kisses and cross stitches

wear-are-we-now

2012-01-24T19:49:00.002Z

I'm getting ever so slightly obsessed with tumblr. to further expand my online presence, I have a new tumblr entitled wear-are-we-now, where I will be sharing outfit inspiration, mainly in the form of street style shots. See it as a virtual scrapbook to help you out on those 'what to wear?' days.

See a picture speak a 1000 words for a pretty pastels spring colour palette.

Jodie Herbage

2012-01-21T16:10:00.006Z

So .... after a lovely evening of cheese and wine and Subjective Guess Who, I am chilling out with my housemate, looking at beautiful clothes and photographs on the internet .... and she shows me her friend's shop on ASOS marketplace (Dorothy's Wardrobe - check it out, incredible vintage goodies!) and I subsequently discover new-favourite-photographer, Jodie Herbage (who shot the lookbook for Dorothy's Wardrobe).

Jodie takes the most stunning photographs - whether it's a beautiful professional-looking shoot with a too-cute model in crazy-beautiful locations ...... or her personal snaps (if you could call intensely beautiful photographs of mind-blowing places 'personal snaps') of road trips across America.

Check this girl out NOW

Location Location Location

2012-01-16T22:14:00.003Z

I can't decide who I am most envious of this week - Shini for her romantic depictions of beautiful Florence, or Rumi for her tantalising glimpses of Hawaii.

I need to book a holiday!

Candy Colours

2012-01-12T19:27:00.004Z

The Spring/ Summer catwalks were awash with pretty pastel shades, from mint green to duck-egg blue, luscious lilac and the palest pinks. Designers from Jonathan Saunders to Louis Vuitton, DVF and Prada all paraded their takes on candy coloured chic.

How to inject this trend into your life? Try pairing a delectably sweet jade green Acne cable knit jumper with your favourite faded jeans. Or teaming this pretty as a picture lilac ModCloth dress with muted accessories. For those shy of colour, a flash of a mint green nail or a lilac ring is a subtle way to wear pastels.

For the ultimate way to add candy coloured hues into your Spring, purchase a retro-inspired pastel-coloured Smeg fridge/freezer from Appliances Online. An investment purchase that will brighten up your kitchen and stir the need to seek out accessories in the same shade, a Smeg fridge/freezer is an appliance that you will treasure for ever.

Pssst! Check out further pastel-hued dreaminess on apicturespeaksa1000words!

Fridge/Freezers - Smeg at Appliance Online

Dress - Modcloth

Jumper - Acne

Shirt- Sportsmax

Bikini - Miu Miu

Bag - Peter Jensen

Watch - Just Cavalli

Belt - ASOS

Nail Polish - Topshop

Ring - Monki

Birds of a Fether

2012-01-11T20:57:00.002Z

How can I help but love everything Erin Fetherston does when she produces such beautiful videos as this to promote her collections?

Beautiful girls adorned in delectable Fetherston creations and super-high heels, trotting around New York in pursuit of the designer herself in Pied Piper guise.

What I would do for one of those dresses!

a picture speaks a 1000 words

2012-01-06T22:24:00.002Z

Feast your eyes on these delectable images from the Jill Stuart Spring/Summer 2012 campaign. Ice cream shades are the colours for Spring, what could be prettier? To celebrate these beautiful hues, I have set up a new tumblr - a picture speaks a 1000 words - that is 100% dedicated to all things pastel.

Colour

2012-01-03T20:52:00.002Z

It's very drab and grey at the moment, with the wind and rain howling outside. Bright bursts of colour are more than welcome.

Moss, coral and mustard by Park & Cube

Chartreuse, rose and powder blue by Saga Sig

Cerulean, baby blue and white by Park & Cube

2011

2012-01-02T22:25:00.006Z

How I spent my 2011, in no particular order ...

New Year 2011/12 party (December)
Christmas party with friends (December)
Walking by the river in Kirkby Lonsdale (November)
Walking in Kirkby Lonsdale (November)

Playing chess (November)

Beech Road festivities (July)
Halloween party (October)
Walking in the sun in the Dordogne (September)
A long weekend in an idyllic location (September)
Exploring French markets (September)
Taking in magnificant views (September)
Admiring crystals (September)
Photographing crystals (September)
At friend's weddings (August)
A day trip to Blackpool (November)
Exploring underneath the pier (November)
Dancing in the sunset (November)
Taking photographs (November)
Eating thai food (May)
Walking amongst the holocaust memorial (May)
Drinking in Berlin (May)
Finding elaborate graffiti (May)
Meeting monkeys (August)
A birthday day trip (August)
Birthday food (August)
Birthday night with friends (August)
A delicious roast dinner in a perfect cottage (March)
A long weekend by the sea in Wales (March)

HAPPY 2012

2012-01-02T22:10:00.003Z

Happy new year! I hope that you all had wonderful nights spent with your loved ones. To welcome in the new year, treat your eyes on the pre-fall 2012 collection from Honor. I am completely enamoured with the full skirts, abstract prints and the combination of hot pink and coral.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-28T22:05:00.009Z

Merry Christmas to all of my readers! Here are a few snaps from my own celebrations xx

Russian Dolls

2011-12-28T21:39:00.003Z

I have raved about Russian socialite/model/superamazingfashiondesigner Ulyana Sergeenko before. Along with Vika Gazinskaya, Miroslava Suma and Elena Perminova, Ulyana is part of the breathe of fresh air currently revitalising the fashion scene, that I like to think of collectively as The Russian Dolls.

