It’s no secret that black is, and always and forever will be, my favourite colour.
The landing of summer – this weekend was by far the hottest weekend of the year thus far in England – doesn’t in any way alter this. I’ll take the heat absorption/hibernate in the shade.
I may wear more colours this time of year, but as I’ve said many times – there is nothing like an all black outfit. Combining different black textures is key to upping the aesthetics of an all black outfit in my eyes. Silk-satin dress, matte leather harness, patent heels – these mixtures of black show their different tones and movements.
I’ve been on the hunt around the internet [and of course, looking to my own wardrobe items, that are currently available] for my favourite black summer pieces: dresses, shorts, bags: some killer key items, links below: happy summer-ing.
It’s a go-to combination: a vintage band tee & a blazer: an outfit I can’t go wrong in.
As someone that will always scream from the rooftops, ‘WEAR WHATEVER THE HELL YOU WANT’ it’s hard to imagine a time in which my vintage band tee collection won’t see the light of day…There’s something so uniquely perfect about the In Utero design [albeit the album as well – I hope that goes without saying – ‘Tourette’s’, ‘Serve the Servants’, ‘Frances Farmer will have her revenge on Seattle’ on repeat] I remember devouring the album artwork as a teen. To own an original tee is truly magical.
As has been discussed many times here, I bloody love blazers. I love their versatility: I’m never going to wear them in a corporate manner, and I certainly steer towards particular cuts and styles; but they never fail to be a great decision of a day. I picked up this Bite Studios oversized beige number last summer – the structured, padded shoulders, waist tie and exaggerated sleeves: these please my eyeballs, and thus my body to wear it. I’ve linked some similar styles below in my hunt for it, whilst also managing to find they’ve released it in black: pull on the heart strings why don’t ya.
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If I lived in California, I believe it would be quite a mission to get me out of mules, despite an undying love of boots. Bottega Veneta, a brand that is truly at the forefront of the fashion conscious right now, has been a favourite of mine for footwear for the last few years. This style is certainly not one of their high-flyers, but I absolutely fell for them – timeless, with more than a nod to men’s footwear; they’re an easy wear in a beautiful buttery tone [also, adore the ‘rust’ colour-way, on the wish-list]. A purchase I am so stoked with.
Denim shorts – I basically didn’t start wearing them until last summer – I hadn’t found a cut I liked, and if I was wearing shorts, they were pretty much always leather or faux leather. Then I stumbled across a Ksubi pair on Net-A-Porter, thought I’d give them a go, and the rest…well, I now consider them a staple. Hey, things can change. When I saw they had released the Rise N Hi Short style in black, it was a total no-brainer. I can’t recommend these enough – the fit, the high waist, the perfect level of distressing.
Suddenly, we’re well into April and I’m long overdue an update.
If you’re an Instagram or YouTube follower, I’m sure you’ve seen we moved house in March, and it’s been…well, hectic. Beautifully so, to the extent of truly feeling so overwhelmed at times that we landed such a dream house. The combination of moving [and all it entails] lockdown and school closures, followed swiftly by a two week easter break; has meant it’s been pretty manic around here. I love a busy spell, but man am I stoked to be able to focus on three things at once, instead of ten. We’re almost unpacked, although decorating has begun [more of this on YouTube] and this has sent us a little backwards – nevertheless, so beyond excited to be fully immersed in barn life™.
After consistently filming my daily outfit reels, and with less layering slowly commencing, I wanted to break down some current spring obsessions – let’s get into it.
LUXE CARDIGANS
I’m big on knitwear and always have been; with cardigans being an easy, without thought, go-to. Maybe it harks back to primary school days – cardigans are such a staple within the British state school system, maybe I’m psychologically reaching for my childhood? Ok, we’re getting a bit too deep…I just really rate ’em – they’re so versatile & fit so many moods. My Gucci gold knit has been in my wardrobe for three years now, and whilst at the time it was a bit of a heart-pounding moment hitting ‘order’, the cost-per-wear and timelessness with it, whilst obviously also being damn beautiful, has left me with zero regrets. My current favourite luxe cardigans out there right now, below.
