It may be summer here but in Australia, winter's on its way.

The southern hemisphere holds a fashion fascination for me. I was inspired to search out these sites after a friend of mine, that has just returned from living in Australia and talked about the reverse seasonal "thing". It got me thinking about what they're wearing there right now, as they move into winter. I know lots of the northern Australian states bask in summertime temps even in "winter" but coats must be required in the south. So perusing the Australian websites I came across Runaway Lovers above and Ruby Smallbone below. Runaway Lovers' winter looks are very 60's/70's inspired - simple yet stylish, loving the accenting leather belt, but hardly wintery! Below are images more in line with what I consider to be Australian fashion - bohemian, summery and a little eclectic. They are from the originally named Ruby Smallbone! Both designers are available from My Catwalk, a fab Auzzie e-store. My favourite Australian designers still have to be Sass & Bide but I shall continue to search for more southern hemisphere inspiration.

The Search for the White Dress is over...I went for a Black one!

OK, so with a big knod to Suzie Style Bubble, I have had to take a picture of myself to show you the outcome of the search for the white dress...I ended up buying a black dress! Of all places, I found it in Oasis - where it was in the sale! Apparently, on speaking to the sales assistant, the puff sleeves really weren't going down well! Excuse the state of the room I have taken the photos in, we are in the process of doing up an old house - so chaos reigns. The shape isn't obvious from the photos, but the sleeves are beautifully voluminous. Also featured are the red jeans. I'm not sure what all of you think but I think they work well when accessories are kept to a minimum and are worn without patterns or contrasting bold colours. Will I ever find a perfect white dress?...maybe but for now my black dress is making me happy.

The Gladiator Sandal - find it in Athens

The sandal debate rolls on and I've been mesmerised by these gladiator style sandals, called Athens by Ted Baker. They're just really pretty - maybe it's the swirled, circular leather shapes or the pleasing tan shade but I just really like them. Best of all, they can be bought on-line in Ted Baker's e-store.

Interesting Shapes = All Saints

I love to see clothes that incorporate innovative forms and shapes BUT they can sometimes be difficult to find on the High Street. There is one exception, All Saints. Their prices are above the High Street bracket but their looks do last between seasons. Below are three stunning examples; left to right, the Nemi jacket with fabulous puff sleeves, the Hitch skirt, stunning exaggerated layers and the Zion dress, amazing deep pockets. Sometimes these quirky shapes can be unflattering, ie. wide shoulders - the puff sleeves may exaggerate their width. So, be selective, accentuated your best bits OR to hell with it, embrace your body shape and dare to be a little different.

The Oversized, Slouchy Cardigan.

The last time I visited Londinium, I saw one or two very stylish young ladies in fab, oversized, grey cardigans. I've seen a few cardigans that I like. Above are examples (left to right) from, Jigsaw, Reiss and Paul & Joe (an interesting back twist - a bit like the Topshop one I posted about). I found the epitome of the slouchy cardigan at Boutique by Topshop, right. It's huge! Comfortable, cosy, all round loveliness! (I feel like I'm describing a grandma shawl!). My boyfriend, Things of Random Coolness, thinks it looks like an "I'm having a fat day" outfit - but I assure you, when I tried it on, it was surprisingly stylish. The down side - as per usual, when something a little bit different goes online at Topshop, it's almost immediately out-of-stock in most sizes.

R.N. Convertible - Fashion with a Twist.

I saw this article about R.N. Convertible on Nylon's website and had to research these innovative designs further. Designer Rozae Nichols sees clothes as an organic process and the more adaptable and convertible the piece of clothing is, the longer it will feature in your wardrobe. I love these screen shots from R.N.'s website that show the transformation between looks. Their website explains their look:

R.N. CONVERTIBLE IS ABOUT CASUAL LUXURY DESIGNED AND DRAPED FOR EASE, COMFORT AND VERSATILITY. THESE PIECES LAYER INTO ONE ANOTHER AND ADD MORE POSSIBILITIES TO THE ARTISANAL COMPONENTS OF ROZAE NICHOLS.

Ease, comfort and versatility sounds like my ideal wardrobe! I'd never heard of R.N. Convertible before but it turns out they are stocked in several renowned stores in the U.K. and globally. I love something different and R.N. fits that brief perfectly.

The Several Faces of Paul & Joe.

