NEW YEAR'S EVE HAIR-SPIRATION

Earlier this month, when I attended The British Fashion Awards, Headmasters came to my rescue (I'm incompetent when it comes to styling my own locks) and created an incredibly chic  'do for the event. The look - retro Hollywood waves - was surprisingly quick and easy to master and would be perfect for New Year's Eve, so I wanted to share it on here and talk you through how it can be recreated at home. 

AW14 SALE BUYS TO SEE YOU THROUGH 'TIL SPRING

I'm a big fan of sales shopping online because it allows me to approach carnage with clarity; seductive store environs invariably lead to me impulse buying a heap of cr*p that never see the light of sartorial day. The LFF sale edit has been chosen with wearability and longevity in mind; the below pieces might not be heavily discounted, but you will wear them through Spring and beyond, trust me! But which sites should you be logging on to, credit card in hand? Check out the Net-a-porter sale for luxury goodies - Sophie Hulme, my all-time favourite accessories designer has a selection of pieces in sale - her box clutch is a modern classic. Cashmere lovers should head over to Jigsaw - there's a dedicated sale section to the seductive soft stuff (you can't go wrong with a classic grey crew neck, below). Finally, I hate to agree with Kanye - but leather trousers, in all guises, really are a savvy style buy. They look set to be the piece of SS15 and Mango have a straight cut pair for a criminally cheap £79.99 (below). Snap them up now or you are 'Bound 2' regret it (ouch - sorry!) 

Top row L-R: Hoshi blanket coat, Whistles, was £450 now £250. Sequin side stripe shirt, J.Crew, was £89.50 now £45 - £62. Freda slub jersey white tee, Matchesfashion, was £65 now £45. 

Middle row L-R: Sophie Hulme brass box clutch, Net-a-porter, was £320 now £224. Miss KG Eleanor snakeskin heels, Kurt Geiger, was £85 now £39. 

Bottom row L-R: Midnight star shower pendant, Astley Clarke, was £120 now £95. Grey cashmere jumper, Jigsaw, was £139 now £83. Straight fit leather trousers, Mango, was £109.99 now £79.99. 

HORST: PHOTOGRAPHER OF STYLE - V&A MUSEUM EXHIBITION REVIEW

If you're seeking some post-Christmas culture, I'd like to point you in the direction of the Horst: Photographer of Style exhibition at the V&A. When American Airlines invited me to visit the retrospective of Horst P. Horst's work I have to admit I was unfamiliar with the German-American fashion photographer. A trip to the V&A opened my eyes to his influence in the industry; Horst references are everywhere. Throughout his incredible 60 year career, the photographer created iconic images that transcend fashion time; mastering light, composition and atmosphere illusion to illustrate his predominantly female muses as goddess-like figures. Following the advancement to colour photography in 1930's, Horst's work took a dazzling, colourful direction, with a playful feel that no doubt evolved photography towards the pop art movement. 

With a closing date of January 5th, there isn't long left to visit the exhibition. Book your tickets sharpish here. 

THE BEST AW14 SEQUIN BUYS

I'm sure you don't need me to sell sequins to you. A smattering of the sparkly stuff is good for the sartorial soul. Sequins unfailingly return to favour each autumn/winter, and 2015 is no different. For your styling cues look to J.Crew founder Jenna Lyons and wear something ordinary with something fabulous; think sequins + a crisp white shirt or the so-classic-it's-pratically-neutral Breton tee and you're on the right track. If you're in need of some inspo, check out the LFF edit below - go forth and sparkle! 



Top row L-R: Saint James navy breton tee, Atterley Road, £55. Gold sequin wide leg pants, J.Crew, £550. Lips in Trigger, Topshop, £8. KG Kurt Geiger star detail courts, ASOS, £69.

Middle row L-R: White Wooster shirt, The Fold London, £115. Marni green ribbed wool sweater, Net-a-porter.com, £450. French Connection green sequin pants, John Lewis, £70. Carvela Gordon lace-up courts, Kurt Geiger, £120. Nails in Aurelian, Topshop, £3. 