These awe-inspiring images were taken backstage at Ulyana's Spring/Summer 2012 show. A show filled with the staple pieces that we are beginning to expect and delight at - head scarves, nipped-in waists, full pouffy skirts.

If money was no object, I know what I would be wearing come Spring.

The Film Diaries

2011-12-21T22:16:00.005Z

Didsbury, February 2011

Didsbury, April 2011

France, September 2011

Berlin, May 2011

France, September 2011

Berlin, May 2011

Anglezarke, April 2011

Didsbury, April 2011

Berlin, May 2011

Coppull January2011

Withington, January 2011

Didsbury, February 2011

My 2011, on film

Hot under the Collar

2011-12-21T22:06:00.004Z

A perfectly starched collar peeking out from beneath a cosy jumper is geek chic at it's finest.

Photos. La Belle Oiselle x2,dam style, of a kind, andrea pola

In the festive spirit

2011-12-16T16:13:00.006Z

I'm back! My laptop is fixed, we had our first glimpse of snow today and I am listening to the Emmy the Great and Time Wheeler Christmas album - it finally feels like Christmas! And what better way to spread the Christmas spirit, than with these magical ice-skating photographs by Agnes Thor for The Loved One?

Marie Zucker

2011-12-06T21:07:00.003Z

I am currently without lap top and therefore blogging will be sparse for a while. I will leave you with these images by Marie Zucker and will hopefully return soon

More Floral Awesomeness

2011-11-30T21:27:00.002Z

Following on from my previous post and with the floral theme ........ this photo is awesome.

Alia Penner for Lula Scrapbook

Flower Child

2011-11-30T20:15:00.002Z

It may be the 1st of December tomorrow, but I would rather have vases of fresh flowers scattered around my house than a Christmas tree. I wish that Amy Merrick could grace my home with her beautiful bouquets.

Tales of Endearment, Tales of Endearment, Narumi, Style Slicker, Amy Merrick

Style HQ

2011-11-23T21:02:00.003Z

The girls at Topshop HQ certainly know how to dress themselves, if the brands new Tumblr blog is anything to go by. It's not hard to see where the inspiration for the new season trends come from, if this is how your colleagues dress each day. The award for my favourite look goes to bottom row/middle image. Perfectly mussed up Alexa hair - check. Ankle boots worn with thick socks pulled up and rolled over the tops - check. Printed dress worn layered underneath slouchy jumper - check. Perfection.

Jingle Bells!

2011-11-22T21:39:00.004Z

Oh i wish it could be Christmas all year round!

The festive spirit is now upon me in full force. The office Christmas party is mere weeks away, my shopping list is steadily being ticked off and I have even tasted my first mince pie of the season! I have been compiling Christmas wish lists, both of completely unrealistic and obtainable items. Here is a mix of goodies that I would love to find wrapped up under the tree on Christmas morning. Any family and friends reading this - take note!

Wise Owl Canister - Anthropologie, Multi-Stone Ring - Topshop, Cat-ula - ModCloth, DAB Radio - Roberts, Candle - Jo Malone, Men's Cashmere Jumper - Gap, Charm - Anthropologie, Dress- Topshop

Absolutely Dotty

2011-11-20T21:48:00.002Z

Everyone seems to be going dotty for polka-dots, with the humble spot popping up everywhere from Eastern European style blogs to the Front Row at Fashion Week. To clash or not to clash? I prefer to take one polka-dotted item and pair it with one boldly coloured item and base the outfit with lots of muted colours. See Paula from Apple Blossom and the City for perfect dotty dressing.

street style aesthetic, team peter stigter, team peter stigter, citizen couture, team peter stigter, apple blossom and the city

Autumn Leaves

2011-11-20T21:32:00.004Z

Nothing depicts the feeling of Autumn quite so beautifully as these photographs of Hannah taken by Agnes Thor. Tumbling red hair set amongst intensely colourful trees makes for truly breath-taking images. I'm currently feeling inspired to take my camera and hunt for the most spectacular autumn leaves that I can find to prance amongst. Any other redheads fancy getting involved?

Natural Selections

2011-11-15T21:56:00.004Z

Currently inspired by earthy tones of ochre, forest green and rust; film photography; natural settings; rooms full of plants and wavy hair.

the young rabbit, katie lionheart, via bohemian musings, via bohemian musings, via thrills and frills

A weekend in the countryside

2011-11-15T21:46:00.005Z

This past weekend was spent with friends in my boyfriends's parents country cottage in Cumbria. Cosy nights in playing board games, drinking in local pubs and walking alongside rivers and amongst waterfalls. Idyllic.

all photographs, taken by myself.

November Inspiration

2011-11-15T21:22:00.005Z

Inspiration for getting dressed in November: A-line leather skirts and fitted denim shirts, cosy cahmere knits, winter whites, patterned skirts and silk blouses, shirt dresses and blazers.

