Jo's Clothes

An Ode to Pajamas...

2012-01-21T18:52:00.000Z

This is a dedication to bed wear as outwear. Flowing silkiness, cute prints and luxurious comfort. An ode to Stella McCartney's casual block printed pj's and Clements Ribeiro's sexy pale printed version.

I'll take Vogue's Pajama Party and raise them these Lanvin printed silk ones.

At £742.50 in the sale you know you'd have to wear them outside to return good pound to wear ratio.

Picture them with lashings of gold jewellery and mega high heels plus, the standard gloss of red lippy.

Would you wear your jammies outside?
This question does not apply to the chavs down my local Tesco's who already do!

Image from Net-A-Porter.

Give Me Givenchy...

2012-01-19T12:48:00.000Z

I've been scouring Style.com for the latest Pre-Fall 2012 collections ahead of the upcoming fashion weeks. Picking my favourite was easy. For me, it's all about Givenchy. I want it all and I want it now.

Focusing on the 1950's silhouette of Bettie Page crossed with 1970's horseback riding, Riccardo Tisci showcased a collection for strong women, heavy with detailed construction techniques. Each look was paired with knee-high boots, complete with heel-covering sheaths.

I like the tough military look and the balance of the structured, heavy jackets and leather gloves against the softer printed tops and dresses.

Can't you just picture Victoria Beckham rocking the cap and sunnies on arrival at an airport somewhere?

It's definitely worth having a look through the whole collection here.

Images from Style.com

Welcome to the World...Joshua Ethan

2012-01-17T20:29:00.001Z

On the 30th December 2011 my big cousin and his girlfriend gave birth to Joshua Ethan Carley, my second cousin. And boy, what a little cutie.

I am by NO means a baby person and am not maternal at all, but my, I am besotted. He has to be the cutest little baby I have ever seen.

Me, the mothership and Joshua

I met him for the first time the weekend before last and fell in love. As the first baby into the family he is literally all we talk about these days and that is why I'm dedicating a post to him.

Can you tell I look like my mum from this picture? I love that we're both rocking stripes here.

Image from deviate.cx

Hits & Misses from the Golden Globes...

2012-01-16T20:05:00.001Z

I know everyone has already blogged about the hits and misses from the Golden Globes, but because I was asleep when they happened and then at work during the day, I'm having my say now.

I'll start with Angelina Jolie. It will come as no surprise that she's wearing Atelier Versace but it will come as a shock that she's not in black and looking, dare I say it, dull.

I like the white simplicity with the bold red panel at the neck, and that's as far as it goes. I just don't think it suits her. In fact I'd go as far as saying the dress wears her rather than vice-verse. Don't you think they both look a little awkward too?

Now onto my so-so's...

I really like both Mila Kunis in Dior and Zooey Deschanel in Prada, but I don't feel wowed. Am also not keen on Zooey's bouffant. That's it.

My oh no's...possible the easiest category to pick...

*Sigh. Where to start, where to start. Sarah Michelle Gellar in Monique Lhuilier. There are no words really and that to me, is such a shame. This dress is gorgeous and on the runway looked beautiful, but here, it just swamps her ultra petit frame.

As for Lea Michele in Marchesa, boy, she really went all out, which I admire. I'm just not digging it.

Finally I thought I'd end on a high with my favourites....

Ah Heidi Klum, normally one to go OTT at awards events looked absolutely incredible in the nude Calvin Klein which she paired with a brilliant turquoise necklace. Amazing. Ladies above please take note.

Michelle Williams wore Jason Wu and shows how one simple, well fitted deep blue dress can look beautiful. As for Selma Hayek in Gucci, wow. She looks hot. I like the shimmering black skirt with the golden detailing to the bust.

What did you think? Who rocked it for you?

Images from Style.com

Speech Bubble...

2012-01-15T21:26:00.002Z

I almost keeled over when I went to one of my favourite designers, Olivia Rubin's site and saw this message.

Oh my, oh my. There is one piece from her AW11 collection which I've had my eye on for a while. The Sophie Speech Bubble jumper.

And now it's been reduced from £110 to just £50. It's a pity I'm completely skint - I'm not sure there will be any left after pay day.

Damn it.

If I were you I'd start shopping, they won't last long. Go now!

Images from Olivia Rubin

Update on Cut Throat Jo...‏

2012-01-12T21:48:00.003Z

Some of you may have noticed a scar in the middle of my neck, or you may have followed my story over the past two years. This is just an update.

Tuesday, for me, was a great day. It saw the end of my six month treatment with the dreaded steroid injections. Firstly I'm a massive wuss and hate needles, so to have between two and four stabbed directly into my scar every month was not fun. The immense pain the day after was horrific and the grumpiness didn't make it easier. At work we dubbed it my 'roid rage.

You see, if you don't know the story, two years ago I found a big lump growing in my throat. It got so big it started to put pressure on my wind pipe which made it painful to swallow and made me heave a lot. I had test after test, scan after scan with no one knowing exactly what it was. The best bet was that it was a mass of blood vessels that had grown around my thyroid. The plan was to remove it as soon as possible.

From this we learnt that I had a tumour, luckily benign, growing on half of my thyroid. It was a slow and painful recovery where neck movement was extremely restricted.

Unfortunately for me we found that I was a hyperthrophic healer. My scar had become raised, lumpy and very angry looking. I was also left with a massive amount of hard scar tissue which still put pressure on my throat. Last August I went back for more surgery to have the scar and tissue cut out and resown. This all went smoothly (more smoothly than the scar) but It still didn't heal as well as it could of.

Five months on and it's still red and angry looking but the lumpiness has gone, thanks to the steroids. The only downside is the steroids thinned my skin under the scar so you can now see every blood vessel and if lifted, you can see the tendon in my neck. Gross.

Anyway, the steroids have finished, the frequency of my hospital appointments has decreased and I have a silicone gel which is helping with the appearance.

I don't think it will ever fade completely BUT I am healthy and I am happy.

Finally.

"Double doors. So far, so good."

2012-01-11T08:30:00.000Z

So, here's a little update on my life at the moment.
Me and the not-so-new boyf (it's been a year today - agh!) have started viewing flats to rent, as we both want to move out of home and in together.

Let me tell you, this is quite a painful experience. Property in our area is expensive and you get diddlysquat for your pound.

This in itself has led to a few heated discussions about renting vs buying. Basically I don't have enough savings by a long way to be able to contribute to a mortgage, but if we both stayed at home for another year, then we might have a good deposit. My feelings are the opposite. I'd like to start living in a space that I could call my own.

In fact, one of my main criteria is to have space/room for a wardrobe. I'm taking my inspiration from Carrie in Sex and the City.

"Double doors. So far, so good."

How do I make my wish come true?

How about you, rent or buy?

Love a Bit of Leather...Love a Bit of Balmain

2012-01-07T21:22:00.000Z

If you read the blog regularly, are a member of my family, or have just happened to bump into me on a random night out, you will know I have a love for leather (sometimes pleather but we don't brag about it).

You will then also appreciate my love for Balmain and their stretch leather pants, courtesy of Net-A-Porter. Although, whether these actually stretch to fit a normal sized bum I'm not so sure. Could I make the leather/muffin-top look work?

These, at £2,455, are pure sex. They scream rock and roll and you can imagine seeing none other than Kate Moss rocking out in them.

This insane price tag doesn't deter me though. All I can think is how amazing these would make your bum look. Shallow? Me?

What do you think, are you a leather fan?

Image from Net-A-Porter.

WIOW... Clutch it

2012-01-04T09:00:00.007Z

I am in desperate (well that might be a slight exaggeration) need of a cool new clutch. Obviously I went straight to Net-A-Porter where I found this magnificent Alexander McQueen one.

I bask in its glory.

The serpent skull, the brass gold, the snakeskin, the knuckle grip. It's all pure McQueen genius and I love it.

Just need to work out where I can find £1,150 to get it.... Any ideas?

Image from Net-A-Porter.

Monday Blues...On Tuesday

2012-01-03T21:33:00.001Z

Today was the first day back in the office after the holidays, and boy, did I feel it.

The weather this morning was miserable. The gale force winds and drizzle managed to play havoc with my frizzy hair, the queue for a train ticket was ridiculous and my train fares have gone up. Fabulous.

What's worse though was my complete inability to type today. Or to make sentences. Or to tick anything off my to-do list.

I am now comforting myself with a jumbo Pick & Mix of Fruit Pastilles, Fruit Gums and Tooty Frooties.

I was all in a grump until I saw this......

This makes everything that little bit easier.....

This is David Beckham in his (tight) pants for H&M. Thank you Lord.

Image from The Fashion Spot

Warm and Cosy...

2012-01-02T17:11:00.000Z

I am partial to a bit of knitwear. In particular, I find myself growing more and more fond of jumper dresses. They're easy to wear, can just be thrown on and most importantly to me, are cosy.

I picked up a bargain cream and black striped one from a charity shop in Chiswick the other day and wear it as much as physically possible without seeming smelly, or causing offence to the other clothes in my wardrobe.

One of my new favourites was gifted to me from the mothership for my birthday. It's from Warehouse, is a deep maroon, is bobbly and full of holes. I kinda want to live in it forever.

I've teamed it with patterned tights, new River Island ankle boots (more to come on these), my double wrap Paul Smith belt, Whistles necklace and plum lips courtesy of Chanel.

What's your go-to cosy outfit?

P.S Stay with me on the image front, am still using an Iphone as our camera broke...

Reflecting on 2011

2012-01-01T20:59:00.000Z

I wasn't really sure what I wanted to blog about on the first day of the New Year. Do I go for resolutions, do I brag about the fact that I don't have a banging hangover, or do I simply put together some of my favourite pictures from last year? I chose the latter...

Me, the not-so-new-boyf and our besties in Sweden

Twiggy and Florence at a friends fancy dress

Feeling patriotic watching the Royal wedding

Watching the sunset with my favourite people in Ibiza

Ahhh, memories.

A Little Bit of George for New Year's Eve

2011-12-31T21:33:00.002Z

Wow, what a year 2011 has been.

