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 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

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

The Advent Calendar

What better way to end the weekend than with a new pair of shoes? And fashion doesn't get much prettier than this.

Swap your usual black heels, for this edgier charcoal colour. The peep toe and lace tie bow keep this shoe girly and cute.

Surely this is a last minute addition to the Christmas list!

Studio TMLS Delia Lace Sandals, £155, Topshop

The Advent Calendar

The countdown to Christmas starts here...

Velvet? Tick. Gold? Tick. Tough detail sole? Tick. This shoe hits all the key trends this season, and let's be honest, what girl wouldn't love to find this under her tree come Christmas morning? Extra marks for the patent strap, cloudy blue colour and cut out detail. The tailored structure makes this shoe perfect for Winter's peg trouser; alternatively, team with a short party dress to toughen up a feminine look.
The Linden Shoe, £175, Jaeger

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!