Sunday 21 December 2014

5 OF THE BEST: CHRISTMAS SWEATERS


Just a bit of last minute inspiration...I'd have them all if I could, but I don't think it's either socially acceptable to have 32 Christmas sweaters or financially acceptable, so here are a couple of cool picks. 

5. Christmas Fairisle Jumper- Topshop- (was £40) now £25

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Saturday 13 December 2014

OOTN: THE CHRISTMAS PARTY















It's that time of year when everyone has their Christmas parties, whether it be for work, or for an excuse to let one's hair down with a couple of drinks, the bottom line is, we want to look stylish, sexy and sophisticated, and I think most struggle with this. I have countless numbers of people approach me at work asking about this top or that dress, so I decided to post the outfit I wore for our work Christmas party last week. I've been so busy, I've had the post ready to upload since last Sunday but have not had two seconds to actually finish it. 

I've never worn a pink sequin number in my life, since I was about 5 years old, but sequins seem to be featured in every Christmas advert, shop window and catalogue this season, so I figured I would select this very girly and glamorous piece but tone it down with my hardcore platform  boots, black fishnet crop and my leather jacket, because all out girly is just not me so I had to add a bit of contrast. 

I love Misguided, It's one of my favourite online stores, and I think this past year, they have certainly upped their game in the style charts because every blogger or magazine has featured them. I like that their products are affordable and also very on trend but at the same time one can find such unique and cool pieces queue the fishnet crop top and insane platform boots (obviously inspired by Jeffrey Campbell). I'm not really in a position to be buying £160 boots for a night out  at the moment, so when these went in the sale for about £30 I just grabbed them, similarly with the crop top. I purchased these pieces over Cyber Weekend, and I think I received 20% off or something like that but with the crop top too, I had my eye on it for months and couldn't have been happier when I tried it on. 

The lower part of the crop top is almost double layered and feels so well made and probably designed so that if you didn't want to wear a bra, you didn't have to- I did though because I don't like things poking out and jumping around if you know what I mean. To finish the outfit off, I threw on my leather jacket from Zara (one of the best purchases in my life), and a slightly more elegant touch in terms of the earnings and the clutch. I'm really big on accessories this season, because they have the ability to transform a look. In autumn/winter I tend to ditch simplicity and completely go for decadence and elegance so this velvet clutch with gold trimmings was ticking every box for me. 


Every time these earrings are re-stocked online they sell out immediately, so if you like them keep checking the website and in store too)


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Sunday 30 November 2014

MY NOVEMBER NOVELTIES


It's not a mirage, I have actually posted one day after the other...unbelievable right? We finally invested in a new computer that works, so yay! November is that time of year when we start getting into the spirit of things, thinking about cool gifts for people and perhaps a little indulgence for ones-self... Anyway, rather than doing my monthly love list, I've created a compilation of novelty items that are perfect for this time of year, with a winter pastels theme running throughout because I'm basically really into that shizz! So instead of constantly posting about clothes, I've selected lots of random bits- a mixture of very affordable stocking fillers, as well as the more luxurious items that would also make lovely gifts so let's jump right in...

For a friend who has an extensive jewellery collection...

I own these myself, I adore them, they're so decadent and opulent adding instant glamour and elegance to any outfit for about £7.99. I believe they have sold out online but should definitely be available in stores because they're new. 

For the one who loves falsies, but in a classy way. 

This mug describes my life. I think we all appreciate a bit of profanity when necessary...we all have hat one friend who believes themselves to be regal, I'm her. 

Make the most of this Lilac online exclusive, the range of colours is quenching my current obsession for winter pastels, and the fluffy pom pom is literally the cherry on top. 

A fashion or beauty enthusiasts dream...who needs a tiny cheap chocolate when you can get a ravishing shade of polish everyday for advent. 

I'm obsessed with elephants. I need this. Or for those with a small apartment and no garden or those who appreciate modern interior design...who doesn't want an elephant plant pot?

For the beauty guru- Anna Sui's products can be found everywhere at the moment, I'm eager to try the ranges but one things for sure the packaging is like no other.  Asos carry a wide selection of Sui products all of which are so quirky and would make wonderful gifts, so definitely head over there.

For the party girl who appreciates a bit of luxury. 

The ideal stocking filler. Topshop have a great gift guide range including plenty of their beauty products in cute packaging as well as the more luxurious and expensive gifts. 

For the chic fashion enthusiast with an unusual twist. 

The all year round perfect accessory for the girly girl. I can't get enough once again of these winter pastels.