Me and the not-so-new-boyf have been together for (very nearly) a year, I've had three amazing holidays to Sweden, Ibiza and Barbados, and have almost finished all treatment for the scar on my neck. So, when I was contacted about creating a look for the New Year, I thought why the hell not. All I had to do was pick a dress from the evening dresses collection at George.

I rarely shop for my own clothes in supermarkets but was intrigued to see how good the quality and style was for such cheap items. I went for a one shouldered blue floral print dress which retails for £16.

In full swing...

I've styled it with grey tights, furry shoe boots, a Paul Smith double-wrap belt and my favourite blue statement necklace.

What do you think? Bargain or what?

Happy New Year to you all!

Let me know what you've been wearing...

Video Games...

2011-11-29T21:04:00.001Z

Lana Del Rey has catapulted onto my music radar. I find myself captivated by her soulful voice, olden style video and of course her lyrics.

I've listened to this song on repeat constantly and have noticed how easily I can transfer the lyrics to my love life. I'm blissfully happy, (don't worry I haven't changed, this still makes me cringe when I type this mushy stuff), with a guy who has slightly geeky gaming tendencies... Of course there is more but I don't want to give it all away...

I love this song and am deeming it ours.

There's nowt wrong with a bit of crochet...

2011-11-27T22:34:00.001Z

I have been wanting to write this post for a little while now. I've stared longingly at the screen, conducted mini polls with friends, family and my work lot and have even planned what I would wear it with to various festive events.

That's right. I've finally got round to writing about this bargain of a House of Holland Crochet Maxi Dress.

My wear-ability list goes a little like this.... to parties, work dos, Christmas day, my birthday (28th Dec in case you didn't know), when I do the washing, when I pop to the shops, when I bathe...etc etc.

So I might exaggerate slightly, but I do really ~~like~~,~~want~~, ~~love~~, NEED this dress in my life.

Crochet Maxi Dress - House of Holland

The crochet print is amazing and perfectly HoH. I've never owned anything from there and only went on to the site to look for tights. I stumbled across this number and it was love at first sight. Plus the fact that I could own such a garish print from a designer I admire for only £100 seems like too good an offer to be real.

I'm just not sure if it would work with all my junk in the trunk?!

What do you think? Yay or nay?
Help me out here.

Where've you been hiding?

2011-11-17T19:29:00.000Z

Let me start with a little disclaimer. This is not going to be one of those posts where I start apologising for my lengthy absence - even though it kinda is.

To say it's been a busy few weeks would be a massive understatement.

Work has gone haywire with a massive redesign for our website, meaning long hours and to-do lists as long as my arms - and they're fairly long.

For this hazy period of time I have given up any iota of a life, social or otherwise, that I had. Work has become all consuming.

I'm typing this on my phone after a particularly BAD day, so please forgive me if this post is a tad on the dramatic side... I'm just getting it all out my system. Sometimes you just gotta vent, right?

Here comes the good news...

My very talented little friend, who on this blog goes by the name of my fashion side-kick, has been poached from my grip and zooms off to Panama this weekend, where she'll be working with the fashion label Miss Moss to put on a massive fashion event. Jealous?!?! Me!!!

One of my other besties is now sporting a glistening gem on one of her most important fingers and has asked me to be one of her bridesmaids. You'll be please to know I have accepted this offer (obviously) on the proviso that I won't be dressed in yellow or taffeta.

Seeing as this post is turning into a complete run through of my life, I might as well fill you in on the not-so-new boyf. We now have a plant together. He doesn't quite realise how big of a deal this is but I am trying to accept my new found responsibility. It just doesn't come easy.

And finally some breaking news - I am no longer a fan of the Miu Miu glitter shoeboots since Kitty wore them (to death) on the X Factor.

Not sure when I'll be back in full, so ta ta for now...

What I Want Right Now

2011-10-15T10:40:00.001+01:00

I ~~NEED~~, ~~WANT~~, WOULD KILL FOR THESE BOOTS IN MY LIFE RIGHT NOW...

Alexandra Stud Cut Out Boots - Topshop

Just look at them. The heel is chunky enough to protect my weak Bambi-like ankles, there are tough looking studs dotted around on the inside heel, they have buckles on the ankle and cut out detailing.

What's even better is the fact that they are only £80 from Topshop.

But pretend I didn't just tell you that, I want to get my grubby little hands on them first...

Mossy Magic

2011-10-07T18:14:00.001+01:00

I always LOVE seeing pictures of Kate Moss. I don't mind if it's her on holiday, old magazine covers or her on the front row. But my ultimate favourite shots are always those of her walking the runway.

Especially when she looks like this...

You've probably all seen the pictures by now and will know that she closed the show for Louis Vuitton.

Style.com wonders if this was Marc Jacobs swan song. Will he, won't he move to head up Dior. What do you think?

In the meantime mosey on over and view the complete collection, it's magical.

Image from style.com

Utter Perfection...

2011-10-03T21:24:00.000+01:00

My blogging has been taking a massive back seat compared to everything else that's been happening in my life recently. My posts are becoming more and more sporadic, and after a hard day at work I just don't want to come back and sit at my little laptop.

But...I am trying to rekindle my passion. I don't want to just post for the sake of posting - I want to enjoy it.

Sometimes in life all you need are the small things...like a sunny October weekend, the not-so-new boyfriend, a BBQ and a big jug of Pimms...to make you realise that something's important to you.

Utter perfection

I'm back.

Fantasy Fur

2011-09-17T10:19:00.000+01:00

This winter I see myself wrapped up warm in several layers, topped off by my big black cape and faux fur. I have the layers, I have the cape, just no fur as of yet. Until now that is...

I just so happened to come across Fantasy Fur on ASOS and have fallen ever so slightly in love - yes, I do realise I use that L word A LOT!

I have narrowed my selection down to three key pieces.

Fantasy Fur Pom Pom Collar, £25:

Fantasy Fur Pointed Collar, £15:

Fantasy Fur Fox Tail Collar, £25:

I think the cute little pointed collar would look sweet around a little jacket but for some reason the big purple number is shouting out at me more. Maybe its the colour, the way I can already picture it around my cape, or the big buckle in the middle.

What do you think?

Forcefield...

2011-09-05T11:18:00.002+01:00

Now, let me get things straight, to the outside world I am not a slushy person. Unfortunately the not-so-new boyfriend just has this effect on me. It's out of my control I'm afraid.

I love Calvin Harris especially his new song, Forcefield.

Digging it. Especially for reasons known to the not-so-new boyfriend.

Feels perfect to listen to with the chance of more heavy rain beating down.

What songs are you listening to?

WIOW... I Spy A Tiger

2011-08-31T11:16:00.000+01:00

Scarily, August is practically over and you can definitely feel it in the air. My house is freezing.

I always look forward to the start of September and shopping for warmer clothes. This year I'm imagining myself in chunky knits, thick tights and jewel coloured trousers, preferably in velvet form.

When scrolling through ASOS, looking for a birthday present for the not-so-new boyfriend, I stumbled across this jumper...

Sons of Heroes Tiger Knit Jumper, £105

I know printed jumpers with some kind of animal on the front are going to be seen everywhere, but this tiger printed one from Sons of Heroes, just looks so good.

I'm already mentally pairing it with my green trousers, or my pink bubble skirt. Although, at £105, it's very, very expensive.

One can always dream...

What the Water Gave Me...

2011-08-30T10:38:00.000+01:00

I have to start by saying I love Florence and her Machine. I love her haunting voice, her vivid locks and her vintage clothes.

I also love her new song, What the Water Gave Me...

The video almost doesn't feel like a music video. It's like an insight into her musical process. You see her writing, recording and performing.

LOVES IT.

What do you think? Are you a Florence fan?

Silky...

2011-08-26T19:30:00.000+01:00

Seeing as I'm not wearing much at the moment, other than my sheep-covered PJ's, I thought I'd take this opportunity to share some outfit posts that I've been stocking up.

Oh, and excuse the pics, they were taken on an iPhone as my camera has been playing up...

Trousers - Miss Selfridges, Vest - ASOS, snake print boob tube - Primark, wedges - KG by Kurt Geiger

I wore this little ensemble to a best friends housewarming. Yes, that's right, two of my good friends have just brought their first house. It's both exciting and scary at the same time.

These trousers have been sitting in the wardrobe for ages without being worn, they're silky, baggy and a bit like pajama bottoms - so very fitting for what was a beautiful summer evening.

I wore a loose fitting top and tucked in the front section to show that I had some sort of waist and shape hidden underneath...

WIOW.... Metallic Trousers

2011-08-24T12:56:00.000+01:00

Well hello metallic trousers, how do you fancy jumping into my wardrobe? I've got a hanger with your name on...

ASOS Herringbone Metallic Trousers

I've been craving some slim fit trousers for a while now. The short ankle length only adds to the appeal. As does the metallic colour.

I can see them teamed with a sheer blouse and heels for work or a little cami and blazer for nights out.
Think I've just talked myself into purchasing them... Especially as they're only £40.

I always struggle to find trousers to fit my dodgy shape, so am unsure whether these will actually work and flatter me. But hey ho, you have to try.

An Open Letter to Santa...

2011-08-23T16:10:00.001+01:00

Dear Santa,

Seeing as Christmas is only 124 days away, I figured I'd try to get my letter to you on the early side this year. My mum always said to me it's better to be safe than sorry!

Let me just start by saying I have been a really good girl this year.

I've got myself a new boyfriend who I've taught how to moisturise, deodorise, and accessorise. I've shown my mum the power of skinny jeans on her little chicken legs, and taught my dad the power of a slim cut shirt.

I smiled happily when my best friend told me he was moving away, I screamed with joy when my cousin announced him and his girlfriend were pregnant and due on Christmas, and I didn't even bat an eyelid on my other cousins new relationship status. And, I did this all without judging or making a fuss, I didn't even mind the lack of attention on me.

To add to that, I've brought to life my mum's old food processor and lovingly used it to teach myself how to bake.

All in all, I think I've behaved spectacularly so far this year.

And that, Santa, is why I think I DESERVE and NEED these Miu Miu glitter and suede peep-toe ankle boots in my life.

Please Santa, gift me these Miu Miu boots, I've been really good this year...