Over The Top Gorgeousness

I adore the spring/summer campaign by Paul & Joe. It is a multi-faceted collection, each look full of elegance, yet quite diverse. There's Over The Top Gorgeousness, Laid Back Formality and Day Time Chic. I love all of the looks but not the prices but...design inspiration can be taken from each look and imitated. The looks above are among my favourites, full of volume and interesting shapes. Check out their stunning website, for more pictures of their heavenly add campaign, left (they've even got doves!) and stockists.

Laid Back Formality
Day Time Chic

Look what's back...(sorry it's Topshop again!)

One of my very first posts is back in stock at Topshop. When I decided to buy it first time around, it was already out of stock. This time it shall be mine! It's the Topshop, printed, swing dress. Perfect over jeans, fab with flip-flops and amazing with heels - what more do you need from a dress?

Jigsaw, looks that are well put together.

I'm not usually a huge fan of Jigsaw but their spring summer ad campaign has sparked my interest. I love the light, airy feel of the photo shoot, it is almost erethral. The nude, neutral pallet is perfect for the summer and floaty whites - everything I've been searching for. So the next time I pass a Jigsaw, I think I'll pop in and take a look. They always strike me as being a "masstige" brand, see my post on Reiss...now maybe I may become one of the masses that shop there.

Asymmetrical Wonders

I'm loving the one-shoulder asymmetrical look. I know it's a little 80's but the 80's is also very now. Miss. Moss has incorporated the one shoulder look in her Topshop Collection (see below) but they've already done it successfully in the shape of this blue dress, above left. On the right is Warehouse's interpretation of the look, in stunning chiffon layers with a great cinched waist. Asymmetry is definitely the way forward.

The Summer Flip-Flop Debate

As those of you who are regular readers know, I have feet like boats but still love flip-flops, so what options are out there for me? Office shoes spring to mind with their great range of the slops. I'm still a sucker for the metallics, I think their shiny glare detracts from the size of my feet! My personal favourite is the Drake soft gathered thong, top right. The leather looks unbelievably soft and I hate to use this word...but "dreamy"! (can't believe I just said it!!) The Donna buckle toepost, top right, is a classic thong sandal but I love the high ankle strap. Below, the Dovita X-Stitch, ankle strap in black leather, has that distinctive gladiator look, that seems to be everywhere but is still undeniably cool. So..it looks as if the boats may make an appearance this summer and they'll be wearing Office!

I'm Loving the Maxi Dress.

The maxi dress can be quite a controversial piece. I wore one to a wedding last year and many people commented on my "strange" choice of 70's retro. I found this aversion to the dress quite disconcerting; many people find it hard to draw the line between fancy dress, vintage and retro. Now though, it seems to be a different matter. Maxi dresses are in, which pleases me no end and therefore fashionably acceptable. I adore these ultra-long dresses but for me they have to have a truly retro feel to them and as an added bonus a great print.

Above are my favourites from the catwalk collections. Top row are by Jovovich Hawk, who have truly captured the vintage look, even the photography has a 70's aura. Above left, is by Biba, the true purveyors of retro, with bell sleeves and the famed print. Left, is a simply beautiful piece, by Paul & Joe, the amazing lose hood adds a great finishing detail.

What of the High Street? There are plenty of maxi-dresses on offer but to be honest many of them have quite a fake synthetic feel. Two that I adore are pictured below. On the left is a stunning floral, festival dress by Miss.Selfridge, in a true boho style. Some of you may remember I featured this dress before but in brown tones. On the right is a surfy take on the maxi by Roxy (Quiksilver). Every summer I buy a long Roxy dress, as they epitomise the laid back style that I try to achieve when the sun appears. Extremepie stocks this fab sunburnt orange dress, with beautiful embroidery. So, it's summertime...embrace the maxi.

Laid Back Simplicity - Reiss

While perusing The Times Online I came across an article/review about Reiss. It's quite strange because I spent the weekend with a friend in Londinium who had spent a small fortune at the afore-mentioned store. She wowed me with some beautiful pieces of clothing that were understatedly elegant, yet relatively funky. I was impressed. I then came across the article. Anne Ashworth refers to Reiss as a "masstige” retailer, which means that it deals in luxury at prices that many, not just the few, can afford. As I noticed, looking at my friend's haul and as Anne points out, the prices are still pretty eye-watering and yet "non-designer". Reiss is also becoming a global brand, with not only stores in Great Britain but across the U.S. Take a look for yourself; the quality - undeniable, style - evident throughout the store, laid back chic - in abundance; enough cash?...cash?, now where did I put it?