Bottom row L-R: Iris and Ink cashmere sweater, The Outnet, £140. Lips in Partition, Topshop, £8. Aster silver kitten heel pump, Whistles, £160. Ombre sequin midi skirt, Miss Selfridge, £17. 

READY FOR THE WEEKEND

What to wear when you clock off for the week? Dressing for downtime isn't easy - anything tailored looks too corporate and unless you're heading to the gym, a tracksuit looks too Kanye West.  My weekend wardrobe has been in need of some serious love of late; so last month I splashed out (oops) and invested in some casual essentials - my first pair of Vans, a pair of felt Converse high-tops and a new Saint James breton tee from Atterley Road. 

CHRISTMAS GIFT 2014 EDIT - PERSONALISED GIFTS

Personalised presents require that extra effort, but in return they offer a genius gifting solution. A monogrammed tote or an engraved necklace will make a thoughtful statement without breaking the bank or a fraught trip to Oxford Street. For affordable bespoke jewellery, my go-to is Anna Lou of London - I wear my monogram S necklace daily. Buying for a committed coffee consumer? [aka me - my chap and I have matching Keepcups!]  Then check out KeepCup – the first company to offer barista standard reusable cups. The best part? You can customise your KeepCup in colours of your choice, or gift a voucher to allow the recipient to choose their own – genius! Similarly, The Bathory offer the opportunity to invent your own bespoke bath soaks; I trialled the website earlier this year and it’s such a smart concept, plus the monochrome packaging is incredibly chic. A bespoke print makes the ideal choice for a new homeowner – my fellow blogger Victoria designs chic prints on request, available at her I Heart The Home Etsy store. Get your orders in this weekend to meet her Christmas delivery deadline!

Top row L- R: Reusable coffee cup, KeepCup, from £7. Monogram disc necklace, Anna Lou of London, from £54. Bespoke slipper service, Penelope Chilvers, POA. Middle row L-R: Maria Black gold plated + diamond engravable ring, Net-a-porter.com, £230. Willow monogrammed bag, Aurora Living, from £55. Wanderlust print, I Heart The Home etsy shop, £15. Bottom row L-R: Letter B tote, Alphabet Bags, £13. Customisable Nike Free Runs, Nike ID, £115. Bespoke bath soak, The Bathory, £18. 

GET YOUR COAT

Coats are one of my favourite purchases to make; thrown over the most unremarkable outfit in your wardrobe, a great coat holds transformative power. I like to have at least two coats in rotation at any point, although if budget was no object I'd be a collector. Before you make your seasonal purchase(s), here are my tips on what to look for [and what to avoid] in your winter wonder:

Trims and fastenings: 
If you're buying from the high street, try to avoid coats that draw attention to buttons. Retailers can scrimp on fastenings and as a result budget buttons cheapen the overall look. 

Fabric-mix: 
Wool and cashmere mixes will keep you warmer than polyester. And when the temperature drops even further, a quilted down-filled coat is the smartest choice. 

Cut + fit: 
Pick a coat with roomy sizing to layer knits underneath. Oversized coats generally look chicer, too. 

To get you started, here's my edit of some of the great styles available online now: 

Top row from L-R: Claremont camel coat, The Fold, £425. Herringbone overcoat, Whistles, £375. Paul Smith Black Label classic tailored coat, Farfetch.com, £529. Middle row from L-R: Blue handmade double breasted coat, Zara, £159. Straight pink coat, John Lewis, £190. Wool blend purple coat with cashmere, M&S, £120. Bottom row from L-R: Chloe wool blend cape, The Outnet, £1,765. Grey hooded cape, Warehouse, £66.50. Black wool mix cape, New Look, £39.99. 