Inspired by: park&cube, tales of endearment, lawrence, hanneli, fash n chips, the sartorialist, park&cube

Gone til November

2011-11-07T17:17:00.005Z

A crisp, sunny Sunday off work called for a day trip to Blackpool with my boyfriend and our cameras. We explored underneath the North Pier, walked down the promenade to find fish and chips and shot photographs and videos on the beach as the sun set. When it begun to feel chilly, we ventured onto the Central Pier to indulge in arcade games, watch a flock of starlings create patterns in the sky and watch children scream on fairground rides, as the sun concluded its descent.

Photographs taken and edited by myself, apart from photographs of myself taken by my boyfriend

The Monster Mash!

2011-11-02T21:37:00.005Z

Halloween weekend was celebrated with a 'no-costumes-but-plenty-of-decorations' flatwarming party for two of my friends.

Autumn Inspiration

2011-10-24T19:09:00.004+01:00

Currently feeling inspired by : -
winter florals, wavy hair with blonde tips, cosy jumpers, foraging for free food and long modish bobs.

notes from more & co, rebecka bjurmell, la min ya net, clever nettle, von - flickr, kiss me quick

Recent Times

2011-10-17T20:02:00.004+01:00

y

A week off work. Fun times at a friends wedding, a few days break to Kirkby Lonsdale, foraging for blackberries and sloes (and subsequently making blackberry and apple crumble and sloe gin), bike rides at the water park, spending time with friends at the food and drink festival and watching boy/friends bands play. Followed by a horrible tummy bug that has kept me in bed for the past few days :(

Flower Power

2011-10-13T15:49:00.006+01:00

There's no reason why you can't wear your favourite floral dress through Winter. Opt for dark, autumnal colours and layer up with ribbed tights, cosy sweaters and chunky boots.

Images - patricia nicol, laura makabresku, street peeper, vanessa jackman, viktor vauthier for tank magazine,, vanessa jackman

Lula, Issue 13

2011-10-13T12:07:00.003+01:00

Lula issue 13 is a thing of beauty. It has taken pride of place in my room, sat atop issues 6-12. if only i could get my hands on 1-5, I would have a full set.

Photos. me

Erdem

2011-10-05T21:03:00.002+01:00

Of all the collections that I have ooo-ed and ahh-ed over for the past month, my heart lies with Erdem's washed-out florals. Dainty, clashing florals painted onto exquisite summer dresses and shirt-and-skirt combos. Perfection.

To read more of my musings on Fashion Week, hop over to the Flannels Fashion blog - where I have profiled Prada, Carven (live tomorrow) and Mary Katrantzou, amongst others.

Les Eyzies, Day Three

2011-10-05T20:54:00.003+01:00

The last day in France

Les Eyzies, Day Two

2011-10-02T19:04:00.005+01:00

Day two of our trip to France

NOTES From MORE & CO.

2011-10-02T18:58:00.003+01:00

New favourite blog, discovered via a current favourite blog

Les Eyzies, Day One

2011-09-28T22:23:00.005+01:00

Highlights from the first day of my trip to Les Eyzies, France.

Photographs by me.

Au Revoir!

2011-09-22T21:41:00.002+01:00

I am off to the French countryside for a few days with my friends. Hopefully, I will have many photographs to share upon my weekend. Meanwhile, please have a look at my latest blog posts on Fashion Month on the Flannels blog.

Valley of the Dolls

2011-09-18T20:17:00.006+01:00

Sugar and spice and all things nice? Or behind the pretty and prim exterior does a dark narcotic haze loom?

The first phase of the London shows seem to have all plucked their inspiration from the 1966 novel, Valley of the Dolls. Clements Ribeiro, Issa, Mulberry and Jonathan Saunders all looked to 1960s American suburbia, to the desperate housewives and their boxes of 'dolls'.

Jonathan Saunders took the inspiration the most literally, referring to his colour palette as a spilt bottle of pills, in a variation of bright pastal hues. 1950s shaped dresses and skirts were given the Saunders treatment with an array of desirable prints. Thick black eyeliner and a glazed look in the models eyes hinted at his dark theme.

Issa sent Miami housewives down the catwalk. These were All-American women, with their long tanned limbs carrying totally cute printed dresses. If this was a movie, the perma-smiles would be hiding desperate secrets.

At Clements Ribeiro, the reference was all in the bouffant hair and disheveled clothes that were reminiscent of silk patterned negliges. These women stayed at home watching day-time TV and popping pills.

The Mulberry girls were the Hollywood versions of the Issa ladies. One model in particular, with an impressive bouffant and floor length nude dress, seemed to have stepped right out of the Valley of the Dolls movie.

So, whilst the days of Mothers Little Helpers may largely be over, the fashion and style associated with the Eisenhower era lives on. Backcomb your hair, pile of the eyeliner and prep up the pastals for Spring.

New Look loafers review

2011-09-18T19:00:00.004+01:00

The lovely people at Voucher Codes sent me over a pair of New Look loafers to test out for their new 'Most Wanted' feature.

The two-tone tasselled loafers were waiting for me when I returned home from work a few days later and although I couldn't wait to try them out, I was determined to wait until the weekend and take them for a spin on my new bicycle.

I chose to pair them with a thin, gauzy H&M t-shirt, a rust-coloured ASOS skirt with a frayed hem and thick black tights to protect against the elements. I cycled to the local meadows before returning to photograph the shoes.