Embracing Fashion Trends - Coloured jeans

OK...before I post this I want you all to know that I very rarely fully embrace fashion trends

a. because they are sooo transient
b. they can be costly
c. you simply blend into the fashion heard

...but, I hate to say it, the trend has got me and I've been completely seduced by coloured skinny jeans! I am a big fan of denim and have already posted of the virtues of my favourite brand, Cheap Monday. I tend to wear jeans under all my dresses and long tops, finding them a far more substantial option than leggings. So imagine my delight when the High Street began to produce a rainbow of coloured jeans, to compete with the leggings. Now I am feeling a slight fashion glutton, as today I bought 3, yes THREE pairs. I fear the reason behind my colour choices has a deep base in my psyche - I used to live in France and teach French, so my jeans are actually an "hommage" to Le Tricolore, (although some may argue I am simply revealing my love of the Union Jack!).

So, I hate being a follower but I find myself worshiping the coloured jean! I shall do my up-most to add diversity in the rest of my look. Many people are advising on this trend, even The Times has produced its own guide to working the look. The main reason I'm feeling a little smug - all these pairs cost me less than £100. So if this trend is short lived, I'll be able to cope and will continue to wear these jeans in my own way, without needing High Street approval! The red and white pairs are from Oasis, called Cherry skinnies and the blue pair are actually denim look trousers from Topshop.

Maria Bonita Extra - Headwear at its most original

Headwear in general holds a great fascination for me. I adore original hats and scarfs but at times, when I attempt to wear them, I don't really feel as if I pull of the look. Maria Bonita Extra - a Brazilian label - has offered a glimmer of hope. Between their gorgeous summer flowers and unique fall headbands, I'm sure there is a stylish feature that could enhance anyone's look. The unfortunate thing is that their site is extremely slow to load and all in flash - it took me about 30 minutes to get these screen-shots! I'm not sure about a full list of stockists but Shopbop do have a selection of their clothing line. The great thing about a lot of these looks is that they could be easily recreated. A piece of felt fabric and a sewing kit, you've got yourself one of these quirky bands.

I am loving Bertie peep-toes.

I have feet that could unfortunately be mistaken for canoes - which isn't a great look! In the summer I can cope with getting out the flip-flops as I have no foot shame...but if there is a kinder alternative, especially for other peoples' eyes, then I'm willing to try it out. So, what are the alternatives? Well, peep-toed shoes spring to mind but I hadn't been able to find any that I loved...that was until this weekend. I spotted these little gems by Bertie. The reason I love them - the shimmery white with the gold piping. You can't see their true beauty in this photo but once on the foot, they can transform even my hobbit-like boats, into acceptable specimens! Check out The Shoe Studio for more from Bertie.

The "Search" is over....

...for the little white dress; I've found it in Zara. This angelic, puff-sleeve, pin-tuck dress is heavenly as it also has fantastic low pockets - a fashion favourite of mine. I tried it on in Knightsbridge's Zara on Friday but unfortunately the lone dress in my size had been tried on by a very over-exuberant shopper. It was ripped across the chest, covered in make-up and fake tan. I was going to buy it anyway but stupidly thought I could pick one up in another branch. I'll have to wait until I go shopping tomorrow to see if I can buy one (knowing my shopping luck, this will be a fruitless expedition - but I can still have hope!). So the search is over...but the actual dress still eludes me. Another reason it's the one...the fantastic image on the right from the Facehunter. Seeing it on someone else brings on the shopping envy!

...P.S. Sorry I've been away for so long. I popped to visit some friends in London for a few days. After the sunny days and clean air of Northampton, I needed a bit of smog to balance me out!

No posts for a few days...

Just to let you avid readers and visitors know, there will be no posts for a few days as I'm away for a few days in the Northampton countryside, in one of these...

...an Austin Healey Bug-eyed Sprite. Hopefully, I'll be back on Thursday, in one piece!

Zero Maria Cornejo - Stunning Silhouettes

Zero Maria Cornejo first came to my attention in Elle magazine. They had a picture of Diane Kruger in a Zero Maria Cornejo dress. I adored the unusual shape and silhouette, which are repeated throughout this stunning collection. Even though layering, volume and gathering have been a feature of many catwalk collectons, Zero Maria Cornejo seem to have incorporated all these elements, along with pristine tailoring. I adore the layered dress, right and top left - it's laid back, edgy and still wearable. Zero Maria Cornejo has their own e-store and on their website you can see their Fall 2007 preview.

