Tuesday Shoesday: Black Shoe Boots

So this is a bit of a boring post but it is practical so I won't apologise! Many of our regular readers will know that I have been searching the the perfect pair of black high heeled shoe boots ever since I had to send my beloved ASOS Tweedy pair off to shoe heaven! I am still kicking myself that I didn't purchase another pair when they were still available as they were only about £40, good height, good style and soooooo comfy! However, I must move on so have narrowed the choice down to the following options:

Miss Selfridge Benji Black Shoe Boot £40

Pros:

• Price - down from £50 in the sale
• Heel height - just perfect
• Platform - small platform means more comfortable (usually)

Cons:

• Zip at back - I have another pair like this and the zip digs in or causes holes in tights
• Design - pretty plain

Miss Selfridge Bling Bling Black Embellished Boot £55

Pros:

• Design - love the sparkles on the back
• Good heel height
• Side zip

Cons:

• Design - bit blingy for day wear
• They just don't LOOK comfortable!

Aldo Frosacc Studded Shoe Boots £85

Pros:

• Design - love the studs on the back - very Sam Edelman
• Heel height - not too high
• Boot height - I like how it will sit low on the ankle like proper shoe boots

Cons:

• Price - more expensive than the others
• Design - too dressy?

 

ASOS Toronto Shoe Boot £28

 

Pros:

• Price - you really can'to go wrong at £28
• Style - hidden platform for comfort and cool heel

Cons:

 

• Not sure the thin heel lends itself well to all night comfort
• Look a bit chunky due to the hidden platform

 

 

 

 

Oasis Nina Shoe Boot £70

 

Pros:

 

• Oasis is my shop of the moment as I can vouch for their high quality boots
• They look comfortable (although I cannot verify this!)

Cons:

 

• Slightly more expensive than the others
• Not sure on the pointier toe

 

 

 

So these are the ones that make my short list after weeding out too chunky, too skinny, too cheap, too expensive, too much detail, too plain, too much of a boot boot etc. etc.

 

As you can see, I'm not really any nearer to finding my perfect pair and I may have to accept that I need two pairs! I am drawn to the Aldo ones (always drawn to the most expensive :-() but then maybe I can get a more basic pair too?! What a predicament!

 

Lots of suggestion seeking love,

 

Chelsea x

Wednesday Winners

It's that time of the week again! Wednesday Winners!

Naomi's Picks:

Topshop Embossed Leather Bag £35
Last weekend I visited Knole Park in Sevenoaks and made friends with lots of little deer that live there, so when I saw this bag it reminded me of the deer, and obviously Christmas! I am getting excited about Christmas already, is this a worry? I like the distressed leather and of course, I love an across-the-body number for hands-free ease!

Topshop Bead Collar Sweat £38
I know it's sad that the colder weather is upon us, but I love throwing on a sweater and getting cosy! I like this sweater for its baggy comfort yet collar glam. Perfect.

Ted Baker PAYGE Oversized Flower Shirt £169
When I see items like this I wish that I worked in a fancy banking office and was required to dress super smartly for work. I would have nowhere to wear this shirt but I love the extravagant flower and the moody colours.

Fred Perry Fair Isle Crew Neck Sweater £95
I love Fred Perry's classic look. 100% lambswool will keep you toasty during winter! Basically you need this sweater. It will look good with anything.

H&M Skirt with Sequins £34.99
This skirt is really pretty. On the website it was paired with a light pink cable knit sweater and the contrasting materials looked really good together.

Let me know what you buy!


Chelsea's Picks:

This week I was spoilt for choice finding my winners and very nearly featured 5 Reiss dresses! I finally managed to narrow it down to one Reiss dress and a selection of other items - in fact, it's a bit of an outfit!

 

1. Reiss Eos Tiered Dress £189

 

As I said, I nearly had 5 Reiss dresses as they have such a good selection at the moment. However, I settled on this one for the winners as I love the classic black with a twist - the sparkle thred that runs through it. The cut is a bit unusual too.

 

 

2. Fred Perry Full Mac £225

 

I love Fred Perry (think it's Kieran's fault as it seems to be his brand of the moment) and I love coats (again, Kieran's fault - I've never known a boy with such a collection of coats!) This classic mac is timeless and has a 60's feel - which I also love at the moment.

 

3. ASOS Flocked Chain Bracelet £15

 

I always forget about accessories when shopping online so made an effort to check them out for the winners. I came across this plaited bracelet on ASOS. This shade of blue (royal? cobalt?) is my fave shade right now and I'm sure it'll add a bit of interest to any outfit.