Let me know what you thought of my novelty gift ideas by commenting down below, and look forward to many a post on gift ideas and christmas related things, after all it's everyone's favourite holiday!

Ev 

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Saturday 29 November 2014

OOTD: feat. NEW LOOK A/W '14







 



This outfit encapsulates every association and or connotation I have with autumnal fashion. I shall dive straight in  with the details, and point out the obvious; New Look are doing some amazing things this autumn/winter, hence why the majority of this outfit is comprised of New Look pieces. As much as I love bold colors and bold pieces, I think autumn is the most appropriate time to tone things down color wise but completely spice it up with texture. The bones of this outfit are every woman's basics for the season; the perfect black skinny jeans and a beige/ camel/ caramel/ whatever you want to call a ponced up brown, roll neck top. I guess if you have the bones of a winter wardrobe, it so much easier to add sassy and diverse pieces for a bit of interest. In my opinion, Zara do the high streets best basics- hands down, no contest we all know how I feel about that utopia of a high street store, so why don't we all just stock up on turtle neck tops from there and call it a day?...  

I don't think I've ever featured these jeans on the bloggage which is ridiculous because I have frankly lived in them since I got them in May. Jeans are another particularity that I rarely compromise on and to be really honest Topshop's Joni Jeans do all the right things for me- I don't care if you think my ass looks big in them- I bloody love them and I think they're so flattering. I'm real small and they elongate one's legs without compromising on comfort, I have them in black and blue, and intend on purchasing the aubergine color- I just can't praise them enough (no, I'm definitely not sponsored). 

Anyway, back to my outfit, the cape is a monumental trend this season and understandably so, they suit everybody shape, can be so chic but also casual at the same time but most importantly they are so cozy. I kept the tones all very similar but added some simple touches,  like the belt to cinch in the waistline for a more put-together silhouette and the necklace for a bit of ritziness (after all 'tis the season), and that's pretty much it. I just love autumn/winter because you can layer until your hearts content, whilst mixing denim with fur, leather with suede, lace with a chunky jumper, so on and so forth..


Enjoy the start of the festive season darlings!

Ev
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Sunday 9 November 2014

MY AUTUMNAL ESSENTIALS


It's my favorite season of the year...I can't contain my excitement...It's cosy blankets, fur coats, cinnamon candles, thick scarves, mugs upon mugs of tea and hot chocolate... IT'S 
AUTUMN! (or FALL! for my non-British readers). Instead of doing my usual 'Love List' I decided to create a compilation of essentials that wouldn't belong to any other season but
my beloved Autumn. Yes, I was hoping to upload this in October but today was my first free day in over a week so I figured better late than never. Without further a due, I'll get straight
into linking these seasonal treasures. 

The shade I've featured here is 'More Than A Woman', and I cant think of a more 
appropriate deep plum shade for that stylish vampy look that I love to capture this time of year. 

I've seen so many Lush related blog posts and hauls this season, I've been utterly convinced to go and spend some of my hard-earned cash on these wondrous vegan, organic and all that jazz that we like to hear, Lush products. Juniper berry oil, grapefruit oil and cinnamon stick-
 to name a few ingredients- what more would you want when relaxing in a hot bath after a 
long autumn day? And of course all their products contain skin/health benefits that I can't refuse! I'm extremely excited to get my hands on some Lush goodies...

A bit of Halloween trivia inspiration, which isn't really a must have, but it's something a bit different to have on your shelf or coffee table for this season and I'm a sucker for beautifully decorated books. 

In my eyes this coat is an absolute essential, the only staple investment piece you will nee
to get you through the season. The color is hugely appropriate if you want to channel 
Halloween/Autumnal vibes without being too 'out there' or dedicated to a mustard cashmere jumper for example, that you may wear once or twice. I think this color is so chic, 
it can be worn with all blacks, grays and white shades as well as plum, beige and brown, the list goes on...Pricey, but a justifiable must-have in my opinion. 

5. Yankee Amber Moon Large Jar- £19.49
Yankee are probably the most loved candles and so well known but they do come at a price, £19 seems a lot for a candle but if you enjoy a bit of homeware indulgence then why not buy every scent? I have heard great things about Yakee and their autumnal and winter selections are so vast and very tempting. 

6. Bahama Mama polish by Essie-£7.99
Nail Apricot Treatment Cuticle Oil by Essie-£8.99
Thigh High polish by Essie-£7.99 
I selected a collection of autumnal shades by Essie because again they are praised for their quality and selection of shades and I keep meaning to purchase one to try and I just never get round to it. They also stock a selection of treatments, top coats and base coats so when I found this cuticle treatment I thought it would be a perfect rescue remedy or stocking filler for dry, cracked hands because winter conditions can be very harsh on the skin. 

