THE AUTUMN EDIT: HIGH STREET BUYS FOR FALL 15

One of the consolation prizes of summer coming to an abrupt end here in the UK is the prospect of a shiny, new autumn wardrobe. There are some bonkers and brilliant trends flying around next season - I'm sure I'll get on board with some seventies folk and tactile shearling, but as a fairly classic dresser I'm drawn towards perennial autumnal classics - a great coat, smart flats, leopard prints, flashes of burgundy. After a summer of fun, my budget is less prada and more primark, so this edit is all from the high street, too (yippee!). 

Left column top - bottom: Star hoops, Tada and Toy, £53. High vamp loafers, Next, £32. Belleville tailored burgundy trousers, Next, £165.

Middle column top - bottom: Pinstripe coat, And Other Stories, £165. Burgundy messenger bag, Charles & Keith, £49. Leopard print courts, Boden, £110. 

Right column top - bottom: Bien motif t-shirt, Whistles, £45. White lace hem blouse, Atterley, £50. Agnes burgundy leather jacket, Whistles, £330. 

LFF SHOPS: THE MID-SEASON SS13 SALES

The SS13 mid season sales are in full swing, and there's plenty of bargains left online and instore. Here's the LFF edit of the pieces that will work for high summer whilst subtly nodding to AW13 key trends.

The military trend looks set to be huge for AW13, so investing in some camo print right now is a sensible move. This Topshop jacket is lightweight and ideal for S/S(1.) Green also looks set to be a huge colour trend next season, add a touch to your  look with a jewelled necklace (2.) or khaki tote (6.). If you love a bit of leopard, then the dalmatian print trend offers a modern alternative. LFF loves these Stylistpick booties!

Have you been shopping the mid-season sales? 

1. Gold studded camo jacket, Topshop, was £58 now £30. 
2. Limited edition necklace multipack, ASOS, was £50 now £40. 
3. Round metal detail sunglasses, ASOS, was £12 now £7. 
4. Life white slogan t-shirt, StylistPick, was £18 now £10. 
5. Culprit court shoes, Kurt Geiger, was £140 now £49. 
6. Augusta holdall in Khaki, StylistPick, was £40 now £18. 
7. Eleanor Dalmatian print boots, StylistPick, was £35 now £15. 

LFF STYLES: THE CELIA BIRTWELL FOR UNIQLO COLLECTION

When Uniqlo offered me the opportunity to style a piece from their recent Celia Birtwell collaboration, I jumped at the chance. Celia Birtwell is a legendary textile designer whose iconic prints epitomised the 60s/70s. And I am happy to report her Uniqlo collection is sartorial perfection.  Not only is the collection gorgeous and wearable but the price points are extremely affordable too, starting at £9.90 for a printed scarf and ranging up to £29.90 for a shirt dress. With such good value on offer, I would highly recommend investing in a capsule collection of 3 or 4 pieces to mix and match in your Summer wardrobe.

I opted for a pair of pyjama pants (designed for daywear) having ogled them in the Grazia fashion charts. With an elasticated waist and relaxed shape they are extremely comfortable and easy to wear. With a skirt/trew hybrid such as these, I recommend treating them like a midi skirt if you are looking for styling ideas. However, they are definitely a spring/summer style so I wouldn’t recommend wearing them with tights. I’ve paired mine with a modern classic: the Breton tee (mine is Uniqlo) for a subtle print clash. The pants would look great with a flat ballet pump or a pointed court, but I have opted for my Aldo flatforms with mine for an east-meets-west feel.

 

 

 Picture credit: Neena Bhamber

1. (Similar) Saint James Galathee tee, Atterley Road, £53. 2. Lipstick in Rio Rio, Topshop, £8. 3. Pyjama pants, Celia Birtwell for Uniqlo, £19.90. 4. (Similar) White Georgia Hardinge flatforms, River Island, £50. 5. Hamptoms Perspex Satchel, Accessorize, £32.

 

 Uniqlo are running an Instagram competition at the moment to celebrate the Celia Birtwell collaboration.  To enter all you have to do is style an outfit featuring your Celia Birtwell purchases and hashtag it with #styledincelia. The competition will be judged by Celia herself with an exclusive signed Celia Birtwell print and 5 signed Celia Birtwell books up for grabs. The deadline is the 18th April so get Instagramming! 
 