 

 

4. Office Shard Wedge £58

 

We all know I love a wedge but since seeing the Zara colour block heels I've been debating my next shoe purchase. This pair from Office may just be the best of both worlds - a wedge with a colour heel! And in pink - my fave!

 

5. ASOS Digital Jewel Clutch £15

 

I can sometimes be a bag snob (serious Mulberry addiction) but saving for one bag a year means I can miss out on the high street bargains. I love this jewel print clutch and think it'll be the perfect bag to brighten up the Reiss dress.

 

 

So there we have another week of picks - what do you think?

Thursday Three-Way: New Knitwear

As we are now fully into Autumn (and it looks like the weather has finally realised it too) I thought I would do a three-way post on my new Next cardigan. I got this cardigan a couple of weeks ago and I love the little flick detail in the navy wool and the elbow.

I have pretty much been wearing this cardigan over most outfits the last couple of days as it's turned so cold but here I have narrowed down 3 looks you might like to try.

Geek Chic

Here I decided to embrace the elbow patches and go with the whole geek look. However, I made sure I kept it chic with high heels and a cute blouse.

 

 

Nothing says geek chic like socks and shoes. It's an acquired taste but I think these cute school style socks in cream go well with the brown ASOS wedges - plus they keep my feet warm!

 

Skinny Diesel jeans and the cute buttoned blouse from Topshop help take the look from geek overkill to more chic. The giant glasses (which are super strong prescription btw) complete the look!

 

Winter Warmer

 

I think this next outfit is perfect for a walk in the crisp Autumn air - maybe I'll wear it when I walk the dogs?

 

 

 

The flat boots were my buy of the year last winter - just £18 from Florence and Fred at Tesco. They are super comfy and look great over jeans or with opaque tights and a dress as shown here. As the nights draw in, it's probably best to wear a scarf too - this furry leopard one is super cosy!

 

Wooly work wear

 

With my final look I tried to make the cardigan a little more formal to create a look more suitable for work.

 

 

Pairing it with tailored trousers makes it seem more smart - as do the heeled court shoes. A Paul Smith t-shirt with a colour print stops the outfit looking too drab.

 

 

I could have gone on and on and bascially put this cardigan over every outfit! The other day at work, someone said they didn't even own a single cardigan - I just can't get over this!! Not one! For me, they are an essential for warmth and style!

 

Lots of love

 

Chelsea x





Friday Focus: Alexa Chung

This week Friday Focus is focusing on one of Britain's hottest fashion icons - Alexa Chung. With the success of her collaboration with Madewell and news that she will soon be designing her own line (and she really does input into the designing) we thought she was more than qualified to feature on Friday Focus.

We first loved Alexa's style back in the days where she was taunting celebrities with her quick wit on Popworld. Her skinny jeans, checked shirts and pretty flats made her the epitomy of laidback chic.

With Alex Zane on the Popworld set

As she's grown up, so has her style; she now channels a timeless look - girly yet tailored, hot yet cute and the perfect mix of high street and designer. Now when we think of Alexa, you can't help but think Mulberry, Chanel, ballet pumps and killer accessories. Alexa says she dresses for herself, and sometimes other girls, but never for guys. We think whoever she's dressing for - she's doing something right!

Here we take a look at some of our favourite Alexa looks and attempt to re-create them in a budget friendly way (apart from the Mulberry but you can hardly create an Alexa look without THE Alexa!)

Comfy and casual

One look Alexa carries off to a tee is the casual style. Short shorts or a short skirt can easily look dressy but Alexa manages to make the most of one her best features, her legs, without looking tarty by keeping the look simple with cute flats and a casual top.

You too can imitate Alexa's casual look by teaming a short skirt with ballet flats and a loose fitting t-shirt or shirt:

1. Loud Clothing Sonic Youth (Goo) T-shirt (£13)
For an authentic Alexa look, buy a boy's t-shirt and keep it loose with rolled up sleeves.

2. Oasis pleated faux leather mini skirt (£45)
I think this Oasis faux leather skirt is very Alexa - short and flaired!

3. Levi's Western Shirt (£80)
 Worn buttoned up and tucked in or undone over a printed t-shirt, this classic denim shirt is so Alexa!

4. River Island Black Cage Toe Ballerina Pumps (£25)
Get the Chanel look for a fraction of the price with these pumps with a toe detail.

