

To finish off the seventies look add a bright, box cut top - a round neck and short sleeves wins extra style points. I love this pink, orange and black striped one from River Island. The unusual colour mix will really make the outfit pop and as it finishes neatly at the top of the trousers it will balance the silhouette perfectly.

Palazzos don't have to be an 'evening-only' trouser. For a classic day time look, team with a chunky tan satchel, flats and a good ol' tee. For those who can't afford the Mulberry Oversized Alexa, this satchel from Topshop hits the spot just as well. And, I love this Blondie print t-shirt from Miss Selfridge. Finish off the look with a pair of vintage inspired sunglasses.

Black Palazzo Trousers, £34.99, River Island; Sunglasses, £4.99, H&M; Blondie Vest, £22, Miss Selfridge; Tan Clip Lock Satchel, £85, Topshop; Embellished Sandals, £39.99, River Island; Gold Wedges, £69.95, Moda in Pelle; Orange stripe t-shirt, £26.99, River Island; Michael Kors Gold Bracelet Watch, £143, ASOS; Gold Square Bag, £34.99, River Island

Stripes that Pop

Stripes never really go out of fashion. Yet, that doesn't mean they have to be boring. Each season designers find new ways to reinvent the trend, making it 'of the moment'.

This summer - with colour blocking being as big as it is - the take on stripes is all about bold new colour ways and plenty of clashing. Think an orange top paired with a green and bright pink skirt and you're on the right lines. This is a trend that really pops.

If you are a bit of a traditionalist at heart, don't panic, there is plenty of selection out there for you too. This skirt from Topshop is also available in the classic navy and cream combo. Whats more, the elastane and cotton fabric mix ensures this midi hugs every figure showing off curves to the maximum.

The other way to modernise stripes this season, is to wear them big. No longer does a small, skinny stripe earn respect. A great example is this loose, lightweight top from Warehouse. I love the range of colours and that the stripes are varied, but mostly big and bold. Team with slim jeans and heels and you're ready for anything.

Stripe Pencil Skirt, £32, Topshop
Soft Stripe T-Shirt, £55, Warehouse

Summer-ready with Warehouse

I'm really excited about a new purchase of mine - this multicoloured, silk top from Warehouse. It's bright colours and loose fit make it perfect for Summer, and extremely flattering.

From the front it looks quite simple, but the silk fabric makes this ordinary vest silhouette feel instantly dressier, and I love the surprise of the cut out back.

My love affair with Warehouse began seven years ago on a trip to Aston University in Birmingham. A friend and I got a little distracted, and found ourselves separated from the group and wandering around the Bullring. It was on that day that I paid my first visit to Warehouse. I fell head over heels in love with an emerald green, silk, sequined vest. The top still boasts a prominent position in my wardrobe today.

That's something I will say about Warehouse clothing - it does cost that little bit more than the usual high street brands, but boy oh boy can you tell the difference. The items have longevity, and not just in the quality of production, but also in the designs. Items are created that tie in with the season's trends but also manage to be timeless classics. What more can a girl ask for?!

I'll be teaming this tropical number with skinny jeans and gladiator sandals.

Magnolia Floral Cape Back Vest, £45, Warehouse

A Rainbow Shower

Longing to hear those three magic words? Well, here goes... a la Gucci. There I said it. This season there is no escaping the trends tumbling off the Gucci catwalk. And, one of the best, is the end of the reign of nude and barely-there colours (fun though they were) and the new rule of bold, super- brights.

There is only one rule: there are no rules. For the fashion forward wear contrasting, deep colours and even flash a panel of black for maximum impact.

For those a little more conservative at heart, the high street is already full of gorgeous bright accessories. Try a pink suede clutch from Topshop, a patent green skinny belt from ASOS or a bright stoned cuff from bagsofparkle.com.

The Lust List...

Anyone who says they're bored of stripes has obviously not seen the latest offering from River Island.

This chunky knit jumper is the perfect tran-seasonal piece. Wear with slim jeans and brown knee high boots now, and navy tailored trousers and leather brogues come spring.

River Island, £34.99

Return of the Vamp

Leighton Meester wows in this black number by American designer Michael Kors.

Stepping away from the prim and proper look of her Gossip Girl character Blair Waldorf, Leighton looks every inch the vamp in this cut-away maxi. The long chiffon skirt balances the toughness of the leather bodice; and the flashes of flesh send the temperature of this outfit soaring high.

Taking the look to the max, Leighton teamed the dress with dark red nails, smoky eyes and poker straight hair.

Fashion forward and flattering, Leighton is one to watch in the fashion stakes this year.