The glitter works perfectly for the party season and the peach suede is to-die-for. It would be an insult, to not only all my clothes, but my wardrobe if it weren't able to house these beauties.

Now, I don't want you to think I'm being selfish about these boots. Not only would they make me a very happy child (which is what you're all about remember), but they would make everyone around me happy too. You see, these shoes just spread love and cheer. Many a lady would coo over them. Heck, even my not-so-new boyfriend is impressed with them, "They're deceiving as the pink part looks like one shoe and glitter part another."

They're an investment and I appreciate that. I'm not sure how long it would take the little elves at Miu Miu to create them, so I'm getting in early. We wouldn't want them all to run out and be out of fashion by Christmas would we Santa?

Speaking of which, are you doing any early test runs this year? I'm sure the reindeer's legs could do with a stretch. If so, wouldn't it make sense to fly over my house and just drop the pretty box through my chimney? That way I could get the most wears out of them. I'll leave some mince pies, sherry and carrots out just in case.

Looking forward to seeing you (don't worry I won't tell anyone).

Love,
Jojo

Your biggest fan.

xxx

A Little Nip n Tuck...

2011-08-23T13:01:00.001+01:00

Surprisingly I have been a bit absent again, but this time I have a good ~~excuse~~ reason. I've been in hospital again. My consultant wasn't happy with how the scar on my neck was healing. It was raised and lumpy and had a vast wad of scar tissue sitting underneath, which was still putting unpleasant pressure on my throat.

So, last Wednesday I went back to the Royal Surrey to have a little nip and tuck.

I'm pleased to say that so far it all seems fine. I went under talking about about cake and woke up thinking I was at a work event interviewing one of our chefs! Nothing strange there then.

I'm having some movement issues, as in I can't actually move my neck at all as the skin is so freakin' tight and I can't risk making the scar grow. This makes everything that little bit more challenging.

So, I'm currently at home watching Sex and the City on loop from series one to six, trying to catch up on my blog (hence this explanitory post), and trying to stop myself from continuously adding these Miu Miu glitter peep toe boots to my basket - more on those later.

While I'm here I need a little help. I want to have a clean up on my blog and re-do my blogroll. Any good suggestions of blog I should be following? Let me know...

Bringing out the Animal...

2011-07-30T16:51:00.000+01:00

It seems my animal print obsession is somewhat taking over my life. I cannot walk a foot without being struck by garish and sometimes vulgar prints…yet all of them seem to seduce me.

My latest cravings of the animal variety, come from two of my favourite places, Kurt Geiger and ASOS.

I've been on the look-out for a printed faux fur coat for a few years now. I just can't seem to find one that ticks all the boxes. It gets even worse when I actually try them on, none of them seem to fit me properly. It's either the arm length, the bulkiness of the coat or just the way it turns me into a big square shape.

It's a little disheartening, especially when you want something so badly.

That's why my spirits lifted when I saw this...

From ASOS, this faux fur hooded coat is soon to be mine. I know it's a little gimmicky with the hood, the ears and the cute pom poms, but, I love it. I also think £80 is extremely good value for a coat - especially one that will make the not-so-new boyf laugh.

My second printed crush belongs to these Kurt Geiger Momentum shoes...

Priced at £195, they're not cheap but they would be an investment item. I'm already imagining them with a cute dress and black tights, or paired with skinny jeans and a shirt. Although I appreciate they may get ruined in the rain we can always depend upon in the winter months, I still want them.

Damn you animal print.

Meet Harper Seven

2011-07-17T13:51:00.001+01:00

Both Victoria and David Beckham took to Twitter and Facebook today to show the world Harper Seven.

Victoria tweeted "Daddy's little girl".

While David's caption read, "Took this picture of my two girls sleeping."

These pictures are beyond cute.

I'm very happy that Victoria (who is one of my favourite people) has a baby girl to pass her wardrobe down to. Imagine the dresses, the hats - which Harper Seven already seems to wear well - and the bags.

I cannot wait.

Louder...

2011-07-17T10:04:00.000+01:00

I'm posting this video for purely selfish reasons - because I love it.

It makes me want to move to LA, bust out some denim hotpants and learn to roller blade. Now those three things might not ever happen but here we go...

DJ Fresh ft. Sian Evans 'Louder'.

To me, it sums up how summer should be, clear blue skies, skimpy clothing and friends. Rather than the dreary rain and grey skies we are currently experiencing.

What's your song for the summer?

Ibiza Baby!

2011-07-16T16:41:00.001+01:00

"Woah. We're going to Ibiza. Do-do-do-do-dododododo. Woah. Back to the island. Woah. We're going to have a party. Do-do-do-do-dododododo. Woah. In the Mediterranean sea."

Yes I have quoted Vengaboys, yes I went there, don't judge me!

So I've been back from Ibiza for a week or so and am reliving the memories through my pictures. Me and the not-so-new boyf went out there with 6 of my besties for a friends birthday. Luckily it wasn't a hardcore party holiday because I honestly don't think I could hack it - how sad!

Anyway, here are some of my best bits...

Me with a cheeky cocktail on date night.

The beautiful sea surrounding Formentera which we visited on a day trip.

Me basking in the sun before date night.

Watching the sun setting at Cafe del Mar

All eight of us animal-ed up ready to go to Zoo Project.

My highlights include:

Zoo project - all eight of us got dressed up as animals for a pre-party in a disused zoo.
Getting a slight sun tan and being told by everyone at work that I now look healthy!
Having a stars stencilled on the top of my arm and then finding out I have sun tan lines.
Constant cocktails.
The beautiful beach at Formentera.
Spending a week with the people that I love.
Having a great villa with a great pool.
Having time off work and being able to relax.

I loved it. Can't wait for the next one...

WIOW... Brick Tee

2011-07-13T14:35:00.000+01:00

This Want It On Wednesday will not surprise you. In fact, you should have seen it coming...

This brick print tee needs no introductions.

Not sure who it's by? Let me give you some clues:

She's one of my favourite designers and has been for some time
I have a ton of her dresses in my wardrobe
I once Photoshopped my head onto a few of her designs

Yep, this brick print puff sleeved top is from Olivia Rubin's Oli Rubi range and is actually quite old now. Honestly, I'm not sure why I haven't snapped it up already. Now at £30 it's a complete steal. I love the slight slouched shape it has and I love the peach.

Consider it sold.

Me Time...

2011-07-12T21:37:00.001+01:00

Tonight I'm doing my best Carrie Bradshaw impression. I'm at home in my undies catching up with blog. Not just any old undies may I add, no, these are a pastel pair of French knickers teamed with a cut-out Ibiza Rocks vest - a classic holiday memento.

I'm also currently painting my nails and have in fact managed to pluck my eyebrows. Who'd have thought it.

You see recently I have had no spare time. Work's been crazy, then I went on holiday, then work's been crazy again. I have also been spending every spare minute of my time with the new boyf. Well, he's not really that new anymore seeing as we've just hit the seven month stage.

It feels strange typing about it on here, I've never really been known for talking about my feelings. The not-so-new boyf seems to have had this weird effect on me. These days I smile constantly, cry at anything remotely soppy and pour my heart out to anyone who'll listen. It's certainly a first. I'm even the one people come to for advice - a complete shocker.

I'm enjoying life to the full at the moment and although I'm pushing myself, I'm kind of liking it.

I don't want to apologise for writing what seems like a diary entry but instead would urge others to. It's quite cathartic.

Who am I? And what have I done with the real Jo?

Sorry for a big post of nothing-ness!!

I need dollars dollars, dollars are what I need...

2011-06-21T22:00:00.000+01:00

So the sales have hit our shores and I for one am disappointed. I have found nothing that massively rocks my socks (which are currently gold and glittery).

If I wasn't going on holiday there would be a one splurge I might have made. I've had my eye on these Louboutin Rozeppa 140 Suede Sandals for a while now. Originally priced at £575, a figure which makes me want to cry, they are now in the net-a-porter.com sale for a bargainous sum of £345.

I appreciate that is still a helluva lotta money but come on, just how AMAZE are these shoes.

They have the chunkiest heel known to man, black suede detail to cover my webbed toes (I'm not ashamed to admit this), plus they have ankle straps. Oh and of course the renowned red sole.

I need them in my life and for that I need me lots of dollars....Got any?

WIOW...Garish Shoes

2011-06-15T09:00:00.003+01:00

My favourite hobby is shopping for obnoxiously garish shoes and now I've found some new ones. These tick all the crazy boxes. Leopard print (which I'm crushing on at the moment), canary yellow and a raffia black wedge. Yummy.

I found these KG by Kurtz Geiger Julius wedges a few weeks ago and declared them my 'must have' shoe. My work partner in content crime rolled her eyes skyward and silently shook her head. This only makes me want them more.

I have no idea what I'd wear them with but I know I want them.

They've also just hit the sale so I'd happily part with £89 for them.

What do you think? Garish or perfect?

Doe a Deer...

2011-06-05T09:00:00.003+01:00

This weekend, knowing it was going to be a warm one, the new boyf and I decided to take a stroll around Bushy Park and be at one with nature.

This of course led to several impromptu shots with some unsuspecting deer.

I even busted out the new sunflower-print sundress, new sandals and my trusty hat. I feel like I'm on holiday...Perfect weather and a perfect weekend.

It's All About the Leather Pants...

2011-06-04T18:26:00.000+01:00

Hi. My name is Jo, I'm 24 and I have an obsession with leather pants.

It started with a pair of Topshop leather shorts (which won over the new boyf may I add) and has now risen (or lowered in leg length) to trousers, albeit a cropped pair.

I feel every girl needs a pair of skinny leathers at some point in her life. Mine is now - minus the steaming hot sun.

These are even Alexander McQueen for God's sake.I won't write the price out on here, it's just too painful.

Imagine them with an Alexander Wang slouchy tee and some chunky, stacked platformed boots. Hello rock chick...welcome to my wardrobe....

Image courtesy of www.net-a-porter.com

Mah-jor Shoe Porn...

2011-05-29T17:08:00.000+01:00

Warning...These following image may cause a severe rush of blood to head, your arm may jerk towards your nearest bank card and you may end up accidentally clicking 'buy'. Please do not hold me personally accountable.

