The Lust List: Converse High Tops

Converse All Star high tops have been on the 'will purchase soon' list for a few months now; but for some reason I never got round to it.

As a recent treat myself and a few girlfriends took a weekend trip to Barcelona. The weekend was full of long lunches of tapas and sangria, cocktails in the evening and of course, plenty of sight seeing. It was during the sight seeing that I realised just how useful that pair of 'will purchase soon' converse would have been. Although sunny, the weather was not always hot enough for gladiator sandals, and a pair of funked-up pumps would have been the perfect shoe.

Since returning from sunny Spain, I have invested in this lead grey pair, which arrived at 7.30 this morning and will be promptly worn for tonight's outing to the pub. Practical and gorgeous!

I love the colour, and the high top makes them perfect to wear with jeans or leggings and a rock tee during the day, and I might even brave wearing them with a floral mini dress for that urban rock look at night.

All Star Hi Lead Grey, Office, £41.99

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

A new role for Ms Paltrow

I never used to be a fan of Gwyneth Paltrow, but over the last few years I've found myself somewhat in awe of her.

She first captured my attention when she arrived at the Iron Man premiere with newly bobbed hair, sporting a rather short black lacy Balmain dress and particularly high heels. This was not the type of attire we were used to seeing Ms Paltrow in.

Gwyn had always been one for the 'comfort-not-glamour' school; opting for androgynous blazers, plain shirt dresses and even vest tops on the red carpet. She had never been a style icon.

Bring of the Gwyn of 2008. What was so brilliant about the outfits of that year was Gwyn's ability to mix a hint of fun and originality with a real understanding of her own personal style, age and shape. Not once in the star's attempt to glamorise her wardrobe did she dress too young for her age, never did she appear uncomfortable or outlandish in her choices. Yet, the outfits were always a little suggestive and surprisingly on-trend.

This was honestly the first occasion I began to take more notice of the actress (despite always having enjoyed her films). But put that to one side, and she keeps on impressing. For a start, who knew this girl could sing? One word: Glee. And now, she's released her very own cook book Notes From my Kitchen Table.

I've recently become a little obsessed with cookbooks - I'm trying to teach myself to cook and some cookbooks are just beautiful to look at. I have a feeling Gwyneth's will be one of these. So I'm very keen to get my hands on a copy.

I've heard impressive reviews, suggesting the book is compulsive reading and that Gwyn has earned herself a reputation as a formidable foodie. So I'm keen to get my hands on a copy. In particular I'm looking forward to trying the tuna and ginger burgers, fudge chocolate brownies and crispy potato and garlic cake!

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

Textbook Styling

How stunning does Blake Lively look!?

In something a little bit bolder and brighter than her usual style, Ms Lively stole the show at the CinemaCon Awards Gala in Las Vegas this week.

This cap sleeved, tulle-ruffle Marchesa dress is both stylish and sexy. The short skirt length and almost see-through bodice show off enough skin to make this look red-hot. Yet, the luxurious silk fabric, beautiful deep red colour and lace-look embroidery make sure this outfit is nothing short of sophisticated glamour.

Blake let the dress do the talking opting for simple accessories, hair and make-up. A messy up do, feline eyes, a few white bracelets and white drop earrings were all the look required.

As I was just about to publish this post, I came across another equally gorgeous picture of Ms Lively at the awards - it seems this girl just couldn't narrow it down to only one outfit choice.

Working a white lace Dolce & Gabbana mini dress, white blazer and luscious Christian Dior shoe boots, Blake looked every inch a Hollywood star.

She has these looks down to a tee. What's great about both of these outfits is that Blake has managed to incorporate her own penchant for minis, statement dresses and simple hair and make-up with a red carpet worthy, A-lister look. This is textbook styling. She wows in classy creations, while maintaining the essence of her youth. Good work!

Blake was at the awards to collect her gong for Breakthrough Performer of the Year.

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

The Lookbooks...

As it was payday this week, I'm in the mood to shop. I've just had a nose online to get some ideas and have to say I'm finding River Island's styling features quite fresh and inspiring.

