Sammi • Page 3 of 15 • style & individuality

Thursday, 06 April 2023Tuesday, 06 February 2024

early spring, with Free People

The days are getting longer, the birds are chirping incessantly and there are daffodils everywhere my eyeballs stumble upon: spring is here.

Whilst I’m still reaching for tights & layers, there’s hope in sight – and how better to celebrate this on the blog than with some spring outfit inspo.

If you’re a fan of watermelons or just particularly adore a BOLD pink and lime green combo – this first look is for you. Note – this jumper/sweater does however come in a variety of colours.

The oversized and slightly cropped fit of the jumper make it an easy layering piece over a bralette crop or simple vest. Particularly love the longline cuffs and slouchy shoulder fit. This could be an easy ‘just add jeans situ’, but instead I’ve gone with this delightful leather mini in neon pink. What a dreamy piece.

With almost-matching neon green extras, this is definitely a look for a day when you’re feeling in need of a dose of colour.

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Taking things down a notch on the colour spectrum front with a more neutral toned look – and the kinda outfit I reach for more often than I can count. A simple short sleeve – in this case, a cosy knit – with a pair of wide leg semi-tailored trousers. The pinstripe detail gives that ready-for-the-work-day vibe juxtaposed with the leather harness over the knit.

SHOP THE LOOK:

When it comes to new clothing items, nothing gets me more excited than jackets.

Now this – THIS is a jacket. With colourful embroidered stitching all over – flames on the wrist (my 90’s loving soul is grinning at this) bold statement lettering and deep front pockets – the Heart Bomber is not for the faint of heart. I wanted a super relaxed fit and I sized up twice to get this look.

This has a vintage feel that’s gonna seriously spice up spring layering.

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more of my Free People selects below:

sponsored by Free People

Thursday, 16 March 2023Tuesday, 06 February 2024

recent looks

Diving straight in: some looks I actually managed to get photographic evidence of recently.

Austin in February already feels like a lifetime ago.

Blessed with warm weather on the first day, I reached for a green mini with my ever-adored pure Alessandro-era rainbow Gucci platforms. My love for this leather jacket truly knows no bounds. The cut is just utterly divinely – a cropped fit combined with oversized shoulders with an intense nod to the 80’s. Added in my Coco Splash Chanel (one of my most adored recent Chanel collections, 2018) and finished off with pops of colour with my jewellery.

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In direct contrast to the colours added in to create the look above, we have my go-to love: an all-black look of mixed black textures. Shiny black latex from Atsuko Kudo (a London based brand – can’t recommend them enough for all your latex needs) contrasts the deep black wool and mesh layer of the Monse corset trousers. A mixed metal moment with my ever adored chains and completed silhouette with my black leather beret. The bag of the day was my Birkin 30 – a highly coveted second-hand piece I finally gave into last year. I picked mine up from Break Archive – another UK independent – excellent for pre-loved and second-hand bags.

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A bold January look on a gloomy day to combat the dull.

Neon pink Jacquemus against grey high-waisted trousers. The cut of this blazer accentuates the shoulders and nips in the waist; whilst the additional draped fabric details at the back really set it off. Need I mention the Saint Laurent takeaway box bag AGAIN? There’s a TikTok dedicated to this thing of beauty.

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you can follow my outfits posts here

Tuesday, 14 February 2023Wednesday, 15 February 2023

Austin w/ Drunk Elephant

It’s hard to believe I was in Texas just two days ago.

Drunk Elephant celebrated the launch of Bouncy Brightfacial, inviting creators from around the world to Austin, Texas. Tiffany Masterson – the founder behind the brand – is from Texas, so this location made perfect sense and was a delight for us all.

I visited Austin for a couple of days as part of our honeymoon road trip (we drove from Texas to California over 3 three weeks – it took a whole week to make it through Texas) and I was so excited to see it again.

We checked into the Austin Proper (significantly better than the last place A & I stayed on honeymoon – this was a trip done on a mega budget with motels at $50 a night).