Red Carpet Glam

Whilst Alexa may be better known for her every day style, it doesn't mean that she doesn't know how to do all out glam on the red carpet - whilst staying true to her quirky style. Here are some of our favourite Alexa evening looks:

If you love the look of Alexa's red carpet dress, why not try to recreate it with one of these high street versions?

1. New Look Gold Lace Brocade Skater Dress (£27.99)
This gold dress combines Alexa's short fit and flare style with the golden glamour of her 2009 Bafta dress. Team with opaque tights, shoe boots and even a long sleeve t-shirt underneath for true Alexa style.

2. ASOS Nude Quilted Lock Across Body Bag (£16)
At just £16 this ASOS quilted bag is a bargain version of Alexa's Chanel favourite. Plus, nude goes with everything!

3. Topshop Textured Pleat Tunic (£26)
This coral skater dress is a more casual version of Alexa's red-carpet puff ball number. If you're creative, you could add your own neckline embellishments or just dress up with heels and some red lips!

4. Dune @ John Lewis Leather Accrington Monkstrap Shoe Boots (£85)
Style like Alexa and add a quirky touch to the red carpet glam by toughening up a pretty dress with these black shoe boots.

Out and About

My faviourite of Alexa's looks is when she is wrapped up for the British winter (or sometimes even Summer) in a stand out coat.

You can steal Alexa's street style here:

1. Johnstons @ ASOS Merino Wool Check Scarf (£39)
This colourful scarf is bound to brighten up a winter's day and we bet the merino wool is super soft too. Wear outside your coat to show it off.

2. Zara Trench Coat with Sleeve Detail (£69.99)
Alexa is known for her trenches and whilst her's may be Burberry, we think this Zara one is just as stylish and great value too.

3. Topshop MOTO grey supersoft skinny leigh jeans (£38.00)
It's not often you see Alexa in jeans but when you do, you can guarantee they'll be skinnies. We love Topshop's supersoft (and stetchy) range.

4. ASOS fur trim duffle coat (£75)
Channel your inner Paddington with this navy duffle coat from ASOS - if navy is not your thing it comes in three other colours too!

5. Mulberry Alexa in Oak Soft Buffalo (£795)
We couldn't very well cover Alexa's style without including the bag that was named in her honour! We are lusting after the Alexa in every colour - we better get saving!

So there you have it - style queen Alexa Chung's style well and truly stolen!

Lots of imitable love

Chelsea xx

Wednesday Winners

Hey Everyone

It hardly seems a week since we were last picking out our Wednesday Winners - where does the time go?! We hope you've all been enjoying our picks and that you aren't suffering too much from the same fate as we have: RSS - Repetitive Shopping Syndrome, from all the clicking and inputting of card details online!!

Chelsea's Picks

This week I've picked out some more wintry items - ironic since I am picking these on what is actually a really sunny day (but unfortunately, the sceptic in me knows this won't last and so it's best to be prepared!)

1. Zara Cable Knit Sweater with Zip (£38.99)
I love this jumper. I really like knitwear, especially cable knit and I love the traditional colour of this Aaron-like jumper. The zip at the back adds a modern twist too.

2. Sam Edelman Kendrix Buckle High Ankle Boots @ mywardrobe (£180)
For a pair of designer boots, £180 isn't too bad (who am I trying to convince?) I think this pair have a Mulberry look about them with all of the straps. I like the tough look and would definitely wear these with a pair of skinny jeans and the Zara jumper!

3. Miss Selfridge Green Lace Insert Tee (£28)
I was really trying my best not to mention collars this week on the blog as I know Naomi will mock my obsession! However, I am willing to sacrafice Naomi having a laugh at my expense to bring you this super cute t-shirt. I love the pale green (although it is equally cute in the cream) and the lace inserts make it slightly more pretty and dressy.

4. George High Waisted Denim Spot Shorts (£14)
Whilst saving for my wedding I got a little bit addicted to finding supermarket bargains! George is my favourite supermarket range and I'm not ashamed to admit that I don't mind picking up a pair of cute shorts with my bread and apples! I think this polka dot high-waisted pair are very Jess from New Girl.

5. Oasis Parka with Leopard Fur Lining at ASOS (£88)
This coat is my favourite of this week's picks. I love a good parka and this traditional khaki one looks so cosy with the leopard lining and hood. It's definitely on the top of my birthday purchases list!

Naomi's Picks:

Zara has absolutely floated my boat this week.  I could have picked all five winners from Zara alone, but I didn't want to look like I hadn't put any effort in! 