I love the clashing prints included in this look - stripes, florals, and a dash of colour blocking thrown in for size. The look is not one I would usually chose, but it does work. I think the addition of the pale pink frilly socks and heels is particularly cute, and ties in this season's preppy trend.

The key to this look is the belt. The mannish, long length blazer would swamp the 1950s full skirt, making one appear rather like a tent, if that belt did not clinch in that waist.

This is a difficult look to pull off - it's all about clashing and being daring, and can so easily go wrong. The most important part - have fun with it!

A New Leading Lady

I just had to post this picture of Amanda Seyfried at the premiere for her new film, Red Riding Hood. Miss Seyfried is spot on in the fashion stakes in this plum coloured Lavin dress.

I love the t-shirt style shape of the dress which adds a grungy, youthful feel to an otherwise sleek mini.

Accessorised with a fabulous statement necklace by Tom Binns, a messy up-do, dark nails and natural make-up. I'm not 100% sold on the shoes though. Usually, I can't get enough of items in nude. But for some reason, this pair leaves me a bit cold. I would have preferred something brighter and without the ankle strap - to me these look like ballet pumps with heels, and it just doesn't work.

Ever since Mama Mia and Dear John I've been a fan of this leading lady, and am looking forward to watching this fairytale flick when it hits cinemas from 15th April.

The Oscars 2011: Best Dressed

So the big night's all over and we all know who won the awards, but who gets a prize for best dressed...

First up is Best Actress winner, Natalie Portman, who wowed in a deep plum Rodarte gown. The soft fabric flowed beautifully over Natalie's baby bump to the floor, showing just a peep of her purple satin Jimmy Choos. The embellished low neckline and Tiffany tassel earrings added a bit of glamour to the beautifully low-key ensemble.

This wasn't love at first sight for me, but after closer inspection I can confirm Mila Kunis' place in the Best Dressed list. This pretty, lavender lace gown is a unique choice - feminine and a little bit sexy. Mila's simple up do sets the look off nicely.

It was good to see Sandra Bullock making a head start on this Spring's bright colours trend. Donning a structured, strapless Vera Wang, with matching coral lipstick, Sandra ensured all eyes were on her.

Amy Adams was stunning in this figure hugging, Sapphire blue L'Wren Scott gown. Encrusted with jewels and with a thigh high split, this dress shone on the red carpet. Amy gets extra points for daring accessorising - opting for a clashing turquoise stoned necklace and bracelet.

It's worth noting a few key trends that showcased at the awards last night. The return of the lady in red was one that couldn't be missed. Follow Zoe Saldana's lead and clash your red with a bright pink shoe or make yours evening appropriate by sticking to a dark crimson and some serious sequins a la Penelope Cruz.

Purple was another popular choice, and a personal favourite of mine for Spring. Scarlett Johansson worked the trend to the max in a seductive lace, backless Dolce and Gabana.

Trend: Aztec Jewellery

I'm falling head over heels for Topshop's new Aztec inspired jewellery collection. It's all about bold colours - burnt orange, turquoise, blood red and emerald green mixed with gold. Think big shapes like statement rings and long rope necklaces with pendant stones hanging near your navel. Stones are roughly cut to create a 'just pulled from the earth of the desert' vibe, and everything is chunky and textured. Wear with maxi dresses come Summer, or a fur Gilet and jeans for Spring style.

Engraved Band Agate Ring, £10; Bead Chain Wrap Drop Earrings, £10; Ethnic Turquoise Bangle, £10, all Topshop

New York Fashion Week Kicks Off

A few days into New York Fashion Week and I've been having a sneaky peak at what was on show.

I'm already lusting after Jason Wu's collection. Lace was heavily featured - reportedly, he used 15 different types all made in Paris in the show. A particular favourite for me was a tight grey jumper with black lace panels running down the sleeves. Mostly black and white, the collection featured the odd glimpse of deep tomato red, violet and nude. Feathered skirts were another highlight, as were the high collared, sheer blouses, ideal office wear. The collection was finished with stunning evening wear in the form of full lightly-layered maxi skirts and tops smothered with sequins.