LFF'S NEW LOOK SS13 WISHLIST

 One of my favourite stores on the high street right now is New Look. In the past few months my NL purchases have included my winter coat- a classic navy tailored boyfriend number, the perfect white cotton shirt (I bought 4...) and a pair of inky blue wedge trainers that often get mistaken for an Ash pair.

No doubt I will parting with more of my pennies in New Look over the coming months looking at their fabulous SS13 collection. I've compiled my new-season 'Wishlist' here, putting together two looks using some of the stand-out styles currently available online.

For my first look, I've dressed up a classic denim shirt with stripe jeans (perfect for the SS13 monochrome trend), colourful jewels and a pastel clutch bag. This is the sort of outfit I'd wear for post-work cocktails in a trendy London bar.

Look number two is a playful weekend ensemble featuring a super-cute cat print sweater that I may just have to add to my growing wardrobe of New Look clothing! I've pared the sweater with a denim skater skirt and brogues for a youthful look, but I would also wear the sweater with jeans and a white blouse for an easy 9-5 outfit.

1. Navy popper front shirt, £16.99.
2. Limited mult-stone necklace, £12.99.
3. Grey cat print sweater, £14.99.
4. Monochrome perspex collar, £7.99.
5. Parisian black stripe skinny jeans, £24.99.
6. Blink neon pink pointed court, £34.99.
7. Pieces mint green clutch bag, £13.99.
8. Mid blue denim skater skirt, £14.99.
9. Limited black sueded studded brogues, £34.99.  
10. Structured wing tote, £14.99.

*This is a sponsored post*

GHOULISH FASHION FOR HALLOWEEN & BEYOND!

Kitsch capes and witches brooms aside, Halloween-inspired fashion doesn't have to be just for the 31st October. Gothic glamour is a key trend this season, with crucifixes, creepy crawly prints and pumpkin hues popping up across the catwalks and high street. Here's my pick of the best pieces online that you will be happy to be seen dead in this Halloween:

 

 

 

1. Markus Lupfer cat sweater, Matches, £270.

2. Premium spike & cross necklace, ASOS, £60.

3. Quilted Spider silk tee, J W Anderson at Topshop, £59.99.

4. Quilted Spider print skirt, J W Anderson at Topshop, £69.99.

5. Pauric Sweeney blood orange overnight bag, Selfridges, £1,780.

6. Iridescent pointed courts, Topshop, £80.



SIX OF THE BEST: KNITS WITH WIT FOR AW12

The coolest way to beat the chill this autumn/winter is by donning a witty knit or sweater emblazoned with a topical motif. A knit with wit is a key style for the season (see Burberry's AW12 owl jumper) and if Ashish’s SS13 catwalk was anything to by, the trend will continue well into 2013 too.

Whether you opt for a cute motif or a fun slogan (Markus Lupfer's 'Totes Amaze' sweater is my absolute  favourite!), this trend is all about having fun with your fashion. I've just splashed out of the J W Anderson for Topshop ghost knit (number.6) which was also seen on Alexa Chung recently. And hey if a knit with wit is good enough for Chung, then it's good enough for us!

1. Knitted Garcon jumper, Topshop, £40.
2. Flocked deer-print sweater, Jaeger, £60.
3. Markus Lupfer Boom sweater, Farfetch.com, £295.
4. Markus Lupfer Totes Amaze sweater, Harvey Nichols, £295.
5. Sophie Hulme Dino pattern sweater, Farfetch.com, £465.
6. J W Anderson for Topshop Ghost jumper, Topshop, £69.99.

LFF ATTENDS:WHISTLES SS13 PRESS DAY AT THE SAVOY

A highlight of my off-schedule London Fashion Week events was attending the Whistles SS13 press day in the fabulous surroundings of the Savoy hotel (in a private suite, no less). Whilst it’s a joy to see the aspirational, theatrical and downright bonkers paraded on the catwalks during LFW, it also proved a real treat to preview clothes that I can actually buy, own and make my own for SS13.

Upon arriving in the Savoy suite, I did find it a little tricky to compose myself when confronted with rack upon rack of covetable SS13 collections and (this is where I really struggled to contain myself) Jane Shepherdson herself, aka Whistles' CEO and all-round high street guru (also responsible for rebranding Topshop and turning it into the fashion mecca it is today, no less). So here are the snaps I took in what can only be described as an 'over-excited fashion girl trance', and the key trends I absolutely love that Whistles are showcasing for SS13.

Check out the fabulous view of the Thames from the Savoy suite!