I cannot help how damn hot these shoes are...

Not sure I've ever called a shoe 'hot' but I feel strongly about this and have deemed the term necessary when referring to this particular shoe.

The shoe I'm declaring my undying love for is the Givenchy woven leather wedge. Mine for £945.

Here are my 10 reasons for loving them (if not apparent in the picture alone) are as follows:

1. They are wedged and I love nothing more than a wedge.
2. They have an incredible platform and I love nothing more than platform heels.
3. They are a melted milk chocolate/kind-of-but not-quite-darker-than-tan colour I love chocolate.
4. They are leather and I love leather.
5. The leather is woven to make it look tough I love tough.
6. They have an obnoxious buckle and I love buckles.
7. They have ankle support I love this because it'll help my Bambi ankle syndrome.
8. They will go with any item of clothing and I love shoe ease.
9. They will make my legs look nearly as long as my body and I like sculptured calves.
10. They are just super hot. You gotta love that.

I need them in my life right this second. No matter what I have to do to get them, I will get them....

Image courtesy of www.net-a-porter.com

Planning for my Vay-Kay

2011-05-22T16:20:00.001+01:00

In precisely 6 weeks time me, the new boyf and 6 others will be packing our suitcases for our Ibiza blitz up. We decided that it was now or never. We've been thinking about Ibiza for years but never booked it.

This year was different though. I got a new boyf who genuinely likes and gets on with my friends making it a helluva lot easier. It's also an old friends 24th birthday while we're out there so what better way to celebrate?

Obviously, planning for a holiday is difficult. You need pool clothes (we have a private villa dontcha know), beach clothes, casual day clothes, posh night clothes and party clothes. That's a lot of clothes. You also have to take into account the three other skinny minnies I'm going with which makes it even harder.

That's why, in my dream world, I'm shopping designer darhingggg....

This is my glam Ibiza pool chic look...when in Ibiza I feel you can clash any print...
First off I'd like to start with this Seventh Wonderland marbel swimsuit.

At £175 I'd class it as an investment swimsuit, but hell it looks hot.

I'd clearly need to be wearing these Christian Louboutin Cardena Tresse 140 suede and leather espadrille wedges, a steal at £395.

Being fair I'd need a little cover up for the midday sun...

It's got to be Pucci. Although I'll need a little longer than 6 weeks to save £3,125.

Finally, to stop the glare from the pool I'd invest in these Linda Farrow Luxe Round-frame acetate sunglasses. A bargain at a mere £305.

So, that's my dream pool-side look covered. What would your dream holiday outfit consist of?

Excuse me while I go and count my pennies....

Images and product are all courtsey of www.net-a-porter.com

Beyoncé...

2011-05-21T09:00:00.001+01:00

There is no one quite like Beyoncé.

I had to share her latest vid for Run the World.

I love the different coloured chiffon throughout. Plus, the amount of designer garb she gets through is also impressive. Girl knows how to work it....

Miu Miu Just Got a New Face...

2011-05-20T21:08:00.004+01:00

For me Miu Miu is that cool and quirky brand I always like to have a browse through and then guess the celebs that will wear certains items. Names that pop up for me are always Alexa Chung, Kirsten Dunst and Chloe Sevigny. The typical 'cool kid', if you will.

Enter Hailee Steinfield. The fresh-faced 14 year old actress taking the world by storm.

Hailee Steinfeld at the 2011 BAFTAs wearing Miu Miu © PA from Vogue.co.uk

I think it was only a matter of time until she was announced as the face of A/W 2011. She has been spotted wearing a lot of Miu Miu at events recently.

What do you think? Was she the right choice?

Being Posh and Preggers....

2011-05-17T22:13:00.001+01:00

Victoria Beckham is by far one of my favourite celebs. I love her. Say one bad word about her and I will defend her to death.

Take today, VB steps out in a leather trimmed dress looking more pregnant than she has ever publicly shown before, and she gets stick for it. I actually admire VB for the very reason that she's not constantly in fitted, restrictive clothes while pregnant. Everyone claims she's trying to cover up the bump and hates showing it off. So what? Isn't any mother aloud to feel different about their changing body? I know I would.

I'm not pregnant (let me just clear that up) but I have recently gained half a stone. I hate it. My clothes are tighter on my troublesome bottom half and I don't feel like me. My confidence has dipped so I'm currently surviving on a wardrobe of baggy clothes - of which I own plenty luckily.

I just don't get why this is firstly deemed as news, and secondly why she always gets given a hard time.

You're damned if you do and you're damned if you don't.

In the Pink...

2011-05-14T17:55:00.000+01:00

I got me some new trousers for work recently. Apart from my skinnies and a few pairs of harems I'm not really a trouser person. It's not that I don't want to be, I just struggle to find a pair that fit my huge bum, expanding thighs, incredibly long body and short legs. You'd honestly think I was asking too much.

While shopping, what I actually wanted to buy were more light summer dresses. But what I wanted and what I actually got were two completely different things, as per usual. I found some peachy/orange/pink hued high-waisted, tapered leg trousers. Don't they sound nice...

They are in fact amazing. They are slightly slouchy so work perfectly for those days when I'm feeling slightly bloated, they are also super thin so can and will be worn throughout the summer.

One of my favourite outfits is fast becoming the said trousers, Jasper Conran sandals, any tank top covered up by my massive Topshop shrug.

Date Night

2011-05-08T21:25:00.001+01:00

I won't lie, by Friday evening I'm usually shattered from a hard week at work. All I want to do is get into my comfiest pjs and watch a film or two with the new boyf. This Friday night however, I was treated to a posh meal at Gaucho's by the said boyf. The ultimate in perfection.

This seemed like the perfect excuse to bust out the negligee-style dress I picked up in Sweden.

It's an off-white colour, made of silk, and hangs perfectly. It also has massive pockets, which I love.

I teemed it with a black waistcoat, black tights and black boots. I also slathered on a dark red lippy I swear by from Chanel.

The meal was perfect. Squid and chirizo for starters, steak, chirizo sweet potato chips and salad for main, and then some amazing kind of praline-almondy mousse with chocolate sauce for pudding. AMAZEBALLS.

Twiigyfied

2011-05-05T14:32:00.000+01:00

The fancy dress party of all parties came and went in a blur of Twiggy madness. All I can say to those of you who came on the journey with me, thank you.

It was tough, we had the dilemma of who to go as, the friend dressing up as the same icon, the dress saga. But I did it and I did it good.

Me and the fash partner in crime. AKA Twiggy and Florence dontcha know....

A Right Royal Fever....

2011-05-03T20:47:00.000+01:00

A wedding day is something young girls around the world dream of from the age of 5 when they can pick up a crayon and draw a princess. I must admit that this has never been me, my parents are divorced, in fact no one in the family is still married, meaning I've never really sold into the whole marriage thing. It actually scares me a little.

But I have been OBSESSED with the Royal Wedding. I've read nearly every news story printed and online about the big day. If friends or work colleagues needed a wedding fact they'd come straight to me. I have memorised it all.

There were two things that were important to me about their big day. The dress and the cake. I can't say I was let down. Kate Middleton looked incredible and what made it even better (if it could be better than her wearing McQueen) was the fact that both her and Will's are so madly in love. I'm not a massive slushy romantic, quite the opposite, but when Kate stood next to Will in Westminster Abby and said to her, something along the lines of, 'you look so beautiful', I was off. Tears streamed down my face. Their cheeky little glimpses at each other said more than words ever could.

It's been emotional, it's been exhausting and now it's all over. What am I going to talk about now?

I spent the day with friends watching...being my patriotic self in red, white and blue...

Two Twiggys' or no Twiggy?

2011-04-19T20:48:00.001+01:00

I understand that by now, if you read this blog, you will be bored of me harping on about Twiggy and the upcoming fancy dress party. If that is you, please stop reading now because there's more.

I had a mini drama last week. I found out that a friend is also going to the party as Twiggy. I found out by text. A rather peculiar text that asked if I would mind her dressing as Twiggy too.

Now, I'll be honest. I was in two minds how to reply to this question. I wanted to be the nice friendly person that I am and say 'of course I don't mind, go as Twiggy, there will be two of us but that doesn't matter', on the other hand I wanted to be the only Twiggy. I thought surely there was someone else she could go as. I even asked the fash partner in crime to think of other British icons she or even I could change to. I called out on Twitter to rack others' brains - big thanks to RedHeadFashionista.

But no luck. Viv Westwood, too much thought, The Queen, too prim and proper.

You'll (well the mothership would) be pleased to know I'm being the bigger person here. There will be two Twiggys' at the party, maybe even more, so what. You know I'll do it better!

Now for the dress I need your opinions please.

This one?

Or this one?

I want to say the orange one because I feel it's more Twiggy-esque but the fash partner in crime is thinking longevity, and the likelihood is I'll wear the navy one more.

It's over to you guys. Which one do I get?

Right Royal Wedding....

2011-04-14T15:04:00.000+01:00

Everyone has gone a little bit wedding cray cray.... Vogue have a wedding cover special, memorabilia is being rolled out by the ship load and now Topshop, yes Topshop, have brought out some British themed socks.

You could be the proud owner of these British bunting socks...

I honestly have no words.....

WIOW...fit for spring...

2011-04-13T08:50:00.002+01:00

This Wednesday I am mostly craving lightweight clothes that are easy to wear in our ever changeable weather.

This means I need bright coloured, chunky wedges. These Hi Vamp ones from Topshop should do the trick at £70.

A striped, sailor inspired playsuit, again courtesy of Topshop for a mere £26.

And finally a Topshop layered maxi skirt for £40.

Perfection.

What has the sun made you crave?

To Twiggy it...

2011-04-11T12:56:00.000+01:00

So after mucho deliberation I have decided I no longer want to go as Patsy Kensit to my friends British themed party. Instead I want to be Twiggy. A young Twiggy I should add.

I'm thinking cropped hair, big eyelashes and 60s shift rather than an M&S replica.

I love this picture. This is exactly how I intend to look. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

My only question is, where can I get a Twiggy-esque 60s shift from?

Help is greatly needed....