Having never made a purchase from New Look previously, I was slightly cautious of the loafers quality. £14.99 seemed too good to be true for a quality pair of shoes! I can happily say that my fears were unconfirmed, as the shoes passed the test of surviving a bumpy bike ride and protected my feet from a muddy, damp field.

Comfort wise, strangely the right shoe was significantly better fitting than the left. However, I put that mainly down to my weird mis-shapen feet!

All in all, I would give these loafers 4/5. They compliment my style and will work with most of my wardrobe. I could even wear them for work, on a day when I can't face heels.

If you like the look of the loafers, please check out the New Look voucher codes currently available.

New York Fashion Week Spring Summer 2012 Favourites

2011-09-14T21:32:00.005+01:00

Tibi, Suno, Steven Alan, Karen Walker, Jill Stuart, Jil Sander Navy, Band of Outsiders, Marc by Marc Jacobs

A smorgasbord of minimalism, prints-galore, sugared-almond shades, bold primary colours, feminine dresses, masculine styling, headscarves and hats.

Images from Style.com

LUSH

2011-09-06T19:31:00.001+01:00

Just fallen head over heels with this picture of Hannah taken by Landon.

Ulyana Sergeenko Fall 2011

2011-09-04T20:19:00.002+01:00

Perfection. That one word alone could describe what goes through my head when I ogle Ulyana Sergeenko's Fall collection. I have long admired the designer -slash - photographers own personal style and wondered where she acquires her outstanding outfits. Now I see that the majority of what she is snapped in appears to be her own designs.

It's clear that Sergeenko's inspiration is borne from her native country. Full, floor-length skirts with miniscule waists and endearing headscarves instantly evoke visions of traditional Russian costume. Sheer skin-tight knits are the perfect pairing to transform the look from market place to runway.

Personal highlights are the A-line midi-length skirts (I'll go for the floral), the exquisite 1940s inspired pin curl hair-do's and that red dress.

27 names

2011-09-01T21:16:00.001+01:00

Excellent look book, stunning dresses and awesome navy/mustard/turquoise colour paletter for Winter 2012 at 27 names.
If only I had wallpaper to match all of my printed dresses....

RED

2011-08-30T18:11:00.003+01:00

My perfect hair colour.
Laura Makabresku

The Pastal House

2011-08-30T17:53:00.002+01:00

I have fallen in love with Elsa Billgren's pastal hued interiors. From her duck egg blue kitchen, to her candyfloss pink piano, to the extensive collection of beautiful vintage gowns hanging from every wall - Elsa's home is perfection.

An Autumnal Floral .........

2011-08-24T19:20:00.003+01:00

.... Don't mind if I do!
A midi -length, long-sleeved floral gown is definately on my 'must-hunt-down-after-pay-day' list. I wouldn't mind Jessica Horton's Topshop dreamboat of a dress, if I had a spare £100 knocking around ....

Hanneli photographed by Street Style Aesthetic, Jessica Horton from My Oh My in Grazia magazine, Johanna Fosselius photographed by Altamira

Berry Berry Nice

2011-08-23T20:02:00.003+01:00

I realised this evening that I have an inspiration folder filled with berry shades. Raspberry, cherry, black currant, strawberries and cream. The perfect trans-seasonal shades - the palest pinks blending into the deepest purples.

seaweed tea, laura makabresku, claudia vega, mon cheri, atomica, venetia scott for self service magazine, amy merrick, via elsa, via elsa

Autumnal

2011-08-19T16:18:00.003+01:00

Our very brief British summer seems to have vanished and Autumn is fast being ushered in. Trans-seasonal dressing calls for midi-length florals, ankle boots, slouchy jersey, cosy snoods and mannish overcoats. My new season wish list is ever expanding, and pay day couldn't come soone
All from Topshop, save for Rachel Comey coat, Carvela black boots and rings by Kenneth Jay and Marc by Marc Jacobs

Ulyana Sergeenko

2011-08-18T22:24:00.003+01:00

Russian fashion designer and photographer, Ulyana Sergeenko has been appearing on all of the street style blogs recently - and it's no surprise why! With her trademark garments of the crinoline skirt, midi-length dress and printed headscarf, Ulyana takes a lady-like approach to fashion and mixes together pieces associated with various cultures and eras with fun quirks (bright pops of colour, sheer polka dot blouses, socks and sandals) to create her own, unique style.

I'll be taking inspiration from Ulyana by wearing full skirts with plain jerseys and investing in a few midi-length 1940s inspired dresses.

The Perfect Dress

2011-08-15T17:59:00.004+01:00

I am currently searching for the perfect trans-seasonal dress. The specific requirements of said dress are: knee-length, full/3-quarter sleeves, a round neckline or neat collar, and a unique-yet-not-over-powering print. This dress, shot by Hanneli Mustaparta was purchased from a vintage store in New York and is exactly what I am looking for.

If you have seen any similar dresses for sale, please let me know.

Wedding Bliss

2011-08-15T17:53:00.002+01:00

When I get married, I want gauzy white chiffon frocks, garlands of flowers in dishevelled hair, bouquets of roses and daisies and a setting as beautiful as Kate's country garden.

Mario Testino

Birthday

2011-08-10T21:30:00.003+01:00

Scenes from my birthday weekend of tapas, parties, deserts, picnics, family meals, breakfast in bed, my boyfriend buying me a beautiful bicycle and wandering around a monkey forest.