On the first morning after as much sleep as we could manage, EJ & I got straight on the tacos and coffee. The very important things.

After breakfast we headed over to Allan House, where Drunk Elephant had taken over and immersed us all in the brand.

We had time to speak with Tiffany herself – she made us all feel so welcome and dedicated so much time to us. To speak with a brand founder for a period of time where you can truly understand why they started the brand, feel their deep love and passions and ask burning questions – is a special thing.

SO, the new skincare launch: Bouncy Brightfacial is a leave on overnight mask to clarify skin tone & reduce redness. With 10% Azelaic acid & 1% Salicylic acids. I’ve started using it (after being gifted it whilst on the trip) ahead of the launch.

As someone that has sensitive skin and redness it’s a great product for me to try. I don’t know if anything DE can top my deep love of C-Firma ( 🙂 ) but let’s see.

We were spoilt on the first day with 23 degree C temperature – tropical in UK terms. This soon dissipated but we soaked up every moment with lunch outside at Perla’s. I highly, highly recommend this little spot. An incredible menu with the perfect outdoor dining ambience & excellent service.

Had the best shrimp caesar of my life (thus far at least).

On Friday we spent time at a ranch – drenched in DE style obvs – with lassoing (this is apparently not a skill of mine) archery (semi-capable) horse riding (not for me) and Texas BBQ (100% sold).

Austin loves:

A huge, massive thank you to the team for inviting me – thank you for such an incredible trip.

Bouncy Brightfacial is available now on drunkelephant.com.

Learn more about the brand here.

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Friday, 06 January 2023Friday, 06 January 2023

The Rose Amongst Thorns Charm Collection: Sammi x TGF

The Rose Amongst Thorns Bracelet launched in April last year.

When I first spoke with Reino of TGF about the concept for the Rose Amongst Thorns bracelet, the idea of charms was imperative to the overall design.

An idea that we’ve kept a little secret since launching the bracelet.

*The Rose Amongst Thorns Bracelet in sterling silver with solid 9ct gold rose buds & gold Old English ‘a’ charm*

Getting the bracelet design to work for charms with the thorns and general structure of the bracelet has been a meticulous and labour intensive process. I am in awe of the work that has been done to bring this concept to life so beautifully. I am so thrilled we are now launching the Sammi x TGF Rose Amongst Thorns Charm Collection. A charm bracelet for those that are drawn to some of the more alternative elements in the charm world, shall we say.

Jewellery is sentimental to me.

I wanted to create a bracelet that is adaptable & buildable, with depth and meaning behind it. Charms can be added to symbolise special moments in your life and will hold onto those memories. Each charm has a meaning that can tell a story that is personal to you.

THE CHARMS:

They’re up to your interpretation – but here are my own inspirations and meanings behind the charms:

Moon – a delightful Victorian inspired crescent moon – similar to a tattoo on my leg. The crescent moon is associated with feminine energy; making this charm a wonderful gift for a loved woman in your life (also: an excellent gift to yourself)

Crucifix – An iconic TGF twist on religious iconography.

Snake – I have always been drawn to and appreciated snakes. As symbols of rebirth, transformation & immortality, they possess a certain power. Adore this in gold.

Spider & Web – Even as a true arachnophobic, my goth soul can still appreciate a spider + web combination. This micro web dangles beautifully from the bracelet.

Heart – I’m a lover of love: a heart symbol was a must in this collection. Featuring a teeny garnet stone.

Leaf – When the leaves start falling and autumn begins, the shift in nature is deeply felt – and I adore this change. It’s also just a lovely little leaf charm.

Dagger – As above, so below.

Alphabet – Wearing the letters of my favourite people makes me happy. In mirco Old English font these letters are so pleasing. Especially love how these look as mixed metals together.

Skull + Crossbones – It’s TGF – we had to do a skull, right?

All charms are available in sterling silver and 9ct gold. Available to order online & in TGF stores.

The Sammi x TGF Charm collection launches January 7th.

Monday, 12 December 2022Monday, 12 December 2022

At Home For The Holidays, with Free People

Sparkles and cable knits: ’tis the season.