Whistles have continued to develop their accessories line for SS13 with clean structured shapes remaining the key theme. Love the bold citrus hue of these totes.

A signature style of the whistles brand is a good print, and for SS13 we have geo and leopard prints across chic seperates.

I really loved this silver-sequin encrusted pencil skirt. A bit sparkle mixes this up for spring/summer.

Mark my words leather dungarees are about to be a huge trend! Whistles' interpretation are super-sleek & butter-soft- trust me you can wear these babies!

I loved loved loved the clean & simple accessories line. This minimal & chic chain strap number was really doing it for me. Plus I'm so happy to see subtle pops of neon are still a key trend for SS13!

 My stand-out pieces were the broderie anglaise separates (tailored cropped pants and shell-top with peplum detail) flecked with multicolours and pops of highlighter pink. This is seriously beautiful fabric, even better when viewed in person.

Peplums are still a key shape next season at Whistles- although this top has a subtler shape than last season's pronounced styles.

Sorry for the rubbish picture- but I'm trying to focus on the lovely floral colour-pop skirt here. I loved the modern length (just above the knee) and the bold colours! Would look fab toughed up with a leather jacket.

......even the coin purses were covetable!

I'd like to say a big thank you to the Whistles PR and Marketing team for inviting and the making me feel so welcome at the press day! Fabulous and friendly ladies.

LFF LOVES KURT GEIGER'S AW12 'SWEET REBELLION' ACCESSORIES LINE

If you're looking for accessories that will draw 'I can't believe it's not designer!' glances this autumn/winter, then look no further than Kurt Geiger's new-season accessories line. The aw12 ‘Sweet Rebellion’collection takes names from popular ‘60s sweets, with Creative Director Rebecca Farrar-Hockley explaining: ‘For me Kurt Geiger has always been like a grown up sweetie shop and even more so since launching accessories too!’

I like to think of myself as a bit of a handbag connisseur (or pervert, whatever you prefer) and KG’s new-season accessories line is ticking all the right boxes for me; reassuringly chunky chain straps, tactile pony hair details and clean shapes all create that high-end look. In particular I am lusting after the iridescent Lollidrop Mini Chain Bag that has a Marc by Marc Jacobs feel for a purse-conscious £80. What could be sweeter!

1. Rhubarb Rock Bag in Leopard, £270.
2. Humbug Clutch, £150.

3. Sherbert Jazz Bag in Green, £120.

4. Lollidrop Mini Chain Bag in Multi, £80.

5. Rhubard Rock Bag in Red, £250.

6. Lollidrop Mini Chain Bag Studded, £100.

 

A SNEAK PREVIEW OF THE STYLISTPICK AW12 COLLECTION

If you're a fan of a killer  heel, then you're sure to love Stylistpick's AW12 collection. Razor sharp spike heels in glossy metallic finishes make for a fierce footwear collection for the forthcoming season. Tote-wise, structured shapes remain a key trend for Stylistpick, as does colour blocking, updated in muted tones for the darker season. The killer heel + structured totes combination is the modern way to power dress, so get ready for some unapologetically fierce looks next season ladies!

These styles are not available on just yet, but you can sign up and become a Stylistpick member to be notified when the collection drops.

LUXE FOR LESS: THE BEST HIGH STREET ACCESSORIES

The high street has really upped it's game when it comes to accessories. Now you can get the luxury look on a shoestring budget, with brands such as Zara, Stylistpick and Bershka offering stylish accessories that give you more bang for your buck. Look out for structured totes, soft leather sandals, embellished styles and jewelled costume jewellery to add a touch of luxe to your look. Here's some of my favourite affordable styles available online:


1. Flower and Jewel Drop Earrings, ASOS, £10.50.
2. Beaded Iridescent Clutch, ASOS, £35.00.
3. Necklace with Green Glass Beads, Zara, £29.99.
4. Ginger Tan Structured Bag, Stylistpick, £40.
5. Tortoise Shell Catseye Sunglasses, Topshop, £16.00.  
6. Leather Leopard Print Sandals, Bershka, £39.99.
7. Oasis Strappy Leather Sandals, ASOS, £28.00.