Attention has somewhat deviated from the celebrations, with the downright shocking and upsetting news of the horrendous riots occuring all over the country. My home town was hit last night and shops and bars are currently closed and boarded up in the city centre, including a lot of independently run establishments. I hope that all of my readers are safe, and have not been directly affected xx

Ashley Olsen: Style Icon Extraordinare

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

Ashley Olsen is inspiring me endlessly lately. She is fast becoming one of the most exciting and influencial documented dressers. Hair wet from the shower, slicked back behind her ears or pulled tight into a low bun, Ashley's look screams low maintenance and a relaxed attitude to style. The long, loose skirts, oversized jersey and huge sunglasses are all usual Olsen trademarks - but Ashley has taken the boho-chic look associated with the twins and transformed her style into a unique, relaxed way of dressing that is truly her own. Comfy footwear is essential - as is a ludicrously expensive snakeskin bag of her own design. If wearing pattern, the rest of the outfit is kept to a subdued minimalistic style. Length is key - anything from just-below-the-knee to ankle-grazing is ideal. Whether these looks would look as awe-inspiring on us mere mortals is yet to be assessed. But, for now, I will continue to track Ashley's style evolution with an open jaw

Emma Cook Interview

2011-08-03T15:27:00.005+01:00

I recently had the privledge of interviewing British fashion designer, Emma Cook through my job. The full interview is up on the Flannels blog and you can shop the collection now at Flannels Fashion.

EL. Tell me about your Autumn/Winter 2011 collection?

Emma Cook. The main focus of the collection, as with a lot of the collections, is all about the print and the surfaces. The print this season was a play on animal skins. Instead of leopard print we have a deer print and a rabbit print. And then there are the montages of the fantastical animals - montages of animals made up of parts of different animals.

EL. Which pieces do you feel best represent the essence of the collection?EC. Probably the shift dress that's in the deer print - because it is a really easy to wear shape and it kind of says everything in one. Also, the t-shirts and the kaftans with the mutant animals on them.

EL. What are your personal 3 essential items for winter?

EC. A really really good dress. It can be a summer dress or a winter dress as long as you've got a polo neck and some tights.

EL. What aspirations do you have for the Emma Cook brand?

EC. We've been around for the last 10/12 years, so just continuing as we are. I'm happy with doing what we do at this kind of level.

EL. When did you realise that fashion was the career for you?

EC. From a young age, I have always been interested in that kind of thing. Like any kid, I enjoyed drawing, painting, making things. I have always been interested since I was little, I suppose.

EL. How did studying at Central St Martins, alongside such inspirational designers as Roksanda Illincic and Markus Lupfer influence your work?

EC. I was in the same class as Roksanda. It's just a fantastic college, the teaching is obviously fantastic. I actually did my degree in Brighton then I did my MA at St Martins. I've worked with Roksanda and I know Markus. It's nice - everybody knows each other! It's not like all of the stories that you hear of everyone hating each other. It's actually quite nice and everyone gets on with each other really well.

EL. Who is the Emma Cook woman?

EC. There really isn't one, I don't think. People who are 16, if they could afford it, would wear it. People who are 70 could wear it. It's not designed for one specific person. I design the collection myself with one other person, but I have a lot of girlfriends that I work together with. I work next door to my best friend who is a set designer and my other best friend is a stylist - so it has a lot of other girl's influences. Different girls, different shapes, different ages - everybody has a bit of an opinion. They say "I wish you'd do that dress, but a bit longer for me". It has a lot of input and covers a lot of bases. Anyone can wear it.

EL. Who would you most like to see wearing Emma Cook?

EC. It's nice to see anybody wearing it. I’ve never seen anybody wearing it and thought "Oh my God!" If you see somebody on the bus wearing it, it's always quite exciting.

EL. I've read that your muse is a fictional character named Suzie - can you tell me a bit more about her?

EC. She was never really a muse to be honest. The 1st season that we ever did, we called the show "Lazy Susan" and it kind of went from there really. Every season, whatever the collection happened to be about, we described it with a name. There was a sixties punk collection named "Suzie-Styrene"; once we did a regal medieval collection and named it "Suzie the 4th". It was a way of summing up what that season was about.

EL. Which one of your collections is your favourite?

EC. The one that you are working on right now is always your favourite, otherwise you could never carry on. By the time it arrives and you can wear it, you're 3 seasons down the line. I've already finished Winter Pre 2012, so that's my favourite at the moment.

EL. Have you got any advice for budding fashion designers?

EC. Do a lot of work experience!

EL. Finally, can you please sum up Emma Cook in 3 words?

EC. I can't! It's easy to wear but always has a sense of humour. The dresses make you look good but there's always something about them, you can't find anywhere else.

Hilda Grahnat

2011-08-01T23:00:00.001+01:00

Hilda Grahnat takes breathtaking photographs

Style Round-up

2011-08-01T15:41:00.002+01:00

Matching vintage two-pieces, denim shirts and chiffon skirts, colourful headscarves and 1940s style from street style aesthetic, yours truly, la ville in connue and le 21 eme arrondissement

Basic

2011-07-26T21:24:00.004+01:00

There's something about this photograph that I love. I need to get my hands on some bright orange nail varnish and the perfect grey jumper. Every now and again I get bored of the print, pattern, fuss and frills clogging up my wardrobe and feel the urge to purchase simple, basic items of clothing. All this jumper needs to add a splash of personality is a shot of colour and a mis-match of subtle jewellery.