My final post of 2022 with Free People.

Outfits this time of year – actually, starting in September – it’s all about the last quarter outfit wise – are my favourite. The combination of layering options pleases me greatly. As per the title of this post, these outfits are all about being at home for the holidays: combining fancy-at-home-gatherings and the need for more chill looks. Let’s start with the later.

I’ve gotten more into jeans as of late.

They’re unlikely to ever be as much of a staple to me as they are to others, but I’ve certainly been reaching for them more this year. Distressed denim is my thing. These wide-leg slouchy jeans (hello 1997) with ripped details are perfect for those lull at home days: super comfortable and easy going.

Love layering tights underneath for that combo of extra detail, extra warmth.

Something I personally enjoy about denim is how easily it can be dressed in different ways.

Here I’ve paired the slouchy jeans with a more unexpected structured corset inspired top with mesh details (ADORE) and then layered over a contrasting hoodie with hook details.

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The next looks: we’re into that New Year’s Eve kinda vibe.

As a non-party kinda gal, NYE isn’t for me in the way it is for some: the idea of going out partying would send me into an early grave*. For me, it’s about staying in with friends, eating excellent food, dressing up (but then getting into pyjamas early) and playing board games. *slightly dramatic

No matter what you’re up to, what better way to end the year and see in a new one with a bit of sparkle.

This teeny bra top from For Love & Lemons has beautiful heart shaped cups, embellished straps and central bow detail. It would pair excellently with a semi-open buttoned down shirt or under a black crop blazer as per below. I paired the top with a sheer long floaty maxi skirt: a bit of extra drama it definitely didn’t quite need.

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Knitwear x crystals: a combination that makes so much sense in December.

Layered a crystal mesh top over a knitted bustier and paired with simple high-waisted black trousers: this feels like the kind of outfit that you could adapt for many an occasion. Simply add a blazer for formalities and remove the crystals for at home days.

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Cobwebs and snow: an iconic duo. Spooky season and sparkle season have united.

Fell in love with these cowboy boots with web and spider details.

The least practical choice of footwear one could wear in the snow – there’s more grip in a flip-flop – but I had to show these nonetheless.

Pair with black high waisted shorts, tights and mini dresses this time of year and then they’ll fill the goth soul with joy when worn with black denim come spring time.

A big genuine thank you to Free People for working with me this year. For the trust with my creative control (which brings me such joy) – it’s been an absolute delight…and thank you to you, for sticking by my humble blog this year.

Wishing you an absolutely magical end of 2022 & all the best for 2023.

Friday, 09 December 2022Friday, 09 December 2022

A Harness Update

When launching Ārdēo in August 2021, I could not have dreamed of creating a desire for such a niche bold item such as a leather harness.

When I first brought the concept forward, we hoped that in time it would be possible to sell a few hundred units a year: we would have them as a special item available for the absolute love of it: ‘a new approach to an object that may have previously felt inaccessible.’ Bridging a gap I felt was there between lower quality harnesses and – shall we say – the more ‘NSFW’ market.

Fast forward to June of this year – we nervously placed our largest order to date, anticipating we would then have the harnesses in stock for a decent amount of time, giving us time to also be able to work on other projects within the brand.

It sold out in under 24 hours – with my ever-adored High Waist Harness in brass selling out in 3 minutes. We were absolutely flummoxed.

It has been a challenging (a polite pick of words I could use) six months working to get these coveted pieces back in stock. We have been working hard with our supply chain to ensure we can continue to deliver high quality inline with our values to our growing community. This means the most to me: I wouldn’t want to be putting items into the universe I don’t feel truly excellent about. Additionally, I knew if we only added a few hundred pieces, the internet would have been less than impressed…

I dreamed of having all of our core items in stock well in time for Christmas. Whilst this has not been possible we have managed to get production confirmed on a limited pre-order basis, on our biggest order to date, for delivery in February 2023 (approx). This pre-order will be available for the High Waist and Classic Belt Harnesses in both hardware options.