Polkadot Jewellery - Fab Vintage Pieces.

I adore authentic vintage pieces and feel as if I've stumbled across a little goldmine in the form of Polkadot Jewellery. Above are a selection of brooches, each with individual charm and history. Top right is a Lea Stein brooch, entitled Carmen - it evokes so many visual memories, 80's power dressing, the Mondrian inspired VO5 ads, the Wella haircare logo! Bottom right is a celluloid chariot brooch which dates back to the 1920s - it seems so delicate and detailed. Below are some of the fantastic cuff bracelets on offer. On the left is a 1960's Monochrome cuff, that is retro yet truly modern and would fit in with any of the 60's shift dresses that seem to be everywhere. It may sound cheesy but it just seems so much more special to wear an item with a story behind it..who was it worn by, when, etc. So check out Polkadot for a piece of fashion history.

Just a Quick Reminder...Laura Ashley Archive Online Tomorrow.

Don't forget, the Laura Ashley Archive Collection goes on sale in their e-store tomorrow.

Joie Flats...oooh they're soo pretty!

I love these t-strap flats, simply because they're a little bit different. I don't really do heels, so flats are my friend...but recently the selection I've seen in stores is a little boring, just the ubiquitous ballet shoe! So its refreshing to see a different style. I love the t-bar strap and ankle buckle. Unfortunately I can't find a Joie accessories U.K. stockist but they are available from Shopbop in the U.S. (they do ship internationally but this can really up the cost). If anyone has any U.K. Joie information, please let me know.

Josh Goot - Silver and Spandex

Josh Goot's spring/summer collection is an erethral vision in silver and white. I don't know why but I found it quite strange these two shades dominated his range. I first noticed Josh Goot's work when the whole American Apparel lamé leggings hype began and I saw a pair of his metallic leggings at Browns...but they were a little more expensive at £130. Surprisingly the other Josh Goot items in stock at Browns were relatively affordable - his pencil skirts retailing at £80, all be it in the sale. I adore the simplicity of the looks above, especially the mannish trousers with that hint of bagginess. So if your into designer leggings, Josh Goot is the designer to seek out; or if like me you like simplistic design with heavenly colours, he's also the designer for you.

DKNY...a juxtaposition of styles.

I am never really blown away by DKNY clothing, Donna Karan's New York inspired range...but I have been impressed with their most recent ad campaign. The image below embodies all that New York represents to me...laid back, cool but with a distinct sense of style. Whenever I come across these ads in a magazine, I do take a second glance. The ad campaign empitomises their mission statement to "represent the international pulse of New York in the design". Although, although my slightly "let down feel" came gushing back when I looked at the DKNY e-store. The images are a little bland and to top it all, they have a section for a clothing item called a "Cozy"! A Cozy!!...and a guide as to how to wear it! (12 different ways!) So I'm thrown, DKNY's ad campaign...aspirational, the actual product...a little too "cozy" for me!

Diesel - Not so much logo hell, as design heaven.

I have to admit I'm not the biggest fan of Diesel clothes. I used to be and I still have some great jeans but then it turned into logo hell (those of you that read my blog regularly, will know how I feel about logos!). I have got some fab tops and dresses that are logo free and do have the quirky design details that I love...but I bought them several years ago. Recently I'd begun to feel that they'd taken their finger off the style pulse, so I was pleasantly surprised when I stumbled across their website and saw these visions in gold. I was shocked to see the voluminous blouses and skinny, high waisted trousers - I also love the gathered hem mini-dress. I have to say, I haven't really seen anything like this is stores - but I haven't been in a Diesel flagship store for a while, just department stores that sell various brands. If I do spot any of these items I may convert back to Diesel, we'll have to wait and see.

Topshop Gets Graphic.

Topshop's gone graphic this week, with great prints and 80s inspired tops. I adore the shape of the vest on the left - fab tulip hem, with that little bit of volume. I also adore the print - although I can image to some, it may seem a little scary. It feels like a true 80s delight!

The vest on the right - not so great. It seems a little too much like camoflouage, which has been totally overdone over the last few years. But I do like the way that high street fashion is taking a bold colour step forward.