LA in Bloom

Walls

2011-07-26T21:16:00.003+01:00

I want to find pastel coloured walls to take photographs of.

Backyard Bill, Blushing Ambition, Oracle Fox

Colour

2011-07-22T19:46:00.003+01:00

I have fallen in love with this shoot featured in V Rag magazine. The inspiration for the editorial came from the small wooden houses in the countryside, where Russians tend to spend their summers: the Dacha. The contrast of wooden framed houses and threadbare mats with the luscious, delicate fabrics of the clothing is mesmorising. What really drew me to these pictures, however, were the Colours. The softest, palest pinks. The vivid tangerines and teals. Faded mint and zesty lemon. The array of hues and clashing contrasts leave me hungry to have these tones in my life, as a work of art on the walls.

Photography: Masha Mel
Fashion Styling: Tess Yopp
Model: Alena Johnson

Revu

2011-07-19T21:08:00.002+01:00

I am completely infatuated with this collection by Revu, discovered via Miss Moss. Socks and sandals, midi-length skirts and vintage- inspired dresses. Yummy!

Street Style round-up

2011-07-19T20:42:00.002+01:00

Oodles of inspiration coming from all corners of the blogosphere. Must haves include: the skirt (be it printed, pleated or bright), stripes (breton or bold) and bright, punchy summer colours.

street style aesthetic, stockholm street style, street style aesthetic, street style aesthetic, that's chic, street style aesthetic, columbine, cherry blossom girl, backyard bill, trop rouge

Prada Resort 2012

2011-07-18T21:04:00.001+01:00

They say the best is saved for last, and it certainly has been with Miuccia Prada's triumphant Resort 2012 collection. This little rich girl is definately spending the Resort season in the Bahamas! Perfectly preppy pastal shades of mint, lemon, peach and pink were mixed together with bold floral prints. Skirts continued their supreme reign with the pleated midi and the pencil strong favourites. Prim knitwear, clashing silk neck ties, beatnik berets and patent bags completed the eclectic society girl look. Blair Waldorf, eat your heart out.

Below the Knee

2011-07-16T23:30:00.002+01:00

All that I want to wear at the moment are long skirts. Anything from just-below-the-knee to mid-calf to full-on-floor-sweeping will do.

tanakadlecova flickr, the sartorialist, martina vackova, the sartorialist, trop rouge, stockholm st style

Inspiration

2011-07-14T18:45:00.004+01:00

Currently ....
listening to - Driver Drive Faster
experimenting with - my new camera
inspired by - white dresses, other people's holiday photographs
wearing - midi length skirts
wishing for - a bicycle

cali vintage, beaux mondes, beaux mondes, oracle fox

Other People's Houses

2011-07-07T19:37:00.004+01:00

A selection of my favourite images from the Other People's Houses photography project and exhibition.

Victoria Hannan, Anabela Carneiro, Jacinta Moore, Hilda Grahnat, Michelle Gow

Oranges and Lemons

2011-07-07T18:47:00.003+01:00

.... Say the bells of St Clements.

Citrus shades are abundant at the moment. Pair a floaty bright skirt with a crisp white tee for a fresh, summer spin.

tales of endearment, ssaunter flickr, what i wore, via kiss me quick, jeana sohn, christopher kane resort, street fsn

Les Fleurs

2011-07-07T16:59:00.004+01:00

This afternoon was spent strolling by the river

Photographs by myself.

Flora

2011-07-07T13:05:00.002+01:00

I'm going to go for a stroll with my camera and take pictures of flowers

Young, Emily, Candice, Young

Currently Coveting

2011-07-07T12:15:00.005+01:00

It's that time of year when the high street is awash with shiny new trends. The weather may still be warm enough for all of the summer dresses, shorts and sandals that we have acquired earlier this year, but, like magpies, our eyes are being drawn towards the brand sparkling new.

The glossy fashion magazines are already telling us what to wear for Autumn. Androgyny! The luxe parka! The pencil skirt! We want to rush out and collect all of these 'must-have' pieces, to begin to build our new season wardrobe. But no need to pack away your floral dresses just yet. We're only half way through summer. Most of us haven't even been on our summer holiday yet. Yes, purchase the Autumn pieces that you can't stop thinking of, but work out a way to style them for Now.

The one piece that has been twinkling in my eye recently is this Topshop maxi skirt. I see myself wearing this in Winter, with ankle boots, a cropped argyle sweater and thick ribbed tights. But there is no reason why I could not wear this now, with a cropped tee and sandals. The same goes for the two dresses. Wear now with bare tanned legs and flat sandals; wear then with chunky knits and boots. As for the ankle boots - wear with bare legs and anything in your wardrobe.

All product Topshop, save for Michael Kors gold watch

Julie Lansom

2011-07-04T20:10:00.002+01:00

Julie Lansom takes engaging photographs of etheral beauties.

Sunday

2011-07-04T20:05:00.003+01:00

Sunday was spent in a haze of scorching sunshine and cider in the park and beer garden at a festival in nearby Chorlton. Ideal.