We are opening our pre-order for three days in the hope that as many of you as possible can purchase the harness you desire most. Pre-orders will open on Tuesday 13th December 4.30pm GMT. The pre-order will close at 4.30pm Friday 16th December GMT – this is to ensure we can meet our February deadline. Please be aware quantities could sell out before Friday, so be speedy if you’re keen. Set your alarms, turn your Instagram notifications on, sign up to the newsletter: we’ll be sending reminders.

A few extra side comments from me:

if you are between sizes: size up
the measurements are to be taken without any clothing on (see size guides on each product page) therefore you need to account for for any layers that you may wish to wear under your harness
we will be adding more sizes to our range in time
a vegan option is also something we wish to add, as time + growth of the business allows
I wear size XS/S in both harnesses

Your support, patience, and love of Ārdēo means the world:

thank you, thank you for your support: this is just the beginning.

WWW.ARDEOSTUDIOS.COM

For full details of the pre-order, please click here.

Tuesday, 22 November 2022Friday, 25 November 2022

The Black Friday Post

It’s – somehow – towards the end of November and time for my annual Black-Friday-basic blog post.

This post will be updated daily, for the next seven days or so.

For a number of the links below, you need to be logged into your account with the specific site to access the offers. Some offers don’t apply until they’re securely in your basket and you’re at the checkout page.

As I always say; have your wish-lists sorted with your favourite shopping destinations, add key items to your favourites, keep your eyes peeled for reductions…and – ultimately – shop responsibly.

ULTIMATE:

Ssense: up to 50% off

FarFetch: up to 50% off

Net-A-Porter: up to 30% off

Liberty: up to 30% off

Elemis: 30% off

Fresh: 30% off

Free People: 50% off select styles

Playful Promises: up to 50% off [up to 30% off Playful Promises x Sammi Jefcoate]

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES:

Net-A-Porter: up to 30% off

All Saints: up to 30% off

MyTheresa: 40% off Balmain private sale

Reformation: 25% off everything

Luisaviaroma: 40% off with code: BF40

LNCC: up to 50% off

Matches Fashion: 30% off, code: 30MF

Flannels: vouchers per spend

Nordstrom: 40% off designer clearance

Mango: up to 50% off

Mr.Porter: 30% off selected items

Urban Outfitters: up to 30% off

Bluebella: up to 50% off everything

FashionPhile: discounts on spend – ends 25/11

Cettire: up to 50% off

JEWELLERY:

Missoma: 30% off everything

Astrid & Miyu: 25% off everything

Monica Vinader: 30% off everything

Marrow Fine: 20% off Moon Phase pendants

Roxanne First: 15% off, code: RFBF15

BEAUTY, SKINCARE & FRAGRANCE:

YSL Beauty: up to 30% off

Elemis: 30% off

Cult Beauty: 25% off most categories

Look Fantastic: up to 50% off

Penhaligon’s: complementary mini fragrance set, orders over 110

Space NK: up to 25% off

Diptyque: trio of minis, code: FESTIVE22

Refy: 20% off everything, sign up to their newsletter

Fresh: 30% off

HOME:

John Lewis: various offers, up to 40% off

Amara: up to 50% off

Anthropologie: 30% off almost everything

Diptyque: trio of minis, code: FESTIVE22

The White Company: 20% off everything, code: MAGIC20

CURATED SELECTS:

Tuesday, 15 November 2022Tuesday, 15 November 2022

Early Private Sales

As we edge closer to the shopping week of the year, brands have been adding early private sales, discount days and the like. I’ve snapped up a few wish-list pieces, including a sparkly pair of Mach & Mach heels at forty percent off – nicely done.

Firstly: you absolutely must ensure you’re signed into these sites before you begin shopping to ensure discounts are visible, and most importantly, therefore applied to your basket.

Having ‘wish-lists’ on the sites you adore most will ensure you don’t miss that heart-eyed item going on sale. I also find wish-lists save from making more ‘buying errors’, if you will – getting sucked into a sale on something you’re possibly not obsessed with.