Please note: You need to click on the links for all five of the winners to get a good zoom and appreciate their design and beauty.

1. Zara Jacquard Loom Trousers £39.99
I like the tailored and cropped style of these trousers, but most of all I like the Jacquard design and colours. They are perfect for a smart casual evening look, but could also be dressed down with a chunky knit. 

2. Next Check Dress £55
Tartan is sweeping the stores at the moment but the colours of this dress offer you a glam not in-your-face tartan.  For taller girls it can be hard to find knee-length dresses and skirts but this one looks like it will keep you work appropriate.  The rouched side and capped sleeves turn this dress into a designer look-a-like.

3. Zara Three Quarter Length Puffer Jacket £89.99
I feel guilty announcing this... but I absolutely love puffer jackets. I know that they are not the most fashionable of items but wearing a puffer is like being wrapped in a duvet and quite frankly there is nothing I want more than to be wrapped in a duvet whilst standing on a train platform in winter. I was delighted to see this Zara puffer as I feel it has taken the puffer to a new level of fashionable. The navy and gold colours add sophistication and the zipped collar, gold edged tassels and two sprung belt add style. These features, combined with 30% feather and 70% grey duck down (aka a duvet), scream "buy me now".  I really need this in my life. 

4. River Island @ ASOS Chelsea Girl Dobby Spot Blouse £25
I think subconsciously I have chosen this blouse in homage of Chelsea - her name and her love for collars, and not to mention my love for lace. I also really love the keyhole detailing at the back of the shirt.  Again, I think this could be worn with a pair of jeans or a pair of smart trousers - take your pick!  

5. Zara Embroidered Fantasy Skirt £79.99
I must admit I wasn't initially taken aback by this skirt but then I clicked on the zoomed-in image and thought 'wow!'.  The pearls and quilted embroidered pattern are unique but also reminded me of a Chanel design. I think this skirt is totally classic chic.  


That's it for another Wednesday Winners, thank you for reading! Are there any of these items that you will be purchasing this week? Or do you have your eye on any other items out there? Also, what do you think about purchasing a winter coat already?! We love to hear from you - so please add a comment or send us a tweet!

Enjoy your Wednesday!

Wednesday Winners

It's Wednesday again already and that means another round of Wednesday Winners to share with you all. With all the A/W lines arriving in stores it's been a bit all over the place - much like the weather the stores can't seem to make up their minds whether it's summer or winter and so the picks this week are a mixture of both!

Chelsea's Picks:

1. American Apparel Chiffon Double Layered Shirred Waist Skirt (£40)

Whilst I do think that American Apparal prices seemed to have soared over the last year, I couldn't help but be drawn to this skirt. I love the colour (but it wouldn't be a problem if I didn't since it's available in over 20 difference shades). I also love the length and the optional belt. I'd pair it with cute flats for a casual but cool daytime look.

2. Marc by Marc Jacobs Big Bang crystal necklace (£200)

I love costume jewellery - although this is pretty expensive for costume jewellery. The burgundy coloured jewels play up to my love of this season's hit colour and I really love the little bow effect. A matching bracelet is also available.

3. H&M cable knit jumper (£14.99)

Naomi actually sent me a link to this jumper as she knows I am obsessed with burgundy and I stole it for my picks! Sorry Nams! I really like cable knit too so this is ideal! If you're not as into burgundy as me, then fret not - it's also available in coral, navy, yellow, red and a light 'glitter' brown that I'm very tempted by!

4. Topshop Smudge Print Shorts (£30)

I bought a new top from Topshop not long ago and it was soooo creased that I had to iron it right away. As soon as I touched it with the iron it frazzled (even though the iron was on low!) Anyway, Topshop wouldn't exchange it as they clearly thought my ironing was to blame (deffo not the case!) so I have been looking for some cute shorts to tuck the top into and hide the burn. So, in conclusion, these cute shorts would be ideal with the burnt top!

5. Oasis Lace Mix Dip Hem Dress @ ASOS (£75)

I honestly think I may be even more obsessed with collars than burgundy and I really love this collared dress. Flower detail, pleats and hi-low hem - music to my ears!

Last week, my husband noted I liked collars after reading the blog and bought me a cute collared shirt from Topshop. If he's reading now - go for the necklace ;-)



Naomi's Picks:

1. Dorothy Perkins Black/White Lace Circle Dress £39.50

I love the lace and ombre effect to this dress along with the capped sleeves and cute little bow. Dress with some nude heels I recks!