LFF PICKS THE RIVER ISLAND AW12 COLLECTION

Next season's opulent 'Baroque and Roll' trend is a key theme in the River Island AW12 campaign. Heavy embelishment, glossy gilded brocade and colourful jewelled accessories give a luxurious feel to the high street brand's new season collection. As seen on the Dolce & Gabbana, Versace and Lanvin catwalks (to name but a few) baroque influences that hark back to the 17th century courts of Europe are a mass-market trend for fall. I'm currently coveting River Island's heavily embellished  dusty pink shell top that has been given a modern edge styled with a white shirt and gold brocade skirt in the campaign. Question is, will you be embracing the Baroque and Roll trend come next season?

My favourite pieces from the collection:

Browse the full collection on Look.co.uk / shop River Island online.

TOPSHOP'S AW12 TRENDS PREVIEW

The 1960s ladylike look will be HUGE news come September if Topshop and Primark's AW12 collections are anything to go by. Topshop released their autumn/winter trends preview last week, with boyfriend coats, collars, monochrome, the wild west and sweaters also featuring as key trends in the high street brand's new season collection.

I personally can't wait to add some 60s siren styling to my AW wardrobe; being a long-limbed 5'11 I've always found the modette look works for my figure and I'm already eyeing up the dogstooth, boucle and tweed pieces I've previewed for fall. Not to mention the Stella McCartney/ J W Anderson/ Jil Sander style paisley print sweater in look 3 which I predict will sell-out in record time! What do you think of Topshop's AW12 collection? And will you be embracing the retro look for winter?

HAVE YOU VISITED THE REVAMPED STYLISTPICK YET?

Have you visited the new look Stylistpick website yet? The online fashion accessories destination had a bit of re-style (so to speak, ahem) last month and I have to say, I'm loving the new user-friendly site.

As well as a new look, Stylistpick have also altered the shopping process, so now anyone can shop the site without having to sign up to the membership service. The lovely folk at Stylistpick have also introduced new lower price-points too, so that now you can indulge in a mid-month pick me up, such as the Luella yellow clutch bag, for just £20. I have to say I think Stylistpick are really excelling with their range of totes at the moment. I have an addiction to handbags as it is and Stylistpick have a great range of affordable styles in structured shapes that are great for the 9-5. Here's my favs:

1. Saskia satchel, £35.00.
2. Leona twin pocket satchel, £40.00.
3. Prudence handbag, £35.00.
4. Luella oversize clutch, £20.00.
5. Janey holdall, £40.00.
6. Maddison colour block bag, £40.00.

PRIMARK'S AW12 COLLECTION

Primark's AW12 campaign is doing the rounds on the internet at the moment, and there's no denying the collection is looking good. There's a definite retro theme to the brand's AW12 range, with plenty of 60s and 70s references and a Patti Boyd-alike model. Knitwear take centre stage, from polo neck through to cable, dogstooth and waffle knits. Shapes are long and lean with pencil skirts and tailored trousers contrasting against the chunky knits. Top of my wishlist are neon pink v-neck knit, bright teal lace-print pencil skirt and the brocade ankle grazing trousers, key pieces that will update my wardrobe come the new season.

What are your thoughts on the collection? Will you be heading to Primark for you AW fashion-fix?
See the full collection at on Look.com.

MEET THREE FLOOR FASHION: THE NEW AFFORDABLE ONLINE FASHION BRAND

If there's one fashion brand to watch in 2012, then it has to be  Three Floor Fashion. I first discovered the uber-cool and jaw-droppingly affordable brand after a heads-up from Brix Smith-Start on ITV's This Morning, and ever since I've been itching to share it on La Fashion Folie. 


So what's so special in my eyes about Three Floor? Well unlike some high street brands that simply rip-off catwalk looks when they're putting together their new season collections, Three Floor Fashion's designs are original and unlike nothing you find in a fast-fashion retailer. Prices start at £39 for a cami (neon yellow and lace, no less) and range up to £129 for a faux fur-trimmed parka (which I spotted at London Fashion Week several times), which are great prices for cutting-edge designs.


I could quite happily post the whole look book here, but I've picked my top 10 favourite looks for your viewing pleasure. Three really is the magic number!



Bear Hug crop jumper, £48.

D'vil shirt, £78.

Heroine cape shirt dress, £68.00.

Field Trip fur parka £129.

Victory bodycon midi dress, £70.

Sweet Talk satin mini dress, £65.

Bear Hug colourblock jumper, £55.

Swoon scallop dress, £78.  

Flare neoprene dress £68.

Cross My Heart midi dress, £118.

Thank you to the lovely people at Temomanin pr for sending me the look book images.