Style de la semaine

There has been some seriously stylish goings on in the world of celebrity this last week. With some celebs making a surprise first entry into the charts.

Carey Mulligan is one savvy fashionista. It seems like every other day she is appearing on a best dressed list, and with statement looks like this it is no surprise. Working a stunning red Prabel Gurun with ruffled corsage bodice, Carey picked up the Best Actress Award for her role in Never Let Me Go at the BIFAs in London. This look was all about understated items teamed together to create an elegant and breath-taking outfit. Like a true style icon, Carey teamed the simple silk dress with black peep toe heels and a modern printed clutch.

Liv Tyler opted for a cheeky, flirty number at a charity event in New York. I just love this yellow feathery skirt with silver embellished belt. Liv kept the rest of her outfit simple, teaming the skirt with a black blazer, black tee, opaque tights and black heels. Hair was kept minimalist to ensure all eyes were on the fun party skirt, but Liv couldn't resist a flash of red lipstick - suits you Miss.

Going from strength to strength in the style department, Girls Aloud singer Kimberly Walsh shows us what she's made of this week. Miss Walsh upped her style credentials at the British Fashion Awards teaming nude heels and clutch with a strapless bustier top and a bright, jewel green silk skirt. An outfit that on paper should not work, looked fabulous and was polished off perfectly with long glossy curls, a flash of sexy red lips and delicate gold drop earrings.

Other stars of the show this week include Blake Lively at the Annual Footwear Awards in New York. Ms Lively shone in a Prabal Gurung metallic green wrap around mini dress. The highlight of her outfit, however, were the mouth watering tan and black patterned Christian Louboutin shoeboot heels.

Sporting a bandage purple silk and sheer lace Zuhair Murad creation, Katie Perry sizzles somewhere between sexy and demure at the Jingle Ball in LA. Her hair and make-up show her winning credentials, and the Brian Atwood nude heels finish it all off perfectly.

The Advent Calendar

Sealed with Sienna's approval (she was spotted wearing these out and about with Jude in London recently), these shorts are the perfect alternative to a party frock this season.

The tailored, loose fit adds a masculine edge to an otherwise feminine piece. I love the subdued colour tone - a sure way to achieve grown-up glamour. And the turn up and suede texture ensure the piece is bang on trend.

Just add killer heels and a silk blouse to the equation, and you'll be sure to stand out from the crowd.

Suede Pleat Shorts, £65, Topshop

Leopard print... hits the spot

One of my most treasured possessions is a faux-fur leopard print coat from Miss Selfridge. Only purchased last year, this coat is the bearer of numerous compliments, and I cannot wait for the colder climates to breeze in, so I can adorn myself in it once more.

You see, I am a leopard-lover. Currently, my jungle wardrobe includes one silk dress from Warehouse, a floaty Topshop skirt with large pockets and zip detail, a sultry La Senza lingerie set, a somewhat faded T-shirt and a pair of ballet pumps (so old I have no idea of their origin), all in leopard print.

I would go as far as saying that I love leopard more than any other print. Floral is cute and feminine, but it lacks sex appeal. Zebra is quirky and original, but hard to find. Tribal - now this is one that truly rivals leopard, but as striking as it may be it does not carry the charm and daring attitude suggested by a leopard print.

Yet, this print seems to divide the style set quicker than a Team-Monalo vs Team-Choo debate. It is clearly because leopard print can so easily go wrong - there is a very, very fine line between tarty and tasteful. Some fear the print is just too brazen.

That is not something that concerns the felines of the celebrity jungle. Everyone from Sophie Dahl to Lily Allen to Katie Holmes are sporting the trend this winter. And love it or loathe it you will find it difficult to avoid the big cat spots this season. The catwalks for Autumn/Winter 2010 were lavished in the print, and this time is wasn't just the usual suspects taking part. Giorgio Armani made his luxurious and classic tailoring pop with a glimpse of a leopard belt or shoe. Even Dries Van Noten seemed to have a soft spot for leopard ladies, pairing his metallic, slouchy trousers with a leopard printed swing jacket. And my-wardrobe.com has a range of leopard treats including the luscious Kenley Snow Leopard scarf and Kurt Geiger's sexy platform peep toe.


The high street, of course, has also gone leopard mad. ASOS ups the game with 252 items in the exotic print, ranging from Converse Hi-tops to leggings and jumpsuits.

For the faint-hearted among us, my advice is to start small. A simple scarf, a la Sarah Jessica Parker or a cute cross the shoulder bag like Florence. If, like me you don't need to start small, and in fact can't get enough of the print, this winter is the perfect season for you. Make a statement at your Christmas party with a floor length design in the style of Rachel Bilson and Kelly Clarkson. For those who are even more daring, try an original take on the print like Olivia Palermero, who opted for a pink leopard print mini dress and a leopard waist belt.