THE JEWEL STREET EXPERIENCE

I recently left my job in the jewellery industry to move back into fashion, after a 5 year stint spent working with all that glitters. It was whilst working in London's jewellery quarter, Hatton Garden, that I developed a passion for independent jewellery design and discovering upcoming names in the industry. Contrary to belief, earning dollar in the jewellery trade isn't easy, margins are tight and only a small handful of designers make a name for themselves. Here lies the case for supporting independent designers and investing in talent in the UK - which in turn brings ethical benefits - invest in quality trinkets and adornments and they will stand the test of time. Which leads me to Jewel Street, my new virtual go-to for jewels. Described as an online market place, the new jewellery e-tailer enables customers to buy straight from the designer. JewelStreet invited me to trial the website [I'm now the proud owner of an exquisite pair of Anna Byers earrings] and I'm really impressed. The curation of brands on the site is A+, just about all my favourite designers make an appearance. Check out Lestie Lee, Astrid and Miyu and De Anna Kiernan for starters. It's the kind of website you can spend hours browsing and discover treasure upon treasure. To get you started, here's the LFF edit of my favourite pieces online now: 

Top from L-R: 1. Gold Prism ring pendant, Sonal Talgeri-Bhaskaran, £145. 2. Black rhodium honeytags earrings, Gia Belloni, £186. 3. Indian teardrop stacking rings, Sophie Breitmeyer, £610. Middle from L-R: Long shard earrings, De Anna Kiernan, £95. Gold vermeil deco earrings, Anna Byers, £195. Bottom from L-R: Golden sparrow ring, Jana Reinhardt, £129. Shiny wishbone necklace in rose gold, Astrid and Miyu, £29. Hope stacking rings, Faye Marie Jewellery, £165. 

LFF COMPETITIONS - WIN A £50 DEBENHAMS GIFT CARD

If you liked the outfits I put together for the Debenhams AW14 Blogger Style Challenge, then this is the competition for you. The go-to UK department store have kindly offered La Fashion Folie a £50 gift card to give away to one lucky blog reader. If you've yet to splash out on your winter wardrobe, £50 will slash the cost of an investment coat or new-season boots. Personally, I'd be hard pushed to decide how to spend the gift card - one of my favourite departments in Debs is the Debenhams homeware, but Todd Lynn's AW14 luxuriously tough handbag collection has also caught my attention [pictured below, modelled by Leah Weller, no less]. To enter the competition, simply put your details in the Rafflecopter ap below and either follow LFF on Facebook,  Twitter or both to double your chances of winning. The competition ends on Sunday 2nd November - good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

RETURN OF THE BACK(PACK)

The whole nineties revival capturing the fashion world's attention at the moment sure is making me feel old; namely because it's the first trend in my sartorial lifetime that I can remember the first time around. Chokers, mini backpacks, platform trainers - thanks  to the Spice Girls I've owned them all. Fashion rules dictate that wearing a trend the second time round is a faux pas - but I believe that's a myth - the secret is to rework the look and incorporate pieces effortlessly into your current wardrobe. Enter the updated backpack - the grown-up girls entry into the nineties trend. 

DEBENHAMS AW14 BLOGGER STYLE CHALLENGE

Debenhams are hosting a fun bloggers autumn/winter style competition at the moment, challenging bloggers to style two looks using new season trends, one for themselves + one for a fellow blogger. This is the first outfit that I put together for myself, inspired by the 'Autumn Luxe' trend. In truth I just fell in love with Coast's autumnal hued Harper skirt and designed my look around it. I am a fan of a jewel earring so that + a cherry red Mac lip are all the accessories this luxurious statement skirt needs. 

From clockwise: Warehouse black side spilt tee. Coast domenica earrings. Mac lip pencil in Cherry. Coast harper skirt. Dune pony detail dressy loafers. 

I designed the second look for my fellow blogger Katie from Glass of fashion. What I admire about Katie's sense of style is that she isn't afraid to mix and match unexpected pieces; it's that J. Crew-inspired styling aesthetic that defines her look. Katie and I often like the same clothes (we've bought the same Zara bag in the past!) but we rarely style them in the same way. In truth, I'm not as sartorially adventurous as Katie, so it was a challenge to style an outfit for her. I settled upon the 'Blue notes' a/w trend and subtly clashed prints within the look to capture her playful sense of style. So now I nominate Katie to take on the challenge too. Good luck Katie! x

From clockwise: Alice and You blue wool coat. Mood large blue peardrop earrings. Clinique chubby stick lip balm. Nails inc polish in Belgrave Place. Miss Selfridge graphic jacquard trousers. Carvela blue laurel flats. 

