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!

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.

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.

The Advent Calendar

There isn't a more perfect way to start a Monday morning than with a gorgeous piece like this.

Each skirt is hand-painted and therefore completely unique. Fitted as snug as a bug in a rug, this essential Winter maxi will be the perfect partner for a chunky knit. Add some bangles and heeled boots, a la Winter delight.

Drawn in Light, Hand-Painted Tube Skirt, £180, Liberty