Oasis Metallic Shift...stunning.

I think this one speaks for itself. Metallic is everywhere and U.K. store/e-store Oasis, have come up with this affordable, yet stylish balloon sleeve, shift dress. So, I've found a metallic dress, now what about the elusive white number I'm looking for?

Simply a post of appreciation - Sass & Bide

I adore everything that is Sass & Bide. Sarah & Heidi - nicknamed Sass & Bide, started out with humble beginnings, with a stall on the Portobello Road in London. This is part of the reason why I adore their designs, they've truly come so far (very heartwarming). I also love their unconventional, eclectic mix of styles. Below you can see their runway, denim and play looks; each piece of clothing is almost personified by being given its own fabulous name - so original. Please take a look at their website - their minidresses are little wonders, fab with jeans, great with heels (multipurpose delights!)

Runway Collection - The Lovehawk Season
Look 1 - On My Way Home shift
Look 2 - He Missed Me vest, The Last Call tee, Take Me Back pants
Look 3 - Cross The Bridge minidress
Runway Collection - From Here to Arcadia
The Last Part, Ready for Love, Anxious About Her.
Denim
Play
A Life Long Friend sundress, Hustley Strutters jeans

Little fashion find - Chloé inspired dress by Mango

I stumbled upon this little 70s minidress by Mango (called VTC LALALA) - a true homage to Chloé. Unfortunately, I can't link to the dress directly but go to Mango's e-store and click on dresses. Take a look at a great, designer inspired, summer dress for £45.

The great white dress...truly elusive!

The search for the great white dress is proving more difficult than I thought. I've found two very pretty dresses at Miss. Selfridge but they lack that little bit of originality I'm looking for - the bell/puff sleeve, volume? I like the simpicity of the shimmer dress, left and the more laid-back look of the smock dress, right. So...the search continues. If you have any suggestions as to where I can get an affordable, yet original white dress, please let me know. Will my search be fruitless?....I'll keep you informed.

Bright Whites - Look to Jill Stuart.

A white dress is always difficult to wear. There are many obstacles and hurdles you have to think about...Underwear - is it see-through? Where am I going - is there a potential food spillage issue? Jill Stuart has produced a summer range of bright, angelic whites that seem so effortless that they could be worn anywhere, dresed up or down, and the usual hassle seems to disappear. I won't be able to afford one of Jill's stunning creations but I shall take my inspiration form her line when I shop for my white summer creation. Think I'd better get my ironing board ready, to imitate these looks, extra pristine care is definitely needed. See more of Jill Stuart's collection on her website, or buy at Net-a-Porter.

Paul Frank - Kitsch gets an Edge

When I think of Paul Frank I think quirky, kitsch, cute...but not necessarily stylised or edgy. Paul Frank is well known for its Julius Monkey and various cute character tees - but not necessarily design. I was shocked when I stumbled upon the Paul Frank website - Julius & Friends is the logo clad, cute character range - whereas the Paul Frank range is more simple, stylish collection. I adore the little detailing, especially in the shoes below (the ankle sock makes another appearance!). The photography is very 70s, with a true retro feel - check out the site, visually its quite spectacular. There are lots of online stores that stock Paul Frank but it's predominantly the Julius & Friends range. I've contacted Paul Frank for a list of online stockists and will post it asap.

Lola Rose Rings...just beautiful.

I've always had a soft spot for Lola Rose jewellery but these rings really are delightful. Lola Rose does costume jewellery at its best - oversized, bold in colour, with great design. I adore the black rose ring, right. It's original, pretty and despite being black, a great summery piece. Lola Rose is available from ASOS and check out their own website here.

Natthakur - A true recycling solution!

I'm feeling very green this Easter and after the "I'm Not a Plastic Bag" hype, true recycling solutions have begun to worry me. I found these great 100% reusable bags from Natthakur. They are made from leather but look far more practical, strong and actually usable. Natalie Thakur - the designer behind the range - has made a great range of bags and other accessories, using truly interesting techniques such as the 3D molding below. The difference between these bags and some of the others marketed as reusable, is that I could actually see myself using these bags for the purpose they were intended. It worries me how many plastic carrier bags that I have stored up in the cupboards and despite the schemes the returns supermarkets have in place, I never actually get around to taking advantage of them. Check out Natthakur's website for her great practical range.

Easton Pearson - Ankle socks galore!