COFFEEGRAPHY WITH NESCAFE DOLCE GUSTO

When Nescafe Dolce Gusto invited me to a blogger's calligraphy workshop last month, I was puzzled. Was it just me that failed to see the link between calligraphy and coffee? Intrigued, I agreed to attend as speedily as I shot an espresso on a Monday morning. 

TREND EDIT: GREY MATTERS

Going grey is the height of sartorial chic this autumn/winter, thanks to appearances on the new-season catwalks of Derek Lam, Michael Kors, Topshop Unique to name a few. The key to nailing this trend is to rep shades of grey (no pun intended) top-to-toe, bar accessories (I love the cobalt blue leather clutches seen in the Derek Lam AW15 collection and a glossy black boot will finish the look). Having done some digging, I found some on-point grey pieces on the high street; Warehouse's sleeveless wool coat (no. 4) is a smart buy at a mere £65 - layer it up over a grey roll neck for an affordable take on the trend. For a chic take on the 9 - 5, the Fold's herringbone skirt (no.1) would look the part with a silk blouse. If you're in the market for a new tote, Stella McCartney's soft and slouchy Beckett bag is a real investment piece. The simple bucket shape and industrial grey hue will see you through winters to come. Proof that this season, grey is anything but drab. 

1. Brook skirt in Herringbone, The Fold, £165. 2. Stella McCartney Beckett faux leather bag, Net-a-porter.com, £715. 3. Baja grey Agate set earrings, Monica Vinader, £165. 4. Grey sleeveless wool blazer, Warehouse, £65. 5. Cashmere tunic, Uniqlo, £89.90. 6. Felt borg trainers, Next, £24. 

TOGA SS15 - A+ FOR ACCESSORIES

Showing at LFW for second time this season, in the grandiose setting of the St Pancras Rennaissance Hotel, Japanese label TOGA presented an exquisite art-inspired collection for SS15 with the dreamiest accessories offering. 

Inspired by the  abstract artist Serge Poliakoff, and the themes of 'Fragment, Reflection, Floating'; particular attention had been paid to the fabulous jewels, shoes and totes in the spring/summer collection. Geometric, mismatched mirrored earrings featured in several looks, cleverly reflecting light against the skin to a flattering effect. 

Colourful, painterly prints were seen throughout the presentation, alongside patchwork pieces that carried the same modernist feel. Sporty details added an urban edge - mesh fabrics on footwear and inner drawstring ties contrasting against the sleek designs of leather tote bags. Footwear was chunky and colourful with block heels and flatforms adding wearability. 

It was a real treat to discover TOGA at LFW this season, thanks to The Wolves for the invite x

OUTFIT POST: IN THE NAVY

It's been a while since I did an outfit post, so here's a look at one of the outfits I wore for the small handful of shows I attended during LFW. It was a quiet season for me because my summer was occupied with job hunting, so ticket requests took a backseat. Turns out, it's really enjoyable having a low-key schedule and I've also accepted an exciting new job working in fashion (I can't wait to share more on here when I get started!), so it was worthwhile sacrifice. 

I am in a navy mood at the moment, so expect to lots more of it on the blog this autumn/winter, starting with this sleeveless blazer...

LFF'S JOULES WISHLIST

For comfy weekend wear, one of my go-to retailers is Joules. So when the brand got in contact to ask me to curate a wish list from their site, I cherry-picked a selection of pieces that are made for lounging in style. Included in their offering of country clothing, Joules retail great stripe tees - if you are in the market for a Breton with a twist, there are colourful patchwork interpretations alongside the classic cream & navy combinations.  Nothing exudes casual cool like grey marl - my weekend wardrobe is crammed with marl sweaters - Joules' interpretation has a cute lobster print for a whimsical touch. When it comes to PJs, I have a thing for feminine, floral-printed sleepwear; the 'Mellow' short set below is right up my sartorial street. What are your weekend essentials? 