7. Skull and Roses Money Bank- Urban Outfitters- £15
I am utterly obsessed with Urban Outfitters' range of gifts/ homewares because they're so different, quirky and you can find the perfect gift for anyone. I love the grungy skull with a bit of autumnal flare through the Orange flowers and I don't actually have a money box! This could be an interesting little touch on any shelf or dressing table. They have the skull money box in an array of styles; red velvet, gun metal, gold, plain white etc. it's such an unusual yet stylish gift to give someone who likes this kind of interior style or treat yourself, I don't think 
£15 is too bad at all, plus if you're a student
you can receive discount all year round. No I'm not sponsored I just really love their 
products! 

8. Geometric Jacquard Scarf- Zara- £39.99
As I've said, I think the arrival of autumn and winter is an excuse to really indulge in thick scarves, elegant coats and leather boots, so continuing with this theme of leafy, burnt orange shades, I came across this lovely thick knit scarf from my favourite high street store. The fabric looks soft yet wonderfully warm and although it may seem a steep price point for a scarf, Zara rarely fails on the quality front. Also, it could perhaps be used as a blanket, a head wrap, in a poncho style, and the list goes on if you really want to get your money's worth. 

9. Zanzibar Stainless Steel Flask- Paperchase- £12
It's all about hot drinks and soups this season and I've always been a huge sucker for Paperchase products so when I saw this beautiful flask I knew I had to have it in my bag for work or for travelling up to London. If you're going to have a flask, it may as well be fricking awesome. I've linked a similar style as the Zebra print was no longer available online but definitely have a glance in store if you like the orange/black Zebra print. A definite must have, and again could also be a lovely and very useful gift. 

10. Burgundy Floppy Hat-Primark-£8

Similar Here- H&M-£14.99
I think this is the perfect accessory for the festive season because of that dark wine color that I adore but also the floppy style (Primark) and the more structured style (H&M) are both very classy and can be dressed up or down. 

After my very excessive list of essentials for this wondrous season, I hope you finds few useful bits, and let me know your autumnal essentials in the comments! 





Sending warm hugs and 
autumnal greetings,
Love  Ev 🍁🍂🍄

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Wednesday 15 October 2014

OOTD: CAFÉ AU LAIT



















So this outfit is actually from a few days ago (my 19th birthday), but Iv'e been busy with arranging University Open Days, trying to find a job in retail and general life things. As per usual the weather outside was absolutely revolting; strong winds and torrential rain, and I had no choice but to take my outfit photos inside so apologies for the ugly plug sockets and the boring background, but I thought I should post the outfit anyway to feature some of my new bits in a more autumnal outfit. 

I went for a very neutral palette which is unlike me because I like my bold colors but as the seasons are changing, I feel my style is evolving. I guess I should start with the snakeskin bomber, which I ordered from this awesome vintage/ retro clothing company We Are Cow. Their website showcases a huge selection of both men and women's clothing, most of which I need in my wardrobe. I feel like they are reasonably priced for a glorified second hand store, in comparison to vintage stores and other sites- where else would one find a 100% silk snakeskin bomber jacket for £18?...I thought that was quite decent...I knew I had to wear it soon before the weather became worse, but I had been saving it until the matching shoes arrived too.

Similarly with the jacket, the shoes are also made of a delicate/ not appropriate for winter fabric, so I just ceased the opportunity to wear them both. I have been eyeing up the Jeffrey Campbell 'Nirvana' boot for what feels like a year now, and as beautiful as they are I simply can't justify the price at the moment- perhaps when I find a new job I will feel differently. Every now and again, I scroll through the odd Asian website, because we all know that there are bargains to be found, and these chunky, yet understated in color-which I love, boots came up. I was hesitant because of the sizing etc, but I figured for around £22, it would be daft not to.  They're obviously not the most amazingly fabricated shoe, and no Jeffrey Campbell by any means, but I guess to temporarily satisfy my craving, they'll do. 

I kept the rest of the outfit very simple, but dded a fur stole because autumn is all about experimenting with texture and tone, and that's pretty much it! 

Faux Fur Stole (Similar Here)- can be found almost everywhere
Black Long-sleeve top- Primark
Leatherlook Leggings- H&M

Gold Beadeed Plaited Necklace- H&M
Long Bronze Pendant- Handmade 

Liquid Eyeliner Pen- Chanel

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Sunday 5 October 2014

MOSCHINO S/S '15 - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly

I've always been a fan of the ever-iconic Moschino, and like every fashion enthusiast I prey upon the  illustrious gowns, tailored suits and swish coats paraded down the catwalks of Milan fashion week, but this season among the flowing fabric and flamboyant fastenings, I uncovered a somewhat disappointing surprise...