Alexander Wang created disco fever at his show with flashes of glittering lurex drainpipe trousers in an array of fun colours. Yet, the main focus was luxe sports wear. Wang, once again created tough, sexy and street luxury clothing. Black bomber jackets were turned into ponchos, boyfriend blazers were made from fur and tuxedo jackets had details borrowed from the retro puffa coat. Think glamorous and heavy, hooded knits paired with light-weight skirts and peep-toe leather boots. It wasn't all in the silhouettes either, zip details and fabric choices (often flashes of leather, velvet, satin and chiffon) ensured the look was luxurious yet edgy.

The designer also featured 1920s and 30s inspired items: there were pale peach cashmere coats with fur collars, bias cut satin maxis and fur trimmed accessories.

If the Max Azria runway is anything to go by, those of us who invested in a camel coat this Winter (and let's face it, as the most coveted item around, most of us did) will be able to carry it through another cold season.

The Lust List...

If this beauty is anything to go by, it looks like Spring/Summer 11 is going to be a great season for River Island.

This yellow skirt will breathe new life into any tired Winter wardrobe.

The loose fit and retro pattern create a vintage vibe and the use of dark brown in the skirt makes it the perfect transitional piece.

It's the little details that ensure River Island is at the top of it's game - so often a cute little belt is included in the price of a dress or skirt. On this occasion I adore the included belt, and it makes styling this skirt a doddle.

Wear with brown brogues and a plain knit cardie now and with a satchel and tee come Summer.

Yellow Floral Print Skirt, River Island, £24.99

Trend Alert: Brogues

The androgynous look is always en vogue, and this Spring offers a new treat in the form of the brogue. The key item to the boy meets girl look that was all over the S/S11 catwalks.

I've been considering investing in a pair of brogues for some time, but the masculine shoe is not really my style - I'm quite girly at heart. Yet, working in an office and not wanting to wear heels every day, has led me to the conclusion that this shoe would be a sound and timely investment.

To keep it in-line with the rest of my wardrobe, I've opted for a brogue with feminine detailing and a pale colour.

This shoe by Aldo is a great choice at only £40 and is available int he more traditional colours of black and brown. I think the thin sole, slim fit and almond shape toe keep this practical shoe looking stylish. Surely, this is the shoe of February.

Kegerries Brogue, Aldo, £40

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.

Golden Globes: Best Dressed 2011

It's always a fierce competition, but here's the pick of this Golden Globes best dressed 2011.

Angelina Jolie ditched her signature black palette, for a sequined emerald gown by Atelier Versace.

Other stars of the night, included Anne Hathaway in a gold, floor-skimming Armani Prive dress, which highlighted her stunning curves. The sequins shone perfectly against the red carpet, and Anne scores extra fashion points for her originality - not many opt for full length sleeves at a black tie affair.

Claire Danes was at her best in a salmon coloured, halter neck Calvin Klein. Working one of Springs hottest trends, the minimalist look, Ms Danes paired her outfit with one gold cuff and a sleek up do.

Host of the evening, Olivia Wilde, was one of the few stars to opt for the traditional puffball gown. Looking like a true princess, Olivia wore a breathtaking strapless Marchesa gown coated in silver and gold jewels.

Emma Stone teamed her new blonde locks with a beautiful, body-con maxi by Calvin Klein. Coral is the perfect colour for Spring, and though the dress may have appeared simplistic on a first viewing, the daring cut-away back and metallic clutch made sure this dress got the recognition it deserved.

A cream lace Burberry gown, with sheer sleeves, was the perfect dress for Leighton Meester. And her gold-box clutch is Hollywood glamour at its best.

Glee star Lea Michele shone in a pale pink, ruffled Oscar de la Renta. The one shouldered dress made sure all eyes were on Lea.

Sandra Bullock made the most of the event, showcasing a new blunt fringe and a gorgeously girly Jenny Packman chiffon gown.

The Advent Calendar

Wednesday night drinks... It's time for a bit of mid-week glamour.

Follow in the footsteps of Olivia Palermo, who loves to sport a bit of feather action, with this flirty mini from Net-a-porter.

Be bang on trend and stand out from the crowd with this fun and exotic take on the simple black mini. Pair with understated high heels and it'll make your legs look sky high.

Adam Ostrich Feather Bead Embellished Mini Skirt, £430, Net-a-porter.