A Great Spectacle!

With the weather getting wetter and colder, and the nights getting darker earlier, this cute little jumper is the perfect buy to cheer ourselves up. The burnt orange colour will look great against pale winter skin, and the soft cashmere material is bound to keep us cosy. Plus, the cheeky and fun spectacle print makes it perfect for the office or casual sunday afternoons. £95, Whistles

The cape deal...

To cape or not to cape, that is the question...

Capes were all over the Autumn/Winter 2010 catwalks, and with Chloe, Phillip Lim and Celine leading the way it's a sure thing they're going to be big news for fashion followers UK over.

The problem is, I'm not quite convinced by the whole cape thing. When capes first entered the fashion sphere five years, I had a brief but unsuccessful love affair with a cropped, cream military cape. It was lust at first site - the high collar was irresistible and the royal gold buttons and the wrap over detail instantly won me over. And at a high street price, there were no obstacles.


But the romance did not run smoothly. That New Year I went away to the country with my then-boyfriend and his friends. I proudly packed my fashion-forward cape, excited for its first real outing. The result - many mocking comments from the boys, and an inability to wear my beautiful cape without a red, flustered face. Men just do not understand the cape thing, and I can understand why.

Let's face it, capes are not practical. They restrict arm movement and make it rather difficult to carry a handbag. There is also a large risk of looking somewhat like a tent. But it has to be said, capes are so much cooler than the standard winter coat! There is something dramatic and bold about wearing one.


Certain rules do apply though. Stick to skinny trousers to ensure a slim silhouette on the bottom half. And if new to the cape world, start with simple and classic styles rather than the wild and adventurous options out there - one in the shape of a simple pea coat shouldn't be too daunting.

As for me... I think I've carried the scars of teasing boys long enough. Maybe this winter is the time to venture back into cape land...

Loving Drew's Look!

I've never thought of Drew Barrymore as a style icon before - yes, she's a great actress, yes, she's gorgeous, but no, I've never lusted after her outfits. But that's all starting to change.

Dressed in her best glad-rags, Drew wowed when she arrived for the David Letterman Show this weekend. Kitted out in a Richard Chai sequinned blouse and ankle skimming black trousers by Aussie design duo Camilla and Marc, Drew made sure all eyes were on her. Sleek, stylish and yet original, her look was all about opulence and glamour, and I for one love it!

My only fault - her grey YSL pumps. I know that grey is going to be big this winter, and I am a fan; but for me, it just didn't quite work this time. This is more than made up for by Drew's natural long waves and perfect make-up. Overall: thumbs up!

The Oscars Best Dressed 2010

This year's Oscars saw Hollywood stars trying something different. Rather than the usual one-colour simple gown, this was the year for extravagance. There were ruffles, trains, sequins, florals - individuality was key. Here's my pick of the best:

Diane Kuger looked stunning in this black and cream, pleated and ruffled Chanel creation. The intricate detail of the glittering appliquéd flowers around the collar is true red carpet extravagance.

The romantic trend was alive and strong at this year's awards as Zoe Saldana walked the red carpet in an enchanting Givenchy dress. The sparkling bodice and every-shade-of-purple ruffled trail were a sign of true glamour.

The Time Traveller's Wife star Rachel McAdams looked heavenly in this sumptuous, romantic Elie Saab couture number. The voluminous gown featured a latticed bodice and the dusty blue and grey shades added an original rock-chick edge to the gown.

Actress Elizabeth Banks made sure all eyes were on her as she made her way down the red carpet in a pale grey, strapless gown by Versace. The figure hugging design stayed on trend with a ruffled trailing skirt.

One of the best dressed at this year's event had to be Maggie Gyllenhaal. Her Dries Van Noten column dress with its striking blue tropical print made sure she stood out in the crowd.

Sandra Bullock showed off her curves in a shimmering Marchesa gown, with a sheer, floral embroidered bodice and dramatic train. The winner of the Best Actress category kept the focus on her floor length dress by sticking to simple accessories, wearing only pearl drop earrings and a delicate bracelet.

Miley Cyrus edges her way onto the style list in this fairytale Jenny Packham gown. The champagne coloured silk bustier, high-waisted sequined skirt, swooping back and blood red nails create an ever-so-sexy take on a classic showbiz look.

Demi Moore wowed on the red carpet as she worked the romance trend, wearing a nude ruffled gown by Atelier Versace.