Seriously Swedish...

2011-04-09T21:50:00.000+01:00

So after a short but eventful five day break in Sweden I am now home again back in front of my shiny pink netbook.

Our plans changed a little, we ended up changing accomodation from what can only be described as a basement room to a 4* hotel, complete with pool and jacuzzi! Obviously this involved a quick whizz to Sweden's famous H&M for a spot of shopping....when duty calls and all that...

Anyway, Sweden is a beautiful, if a tad cold, country. The people are gorgeous and being that I have blonde hair and blue eyes I felt like a native.

They have a great tradition, which I fully intend on starting here, called a Fika. It's pretty much a Swedish take on our tea-breaks. You stop for coffee and cake....all the time....Immense. I am afterall, known for the fact that I would take a bullet for cake. In fact at work Friday we decided I couldn't function without cake. There is even talk of me making a tee with those two quotes on.....

I digress.

I didn't take many, or actually any, outfit shots because I'm rubbish but will share some of my favourites with you.....

Obviously I was going to start with food......

A freezing walk round the river in Old Town...

Me, with my hair up (possibly a first on this blog) courtesy of my fash partner in crime, and some Huskies...

Sweden, nearly in the sunshine...

Three of my favourite people ever...

Going on a little jolly...

2011-03-31T19:36:00.000+01:00

This time I won't appologise, I'll simply start by saying that I've been busy. Oh and I'm going to Sweden baby!

Me, the new boyf, my partner in crime and her boyf are off on a little jolly to the land of meatballs and Ikea.

This is only an ickle post. Hopefully I'll remember to take some pics while away that I can share with you all. You never know, that might make up for my absence.

Jojo

WIOW...Hippy hippy shake

2011-03-23T09:00:00.000Z

I have seen sunshine and am now ready to start dressing for spring. Fact.

I am over heavy coats (I know I will regret typing this), I want to go bare legged and wear peep toes now.

I also want to embrace the seventies trend and get my hippy on.

That is why, this Wednesday, my want list consists of one simple item that ticks all my boxes. This ASOS Villa printed chiffon kimono dress, £40.

The loose, body-skimming fit, the muted brown palette, the chiffon. I can already picture it in my wardrobe with some French Connection wedges and my white blazer.

Damn my work partner in crime for being the good angel on my shoulder, telling me not to buy....

RiRi rocks it

2011-03-19T14:00:00.000Z

It's about time that Rhianna scored a US Vogue cover and there is no better time than their April shapes issue.

I'm not sure who the dress is by, although I am hearing rumours of it being Chanel, which would be pretty special no? Rhianna doesn't strike me as one of Karl's usual girls.

She is absolutely stunning in this picture.

What do you think, worthy of a Vogue cover?

WIOW more fugly...

2011-03-16T15:23:00.000Z

What can I say, I am obsessed with fugly shoes. My work partner in crime regularly despises the footwear I lust over.

I'm not sure what it is that draws me in. I am always partial to a fat, chunky heel due to the Bambi ankles - which I know I refer to a lot - but it doesn't stop there.

These are the latest in the fugly hit list...

Asos AMPLIFY Punch Out Wedge Ankle Boot, £60

So the colour is slightly off, the big Velcro cuffs are ugly, the stacked wedge is obnoxious and the peep toe is unnecessary. I know I should hate these...but I am very much attracted to them.

Asos AMES suede ankle boots, £70

A very simple boot but a classic. I love the sturdy heel, they light grey suede and the fact that I could probably getaway with wearing these all year. Yes please.

Me and the work partner in crime have a shoe calendar on our desk at work. It will come as no surprise to know that I like the fugly ones.

What's wrong with a bit of fugly?

Pulling at my heart strings

2011-03-15T21:02:00.001Z

Again I'm breaking away from the 'norm' on Jo's Clothes and mixing things up a little. I'm not sure what direction this blog is taking but I do know it's becoming more personal. I find writing things here kind of helps clear my mind.

As the new boyf keeps reminding me, I am an emotional trainwreck right now. I'm having a number of minor health issues and am now having some alternative therapy to try to help, all of this combined has made me super sensitive.

While listening to the new Elbow album I found the last track, Dear Friends, to be the most emotional. There is something beautifully haunting about Guy Garvey's voice which seems to pull at my heart strings. He manages to write lyrics which I can relate some part of my life to, in this case loss.

dear friends

you are angels and drunks

you are maji

old friends

you stuck a pin in the map I was in

and this is a note from the roadside

cutting the breeze of this

Tennessee sundown

came the sound of the voices I know

I've been pondering trees

on the steeliest comedown

and now in the moment I'm home

I've got bluster enough

for the sails of a clipper

and the truth never frays a good yarn

but it struck me to say

while so far away

you were with me today

you are here in my head

in my heart

dear friends

you are angel and drunks

you are maji

old friends

you stuck a pin in the map I was in

and you are the stars

I navigate home by

I think everyone has lost someone at some stage in their life and has certain things they associate that person with. For me, it was always my Grandad. When he died my mum used to tell us to look for the brightest star in the sky and that would be him, constantly looking down watching over us. I've carried that with me and even now, when it's dark enough to see the stars, I look for him.

I guess sometimes it's easier to write how you feel rather than to speak it.

Karlie Kloss

2011-03-13T09:41:00.000Z

This is a creature of immense beauty.

Thoes razer sharp cheek bones, bushy but defined eyebrows and cat-like eyes on top of her creamy complexion make her a dream to look at.

Jean Paul Gaultier, Victor and Rolf, Christian Dior, Sonia Rykiel....the list goes on of the number of shows she's walked in for F/W11 and it's of no suprise.

Girl crush of the moment maybe?

Best of British

2011-03-12T12:37:00.000Z

One of my bestie's birthday is a little way around the corner and she is holding her annual themed party to coincide with the royal wedding. The theme, of course, had to be British. I mean what else.

I have been umming and arrring at who or what to go as. one of my friends is rumoured to be coming as marmite.... I digress. Personally I couldn't think of anyone more British than the Queen. The prospect of dressing like a regal lady and spraying my hair grey was actually more exciting than you would think.

However I think I have had a better idea. The new boyf, if styled correctly, could pass as Liam Gallagher on a good day. This got me thinking. I couldn't go as his Appleton as she's American but I could turn the clocks back slightly and go as Patsy Kensit.

I found this Vanity Fair cover of the two of them, I'm not sure what year it's from but I love it.

All I need to know now is what should I wear to resemble Patsy from her Gallagher years? It has to be rocky, perhaps leather leggings (anyone know where I can get me some?). I need your help guys.

Any suggestions?

Here's my other list of prospects:
The Queen
Twiggy
Vivienne Westwood

I need your help, what do you think?

WIOW...tee time

2011-03-09T09:00:00.000Z

After my massive clear out I now have a bit of space in my wardrobes to fill...enter Topshop.

It's almost as if they new I am in the market for more tees and blouses. Damn them.

First up is this beautiful grey/blue satin blouse with leather detailing around the neckline. It has slightly blouson sleeves near the cuff which I am a massive fan of, plus it looks very figure skimming which I also approve of. Mine for £40.

Secondly I want this OMG slogan tee. So simple it's ridiculous but that makes me want it even more. Plus it's only £22 and you can never have too many tees.

That's all for this week. What are you currently craving after?

All images from Topshop.com

I love you...Gareth Pugh

2011-03-08T09:00:00.001Z

I would do anything for a piece of Pugh. Fact.

His F/W11 collection is incredible. What I love is that all 41 looks were black, cobalt blue, or had a hint of gold. He is a man who I admire for his strong lines, slightly gothic edge and dressing his male models in flowing chiffon skirts and trousers.

Karlie Kloss in the sequined gold cape and matching leggings. Totally captivating.

View more of the Gareth Pugh collection over at style.com

Which has been your favourite collection so far?

All images taken from style.com

Sometimes all you need is a bit of Led Zepp

2011-03-07T09:00:00.001Z

One of my favourites....it's also a classic. Just hearing his voice instantly soothes me.

Cleaning out the cobwebs...

2011-03-06T17:26:00.002Z

For me 2011 is all about new beginnings. I'm in a new relationship with someone who genuinely cares about me, mine and my brothers health is on the way up and I have a great network of friends around me.

Those of you who regularly read this blog will know that although I don't open up very often on here, 2010 was a shocking year and one that I'd be more than happy to forget.

Over the years I have accumulated quite a collection of 'cobwebs' we shall call them, that I have desperately needed to clear out but never got round to. Don't get me wrong I have well and truly moved on, put a lid on it and all the other cliched phrases, I just needed to physically remove it, which I guess is almost the hardest part. Dredging up all of those old memories is at times painful and a job that isn't always easy to do, but definitely needed to be done.

It's quite a cleansing experience sorting and removing junk, and people from the past. It's easy to forget how much stuff you gather during the years. I found it easy throwing out clothes I hadn't worn and wasn't likely to, orange catsuit anyone? But I found it a lot harder when I came across my memory box.

Filled with constant reminders of moments in time I'd rather forget, it was hard to appreciate how draining this process could be. I found old pictures, letters and cards, all of which have now been removed. Don't worry, this won't be a moment I look back on and regret. I believe some call it complete closure.

I also found some of my most treasured items. A christening card from my Godfather, who has since passed away, a forth birthday card from my much beloved grandad, who has also since passed away. My first pair of baby shoes, a wall hanging of me with the text 'I love my grandad and grannie' and some classic cheesy girlie pictures of my and my besties throughout the years. All of this makes me appreciate what I have now and where I've got to.

I'm sorry that this post has got a little deep, I guess sometimes it's cathartic to write it all down. I have no shame in admitting that I'm not as hard or tough as I'd like people to think.

"What we call the beginning is often the end. And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from." T.S Eliot.

The sun came out...

2011-02-27T16:34:00.001Z

...and then it went away again. It did however give me some summer inspiration and in a moment of madness I started looking at swimwear.

In particular this rather amazing animal printed kaftan.

I love kaftans. They're so easy to throw on when on holiday - and I plan to have many this year, including a week long Ibiza party. The detailing around the deep v and the waist, instantly draw the eyes to the most flattering parts of the body, while creating a perfect womanly shape.