Lydia Pearson and Pamela Easton have created a beautiful line - Easton Pearson. I adore the styling of the models on their website - the ankle socks add that quirky edge to what would otherwise be quite conventional outfits. The bow cinched waists are a motif running through the collection, as are the great prints. I've included an enlarged photo to show the intricacies of the design - beautiful metallic beading. What lead me to Easton Pearson - this stunning swing jacket on sale at Browns. It has a definite Japanese feel to it - the fab kimono style buttons and sleeves...but with a very English twist in the shape of the tweedy type material. Take a look at Easton Pearson's website and try out the ankle sock look...it may transform your style or make you feel like you should be back in junior school!

Laura Ashley...sign of a comeback?

I got a little excited when I read about this little piece of news...Laura Ashley are going to start selling an archive collection of its clothing. From these photos it promises to be a true vintage dream - original fabrics, prints and styles from the 60s and 70s have been revisited and adapted to create a thoroughly modern range. I adore their prints and these styles seem to encompass all that is retro/modern. The range will be available from a select number of stores and online from April 16th. Will this save the brand that is Laura Ashley? Of late their name has become synonymous with the words "traditional" and "old fashioned" - not necessarily modern or retro. I am looking forward to April 16th...lets see what they come up with.

Sarah Coggles, an e-store of delights.

I recently stumbled across Sarah Coggles e-store. It's full of great designers and brands and some really unique finds. I adore these little badges from Alexander McQueen's McQ range - I don't know why but pink flamingos and and ice-cream equate to summer-time in my mind! (Flamingos!) Coggles also stock my favourite jeans brand - Cheap Monday. I recently dragged out my grey Cheap Mondays; I've lived in my overdyed, black jeans all winter and the sunshine required a lighter colour. At £40 and a perfect fit for my shape, I couldn't ask for anymore. I know finding jeans that fit perfectly, can be a nightmare but I can highly recommend Cheap Monday.

Rebecca Taylor - Dare to be a little different

I really like the way Rebecca Taylor puts looks together. I like the way the overall feel isn't safe, it's a little bit different. Yes, high waisted is in...yes, tulip skirts are in, as are bell sleeve blouses...but all together, with cropped jackets adds that bit of edge I'm looking for. Rebecca's obsessive eye for detail really shines through, the tailoring and details jump out at you. You can buy directly online from Rebecca's fab e-store, I say fab because you choose individual items after looking at an overall look - such a better way to shop.

Patrizia Pepe- Petals and Details

It's all in the detail...I adore original design features and these outfits, by Patrizia Pepe, truly deliver. The simple, yet contemporary detailing in these tops, is the elusive feature I search for. Bubble-hem dresses, delightful, the scribble print above - fab. Their fashion shoot/show took place in a storm of petals, visually stunning - but I couldn't decide whether or not it may seem a little 80s pop video! Architectural design is often reflected in fashion and the employees at Patrizia Pepe have plenty of inspiration close at hand - look at their main offices below, a true visual treat! Check out the website for stockists and more details.

Development - Class with an Edge

I adore the cool aesthetic behind Development, a Los Angeles based label, with a distinctly European feel. An added bonus the main designer is Erica Davies, a fellow Welshwoman - which would explain the more contemporary look. After a stint with MaxMara, Erica has a great pedigree and has bought that eye for great tailoring into Development. I love the contrasting styles - high waisted, drop waisted, trapeze. the main fashion feature that sells this collection to me...the stunning fabric mixes. Silk with linen, cotton with chiffon - the stunning close-up of the chiffon/voile blouse below and the clean, crisp lines, is all the evidence I need. See the full spring/summer range here.

Lookbook Preview - Kate Moss Topshop...I'm a little underwhelmed!

I'll let the pictures speak for themselves...but I've decided to categorise them:

Good Moss
Edgy/Fashion Forward Moss

Sorry to be controversial but even though this dress (right) is fashion forward, the sequin thing's been done quite a lot.

Overdone Mannish Moss (maybe even a little boring!)
Well Styled...but what is it really like?
Kate Models...So how could they look bad!

The jeans look...quite simple. The dress on the far right, a little bin-bag looking (may just be the light!). The navy dress, left...stunning. Check out the lookbook at Topshop and make up your own mind. I think I'll reserve final judgment until I see them in-store.

Mischa Barton...does she read my blog!?!