2. Miss Selfridge Mink Fishtail Lace Top £29.00

I love everything about this top: the lace, the colour, the fishtail, the peplum, the sheer back and the price. I will definitely be purchasing this as a dress down or dress up little number! 

3. Hobbs NW3 Vintage Cable Cardigan £99.00

I used to shrug Hobbs off as a 'mum's shop' but I love their NW3 range! This vintage cable knit cardigan in 'porridge' can be worn with jeans, dresses, shorts, skirts, leggings - basically anything. It is totes grandad chic!   

4.Urban Outfitters Vintage Renewal Five Pocket Leather Shorts £45.00

I have been looking for a leather skirt, but when I saw these shorts I loved them. I like the high waist and vintage-renewal look. These will look good with chunky knitwear (i.e. the above cardigan) and some biker boots. PS delivery only £1 if you enter code 'shweet' at checkout!

5. H&M Collar £14.99

This collar took my breathe away! I absolutely love the pearls and diamantes. This could be worn with any top or dress to add instant cuteness - espesh the mink lace top and black/white lace dress in my picks!

 

Wednesday Winners

Hey guys

Who's that girl? loves a feel good charitable act and for Wednesday Winners we are donating to you the results of hours and hours trawling the web for your fashion pleasure. Chelsea and Naomi have both picked their top 5 gems emerging on the fashion sites this week and they sure do hope you agree that these are some special items.  Which one(s) will you be getting?!

Chelsea's Picks:

I am desperately clawing on to the last days of summer and am pleased to see that some of the Internet retailers are too. I managed to find these Summer treats amongst the A/W lines...

1. Mulberry Locked Cosmetics Purse in Pink Glossy Goat (£150)
This may strictly be a cosmetics purse according to the people at Mulbs but I think it's far too pretty to be smearing the inside with lipgloss and eyeliner. With dimensions of 21cm x 13cm I think it'll be the ideal clutch to put your phone, money and keys in for a night out.

2. Accessorize Black Glitter Heart Studs (£2)
You have read correctly - this is not a typo - £2!! They may not be Tiffany diamond studs but they sure look sparkly with all that glitter and who can resist anything heart shaped? Not me!

3. Miss Selfridge Hubabuba Glitter Wedge (£55)
I guess I'm still in wedge mode after yesterday's Tuesday Shoesday! These sparkly shoes look super comfy and will compliment the earrings perfectly.

4. Topshop Pansy Print Crochet Collor Top (£34)
I am a serious sucker for a collar. Sometimes I just filter the results by the keyword 'collar'. Especially, a Peter Pan collar (I'm delighted to hear that Marc Jacobs will be heavily featuring Peter Pan collars in his A/W line so hopefully it will continue to be a hit on the high street). Combined with a cute ditsy print, this top will be perfect with skinny jeans or tucked into cute shorts.

5. Ted Baker Birdie Branch Print Dress (£139)
It was hard to pick just one dress as Ted Baker's latest collection is filled with interesting prints and great shapes. However, this quirky bird print dress caught my eye. Not only do I love the design but it's an unusual shape compared to my other dresses and I can imagine it would look great with a colour pop clutch and some killer heels.


Naomi's picks:

I am loving the AW12 pieces hitting the fashion sites this week! 

1. Kookai at ASOS Floral Trousers (£85)
I LOVE these trousers! Oriental chic or what?! Visit the blog next week for tips on how to style floral trousers!

2. Paul Smith at Coggles.com Fairisle Scarf (£125)
What I love about this scarf is the combination of fairisle, solid pink and stripes - a combo perhaps only Paul Smith could pull off.   The 94% wool and bright colours will keep you cosy and cheerful during the impending winter months.

3. Whistles Marianne Satchel (£195)
I have been wanting to invest in an across the body bag for sometime - there are days and events where you just need to be hands free! This is a classic style that won't date - a perfect investment piece and heirloom ;)

4. Miss Selfridge Cream Textured Jacket (£35)
A Chanel-esque jacket for a millionth of the price, you can't say no! Dress this up or down, but don't forget the pearls!

5. Fred Perry at ASOS Gingham Shirt with Roll Up Sleeves (£65)
Burgundy is going to be a big AW colour this year. I love the small collar with the baby buttons and the classic Fred Perry look. By the sounds of the materials: "a blend of cotton and linen with a soft, flannel hand feel", it's going to be delightfully comfy!


We would love to hear your comments and any details of your top 5 items this week!

Lots of charitable love,

Chelsea & Naomi