Top row L-R: Creme stripe harbour top, £24.95. Larielle lobster print grey sweater, £39.95. 

Middle [clockwise]: Lillington navy slippers, £89.95. Mellow short pyjama set, £39.95. 

Bottom row L-R: Harbour hotch potch top, £24.95. Gold plated hare necklace, £24.95. 

STYLING THE PETIT BATEAU BRETON DRESS

It's no secret that I love the French sense of style [the blog title is a dead giveaway] - so when Gemini Woman got in touch and asked me to put together a post celebrating the launch of Petit Bateau [aka the holy grail of the Breton stripe] on their site, I was more than happy to oblige.

In a change from the classic Breton tee, I picked a navy stripe dress to style [£120 - shop here]  because I wanted to demonstrate it's versatility. If you're yet to jet off on your summer escape, a Breton dress makes an ideal beach cover up. Style it espadrilles for a St. Tropez vibe. Stripes are also the perfect print for weekend wear - wear your dress with a pop of leopard print for an unexpected twist. You can even smarted up this piece for the office, I'd wear either a white shirt or bib collar under mine for a professional edge. Pair with some colourful flat points and you've got a 1960s homage going on which is a key trend for autumn/winter 2014. 

If you're unfamiliar with Gemini woman, I'd recommend checking out the site. They stock a curation of grown-up, wearable fashion brands including French Connection, Great Plains and of course - Petit Bateau!

Whisked away: Amalfi espadrilles, Mint & Rose, €75. Petit Bateau stripe scarf, Gemini Woman, £47. Fendi two-tone sunglasses, Net-a-porter.com, £200. 

Weekend: Sophie Hulme mini leopard print shoulder bag, Net-a-porter.com, £395. Nails in One Hot Minute, Topshop, £5. Felt borg skater shoes, Next, £24. 

Work: Pointed pumps in beetroot, Boden, £89. Karl Lagerfeld folded cotton-blend collar, Net-a-porter.com, £110. Lips in Inhibition, Topshop, £8. 

COMPETITION - WIN UP TO £45 SPEND ON FALKE TIGHTS

Now that the [brief!] British summer seems to be over, my mind has turned towards planning my autumn/winter wardrobe. One essential that I can’t live without in the colder months is tights, and not just any old pair, high quality 40 denier plus hosiery please. So when Legal and General got in contact recently and asked me to pick one product 'worth investing in' - that I could then give away on LFF - it had to be tights! 

In my experience, the more you spend on your hosiery, the more you get back. One of my favourite brands is Falke - having road-tested their hosiery the past couple of winters (on Laura from WIT blog's recommendation), I can confirm that these tights are  worth the extra spend - ladder-proof [within reason!], washable and comfy - Falke will see you through the season. Alongside stellar tights, the brand also retails luxe socks - I love the styling in the below campaign image.

In collaboration with Legal and General, one lucky LFF reader will win up to £45 to spend on Falke.com’s website on anything of their choosing [less the £6 postage and packaging]. To enter just fill in your details in the widget below and Like LFF on Facebook/ or Twitter and I'll be back in touch after the competition ends on 30th August if you're successful. Good luck! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck! x

LFF'S LONDON - THE FRANCIS HOTEL, BATH

This month LFF’s London escapes in the city in search of a stylish getaway on the doorstep on the big smoke

The art of total relaxation is a state that became a nigh-on-impossible feat when I moved to London four years ago. It’s the fear of missing out that is to blame; when I lie in on a Saturday morning after a busy week of work a dirty sense of guilt sets in – only intensified by my Instagram feed, clogged with smug early risers eating exquisitely plated Turkish eggs at another blink-and-you’ll-miss-it pop up bruncherie. If you too are suffering from a case of FOMO, then may I suggest you do as my boyfriend and I did last month and harness the weekend to escape the city, in search of a little tranquillity. 

Just a 1:30 journey from Paddington station and we found ourselves in the elegant Georgian the city of Bath. 