This post is focused specifically on higher-end sites I personally love to shop on.

My FarFetch Selects:

Private member’s discounts, up to 50% off: including some of my absolutely adored Area NYC pieces:

My Net-a-Porter Selects:

Up to 40% off until November 21st:

My LN-CC Selects:

A site I feel often gets missed, LN-CC has some wild discounts on current season items – including the much loved/hated Balenciaga Le Cagole:

My MyTheresa Selects:

That was a typing mouthful. Finally on today’s list, MyTheresa are offering up to 50% off selected styles:

affiliate links within

Friday, 14 October 2022Friday, 14 October 2022

Autumnal Beginnings, with Free People

Grab your cosy knits, get the kettle on: it’s time for a Free People-at-home blog post.

Combining a few key new-in Free People pieces with ever go-to hero items for this time of year, we’ve got a few looks for the autumnal weather we’ve entered.

Paid Partnership with Free People

Kicking off with an all black look:

You likely know I’ve been a fan of these Free People flares for years: this particular pair have been in my wardrobe for around five years…Denim flares are always an item that always make me feel good; however they have to have a super wide leg and be thigh-tight to kick this box for me.

Combined with a simple cropped black turtleneck (worn below, the short sleeved version of my staple long sleeve one) alongside the Kaja faux leather peacoat with cosy lining. Adore the large lapels and deep pockets on this number: there’s already a few videos on TikTok where you can also see me styling it.

Completed this all-black daily kinda look with the Viola embossed leather platforms: a wide leg and a platform: a formula I love.

A piece you have may seen before (this ain’t my first FL&L jumpsuit rodeo) and that I had to feature: this is just a perfect number as the temperature drops and evening events become more of a…thing.

Sheer mesh with lining in the most necessary of places, this jumpsuit features a deep v cut neckline, long sleeves and embroidered floral details in pure black. Naturally I’ve styled mine with my harness, opting for brass hardware: I love how the gold elements of jewellery and harness marry together.

That ever versatile cropped turtleneck is back, paired this time with a sweater-weather midi: a distressed cable knit skirt in a golden mustard hue. I’ve linked my fav FP sweater sets and knits below.

Adding extra detail to a simple outfit, golden necklace layers over the turtleneck match the hues of the skirt. You may be getting the impression I like gold and black together: you would be astutely correct.

SHOP THE POST AND OTHER CURATED FREE PEOPLE ITEMS:

Jewellery: The Great Frog / Roxanne First / Marrow Fine / MORE HERE

Thursday, 06 October 2022Friday, 07 October 2022

Playful Promises x Sammi Jefcoate

This collaboration has been a long time coming.

Last November, Playful Promises and I began conversations regarding a potential lingerie collaboration, inspired by my undying love of underwear as outerwear.

That initial conversation since sprung eleven months of meetings, designing, countless voice notes and messages, many cups of coffee, sampling…until we finally shot the full collection in September – and I am very proud to say it launches today.

These pieces are intended to be styled to add a touch of allure to your outfit and be seen: a peek of bralette lace through a shirt, a lingerie thigh harness with a mini skirt: but truly, it’s up to you how you wish to style them: which, in my opinion, is always the real beauty behind outfit individuality and creating looks.

Forever inspired by autumn, the collection features go-to seasonal hues – emerald green, deep burgundy – with a key focus on my ultimate colour of all time: black. These pieces make for versatile styling, from daily wear such as the ever comfortable hero piece, the ‘Wish‘ bralette with front closure and lace detail, to the more occasional wear (or hey, wear it daily though: I’m here for it) ‘Haunted’ bodysuit.

I adore the ‘Libra‘ and ‘Midnight‘ bodysuits for their absolute ease: they are particularly comfortable to wear, in black jersey with extra details such as a lingerie neck harness and mesh cut-out details. Paired with high waisted trousers or juxtaposed with casual jeans, these pieces are so wearable for autumn and winter particularly, and fit in beautifully alongside your own wardrobe staples.