I posted about this dress by Warehouse this week...and look who Perez caught wearing it...Mischa Barton (apparently shopping for drugs - hence the STONED label!). I thought she was definitely a designer girl! Nice to see her in a great High Street piece. Thanks to Perez Hilton for the image.

Karanina - Southern Californian Style

Karanina is a Southern Californian design duo. An endearing feature is the inspiration behind their collections - a heartwarming tale of friendship. I really like the simplicity of their looks and some truly excellent styling on the website really enhances each outfit. Their print dresses are fab and I adore this vibrant blue dress, below centre. Another successful element behind their brand is their model- she's very stylistically inspirational - a perfect marketing tool. She has that particular element of cool that would allow her to wear a potato sack and make it desirable! That's not to take away from the effortless chic of the clothing - Karanina provides another great source for anyone's summer wardrobe. Check out their website, it opens in flash so I can't direct link to any elements, sorry.

I waited with anticipation but...

...when the Celine dress I'd expressed an interest in arrived in stock at Net-a-Porter, it was of course £1,000 out of my price-range (at £1,050)! I should have realised this before adding it to my "let me know when they're in stock" list. I could have easily avoided a major bout of poor-person-itus (an official disease)! Go to Celine's website and look at more beautiful stuff that I can't afford - or if the whim takes you, purchase at Net-a-Porter.

Charlotte Ronson - Look beyond the celebrity

Charlotte Ronson comes from a very famous celebrity family, with very famous celebrity friends. This "very famous" link made me a little reluctant to post about her, as the majority of articles I've read aren't necessarily about her designs but what parties she and her twin sister, DJ Samantha Ronson, have appeared at and who they were with. The fact still remains that I adore her clothes, regardless of the celebrity link. They're cool, laid back - very L.A. - but also very fashion forward. I adore the voluminous shorts and floaty, smock tops but the vintage print dresses are simply fab. Samantha's eye for design also extends to the great photography in her add campaigns and pretty illustrations on her website. The website is in flash, so I'll link to it here - you can find a list of stockists and all her collections. So, ignore the celebrity links and hype...judge Miss. Ronson not by association but by her talented work.

Oowww, the sun hurts my eyes...Time for Sunglasses!

Mmmm...sunshine, oops, now I need sunglasses. My priority isn't that they are designer, just that they are stylish. I hate over the top designs, with logos galore, emblazening the arms...urgh! I do love oversized frames and cute colours and understated design. Above are two designer frames, Michael Kors, top left, Tom Ford, top right. I feel these two frames get it just right, each having its own unique element of quirkiness. Michael Kors, with bamboo effect arms, Tom Ford, with the cut out bug-eyed frames. Directly above is my favourite among Urban Outfitters offerings - a stunning pair of hand-painted butterfly sunglasses, with gorgeous lavender fade lenses - I believe they shall be mine! My old faithfuls are picture below - Electric's Vol sunglasses in mint fade. I bought them last summer and they are simple but stylish, wearable and very durable (I have sat on them many times!). Click on the links above to buy sunglasses from Shade Station and Urban Outfitters and here's Electric's website for their full range and stockists.

Such a Pretty Dress...

...weirdly it's from Warehouse. I'm not a huge fan of their store or designs, to be honest I find them quite bland...but every now and again I do spot a great one-off item. This is definitely one of those one-offs. This silk, yoke border notch neck, shift dress, with puff sleeves, is simple yet complex and great value at £60. So I might not be a Warehouse fan...but I will champion this dress

I would just like to respond to the anonymous person who wrote "wow you stole the bag hype from the cool hunter" about my Anya Hindmarsh post. For any of you out there who live in the U.K., you will know that this bag has been heavily publicized in the U.K., appearing in several magazines and newspapers - it is also available to buy in the supermarket Sainsburys. Those of you who read the post will know the "hype" is not what the post was about, it was about the environmental message behind the bag. I make a conscious effort not to post the same sort of stuff as everyone else - yes the bag is posted about everywhere BUT the intended purpose of the bag was something I hadn't read about and it truly worried me. I welcome positive criticism but please read my posts first. Sorry to rant...but cowardly "anonymous" criticism really annoys me!.

Antipodium - I'm blown away!

I'm simply in awe of Antipodium. A completely unique, yet relatively affordable range of clothing. It is both fashion forward and classic in its design. I adore the simple lines and buttoned shirt styles, including the stunning high-waisted, voluminous skirts - amazing.