BRALETTES & SPORTS BRAS
Forever a piece I will wear solo or layer up, I am a huge fan of bralettes and sports bras. I love them most under a simple black blazer, or under the aforementioned cardigan. Jacquemus have nailed the teeny bralette trend, but whilst these are not for everyone, a sports bra / this style is far more comfortable & wearable if you’re new to the underwear-as-outwear world. The simplicity of the latest Celine bras with bold stretch logo, are perfect with a pair of tailored trousers [cough, see below].
MICRO BAGS
Not one for the ‘I carry the kitchen sink and then some‘, micro and mini bags are a big one for me this spring. Even, or, especially worn in dual capacity – so you have one ‘sensible’ bag, and then a cute as hell crossbody or top handle mini – it’s a vibe I am very into. I managed to get hold of the small Chanel Vanity from the S/S’21 collection, and despite the lack of practicality to it [hey, I’m quite unpractical at the best of times, it’s nothing new] I’ve used it so much. The Loewe Nano needs a real shout out here – that thin chain & teeny top handle combo in bold irresistible hues, is the one to nab.
BLAZERS
Nothing new here – I love a blazer, but I wanted to note some bold tones, especially neon green/any kind of acid green, and pink. Not for everyone, but paired with the right denim or even an otherwise full black look, I adore the use of bold colour. Blazers are so timeless, that even if you know purchasing, say, a pink blazer with fear it won’t be worn LOADS; you can rest assured that if you get the right cut, for you, you’ll be just as happy reaching for it next year, and the year after that…Fingers crossed the ability to leave the house with just the layering of a blazer will be possible very, very soon.
As spring slowly begins, it’s time to get out that cooler toned denim.
I feel it’s been firmly established now that I am really into flares: they’ve gotta be high waisted, and I personally like a bold flare – kinda a ‘go big’ attitude.
Paired with an easy-going knitted crop, as the weather warms [add a blazer, if it doesn’t] it’s an easy-going look without an ounce of boredom.
I love a cropped knit for a number of reasons: no bra, mega comfort, looks killer under blazers, and, overall – it’s just the perfect layering piece.
This little white number is also available in a soft pink & black, but I love it in white against the blue denim.
The ‘Just Float On‘ flares are one of my fav pieces of denim that FP do – high waist, check, mega flare, check, hugs in all the right places, check.
They’re a simple design: no front pockets, no belt loops – making the cut stand out even more, whilst also creating a flattering front silhouette.
A vintage babydoll inspired dress, this mini has a 60’s cut with a nod to the 90’s. Can we also please note – it has pockets. I bloody love a dress with pockets.
In my usual styling, I’ve upped the edge of the look with a harness and mid-calf boots [if you obsessed over my R13 boots; I highly recommend checking these out – more on ’em in a sec] With a pointed collar & pleating throughout, it’s a super easy spring style, that’s still great in transitional weather, too [think: over knee socks, long black coat] – it’s a great wardrobe grab.
Happy first of February: aka week 47,628 [approx] at home.
Whilst spring is some way away, at least here in England, with the whole ‘being inside all the time thing’, I felt like putting together a few spring-like looks over the weekend, and going into a couple here on the blog.
In anticipation of warmer times ahead, I picked up a few things last month that I am v much looking forward to wearing in the coming months, as well as right now with some extra winter layering. Notably, the Prada Re-nylon dress is something I am certainly going to be styling continually this year. I had mine shortened considerably btw, which is not only far more flattering for my body shape, but I love that a long shirt underneath means it peeks through.
You may want to skip this part if you’re sick of me talking about the Prada Monolith boot: you have been warned:
I purchased mine at the end of 2019 [mine don’t have the Prada triangle logo on the first pouch as the new editions do] and whilst being a little physically sick at the time of purchasing them as I’d never spent so much on footwear, I KNEW they were going to be a] worn to death b] in my wardrobe for years & years to come. I love them come spring, before the weather really warms up, with knee high or over the knee socks, mini skirts & dresses: they are the perfect fashion-meets-goth designer boot. Back in stock on MyTheresa – at least, for now – if you can & you love them, go for it whilst they’re around.
Three things that can seriously make your working from home day feel fuelled with a major level of motivation:
a] coffee
b] a fresh white shirt
c] more coffee.
Bonus points for part d, adding a blazer.