I was simply quite distraught when I saw Moschino's attempt at re-incarnating the classic Barbie doll, not so controversially through the clothes, but more so through the pretentious platinum hair and stick thin 'attributes' of the models. Like most girls of western culture, I had my collection of Barbie dolls, Bratz dolls and all those other unrealistic yet painfully influential figures at age 5, but growing up I've realized how damaging these perfectly preppy pink puppets are.

For me it's such a shame because I am such a fan of Moschino and I feel like this was a very risky creative route to undergo, however if I really have to draw out the positives of the collection, which don't get me wrong, there were some, then I will observe at surface level. To be fair, only Moschino could bring back this shade of 'Barbie pink' so shamelessly and convince me than an all pink co-ord set covered in pearls could actually be quite chic for next spring. I like the effortless vibe that the collection creates in terms of tailoring and accessorizing, but unfortunately for me it doesn't go further than that.





Just when I thought the world of fashion was opening it's eyes to plus-size models and collections tailored for the more realistic woman, the Moschino S/S '15 runway pops up on my newsfeed, and to be honest, my heart sank. It seems that Moschino is not only condoning this very un-realistic and fake plastic puppet, but using it as a selling point whilst re-affirming that Barbie is in fact attractive as well as a good role model- I thought I'd escaped Barbies infantile influence at the age of about 8, but apparently not. I can definitely say that as a young woman, I have been hugely influenced and affected in a bad way by the media, the anorexic models featured on almost every runway, the over use of photoshop in magazines etc., but what sub-consciously started it all, preparing me for a lifetime of disappointment (because I wasn't stick thin with long legs, luscious platinum hair and the perfect nose), was in fact the Barbie doll. 


Some might suggest that the production of a fuller, more voluptuous sized Barbie is the way forward, but whilst I agree that would be a tremendous breakthrough, I can't help but think, that we would then be promoting an over-sized and overweight figure. I hate the fact that there are such extremes, why can't we find a happy and healthy medium? I would love nothing more than to walk down the toys isle and see a doll who doesn't have chiseled cheekbones, isn't 9 ft tall, who has an unusual hair cut, a curvy size 12 figure and maybe the odd piercing! Am I asking for too much? 

The problem with Barbie goes far beyond the aesthetic appeal however, as it has been proven that if Barbie were to be human, her tiny elongated frame would not even fit her internal organs and she would have to crawl to support un-balanced figure which is actually a ridiculous fact to fathom. Not only this but her facial features are so exaggerated that they would look more 'extra-terrestrial' than anything else, and all this time we continue to buy these dolls and huge brands, Moschino included, continue to condone this 'ideal', despite the shocking facts.  

It has taken me personally a good few years (with the help of Beyonce of course) to convince myself that I'm not supposed to look like Barbie, the models on the catwalks or the cover-girls in the magazines, and whilst I enjoy being different with my big hair, curvy figure and piercings we are constantly being forced to believe that we should look anything but our beautiful selves, and there's nothing more morally incorrect and harmful to me as a young woman and to the generations upon generations who have grown up under the influence of the one and only 'plastic fantastic'. 


Let me know what you think of this controversial collection, and in the meantime, celebrate the fact that you don't look like Barbie!

Thursday 2 October 2014

OOTD: SEA SALT & MINERALS













I believe this has been the first OOTD in quite a while, but to be really honest the British weather has been ridiculously temperamental- in the morning it will be freezing but by the afternoon it will be 25 degrees c- its madness, considering we're already into October. I'd been dying to wear this lavish, almost retro style dress since before I went away, but I couldn't find the right pieces to style it with. I ended up wearing it as a kimono because I think it looks much more regal rather than belted as a dress, but it's great to have the option of both. I wanted to get a bit of use out of it because I obviously won't be able to wear it in a few weeks when there are icicles hanging from the windows and frost on every pavement, so I did my best to style it with this awkward weather.

I've said this before, and I'll say t again, I'm really not a fan of tights with shorts as I don't think it suits me, but I really struggled styling this outfit, so I guess desperate times call for desperate measures. I adore this sea-green shade and it just so happened that I had a matching satchel identical to the color of the palm leaves and so that worked great for my need to match things! To add a bit more matchy matchy I used the waist tie for the dress as a headscarf- which I think is a really simple but effective touch. 