I need this in my life.

Has the sudden spring weather made you start looking ahead?

The beauty that is Erdem

2011-02-25T09:10:00.000Z

Wow. this is the first word I thought of when I saw the Erdem collection. It is breathtaking. Dark and moody colours, beautiful cuts, flowing chiffon and silk juxtaposed against the more structured, form-fitting shirts and trousers.

I would like to imagine myself in all of these items...

Scrolling through this little collection, you'll also spot Sam Cam in the audience. Good taste lady.

Make sure you view the rest of the collection.

All images from style.com

Mary Katrantzou dress porn

2011-02-24T11:10:00.000Z

Readers if your eyes are sensitive to brightly coloured amazement in dress form, you may want to stop reading.

Rather than babble on about how good her next collection is, I will let the clothes do the talking, because believe me, they do...

Truly amazing colour clashes and incredibly intricate prints again.

All images from style.com

Want it on Wednesday...that 70's thang...

2011-02-23T09:00:00.001Z

I think I'm just going to have to accept that I will never be a 'regular' blogger, whatever that means anyway. I don't seem to have much time for much these days but here we go. Here's my WIOW post...

I really wish I was a seventies girl. I truly believe I would have been in my element, flares and all. After all we all know I love a wedge... It will also come as no surprise that these three items are from Topshop and that two out of the said three included some sort of wedge...

I honestly just can't help myself. My Bambi ankles seem to gravitate towards them...

Woven tassel wedges by Unique, £130

I am falling a little bit in love with the harsh colours, immense platform wedge and massive side tassel. It looks somewhat like a dress pony.

Cream lace panel embroidered dress, £50

So pretty. I'm not sure this colour would flatter my pasty skin tone but I sure as hell would try to make it.

And finally...

These woven sandals wedges by Unique, £130

Again, I want, no need these in my life. Chunky heel, knotted leather.....need I say more?

Think you'll be taking on the 70's trend?

I want to be a Burberry Brit

2011-02-22T21:29:00.002Z

Please, please, please Santa, I know it's early and all but if you're listening I would love to own an item of Burberry Prorsum. Preferably one of their jackets please.

Any of the following will do...

The coats are all structured, simple but stunning.

Christopher Baily is a genius. Fact. Make sure you check out the rest of his collection here.

All images from style.com

What's your favourite Burberry piece?

All dressed in black...

2011-02-07T20:31:00.000Z

Yesterday was my mums birthday and every year we take this opportunity to have a family knees up. This year we chose a meal at a newly refurbished pub near us (the 3 Horse Shoes in Laleham if you're interested).

This was a special occasion as it was the first time the majority of family were meeting the new boyf. I took this lunch date to dress up in my latest wares and for some reason all in black...

I'm wearing ASOS boots, floral tights from Primark, Topshop Peter Pan collar dress, House of Fraser belt and Topshop faux fur gillet.

About two hours after these pictures were taken I managed to rip a massive hole just above the knee, you know, just below my hemline. Dammit. I really am that clumsy.

Good news is, I'm back with a blogging vengeance.

Kurt Geiger Shoe Porn...

2011-02-05T20:26:00.000Z

I have just seen the new KG shoe collection for the summer and I am excited. So excited in fact that I actually took a picture of a pair of bright wedges in Elle magazine and text it to the females in my family who are avid Kurt Geiger fans.

Their response was the same as mine. I want, I need, I die. And I'll show you why...

Firstly the wedge is in, mainly due to the seventies influence we're seeing more and more of, which I by the way, LOVE. I die for wedges. You all know me and my Bambi ankles struggle our way through life so the wedge, for me, is the perfect answer.

Grunge wedge, £190

Secondly the colours are amazing. Imagine a packet of skittles exploding and landing all over your shoes. Acid yellows, garish oranges and bright purples.

Grid wedge, £190

My third and final reason for falling so deeply is that they are from my favourite range of affordable but great quality shoes. Kurt Geiger.

Galenka sandals, £180

Yes it is really that simple.

What's your favourite shoe brand? Any of these KG ones take your fancy?

My favourite subject OR

2011-01-26T10:45:00.000Z

If I was to appear on Question Time my specialist subject would have to be Olivia Rubin. I think by now you all know that I am obsessed, and with good reason.

Her dresses just look damn hot on a woman. As soon as you put the dress on you feel like a completely different person, you exude confidence. I have even managed to get my ~~red~~ brown haired cousin into the OR.

With the arrival of the new S/S11 collection online, you can guess how excited this made me. I just have to share my key pieces with you.

At the top of my list is this Love zebra dress

The mix of hot pink and tan for the stripes would work well on any skin tone. The shoulders are waistband, the gathering over the bust and the split on the leg make me fall in love instantly with this dress.

My second favourite is the Teardrop dress

From the quirky print, which OR is becoming renowned for, to the cute cutout, it would look equally good with heels or flat sandals. This one is top of the brown haired cousins list.

Olivia's inspiration for SS11 came from the sculptures of Henry Moore combined with the delicate mobiles of Alexander Calder. This resulted in a blend of intricate patterns and smooth shapes in contrasting pastels and fluorescent hues. With Olivia it's always about making the most of the female form, whether it's highlighted through different textures, cutouts or colours.

I have two other key pieces from this collection which I am dying to get my hands on, conveniently they are both photographed together...it's as if she knew...

The above image shows the Bubble jacket and the Expose short. The jacket is the perfect length for summer and can be worn over anything. The shorts, well I don't have any words that could explain how much I want them.

What SS/11 pieces have you set your hearts on?

It's a new year...

2011-01-26T10:05:00.002Z

So Christmas, my birthday, New Year and most of January have come and gone and I have not posted once. Shameful.

I don't have any excuses. Just news. 2010 was a difficult year for many reasons. I had a non-cancerous tumour discovered and then removed from neck, my brother was diagnosed with epilepsy and I got out of a relationship that wasn't working. For me 2011 is the year of change and can only get better, and it has already started thanks to having a great family, friends and someone special....

I want to keep this post, like my favourite hemlines, short and sweet and finish with a few quotes that I love.

"I like today and perhaps a little future still, but the past is really something I'm not interested in. So, as far as I'm concerned, I like only the past of things and people I don't know. When I know, I don't care because I knew how it was."
Karl Lagerfeld

And because you can't have quotes without mentioning Chanel....

"A women who doesn't wear perfume has no future."
Coco Chanel

Fugly

2010-12-23T08:43:00.000Z

Readers I need your advice and opinions here. I've found a particular pair of shoes and need to know whether they are fugly or not. I feel I may be losing my sense of taste...

These are the culprits.

The brand behind them is Vintage America and the shoes themselves are called Ruggedly Taupe Shoe Boot, available from the KG website. I think there might be a clue in the name no?

They are only £80 and have a nice chunky wedge which we all know I'm a sucker for but do I like them?

Something inside me is telling me I'd be a fool not to buy but at the same time I think my friends might laugh at me even more than they do already. But do I care.

Maybe I'll just get them anyway....

Opinions please. Fugly?

4 days left....the countdown begins

2010-12-21T14:25:00.000Z

Now, as you may know I have been slacking on the blog front recently, but I'm back in the lead-up to Christmas and catching up on blog posts that I've missed.

One I've been meaning to post is Next's 12 days of Christmas. Obviously I'm a little late as we're now only 4 days away! Can you believe that? Anyway they've created cute little icons to celebrate the countdown.

I think Next has really come a long way, they've really stepped up their collections and also the adverts - the models in particula are beautifully dress and are beautiful.

I've been looking for last minute presents and have just stumbled across their shoe collection, which I didn't realise was so good.

This is my Christmas shoe hitlist:

For me, these Sporty lace-up platform shoe boots

For my work partner in crime, these Berry court lace-ups should do the trick

For my rainbow haired cousin, these Platform fauz sheep trim bootP

That's Christmas sorted then.

Give me Liberty...

2010-12-20T13:15:00.000Z

I am extremely thankful to the lovely Clothes Whisperer for this little tip off, and instead of being selfish I am going to share this little nugget of information with you.

THE LIBERTY SALE HAS STARTED!!!!!!!!!!

Sorry for the capitals but I feel this is important news and needs to be highlighted appropriately. Apparently this sale normally starts in sections on Boxing Day but they're turning things around this year. If you like designer names this is the sale for you with, Erdem, Acne, Sonia Rykiel, Edun and Peter Pilotto all featuring.

I have put together a selection of my favourites and then split them into two sections - my wish list of items I still can't afford even in the sale and the other, those that I can afford and might just buy...

Ultimate wish list

1) Silk digital print gathered dress, Peter Pilotto, £486.00 (Was £1,215.00)

2) Agenta duck egg scoop neck dress, Erdem, £298.00 (Was £745.00)

3) Silk watercolour print top, Edun, £82.00 (Was £205.00)

4) Monochrome belted coat, Sonia by Sonia Rykiel, £220.50 (Was £315.00)

My 'I can actually afford to buy' list

1) Black lifetime flower print tank top, Acne, £30.00 (Was £75.00)

2) Manico Black Dress, Acne £58.00 (Was £145.00)

And finally I figured why not add in the shower cap at number 3...

3) Poppy Liberty print shower cap, £13.97 (Was £19.95)

Have you browsed the Liberty sale yet? What are you planning or dreaming of buying?

Birthday bash a planning...part two

2010-12-19T17:41:00.000Z

Now there was never meant to be a part two to this post about the hunt for a birthday dress, but after waiting two weeks (because of the crappy snow) I am now 9 days away from my birthday still dress-less, which has made me start to panic.

What's more, I now dislike the original dress I ordered from ASOS even more.

While hibernating last night I remembered that Olivia Rubin (who you may know I am a massive fan of) is holding a sale of old stock online. I already have two dresses from her SS10 collection so know the fit and sizing on me.

When I was originally looking at buying from her SS10 collection I always had more than two dresses on my mind but honestly didn't have the money to buy them all. Now they are heavily discounted so I figured why not buy two.

The first one is the Miro black

Originally £257 it is now only £40 which is more than a bit of a bargain. I love the fitted nature of this dress and the piping detail and contrasting colour to the shoulder.