A white shirt is something most own in their wardrobes in some capacity: but this Prada number [it’s a full Prada look baby] with adjustable ties makes for such a modern take on such a staple. I managed to nab it at 50% off a few weeks ago, and deeply hope it will make it to some IRL meetings in the not-too-distant future.
Keep your eyes peeled on The Kooples for great shirts [this one is perfect btw] they are so easy to style and don’t *need* to look super-super professional, if you don’t want them to. Add a harness, unbutton a few top buttons & wear a simple black bralette underneath. You can also tie the front come summer, wear with dungarees and apron dresses: see! So many options.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Say hello to 2021 does tie-dye with this mini Attico skirt. It may not be for everyone, but in certain doses/ways I like a bit of tie-dye: I’m definitely very specific in the ways in which I think it works for me; and there’s something about the colours used here in particular [there’s a tee that would look rad with black shorts] that I’m super into it.
Paired mine with my heavily worn black vintage Nirvana vestibule tee and kept it even more ‘me’ with a harness over the top.
It could easily be styled with black only accessories; and that’s probably the main way in which I’ll be wearing it this year – but I decided to throw in some neon for some extra bold colour.
The Mulberry Alexa is a bit of an unexpected choice for me in some ways, that I feel I need to delve into it: let’s do it.
I’ve mentioned this countless times; but it certainly applies here: I love, and live for, juxtapositions when it comes to outfits, style and how I choose to wear things.
The Alexa is so traditionally preppy; so undoubtedly steering towards the classic, English heritage side, that it doesn’t scream to be something I may go for. You may note, I do love classic pieces [looking at you, Chanel]: it just often doesn’t appear that way due to how I decide to put looks together; combined with how I look in general [!!]
The bag’s use of a new lime-yellow neon colour-way, on such a timeless piece, combined with the new sizing update [this size of bag is perfect to me – I believe they didn’t have this version before?] totally drew me in: I love the usability of it. I love the functionality. I love the colour. I love the hardiness of the grained leather. I love the top handle.
As far as designer bags go, it’s also far more within the ‘affordable’ [I use this term loosely, pls note] zone, with the mini being £895.00.
The yellow-green neon-number is sold out atm [ok, I found it on FarFetch after writing this, but can’t see it elsewhere – be speedy if you’re keen] and I’m not sure if they’re bringing it back: but I for one think they damn well should.
We’ve established something over the years: my favourite colour, without question, is black: I can wear an all black look any time of year, no matter the weather, the season, the mood.
Last night in a feat of insomnia (looking at you, full moon) it occurred to me to write a blog post focusing on black outfits: maybe even making a series of them, with three looks incorporated. So here I am: I can, so I am. Magical.
Alas, we are months away from actually feeling warm rays of sun on our backs (at least, that is the case here in England) but I love looking around at S/S ’21 collections landing online, having wish-lists and also ideas of how I will be utilising my current wardrobe, ready for when the weather turns.
These looks below are far more spring in nature, although can certainly be built around for the winter months, and inspire.
The result of my rambling thoughts is three collages of varying looks, with a focus on black: not necessarily all black outfits, but always with black incorporated & a key focal point.
Prada can do no wrong in my eyes right now. Everything from their campaigns to the clothing itself, I am here for. Totally head over heels for their Re-Nylon collection: the utilitarian accents are modern, structured, functional. This bralette (or, try a harness as I naturally would) worn over a midi shirt dress, complete with black blazer and combat boots, feels put together without a hint of the mundane. A white shirt dress is so easily styled, and incorporating strong black elements creates a solid, bold look. Incredibly versatile as outfits go, switch out the blazer for a leather jacket on more casual days, or go sans free when summer lands and keep the shirt loose & unbuttoned with layered necklaces.
Flecks of gold add a level of interest – a black & gold hardware bag is a must to me.
We’re going with a full on, all black look here: but different textures and washes of black make it more appealing to wear and on the eye. The Bottega Chain Pouch was a solid purchase for me in 2020, despite not being able to use it at full capacity. Whilst Bottega remain a brand leading and defining trends, items like this that resonate deeply with the wearer will be able to be worn beyond fashion’s calendars.
I swear by the mules/sandals: I have the black version and wore them so much last summer: they are comfortable, a great height and such a beautiful, modern yet classic shape. Paired with a classic leather jacket, it’s an easy going look that can be made seriously casual by switching out the footwear.