SUMMER HOLIDAY BUYS UNDER £30

I'm not one for spending big bucks on my holiday wardrobe. If it's at the mercy of suncream, seawater and sangria, it most likely won't see out the summer. So in this frugal spirit, I've put together this dirt-cheap edit of holiday buys, all under £30. I think I'm quite good at putting together a capsule holiday wardrobe - the key is to stick to one colour palette and travel with lots of pieces that can be mixed and matched. I always pack some costume jewels to dress up outfits for dinner - the Johnny Loves Rose tangerine drop earrings below are a nifty purchase. A few cheap, disposable tees are a good idea - I like Uniqlo for quality budget buys. The shoe of SS14, leather sliders are super comfy and practical for both the beach and sight seeing. And if you're as pale as pasty as I am, don't forget the suncream!

Top row L-R: Linen blend tee, Uniqlo, £4.90. Nails in Pink Cadillac, Topshop, £5. New Look white leather sliders, ASOS, £19.99. 

Middle clockwise: Warehouse pink sunglasses, ASOS, £16. Palm tree print clutch, New Look, £9.99. Zip detail black bikini set, F&F, £13. Woven black shorts, H&M, £24.99. 

Bottom row L-R: Lace espadrilles, ASOS, £9. Johnny Loves Rosie Orange statement earrings, Myflashtrash, £12. 

WEARING ANNA LOU OF LONDON

As a blogger, there's no bigger buzz than when a brand you're a fan of gets in contact with a request to collaborate. I don't think I will ever become jaded about that aspect of the job. So when Anna Lou of London got in contact recently to ask me to be a brand ambassador, I was a super happy girl. For those of you unfamiliar with them, ALOL is a British jewellery brand which specialises in bespoke pieces. But unlike many jewellers, Anna Lou's monogrammed pieces are affordable, offering a luxe personalised touch at a great price. The brand also retails costume jewels in eye-popping brights manufactured in perspex for a kitsch-chic look. As a brand ambassador for ALOL I was tasked with picking five pieces from the site that reflected my personal style. 

A NEW SUMMER 'DO AT HEADMASTERS

It’s crazy to think that just over a year ago I was a brunette (remember when I used to look like this?). Fast-forward to 2014 and I am celebrating my auburn anniversary, having never looked back. I’m a pretty low maintenance kinda gal (although my boyfriend might beg to differ…) so a flaming red do works for me - I think it makes a style statement with minimal effort on my part in between salon appointments. My cuts and colours are the work of the follicle wizards at Headmasters, whom I trust implicitly with my barnet.  A couple of weeks ago I visited their Soho branch for a little summer refresh with Gareth from the Art Team, here’s how I got on:

The before

WEAR-FOREVER SALE BUYS

Is it really possible to find investment buys in the sales? I have to be honest - not often - I had to scour the internet to create this blogpost. But occasionally, you uncover an amazing gem, a great example being the polka-dot Sophie Hulme trench coat below, reduced by an amazing 70% from £545 to £163 at Avenue 32. Polka dots are one of the few, enduring prints that never-date. I know, I know, a polka dot trench might seem like quite a wacky buy - but in reality it's as wearable as they come. Use it to add interest to jeans + t-shirt ensembles or clash it with florals and stripes J.Crew style - in fact, I can't think of many outfits a hint of polka dot doesn't enhance. Likewise striped styles are great sale buy - I love Chinti and Parker's subtle twist on a breton tee with the addition of a cute heart motif. A classic leather bag is an investment you will never regret, and the Jaeger sale is full of them. Don't be scared to inject a bit of colour, a pop of pink livens up most colour palettes and will take you through autumn/winter. Have you invested in any bargains in the summer sales? 

Top row from L - R: Sophie Hulme polka dot cotton trench, Avenue32, was £545 now £163. Polka dot espadrilles, Penelope Chilver, was £85 now £45. Stripe miniskirt, Reiss, was £95 now £65. 

Middle: Acetate sunglasses, Kenzo, was £185 now £92.50. 