Launched during London Fashion Week in September 2003, its aim was to introduce an eclectic mix of world class antipodean and international fashion to the UK market. The response to the first Antipodium boutique, based in Shoreditch, was overwhelming and the brand soon became much-admired for its unique concept and creative ethos.

I am totally in love with this purple dress, inspirationally named, the Baby's Got Back Dress! An amazing design with the quirky collar - I can see myself in it now with skinny jeans and pumps! A stunning stand out colour, great back detail...the complete package. Antipodium's range is available from their own on-line store - my dream dress, from My Wardrobe at £120 (currently they have a 20% off discount - enter ONE in the checkout area. Offer ends today. £96 is much nicer!).

Thinking of summer...flowers for my hair!

Accessories become a bigger part of my style agenda, as summer draws nearer. Johnny loves Rosie always produce fabulous flowers for hair and every summer I buy a piece to last me through the warmer months. By the end of the summer I've used them so much that they're always worn out. These are some of my choices for this year, roses and delphiniums, plus I'm intrigued by these lovely bobby pins (left). Check out the Johnny loves Rosie website for their other ranges, including bags, belts and jewellery and HQ Hair for their JLR stock.

Nieves Lavi - Floaty Summer Prints

Sam Nieves Velez and Sharon Lavi are the creative team behind Nieves Lavi, makers of stunning floaty, summer print dresses. As the U.K. weather starts to improve my mind has been on lightweight fabric dresses, to wear over jeans or with flip-flops. Nieves Lavi seems to epitomise all that is cool summer fashion, with fabulous prints creating beautiful silhouettes. I shall definitely try and purchase one of the dresses, showcased so beautifully in this gorgeous photo shoot. Check the website for current and past ranges and on-line stockists.

Via Alley - The Way towards Design

Via Alley is a stunning Australian website, bringing global design products to their fine country. I don't know if its my childish streak, or nostalgia for my own teenage years but I love kitsch badges. Ian Stevenson and Andrew Rae created these two fun sets - I'm sure they'd endow any little jacket with a bit more style. I hate logo t-shirts, as you may already know!, but this little one, by Trevor Jackson, really caught my eye - for obvious reasons. I adore the sense of true irony and fun and think I could cope with this more sarcastic view of fashion! Check out Via Alley for a stunning array of products, that can be shipped globally.

While I was looking for Twinkle by Wenlan I found...

I put Twinkle into Google, on the look out for Twinkle by Wenlan, when I stumbled across this little gem of a site. Twinkle in the Sky is a gorgeous U.S. online store with an amazing selection of quirky dresses. Singer/songwriter Trish T. Trang and jewellery designer Sue Koh have created fun, feminine fashion at decidedly undesigner prices. I adore the two dresses above - the styling in the photography manages to create ultra-stylish looks. Search through the website for some more great design pieces but the dresses are definitely among my favourites.

Anya Hindmarch...don't forget the message behind the Fashion Hype.

I adore the "I'm NOT a Plastic Bag" cotton tote, by Anya Hindmarsh. The ideology behind it is extremely honourable, taking positive steps to help the environment through the campaign "We are what we do". Their objective is simple. Go to their website and look at their,

...list of simple, everyday actions you can do to help change the world (and have fun while you're doing it). It could be doing something for the community like shopping locally, something for the environment like avoiding plastic bags, or something for you, like learning to paint, sing or speak Spanish...

My only worry is that the ideology behind Anya's campaign is being completely lost in the cult status of the bag. I've seen them being sold on eBay for £100+ even £200 (for the limited Lavender Trust editions), when they retailed at £5. As many fashionista's choice, the bag has been championed in several magazines, I wonder if many people will actually use the bag for the purpose it was intended - instead of a plastic carrier bag. If you've paid £100+ for it, I'm sure the last thing you'll want to put in it is your weekly grocery shop - eggs, smelly onions - I don't think so! The idea, amazing - combining fashion and practicality to help the environment - in practice, will it actually work? I'm not saying I would be immune to this dilemma. If I managed to get my hands on one of Anya's totes, I'd like to think I'd use it for the purpose it was intended...but like all fashionable pieces, I would worry it was too pretty to stick my fruit and veg in. It also worries me how "friendly", not just environmentally, lots of the major designers actually are. With their overpriced bags, made from a wide array of animal skins...maybe we should look to Stella McCartney for some true, all round, "friendliness".