Building a look around a simple, structured white tee is a go-to option on those ‘what do i wear days’. Upped by the badass nature of this lingerie inspired skirt from Dion Lee (easily paired with a simple black mini, naturally) it makes what could be a simple look far more on the edgy side (as much as I hate using that word, it kinda works here).
Paired with the beaut Prada ‘Cleo’ bag (do I need this? keep telling myself I don’t but I do love it) it’s a great I-gotta-get-shit-done outfit.
My deep rooted love of band tees started in the most predictable way: falling in love with music.
Finding music as a teen changed everything: I appreciate that I have mentioned this countless times – it was the main factor in discovering who I am, what I am passionate about, and made me truly stick with being myself.
A new album, with the release date carefully added to my scrapbook of a diary [complete with Kerrang! cut-outs, photo-booth pictures & ink pen, naturally] would endure hours of listening [first listen: always alone, in my bedroom, tracks played in order]. Artwork was a crucial part of the opening of a new album: C.D booklets looked over, page to page, devoured with keen heart eyes. When I went to my first ’proper’ concert aged 13 – Marilyn Manson, Godhead & Disturbed – at the now non-existent Docklands Arena, London – my mind was utterly blown. ALL THESE PEOPLE. IN ENGLAND. INTO THE SAME SHIT AS ME? How was this possible?! My isolated existence, having people tell me I was a freak, was [somewhat] over: it made me totally ecstatic.
It was on this fateful night: I purchased my first, ever, band t-shirt.
it wasn’t just a phase
From my teenage years, I have a handful of much loved t-shirts that – shockingly – are now described as ‘vintage’ [feeling like a proper grown-up right about now] – there is something so intrinsically passionate about my love of these fabric items.
A couple of years ago, back to feeling the most ‘myself’ I had felt after the birth of my son – with the deep psychological impact the entire motherhood process had upon me [whoa, that’s a deep one] – I started to properly build upon my little collection. I’d sought a few gems out on eBay some years prior [a Smashing Pumpkins number, won for 99cents on eBay, most definitely being the best score I have had to date] but really started being able to tick some items off the never-ending, beautiful wish-list.
I cannot imagine a time in which I will not reach for these tees: I am most definitely not of the mindset that they are meant for teenage years alone, and I feel, strongly, that they can be styled time & time again regardless of someone’s age [wear what the hell you like, wear it with passion]
Vintage is going to continue to see a surge of interest as certain perils of fashion continue.
This, combined with celebrities wearing them, inadvertently bringing them to the masses, alongside those collecting continuing to collect; will no doubt fuel interest.
For many, clothes are simply meaningless fabric, allowing the wearer to be: a) somewhat warm & b) semi-presentable – and the thought of ever parting with hundreds of pounds on a graphic t-shirt – most likely v faded, with holes & marks, that lord knows how many people have worn & owned; is seemingly barbaric.
…but for the holy grail vintage lovers: that shirt, with the combined feelings of nostalgia, true love, art appreciation, rarity – is everything.
The holiday season is upon us: whilst it may be different to what many of us are used to, it’s always a time of year for me & my fam to spend a lot of time at home. Getting dressed on the daily doesn’t, and hasn’t, changed for me despite the lockdowns, time at home & endless cancellation of events: it’s part of my daily ritual: putting an outfit together is like making my morning coffee – it just has to happen. This doesn’t mean every outfit is killer & has to be my I-want-to-be-buried-in-this kinda outfit, but nevertheless it makes me feel me, and makes me feel motivated for the day ahead. Another side point: changing into loungewear/pyjamas around 5pm is something I am here for – and it never takes away from me being stoked to have ‘gotten ready’ for staying in.
I am thrilled to be working with Free People on this post, in which I have selected & put together some seasonally appropriate looks that can most def be mixed up and integrated into your 2021 wardrobe. Let’s get into it.
First up: this 90’s inspired black knit sweater set – long sleeve crop top, mini skirt, mega comfy – a truly perfect example of something you can wear around the house and throw on extra layers should you need / want to leave – I love it with knee high socks [add tights as well if the temperature drops] and this mega houndstooth beret.