I guess the piece de resistence in this outfit would be my mirrored RayBan Clubmasters, because lets face it, they're an investment for life, and I'm actually looking forward to starting a little collection. I guess you are slightly limited with these because of the very unmistakable iridescent green, but they're great in the summer months because almost all my clothes are brightly colored, but to really get your moneys worth they can be that pop of color in a monotone outfit for that peek of crisp winter sun that we tend to get in autumn. Personally, I love experimenting with sunglasses because they can completely transform an outfit, in terms of shape and color and these are great because they have quite a gentle frame, in the sense that they suit most face shapes, unlike the cat-eye which can be quite fierce. 
  

Palm Print Dress- Choies.com
Pearl Choker- Miss Selfridge

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Monday 22 September 2014

SEPTEMBER LOVE LIST


So after about a month (five centuries in blog time) I have succeeded in what felt like a near impossible task- uploading this bloody love list! Crappy computer excuses aside, I was in fact away for a month and managed to post at the start of my holiday, but due to little wifi no computer access and my wardrobe being limited to shorts, swimsuits and layers of mosquito repellent, I found it impossible to put a decent post together.  So that's  the end of my explanations. 

On the utopic beaches under the sweltering Sardinian sun, as well as perching on the rope swing of the olive tree under that rare and heavenly shade, I was able to flick through some issues of  wonderfully glossy Italian fashion mags, and oh my, did it excite me for Autumn/Winter. I feel like this season is the start of elegance and luxury in the world of style, and I am greatly looking forward to absorbing every print, patch of tartan fabric and scrap of faux fur possible. September can be a somewhat awkward month because seasons are transitioning, but it's a great chance to layer and find unique, unusual yet classic pieces for the upcoming season. 

As usual Missguided are on it with their new season essentials, and I think this blazer is an absolute staple for the Autumn/Winter months, layered in december with a scarf, a thick knit sweat and boots, or even this month with a plain white tee and sneakers - can't go wrong. 

This is one of those dainty, regal little accesories that will give any outfit a chic and om-trend edge.

I have few words when it comes to this beauty of a backpack as it combines my essential loves in life- backpacks, iridescence and oil slick tones. In. Love. 

An awesome little unique toned polish to enhance a dull winter outfit.

I'm head over heels for these tailored trousers, I'm hoping they will help me channel a put-together and dapper style, but can even be dressed down with a white cotton shirt and loafers. 

Although on te pricey side, I've heard great things about these headphones, plus they fuel my obsession with all things oil slick. Perhaps an ideal Christmas gift?

7. V-throat Mid Shoes -£58
Along with the dogtooth trousers, these loafer-style courts are the definition of autumnal luxe, not only because croc and snake style prints are on every catwalk but because the shape is so 50's/vintage- and let's face it, I LOVE THAT SH*T. 

I'm so happy to be back and blogging, doing what I love, and look forward to many-a post this season. 

Love Ev
x

Wednesday 6 August 2014

OOTD: HOT TROPICS







Benvenuti! Hello people of my blog! I´ve finally arrived in my home country of Sardinia, and it feels great to be back. I´m writing from my bedroom with the warm mediterenean breeze blowing through the drapes and I can´t help but think that the weather has never been so perfect- its always unbearably hot and dry but there´s been this wondertful breeze, and I´m feeling really happy and healthy- which is an unusual statement for me to make, but it´s true. 

I wore this outfit on the first day here and it was a good choice- the light fabric of the skirt and the sleeveless crop is a combination you can´t go wrong with. I picked out the minty color featured in the leaves of the skirt and added my rainbow mirrored sunglasses which tie together all the colors in the outfit. I must say I really love Topshop´s basics because they´re of such a nice quality, I´ve had crops that I´ve been wearing for years, and this minty number is no different. I love the color, the simplicity but also the cut- it´s everything I look for in a summer top- especially when the temperature surpasses 35 degrees. 

This skirt was also a great buy from Primark, because again it´s the perfect breathable fabric and obviously I´m obsessed with the colors and print. Accesory wise I like to keep things incredibly simple because I feel like it´s far too hot and uncomfortable to be piling on rings and necklaces, and this simple and dainty triangle  charm necklace from American Apparel has been every so true to me. It looks elegant and understated and worth far more than what I paid- it comes out every summer. 

White Sanals- Similar Here
Triangle Necklace- American Apparell
Tropical Print Midi-Skirt- Primark £10
Sunglasses- Primark  (around £2)

I hope you are all enjoying your summer, I´ll keep you posted on my Italian shenanigans!
Love Ev <3

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