I then also ordered the Gaudi

I know this is similar to the Opie Black that I own, but it was just too good a deal to resist, from £216 to £70. I'm hoping both will fit and look good with the suspender tights I want to wear.

I am praying (quite literally I'll have you know) that the crappy snow doesn't impact in their delivery. Please keep your fingers crossed for me...

Have you guys ordered anything that you're waiting on?

Want It On Wednesday...

2010-12-08T19:33:00.000Z

Want It On Wednesday is back...well at least for this week.

It will come as no surprise where this weeks item is from. ASOS (yawn yawn I know) but this week sees an affordable item, that I will be adding to my Christmas list, or maybe just treating myself to.

This cord necklace is from the MA}ke section of ASOS, where MA talent is celebrated from the London College of Fashion.

This necklace in particular is created by Youngli Lee and features sculptural French rope detailing and interesting lace inserts. All of that for £30. Bargain.

What are you wanting this Wednesday?

Birthday bash a planning

2010-12-05T19:54:00.000Z

Those of you who know me well (espesh the ~~red~~ brown haired cousin if she's reading) will know that I have an annoying habit of counting down my birthday from the beginning of December every year so that I am not forgotten in the midst of the festive celebrations- it's on Dec 28th don'tcha know

I also always end up saying I'll do something different, but I pretty much end up in exactly the same place every year with nearly the same group of friends. If it ain't broke don't fix it.

This year the one thing that is drastically different is the fact that I'm single. Not that I didn't already, but it now means I have to make even more of an effort with the way I look, which frankly I find annoying.

This year I have been searching low and high for the perfect dress and do you think I can find it? Nope. What I find more annoying is that I have the perfect pair of tights I want to wear (Jonathon Ashton suspender tights) I just can't find the right dress that a) compliments them or b) is short enough to reveal a little bit of the said tights.

Usually I find Topshop reliable but nope, nothing. So I turned to ASOS and all I could find was this Lipsy animal print prom dress. I don't own anything from Lipsy as I usually don't like the brand on me but in these extreme circumstances I have ordered it just in case.

I have a feeling it will look hideous on and won't fit the boobage but I'll give it a try. What do you think? Does it look cheap and tacky?

In the meantime if you see any party frocks you think I might like please, please, please let me know. I can't find any for love nor money.

One month later...

2010-12-05T18:03:00.000Z

So it's been another month since my last post and nothing has really changed apart from the fact that I am steadily becoming more unreliable at updating my blog. I haven't been feeling too great recently and have been working long hours (crappy excuses) so just haven't been here. But I'm going to try again. Like I said last time, I'm just going to dip in and out. When I get a few spare hours I want to write a few posts so I can spread them out over the week. But, we all know what I'm like so we'll see how that goes.

Keep your fingers crossed.

Meanwhile what's been happening with you?

Dress me up before we go go....

2010-11-06T10:42:00.001Z

I have just been informed by a friend that we are going out for her birthday in a few weekends time. This is the perfect opportunity/excuse to look for new dress....

So far this is my favourite, although I can't decide whether I want it more in black or red...It's from Topshop and I think is around £50.

The cut-outs really make this dress different and the flared skirt will be super flattering. When describing it to said friend I called it my man catcher dress, well you never know...

I thought if I got it in black and maybe brought the red Topshop shoes I posted about that would be me sorted.

Thoughts please.

Want It On Wednesday...shoe porn

2010-11-03T12:53:00.000Z

Sorry for the influx of shoes at the moment but I have a distinct lack of shoes that I want to wear in my wardrobe.

Don't get me wrong I have a few pairs of shoes (I don't want to count them so have no idea how many) but I always revert back to an edited selection of favourites and now I feel the need to expand.

First on my hit list are these Topshop LEXI suede block heel sandals for £50...

Now I realise that sandals aren't the most practical of heels for winter but I have reasoned it through and decided they will look ok with black tights or even socks. Plus it is no secret that a chunky heel is a winner in my book.

Second on my hit list are a pair of boots, also from Topshop. These ASHER2 Fur Lined Boots, £40, fit well into my wedged boot list for winter.

Now I know it sounds wrong to describe shoes as 'yummy' but these just are. They have a glisten to them, a wedged heel, buckles, laces and a fur trim....they belong in my wardrobe.

In other news I am hopefully going to be paying Selfridges shoe gallery a visit next Sunday....wahoooooooooo. Excuse me I'm just going to count my pennies up...

Have any shoes taken your fancy recently?

Ugly...

2010-11-01T20:02:00.000Z

For some reason I always find myself attracted to shoes that are chunky and quite honestly, just a tad ugly. I am just attracted to them that way. I'd love to wear a slim elegant heel but my Bambi ankles just won't have it, they actually walk in the opposite direction.

And that my friends is why I find myself wanting these monstrosities.

They are from ASOS and are £60. I have no idea what I would wear them with and know that they will probably be too big on my skinny ankles but hey, I still want them.....dammit.

Caped crusader...almost...

2010-10-31T18:46:00.000Z

You will be pleased to know that I am getting that one step closer to becoming a caped crusader. While out shopping on Saturday I popped into Topshop and stumbled across this little beauty. Actually I didn't find this cape at all my friend Benjam pulled it out for me....

The only problem we had was that there was only one left and it was a size 12 which made me look double my usual size (although this is not strictly true as I am a size 10 not 6).

I have been considering ordering it online but haven't had much success shopping with Topshop at the moment. I ordered a party dress online for it to never be delivered, I brought a jumpsuit in one of the stores that looks gross on and then yesterday ended up buying some shorts which do some serious damage to my thighs.

So from now on I have vowed to try any purchases on before I buy....wonder how long that will last...

Want It On Wednesday...sophistimicated

2010-10-20T09:00:00.000+01:00

Today I have decided that I want to look more sophistimicated hence the them of my WIOW...

This Topshop snake print shift is exactly what I'm looking for. It has a nice twist in the fabric drawing into a waist belt, which breaks up the block print and it's only £50 which is quite reasonable.

Again from Topshop, this peter pan top is just so sweet. From the colour, to the collar to the tiers, everything is just perfect. It would work well with my blue harems.

Now, I also want a cape. One that goes with everything. And I have just found the folowing two and need some opinions please.....

First up we have this dark blue cape with wool collar for £80 from Topshop. I love the leather trims. I am worried though that as it is navy it won't go with all of my winter wardrobe....especially black tights.

Secondly we have a military version from Asos at £75. Now if I bought this one in camel it would go with the majority of my wardrobe. Another plus side is it has a hood. I'm just not sure how this one will suit my frame.

Thoughts please....Which of the two capes should I go for? Or have you seen better?

Witch way...

2010-10-15T20:58:00.000+01:00

This will be just a quick post as I'm packing to go away for a long weekend with the family. When I say packing what I really mean is staring blankly at my wardrobe... I've had a bit of a down week and just haven't felt like posting, although I did take a couple of pics.

For whatever reason this dress always makes me feel a bit like a witch. The colours, the waistband and I already have the laugh...

I mentioned this at work and we started discussing what we should do for Halloween. We're going on a ghost bus tour of London and I'm in charge of cocktails....Hell yeah.

I've also decided I will dress up as a witch seeing as I have the dress and I have the hat in my drawer....

What's everyones plans for Halloween?

Want It On Wednesday...

2010-10-06T10:00:00.000+01:00

Today's 'Want It On Wednesday' is a real mixed bag with a big glam factor, and that makes me excited....

I can't actually afford anything on this list but hey, a girl can but dream...

Firstly I would love to own this Antonio Berardi velvet-trimmed lace gown, £4,305...

It is so beautiful. The cut and fit look amazing and the lace adds the sex factor. This dress doesn't show any flesh other than the arms but still just oozes sex. I love it! I can see it on a celebs back as they glide down the red carpet.

I want, no need, these YSL palais mohawk suede pumps, £640, in my wardrobe or even on my feet...

These need to be worn with a structured mini dress to ensure that the mohawk is shown off to its full potential....

And finally I want to snuggle in this Paul & Joe mongolie shearling coat, £1,320...

Hmmmmmm.......furry.

What's on your ultimate wish list at the moment?

I wanna be a nostalgic chick....

2010-10-04T11:00:00.002+01:00

I saw the ever stylish Susie Bubble wearing a pair of Heavy Machine shoes in a recent blog post and instantly had to check out their site.

They only have one collection up there currently, but that was enough to make me drool with hunger. My particular favourites are these...

Leather, suede and bit of pink patent and hellllooooooooo sexy shoes.... Named the Nostalgic Chick these shoes aren't cheap cheap but then they are also not way-out expensive at $349.

The heel is what really makes it work for me. That elegant curve is magical. I also love the ankle strap, a perfect support method for my Bambi ankles, and then on top of all of that goodness a pop of pink patent. Ahhhhhhhhhh.

Heavy Machine was established in 2009 with the mindset of designing shoes that were sexy and edgy to empower the woman that wears them, alongside that they were made to comfortable to be able to run away in. Perfect.

All images are from Heavy Machine.

Behind every mask...

2010-10-03T16:57:00.002+01:00

What better way to spend a Sunday than flicking through photos of Paris Vogue's Masked Ball...It's like dipping into a dream land...

I couldn't have written this post and not included a picture of Carine Roitfeld and Jean Paul Gaultier together...

Dressed all in white in an Emilio Pucci dress and Gareth Pugh headpiece (above) is Anna Dello Russo. Never one to shy away from the extravagant, she really just knows how to have fun with fashion, which is all it's really about...I admire her so much...

Lily Donaldson is one of my favourite models, and I think from this picture it's pretty obvious why. She is just stunning, in fact I would go as far as saying smoking hot. I love the sheer red mask and the black bra exposed under yet more red sheer fabric. On anyone else this would run the risk of looking cheap but on Lily it looks expensive. It also reminds me of little red riding hood...

I had to include this picture of Marc just because he is a gorgeous specimen of a man and no one else could ever wear a kilt or eye mask as well as him.

Now I want to go to Paris so bad....

When is too much enough?

2010-09-25T21:39:00.000+01:00

I need to enlist some help here....Is this Topshop coat a yay or a nay?

