Monday, 12 August 2013

Splendid Skirt: Orla Kiely Alpine Grove Skirt from People Tree

I love People Tree, with its ethical, fair trade ethos and superb, quality products.  For over 20 years, it has partnered with Fair Trade artisans and farmers in the developing world to produce a collection of ethical and eco fashion.  It has always been a pioneer in that field so customers can feel good about purchasing from them!

There are loads of great items in their sale right now, including designers such as Orla Kiely.  I'm really impressed with the sale price of these Alpine Grove cotton midi skirts - they have been reduced from £70 to £28 - a real bargain!  Pair with a simple white t-shirt, cardi and flat sandals for a perfect, chic summer look.  I can't decide whether I prefer the blue or coral - but at that price, I'm tempted by both!

Sunday, 11 August 2013

Delightful Dress: New Romantics He Loves Me Best Dress from Free People

I love the boutique Free People as its product range successfully combines femininity and romanticism with edginess and sass.   There are so many gorgeous items available in their sale, but my favourite dress is this cream coloured dotted chiffon maxi dress.  It's ruffle-y, delicate and light yet unconventional - I love the quirkiness of the asymmetric, tiered bottom and crochet trimming and studs around the waist.  This means it can be styled as in the picture, with Doc Martens and chunky, metallic accessories - or keep it floaty and light with some strappy flat sandals.  Originally £250, it's currently £169.95 in the sale in sizes US 4 to 8 (8 to 12 UK).
While I am at it, I'm going to throw in this fab twisted snake ring which is just awesome.  It's also on sale, reduced from £20 to £16.95.  It would go perfectly with the dress, I feel!

Splendid Skirt: Denim Skirt from M&Co

I've been searching for a decent denim skirt for a while now - one that's a classic, stylish shape, an indigo colour, a modest length and a good price.  A super skirt like this will work for most daytime occasions, paired with a blouse for a smart/casual look or a simple vest top for a laid-back, easy style. It can be worn with any shoes also - pumps, heels, wedges - but I'm planning on wearing it with a simple t-shirt and my Converse!

I found a lovely one at Boden, but it's pretty much out of stock and is fairly expensive for what you get, even with a 10% discount code.  So I was really pleased to find a similar one at M&Co.  It's a pencil skirt but there is enough give in the fabric and a slight flare to ensure a good, not too tight, stylish fit.  The colour is a perfect indigo blue and the high waist keeps everything in nicely!  It's £24 and comes in sizes 8 to 22.

Until 14th August, new customers can get 20% off at M&Co with the code FIRST20 (making it just £19.20); alternatively, after that, there's 10% off (making it £21.60) for a while for new customers with the code FIRST10.  Delivery is just £1.  So all in all, this makes this skirt a real quality, good-looking bargain!

Saturday, 10 August 2013

Terrific Top: Stone Lace Blouse from Kaliko

There is nothing more feminine, delicate and ethereal than lace clothing - a gorgeous, floaty dress or perfect fitted top.  There are also so many looks that it compliments - elegant and classy, funky and fun or vintage and offbeat.

I've found this beautiful, stone coloured lace blouse in the Kaliko sale.  It's simple but beautiful.  The scalloped edge, v-neck and ribbon tie waist means that it will flatter one's top half fantastically.  The neutral colour means that it can be paired with bright and/or patterned bottoms to create a vibrant colour pop, or keep it pale and sophisticated with a white pencil skirt and courts.  Originally £65, it's been reduced to £49 and comes in sizes 8 to 20.  Delivery is free at Kaliko - always a plus in my book.

Awesome Accessories: Ray Ban Original Wayfarer from Fashion Eye Wear

Ray Ban glasses and sunglasses are classic, quality and gorgeous!  The original Wayfarer is arguably the most recognisable version - although the aviator comes close - and is worn by the most stylish people around the world.  They come in a fantastic range of colours and finishes and, as is to be expected, block out 100% of UV rays to protect one's eyes.  The lenses are also tilted, meaning that glare is reduced and they are comfortable to wear.

I'm very taken with this range of semi-transparent 'ice pop' Wayfarers which come in loads of glossy colours - purple, blue, grey, yellow, pink (pictured) and more.  They are fun, vibrant and perfect for when the sun's out - even in winter!
The best price I have found for these is from online store Fashion Eye Wear (£94.85 and free delivery), plus there's a discount voucher code that could be used if another purchase or two is made!  Maybe get a few colours to liven up one's wardrobe?  Use code 10OFF with £140 spends or more, to get a £10 discount.

Friday, 9 August 2013

Nifty Knitwear: Relaxed Fit Wool Blend Jumper from Jigsaw

There are so many amazingly gorgeous items available in the Jigsaw-Online sale right now - everything from office staples to casual chinos to silk dresses with up to 60% off.  My mind is heading towards autumn, so I've been focusing on their knitwear.  There is a good selection of high quality, linen, cotton and/or wool blend jumpers and cardigans so definitely well worth a look.

This AW13, I'm thinking comfy and slouchy knitwear and this light pink, relaxed fit, wool and cashmere jumper fits the bill nicely.  It could be worn casually with jeans and a patterned scarf or paired with a blouse and smart skirt or trousers for a relaxed office look.  It's been reduced from £89 to £59 and is still available in sizes medium and large.  Alternatively, it comes in cream, in sizes small to large.
Jigsaw

Divine Collaboration: Issa for Banana Republic

Banana Republic have just launched a fab collaboration with Issa, a designer label best known for developing gorgeous jersey wrap dresses worn by fashionistas such as Kate Middleton and Nicole Richie.  In keeping with Banana Republic heritage, the designs are inspired by safari - so think leopard print, zebra print and tropical colours.  Launched just yesterday, its popularity means that the range is selling out fast - so do have a look!

My favourite pieces are the dresses and this zebra print, ponte dress is excellent.  The fit and flare style is flattering and elegant, and the style and pattern means it's perfect for any occasion in the summer.  The neutral colours mean that it can be paired with a colourful bag and sandal wedges and look gorgeous!  It's £85 and is still available in sizes 4, 6 and 12 to 18.
I also love this tan and brown leather envelope clutch bag - which would also go with the dress and be perfect for the office!  It's £79.50 but the quality is amazing, the style is classic and it will last season after season.
As ever, new customers can get 15% off purchases just by signing up to the email mailing list, so do take advantage.