Bottom row L - R: Organic cotton stripe tee, Chinti and Parker, was 385 now £51. Rose gold and diamond star pendant. Astley Clarke, was £850 now £500. Large Lawrence bag, Jaeger, was £199 now £150 - £99.

ASPIRE STYLE BLOGGER STYLE OFF

I'm taking part in another blogger style-off! I used to shy away from outfit posts, but I'm slowly learning to love them, having fun arranging regular shoots with my style partner in crime Katie (who happens to be a photography queen, which helps). So when Aspire Style invited me to take part in their style challenge I thought why not, and was faced with the difficult task of picking just one dress from their lovely website. Here's what I went for:

KERB YOUR ENTHUSIASM

Soft shell crab burger with sweetcorn relish and lobster mayo, followed by a rosewater and peach ice-cream float; I can't think of a better way to kick off a weekend than a visit to Kerb street food market in King's Cross. 

THREE WAYS TO WEAR: THE BRETON TEE

It's fair to say I'm obsessed with Breton tees. Chic, timeless, effortless - you really can't go wrong with a simple stripe. With most of us owning a Breton top of some incarnation, I thought I'd put together a feature on how to update yours for SS14. Don't just reserve your Breton for weekend wear - consider it as neutral piece [like a grey marl sweater or a white t-shirt] and wear it with patterns and prints. The below orange Baum und Pferdgarten number has a Simone Rocha feel and clashes artfully with a navy stripe. Heads up: if you're tight on budget, I've spotted a similar skirt from F&F for a mere £25. For an effortless weekend look you can't beat a Breton + boyfriend jean + cross body bag ensemble - I love Next's patchwork denim. Finally, your trusty tee will make a stylish beach cover-up [although anticipate replacing it post-holiday, suncream leaves yellow stains!]. I'd wear mine with big shades for a touch of parisian chic on the sands. 

Work: Breton tee, Iris and Ink at The Outnet, £45. Orange floral lace pencil skirt, Baum und Pferdgarten, £139.  Lips in Whimsical, Topshop, £8. Laminated silver slingbacks, Massimo Dutti, £69.95. 
Weekend: Breton tee - as before. Boy fit jeans patch-detail jeans, Next, £30. Marc by Marc Jacobs Dani orange cross body bag, Harvey Nichols, £175. Navy satin cross strap sandals, Next, £26. 
Beach: Breton tee - as before. Navy cut-out tank swimsuit, J.Crew, £88. River Island Penelope white sunglasses, ASOS, £13. Nails in Saffron, Topshop, £5. 

BRUNCH WITH GIZZI ERSKINE AND NESCAFE DOLCE GUSTO

It's not everyday you can say you had brunch with Gizzi Erskine.

LFF PREVIEWS PANACHE AW14 COLLECTION

I've had an education into the world of lingerie since I started blogging. Having been gifted some good quality upholstery, my eyes have been opened to the wonders of a well-fitting bra. 

Being less-than-blessed in the cleavage department, I assumed that decent-quality bras were for busty girls, and having never been fitted, I guessed my cup size at a 34B and bought a handful of budget t-shirt bras from Primark. It came as a suprise then, when a lingerie brand persuaded me to get measured at their pop-up at event at London Fashion Week, and I discovered that my true cup size was a 30 C/D (winning!) I was sent the correct size bra to try, and the difference was amazing - the straps no longer slipped off my shoulders, I felt supported and I almost had a cleavage. I feel so much more comfortable in the right size bra, but unfortunately 30 inch cup sizes are a real struggle to find on the high street. 

Which is why I am now all for championing lingerie brands that supply beautifully designed bras to fit all cup sizes, such a Panache. Panache currently supply D+ bras, but as as of September their range will include B & C cup sizes, which is exciting news for me! To find out what Panache have in store for this year, I headed to their AW14 press day, held at the luxurious No.5 Cavendish Square.

LFF OUTFITS: THAT JE NE SAIS QUOI

I like to practise what I preach, so this latest outfit is inspired by my recent post featuring slogan sweaters and midi skirts. 