Photos by me

Le Weekend

2011-07-03T17:28:00.004+01:00

My weekend, through the lens of my new Olympus PEN EPL-1.
All photographs taken and edited by myself

Inspire me!

2011-06-28T20:52:00.002+01:00

Things that are inspiring me this week include: nautical inspired dresses (time to pull out my own, made just for me by a good friend), socks and sandals (stylish geek chic at it's very best), blush tones, chiffon midi-length skirts, slightly out of focus photographs of flowers, and classic leather strapped/gold linked watches, the more the merrier.

Images clockwise from top left: It girl rag doll, san francisco style x2, stylelike u sarah sophie flicker, la min ya net, via the flower girl

Style Suduko

2011-06-23T18:03:00.003+01:00

Current inspiration: plain jersey, chinos, floaty skirts, denim overall dresses, two-tone satchels, flat sandals, gold watches and statement rings.

White jersey - Topshop Boutique, chiffon skirt - Topshop, gold watch - Michael Kors, brown sandals - Topshop, ring - Topshop, denim overall dress - APC, chinos - Topshop, grey jersey - Splendid, satchel - Topshop

Charlotte Ortholary

2011-06-23T17:40:00.007+01:00

I can't get enough of Charlotte Ortholary's retro inspired photography. Pretty pastel shades, awesome use of light and shadows and exquisite framing. Lovely stuff.

Discovered via Cali vintage's rather excellent tumblr

Summer Sun

2011-06-23T17:23:00.003+01:00

Daydreamin' of a humid summer spent exploring old towns, jumping off jetty's into the sea and writing postcards home in the shade. I need to book a holiday in the sun, who wants to come?

lemon blond, feelings for something lost, lemon blond, sophie olivia lily, feelings for something lost, sophie olivia lily

Pretty maids all in a row

2011-06-23T16:46:00.006+01:00

I know that these photographs have appeared all over the web in the past few days, but I was in awe with their beauty and could not resist posting them here. I want to dress up my friends in matching pastel-coloured outfits and photograph a day spent at the zoo and in the park.

Michal Pudelka for Atomica magazine

Style Like U

2011-06-21T19:01:00.004+01:00

The girl's featured on stylelikeu are true individuals when it comes to the way that they dress. More is definately more, with layers of long, languid dresses, socks and staggeringly high sandals, sequinned boleros and glistening jewelery. Why be boring?

scout willis, preetma singh, lizzie brandt, ashley jayne meyers, lindsey thornburg

Street Style Stars

2011-06-18T22:08:00.002+01:00

Currently inspired by bare legs, long skirts, stripes, muted colours with splashes of brights and chunky sandals.

natalie hartley wears, mr newton, natalie hartley wears, lucy laucht, mr newton, klover, the style scout, the sart, what i wore, raspberry and red

Resort 2012

2011-06-18T21:31:00.002+01:00

The three Resort collections that I can most see myself wearing. I would sell my kidney for one of the Jonathan Saunders dresses.

Autumn's come early

2011-06-17T16:49:00.002+01:00

I don't feel inspired to dress in flimsy summer dresses and bright colours whilst the weather is so dull and dismal. Instead, I am already looking to autumn. A colour palette of burnt orange, camel, forest green and black seems more appropriate. Long pleated skirts, silk blouses, long-sleeved dresses and oversized cardigans feel very now when braved with bare legs.

Clockwise from top left: fancy treehouse, anne bernecker, via so much to tell you, stockholm street style

Lucy in Disguise

2011-06-17T15:53:00.004+01:00

Last week I had the privilege of attending the Harvey Nichols Manchester launch of Lucy in Disguise. Lily Allen and sister Sarah Owen were interviewed by Emma Doyle of Manchester Fashion Network; answering questions about the inspiration behind the collection, their personal style icons and the future of the brand. Delicious cocktails and delectable lollicakes were served to the audience, as Gramophone DJs played retro records and the stylish guests scrambled to get a closer look at the dresses.

Lily modelled the blue smock dress 'Haight-Ashbury' (named after the infamous San Francisco district) whilst Sarah smouldered in the 'Jitterbug' party dress.

Celine Resort 2012

2011-06-15T19:58:00.003+01:00

In love with the simple lines, clean-cut shapes, awesome colour palette and work-wear-worthy Celine Resort 2012 collection

On My Mind Today

2011-06-14T22:33:00.002+01:00

Images clockwise from top left - Fieldguided, The Sartorialist, Martijn Savenije, Lucy Williams shot by Vanessa Jackman

Colour Pop

2011-06-14T22:14:00.003+01:00

Clockwise from top left - Celine, Tibi, Acne, Stella McCartney, Stella McCartney, Acne

The Resort collections are timed to perfection. Just as the temperatures begin to soar, we are treated to a fresh burst of inspiration for dressing in warmer weather. Whilst I am perfectly happy in my off-duty style of vintage summer dresses and an expanding collection of long pleated skirts, my summer workwear wardrobe leaves much to be inspired, and the Resort collections have given me food for thought.

Bursts of bright colours are sticking around for the significant future, evolving with a slight sixties Modish vibe. One or two colourful pieces teamed with crisp white and polished black create a strong Pop-art inspired colour palette. Long sleeved bold blouses neatly tucked into high-waisted pencil skirts create an office outfit with personality. Alternatively, flip the look ala Celine and roll up the sleeves of a starched white shirt; paired with belted trousers in hues of fuschia, aqua or tangerine.

