The Lust List

A girl can never have too many bags... and I've found the perfect addition to my ever-growing collection!

The drawstring and duffle bag shape are spot on trend for day wear at the moment, and the neutral shade makes this bag so easy to match with numerous outfits. It's a beautifully soft leather and a great size for make-up, books, etc. Whats more, I'm a sucker for anything gold or studded, so the detailing on the strap of this bag is an added bonus in my eyes.

Merino Stud Duffle Bag, £85, Topshop

The Lust List...

Like most girls, I have a list of key items I want to add to my wardrobe - classics, that I'm willing to spend that little bit more on. Quite often these items stay on the list for some time, as I have a strong image of what I'm looking for and won't settle for anything else. Until recently, a pair of tan suede ankle boots with a low heel and a soft black leather jacket had been on mine. The boots were to be worn during the day with jeans and a rock tee, but also needed to be smart enough to dress up a mini for a night at the pub or even a spontaneous trip to a Motown club. The jacket, had to be a combination of soft draped leather to create an air of grown up glamour and sophistication, while sporting enough buckles to create a tough, urban vibe. Thanks to River Island, I can finally cross both off the list. There's a real sense of satisfaction when I find an item on the list, knowing that it will become a staple go-to in my wardrobe for a long time. I've already worn the boots to death, they turn out to be just as perfect for work as for play. And I can't wait for my jacket's first outing.

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.

Style de la semaine

I am loving Victoria Beckham's recent switch to a more relaxed wardrobe. This forest green, sixties-style shift shows Victoria at her best - elegant, sophisticated and looking particularly youthful. The perfect outfit for a meeting in New York city.

It is always a surprise to see Victoria in anything other than sky-high heels, but these monochrome ballet pumps are a cute alternative and the bow ensures they are bang on trend.

As always, the addition of over sized sunnies, gives Victoria that star edge, but her tousled hair keeps the look modern, simple and effective. Wool Crepe Shift Dress, £395, Goat.

Anne Hathaway has upped her game in the fashion stakes, sporting two Winter trends at a recent charity event. Teaming a pleated, 3/4 length leather skirt with a silky white blouse, Anne abandoned her fashion comfort zone.

A flash of nude heels with ankle straps sexed up the look, as did the daring red lippy. Jewellery was kept simple, with a delicate gold pendent necklace and small black watch. Impressive work!

In my eyes, Blake Lively never gets it wrong, and this week's attendance at the Lorraine Schwartz 2BHappy collection launch surely cements her place in 2010's best dressed lists.


Nude has been 'the colour' for so long, that I'm surprised any celebrity would opt to wear it, let alone be able to make it look fresh and new. Yet, Blake did just that in this blush Versace corset dress. The separate silk and shimmering panels emphasised Blake's curves, ensuring all eyes were on her.

Paired with towering chocolate brown strappy Christian Louboutin heels and Lorraine Schwartz droplet earrings, Blake was the essence of glamour. A sleek up-do and bronze toned make-up finished off this sassy but opulent look.