I can't quite make up my mind. Is there enough faux fur, is there too much? Is the length wrong? Is the colour nice? Will it make me look like a Grandma?

Advice needed....It might help you make a desicion when you know the price, £175.

Oh and sorry for for the short post, went out last night and may have had one too many cocktails and then went to a food event today and am majorly suffering. Still feel a little delicate now....

Freakin' well want it on a bloomin' Friday....please

2010-09-24T09:00:00.000+01:00

Ok, so I know I am slightly stretching my own rules here by posting a 'want it on....' post on a Friday....but hey to the ho. It's my blog and I'll bend my rules if I want to. Humph.

I have just got round to scrolling through some of the ASOS White collection and just stumbled (well the virtual equivalent) across this gorgeous, suede dress.

Ahhhhh. The deep blue, the waist knot, the one shoulder, even the boots and socks....I love this whole look. The dress is £120 and if I wasn't so broke, I'd buy it now.

This dress can be worn anywhere for anything, which makes it the ultimate wardrobe essential.

When is pay day again?

All Hail Mary Katrantzou...

2010-09-22T09:00:00.001+01:00

I am so in love with Mary Katrantzou's spring/summer collection it's unreal. In fact if I could post all 26 images then I would...but I haven't.

For her first stand-alone show Mary used bold colours, three dimensional shapes and pictures of interiors to bring her clothes to life. Drawing inspiration from seventies interior photography of Helmut Newton and Guy Bourdin, she decided to "put the room on the woman, rather than the woman in the room".

And it completely worked....

The reality of these dresses is extraordinary. The silhouette is defined and the prints so in depth. Swaths of chiffon were made to hang from the body creating curtains...

While some of the shapes were quite structured others were very exaggerated, depending on the view...

It's so nice to see a designer break from the norm and create something completely new and refreshing.

I agree with style.com's prediction of seeing Anna Dello Russo in any of these dresses...

All images from style.com

P to the Peter Pilotto....

2010-09-21T10:00:00.001+01:00

Next spring/summer I predict a lot of white on the high street....especially if Peter Pilotto's runway show is anything to go by.

The whites are the cleanest of white, with the most intricate folded detail around the neck and shoulders and then the flowing, body skimming midi length of the skirt. The jacket is sharp and boxy which creates quite a stark contrast. I'm not keen on the shoes though....

Bright pops of colour were added in the forms of sea blues and burnt oranges, with the emphasis still very much on the neckline...

I can see these dresses working the red carpets for that laid-back, almost quirky look.

And finally my favourites. Above left, sees a more structured, clean cut dress. The line of material running down the chest draws the eyes to the smallest part of the waist, with the exaggerated hips creating that balance. The look on the right, I want to be wearing right this very second....The jacket is short and sweet, and I love the grey length of fabric swooshing as she walks.

One can but dream...

What are your favourite London looks so far?

All images are from style.com

Clown pants...

2010-09-20T10:00:00.000+01:00

On Saturday I went to a little house party to say goodbye to a friend who is going travelling around South America for a few months. I love a good party as much as I love getting dressed up, especially in the company of good friends.

We had been given strict instructions to dress up in our party frocks. Unfortunately I had an incident with a razor and my legs were in no state to make an appearance.

I had picked up some silk purple swirly harems ages ago for a fiver from Miss Selfridge but for some reason or other hadn't worn them yet, so decided to try them out.

I paired them with a simple black vest and sheer black top, tucked in, and some Kurt Geiger shoe boots. I spent the whole evening referring to them as my clown pants.

The picture above features two of my besties, Nikki in the maxi dress, and Lisa in her bargain Nicole de Main dress.

I want to be a Rodarte girl......like now

2010-09-19T15:37:00.000+01:00

OK, so as many of you have been, I've been daily flicking through style.com to get my New York Fashion Week fix. I've liked a few collections, namely Z Spoke by Zac Posen, Edun and smidgens of Marc Jacobs but ultimately I want to be Rodarte girl.

And quite frankly who wouldn't...

The rich browns and golds aren't colours that are often used for spring/summer collections, so they made a welcome surprise as I was viewing the collection.

The cut of the dresses is incredibly flattering, with the pleats in the skirts adding more flare and texture to the outfits. These patterned high waisted trousers are one of my favourites.

The blues and whites look clean and fresh with detailed necklines and high splits on the legs.

It's all super flattering. All hail the Mulleavy sisters. View all of their collection here.

What's been your favourite New York show?

All images are from Style.com

Going Aztec...

2010-09-15T13:11:00.002+01:00

This weekend I decided to go a little Aztec... I received the most beautiful South Aztec Blue Printed Maxi dress from Very.

Made from the simplest but flattering jersey material I instantly fell in love with this dress. At first I wasn't sure of the long sleeves but I think it works well, especially due to the deep v neck.

The strips of blue and black cleverly lengthen the body with the Aztec print adding a nice mix of colours and also drawing the eyes to slimmest part of the body. It's a dress you need to wear with confidence as you will attract attention and hopefully receive compliments on.

Very have a great selection of maxi dresses which are the perfect wardrobe transition from summer to autumn clothing and they are an item which I hope to wear more of.

What do you think about maxi dresses. Are they the perfect mid season transition?

I also wanted to share this cardi with you....

Once again it's from Very .co.uk

I had been looking for a military-esque style short version for a while but hadn't found the right one. This South Stripe military cardigan with gold buttons definitely ticks all the boxes. It actually works really well with some blue harems I've got.

Make sure you check very.co.uk out, the site is addictive....

Want It On Wednesday...

2010-09-15T09:00:00.002+01:00

Today's list was easy and only has two items on it...both from Topshop.

Firstly, although highly impractical, I feel I need this hairy blazer by Unique in my life...

It is rather on the expensive side at £200 but it's beautiful in design. It's that perfect length for my looooong body, has massive pockets and a tough but racy harness across the chest. I can imagine wearing it with skinny jeans and my grey suede shoeboots. Or it would even work just as well with a little dress and thick black tights.

Second on my list is a pair of red suede pleated shorts...

Again £65 is a lot of moolah for one pair of little shorts but having said that I can already picture them in my wardrobe. I can see baggy tees paired with these and tights and chunky stacked boots.

Roll on winter weather....

Black and white with a stripe...

2010-09-12T17:41:00.000+01:00

Sometimes all you need is a bit of black and white....

I love the simplicity of chucking on an all black outfit. It makes me feel clean and slimmer, even if I don't always feel it. By adding my fave stripey jersey jacket it smartens the look up and adds a fresh pop of colour, if you can call white a colour that is....

And as you can see from my feet my new shoe boots arrived...

Oh lalala. Obviously they are wedged as I have Bambi-esque ankles. They are actually ridiculously uncomfortable but hell they look good. I just got a black dress from Topshop which has a leopard print peter pan collar that these would go with.

I have a few new buys to share but we'll get round to that. In the meantime I'm checking style.com every five minutes for show updates from NYFW. Who's excited???????

Blue and floral....

2010-09-01T19:23:00.000+01:00

I was going to start this post saying, 'What's blue and floral? ..... Me' and then thought better of it. I realise that I was on a blogging roll last week by posting three times in as many days, and then predictably I fell off the radar.

For once I actually have a good ~~excuse~~ reason. I'm not very well again. Those of you who have read my blog in the past 6-10 months will know I had a benign tumour removed from my throat, well now it seems it's causing me more problems, none of which can be explained at the moment. Cue endless doctor's appointments, another ultrasound scan and then a consultants appointment, which I have to a while for. To top that all off I also have a nasty ear infection and am now completely deaf in my left ear with my right ear not far behind.

So please forgive me for taking some blogging time off to wallow in self pity.

In the meantime I wanted to share what I wore today with you. I haven't worn this dress in ages because quite honestly I forgot about it. That also meant I forgot just how flattering and easy to wear it is.

The colour is just the right shade of blue and I love anything floral, as half my wardrobe will prove. The ruffle detail down the front makes it that bit more exciting and stops it from being a plain knee length dress.

It didn't need much paired with it so I opted for a simple necklace and my new double-wrap belt - which by the way for a Paul Smith belt was a steal...

Am still working out the best way to wrap it and style it but I love the colours.

Oh and happy 1st September everyone. Feels so strange to be saying that when the sun has been shining.

Want It On Wednesday...

2010-08-25T11:00:00.003+01:00

It's back and it's bigger than ever...Well not really but I'm just trying to hype it up a little.

This post will usually revolve around footwear (surprise surprise) and winter coats as I am freezing and am secretly really excited about Autumn approaching.

Today's finds include....

These ASOS arctic suede crepe wedges, £55.

They are the perfect shade of grey and have a little shearling fold over at the top. If you read this blog regularly you will know I am a massie wedge fan, mainly due to my collapsable Bambi ankles never being able to support my frame!

I think these will work well with skinny jeans either tucked in or rolled up, as well as dresses and tights. Want them now please....

My other want this week includes these hot, hot, hot Jonathan Aston mock suspender tights, £10.00.

Wowzers. That's all.

What's on your wish list at the moment?

Loves It Love

2010-08-24T11:00:00.000+01:00

I love reading Love magazine. For one their covers always amaze me, for the pure fact that they are so glossy sometimes you can't be sure who exactly it is on the cover.

Take for instance this one...

Sienna Miller, I kid you not. I think her makeup totally transforms her in this picture. The cover line is right, she is the pin up here.

The other covers on sale include a nudie Kelly Brook (am not sold on this one), Gisele, Rosie and Aggy to name a few. My aim is to pick one up today but have you got yours yet and which cover did you choose?

Absent...Moi

2010-08-23T20:17:00.001+01:00

I've been a little absent lately....Now how many times have I typed that sentence before. Hundreds? It certainly feels like it, right?

I've had some personal stuff going on and to be honest haven't really felt like doing much other than catching up with friends and family which has been the best. Add the self imposed shopping ban on top of the personal stuff and well, I wasn't a very happy camper.

But I'm back, not full time, but as often as I can manage in between work, sleeping and having an actual social life again. Wahooo.

Just to prove it here's a little snapshot of me and my besties from Saturday night. Girls night out.

And let the blogging commence....