Daisy Chain

2011-06-11T15:01:00.002+01:00

Daydreaming of picnics in the sunshine in fields filled with daisies.

White cropped tshirt - ALC, grey jersey jumper - APC, green pleated maxi skirt - Michael Kors, black clogs- Swedish Hasbeens, white sunglasses - Prada, wicker and chain bag - Modcloth, green ring - Forzieri, wide brimmed sun hat - Melissa Odabash

My favourite corners of the internet

2011-06-09T17:46:00.003+01:00

1. Miss Moss
Image by aron wiesenfeld

2. Ringo have a banana

3. Hannah and Landon

4. Fieldguided

5. Niotillfem

6. Discotheque Confusion

7. Closet Visit

8. Vanessa Jackman

9. Capture the Castle

10. Tales of Endearment

I could look at these sites for hours. I recommend that you do so yourself, if you haven't already

Dreaming of Summer

2011-06-09T17:10:00.003+01:00

I am in desperate need of summer. We had a glimpse of warmer weather last weekend, spent preparing the garden for summer with a trickle of sweat running down the backs of our necks. Now dark clouds and unrelenting rain have taken control.
I am keeping one beady eye on the weather forecast - waiting in anticipation of a month-long heatwave. We will ride bikes along the river, sunbathe in parks, find a perfect water-side spot to read a book and eat a picnic, , collect flowers (I had a dream last night that myself and a friend were wandering around Berlin, picking flowers and handing them out to people) and finally get the chance to air my heaving summer wardrobe.

Images, Kelly, Yara Nicola, via Ginny Branch, Siri, Araks lookbook

Five Favourites- June

2011-06-05T16:44:00.004+01:00

1. Interesting Colour Combinations

Colour is exciting at the moment. No matter how you wear it - bright pops against a muted background, clashing shades, head to toe hues - Colour is big news in the fashion world. The most initiative colour combinations are those that are daring and bold and defy the obvious. Red and peach. Sea-foam-green and orange. Baby blue and coral. Keep colour to three pieces maximum and pair with simple black, white or tan, to keep yourself from looking like you exploded out of a paint box. Keep hair and make-up simple, save for an eye-poppingly bright lip.

image via capture the castle via the corner shop blog

2. Tales of Endearment

Written by Natalie Joos, this charming blog follows a format which seems to be increasing in popularity - the author photographing her fashionable subjects in the comfort of their own homes and interviewing them in a relaxed manner. 'Tales of' is one of the leaders of it's genre, profiling a mix of America-aboding, uber cool girls in predominately vintage ensembles. Check it out.

3. Analogue holiday snaps

After shooting four rolls of film myself whilst visiting Berlin, I am now trawling the Blogosphere for other peoples holiday photographs. Hilary Boles' dreamy recent images from a vacation in Paris fit the bill perfectly. I am now planning further trips this year where I can further learn to use my camera.

4. Photographs of girls in galleries.

There's just something about a picture of someone looking at a picture that i adore.

Images by Little Miss Lime and Fieldguided

5. Emily Weiss' style

Not only does the girl edit and write a highly successful, pioneering beauty blog, she's also seriously stylish herself. The pale blue Equipment shirt, red ballet pumps, roomy tote bag and palest green nail polish are now all on my ever-expanding Wish List.

Image by The Coveteur for Vogue online

Berlin - Film

2011-06-01T20:08:00.003+01:00

Walking through Tiergarten Park, a flower shop, Tiergarten, dangling off the decking at Treptower Park, Holocaust Memorial, record shop, 'Smile', Treptower, tracks, the Devil

Remaining film shots from Berlin, taken by myself and my boyfriend

Wish List

2011-06-01T19:55:00.002+01:00

After my week's holiday in Berlin, I am now ready for the Summer. My current summer wish list consists of the perfect pair of flat sandals, a white stripy cotton dress, a short beige trench coat and a cosy jumper, perfect for throwing on with shorts on a chilly evening.

Images. Urban Outfitters via Thrills and Frills, Allison Miller's Closet Visit, Cali Vintage and Topshop.com

Guest Post - Ferris Wheel Inspiration

2011-05-31T21:02:00.003+01:00

Fashion inspiration can come from a myriad of sources. Challenge your wardrobe (and your styling abilities) this summer by getting inspiration from the places you go and things that you do!

Here’s some fashion inspiration coming your way, inspired by a trip to the fair!

Enjoy a summer’s day, indulge in some cotton candy and ride the Ferris wheel in style!

Embrace color and choose a cute pair of colored denim cutoffs, like these pink ones by J Brand!
Opt for a basic cropped tee for a relaxed and comfortable look.
Nothing says summer like espadrilles! Forego wearing flip-flops and instead wear these for a fun and youthful summer look!
Keep your hair simple! Try to tousled fishtail braid (since the rollercoasters will mess up your hair anyway!)
Revlon’s line of scented nail polishes perfectly complements the fun, bright colors of summer! With scents like Bubble Gum and Gumdrop, you’ll never want to take it off your nails!
Most importantly- remember to stay hydrated! (It helps to remember to carry a water bottle when there’s as cute as this one by KOR!

Guest post brought to you by Alessia from Luello.com - an online shopping destination for luxury lifestyle apparel