Holiday Reading

For me, one of the things I look forward to most about a holiday in the sun (apart from a tan and a few strong cocktails obviously) is the opportunity to get stuck in to some brilliant books.

As a self-confessed book worm I always have a pile of novels by my bed and a list in my head of what to buy next. The only problem with this is that I can never read quick enough and the pile and list are ever growing.

Tomorrow I'm jetting off to sunnier climates with a few girlfriends and am eager to get that bikkini on and the first book open. Here's the shortlist:

Black Mamba Boy by Nadifa Mohamed
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
The Help by Kathryn Stockett
The Memory of Love by Aminatta Forna
Sleeping Arrangements by Madeleine Wickham

I'll let you know how I get on.

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.

Three Things

Since the interior design class last week I've been much more aware of the space I live in and how it impacts my mood. I've concluded that it is the little things that can make a space feel like home - here's three small but very special items that never fail to bring me joy.

This gold and black frame was found on a chance visit to what I would call an "everything" store. Never before or since have I found a frame quite like it. I think it's beautiful and has a somewhat 1920s decadent vibe. It was a real bargain and the picture brings back wonderful memories of my trip to Paris last year with a girlfriend.

A gold Buddha, which was a gift from my brother many years ago, has travelled with me to all my homes during my university years and back to Leamington Spa again. I've heard that traditionally Buddhists place ornaments of the Buddha facing a door to welcome guests into their home; I find that snippet of history and tradition brings this piece to life. Sentimental reasons aside, I adore this item. The gold makes the statue glamorous, yet the piece itself is quite an unusual and bold choice.

Lastly, is the terramundi pot (another brilliant gift from my brother). I'd never heard of these pots before last September, and love the idea behind them. A 2000 year old tradition from Italy, these pots are a more beautiful and grown up version of a piggy bank. Once full with coins the pot is smashed and the money spent on "good things". It is also said that a wish made while smashing the pot will come true. Each pot is hand painted and slightly different, so each is one of a kind. The only problem: this pot is so gorgeous I'm not sure I'll ever be able to smash it!

The Art of Interior

Saturday was spent at an Interior Art and Design class at the University of Warwick. Part of the day included creating mood boards - two of which I thought I'd share with you all.

The first is is quite an eclectic mix. The inspiration began with the image of a very English country cottage kitchen and dining room - I love the wooden floors, vintage inspired chairs and the way the space is used. This quickly became mixed in with images of red Moroccan houses, minimalist sleek wooden tables and bold orange walls. Throw into the melting pot some kitsch items such as the birdcage cushion and red spike clock and it became quite a combination.

I was unsure if all these styles would work together, or if it would be just too much. Luckily, it seemed to all come together. I now know what I want my living room to look like, I just need a house.


Secondly, I tried to create a luxurious and decadent vibe, but also something quite homely and livable. The colour palette was grey and raspberry, though I struggled to find enough raspberry images to include to emphasise the intended 50/50 colour divide.

My key pieces for this romantic style room include an extravagant baroque gold mirror, an antique style clock and long flowing curtains. A shapely wooden framed headboard, luscious fabrics and numerous candles would also not go amiss.

I'm now quite eager to find out more about Interior Design - from the history and development of the art to architecture to Feng Shui to the different schools of style. I'll keep you posted on my findings...

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

Bargain Spring Updates

I popped into Boots last week with the intention of only purchasing a few necessary items. Yet, I found the beauty aisles calling me.

Heading over to the Rimmel section I found three fantastic new season nail colours, and with a great offer, of three for two, I couldn't say no.

First choice was an aqua green shade called Sky High, I wore this last week and had numerous compliments. It's bright and summery, and that little bit different.

Next, I opted for pale grey shade, Grey Matter - a colour I've never owned before. It's a new take on a classic neutral shade, so it feels that little bit more edgy and rock star.

Finally, my free choice. I decided on a peach-pink colour called Rose Libertine. It looks fresh and feminine. The perfect shade for work, as it's not too bright or garish.

These three little gems have really got me in the mood for summer. It's amazing how a little treat like a few nail polishes can boost my mood and they've already helped live up a few outfits. It's like a brand new accessory, without the price tag.

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.

Book Club - Love and Summer by William Trevor

Last night I attended one of my book club meetings - always an enjoyable night as it consists of nibbles, wine and, of course, talk of books. On this occasion we discussed William Trevor's novel, Love and Sunshine.

None of us had read any of Trevor's previous novels, and I must admit I wasn't really looking forward to starting it. The story tells of Ellie, a young convent girl who has married a widowed Irish farmer. Although he treats her well there is no real love or passion between them. Then Ellie meets a stranger in the village and over the hot days of Summer Ellie and the stranger form an illicit attachment.

I had predicted the novel would be overly romantic and unrealistic to the point of frustration. I was somewhat pleasantly surprised - it wasn't as bad as I had expected.

However, the book club consensus went something like this: The book was slow and written in a complicated manner; worse still, nothing really happened.

Characterisation was another issue. Put aside the fact that all the characters were under developed and one dimensional; there were numerous characters that could easily have been excluded from the novel, their presence adding nothing worthwhile. What's more, the female characters were weak, badly treated by the men they cared for and dull - this is something irritating for a female reader.

Perhaps, I have been unfair in the portrayal of this book. It is an easy read, and the descriptions do create some beautiful images of the Irish countryside. But if I'm honest, there are much better novels out there.