Sticking with keeping comfort levels high: I bring you, Free People dungarees. If you’re new to FP, I personally have three hero items I reel off immediately to newcomers that I feel they do best: dungarees, flares, and bralettes – FP are my go-to for these pieces. On a day when you’re chilling round the house but don’t want to reach for pyjamas, dungarees are the one: so easy going, the bonus of pockets, super loose & comfortable – great for a game of chess [not my forte – gimme Scrabble any day of the week though]
A pair of high-waist flares, boots and a vintage band tee is a solid outfit choice for me; and has been for years.
Throw on a mega, mustard velvet vintage inspired duster, and you’re golden – keeping true to that comfort around the house, [and so good out & about] this is a great one if you’ve got people coming over and wanna feel good, but not mega mega dressy. Switch out the tee for a loose shirt or bodysuit to up the fancy-ness, if ya like. The flares here are a stretch denim blend – they hug your body on the thighs and upper leg, & flare out from the knee: a true statement pair of trousers that are seriously versatile & underrated.
Ok, let’s get into the dressy stuff, yeah?
I have two v. different dresses to show you: a mini, crushed moss green velvet number, and a long, slinky, sequin maxi.
The ‘easy to love‘ mini is Christmas day in a dress: that deep moss green, bow tie-back, pleated deets: there’s a lot going on in this little number. I’d pair it with patent knee high boots to pay homage to the 60’s aura it gives off, and maybe edge it up with a harness as well – I bloody love doing that.
The ‘shining in the night‘ maxi slip, with backless detail, neck fastening, leg slit and long sleeves, is a true statement piece, with sequins all over. The lace at the back is adjustable & the dress flows like some lady-of-the-manor vibes as you move [it’s also avail in silver fyi]
Finally, let’s show off my current number one pyjama item: this cosy as hell mini romper, which I have been living in in the evenings at home.
The cinched sleeves with their balloon shape, the three top button down closure; all made in the most cosy, fuzzy knitted fabric – making for perfect around the house in the eve lounging when you just wanna [or have to] stay in.
Gimme a book, a cuppa & light the candles.
SHOP THE POST:
happy staying in, happy holidays
sponsored post w/ Free People [merci FP, v stoked] affiliate links used
Forever a lover of plaid, autumn/winter are truly the seasons in which it shines brightly, pairing so well against nature’s backdrops: it just looks really damn great to me – remaining truly timeless & versatile. As someone that pretty much lives for 90’s music, v. much in the alt genre [if you follow me on Spotify or Instagram, you’ll know I am utterly immersed in music & it changed my entire life – dramatic, I know] plaid has a way of landing me in Seattle circa ’93 – where I probably belong – yet it can also conjure more high-end, Chanel-eque imagery – like I said – v-e-r-s-a-t-i-l-e – and I love that about it. I am all about juxtaposition in clothing & looks – so it makes sense that plaid would have real appeal for me.
My go-to seasonal grab, a pair of faux/or leather shorts [picked these up – v. affordable faux leather – from Levi’s a few weeks ago] will always win & I wear this kinda look multiple times a week in some capacity. The Levi’s shorts are super high waist, flattering on, great with tights.
A new-in lil’ LV number has been my number one bag as of late – I waited patiently for the Vanity PM to come back in stock in the reverse monogram. It has a classic vintage feel to it, with it being a vanity inspired bag with top handle, and then the contrasting chunky chain, key-fob & locket really add to the desirability of it. It’s a gem to carry around.
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Finally: the R13 boots: they pretty much don’t need any text – but they sure as sh*t deserve it. Perfection in an ankle boot for me, these high-platform leather boots conjure up all the 90’s dreams; with side zip, leather flap, metal poppers & lace ties. They are the most pleasing to behold, and I had to have ’em the moment I laid my eyes on them.
The basic Black Friday list is here: it truly does what it says on the tin: this page will be updated daily for the next seven days or so, aka the amount of time i can handle keeping track of all the changes. For a number of the discounts already listed below, you need to be logged into your account with the specific site to access them – and some offers don’t apply until they’re securely in your basket & at check out: just sayin’ for absolute clarity.
As i always can’t help but say – complete those wish-lists, add items to favourites, keep your eyes peeled & ultimately – shop responsibly.