LFF INTERIORS: JOULES BEDDING

Having lived in bedsits for the past five years of my life, I have got the skill of inhabiting a 'compact' (estate agent speak for minuscule) space down to a fine art. I harbour fantasies of living in a perfectly proportioned Georgian townhouse, with high ceilings, original fireplaces and Chinoiserie paper bedecked walls, but bedsits don’t really lend themselves to this level of grandeur. Instead my London address is a homage to chintz, which works perfectly in a petite and cosy abode. Joules recently sent me the Ruby floral bedding from their S/S collection to review, which fits in seamlessly with the décor of my flat. Inspired by the pretty colour palette of the print, I’ve put together the below moodboard of homeware buys in sherbert hues to spruce up my room for summer. For some inspiration for you home, check out the duvet covers at Joules.com, there’s a beautiful selection for bedsits and grandiose dwellings alike!  

Top row L-R: Hare motif mug, H&M Home, £3.99. Ruby Floral duvet cover, Joules, from £50. Mint green bath matt, H&M home, £6.99. 

Middle row L-R: Ruby floral pillowcase, Joules, £12. Liquid hand soap, & Other Stories, £4. Diamond cushion in mint, Tesco, £10. 
Bottom row L-R: Pantone coffee pot 630, Homecolours.com, £25. Dip dye earthenware plates, Tesco, £15. Pink eat cake for breakfast journal, Liberty, £24.95. 

6 OF THE BEST: COLOUR POP CROSSBODIES

Have I mentioned that I am obsessed with crossbody bags? Perfect for busy tube commutes and running about town, crossbodies are as practical as they are on-trend. I have just bought the gold Boden number featured in this post [expect to see it styled up on here soon] but I am also coveting a rainbow-bright style to contrast against my wardrobe of neutral basics. I am picturing yellow leather + breton stripes / leopard print + flash of emerald green, colourful bags are much more wearable than you think! Here's the LFF edit of the 6 best available now:

Top row L-R: Pink large 'Lawrence' bag, Jaeger, £199. Orange envelope satchel bag, ASOS, £28. Sydney cross body in yellow, Fossil, £109. 

Bottom row L-R: Twiggy crossbody in emerald lizard, Modalu, £79. Berkeley crossbody in purple, Bobelle London, £275. Blue crossbody with large buckle, ASOS, £18.50. 

LFF EDITS: SS14 CO-ORDS

I'm happy to report that SS14 is the season of the practical trend. We have the 'ugly sandal' that is making pavement-pounding a pleasure, the office-appropriate midi length and now the no-brainer 'co-ord' trend. Seen in the Eudon Choi, J.Crew and Henry Holland collections, coordinating separates offer the ultimate easy solution for everyday dressing - putting an end to zombie-esque staring into your wardrobe abyss trying to concoct an outfit at 7am pre-caffeine fix. Unlike a dress, co-ords also offer versatility and can be mixed and matched with wardrobe staples for different looks if you're feeling creative (pair Eudon Choi's jacquard floral skirt with a stripe t-shirt for the catwalk interpretation). If you're on a tight budget, the high street is ALLOVER this trend like Spencer Matthews + any female with a pulse - try Warehouse, Zara and Whistles for the best sets. Here's my edit of the best buys for all budgets and the accessories to finish the look:

£: Top- Bottom Printed crop top, Zara, £25.99. Printed asymmetric skirt, £29.99, Zara.  Nails in Obey, Topshop, £5. Vans true white classic slip on trainers, ASOS, £47. 

££: Top - Bottom Blue palm leaf top, Warehouse, £38. Blue palm leaf skirt, Warehouse, £45. Nude jewelled satin sandals, Next, £30. Atlantis Lapis Flint ring, Monica Vinader, £145. 

£££: Top - Bottom Eudon Choi Mathola floral-jacquard top, Matchesfashion.com, £545. Eudon Choi Centaurea floral jacquard skirt, Matchesfashion.com, £723. Lips in Ohh La La, Topshop, £8. Nicholas Kirkwood zigzag suede pumps, Net-a-porter.com, £510.