Style Note: The Isabella Oliver Cape

Yesterday was one of those cold and breezy days in London when you really need something warm and snug to wrap up in.

And what better way to wrap up than in a cape. It's the perfect alternative to a winter coat. I received this beautiful one as a Christmas Gift from one of my favourite labels Isabella Oliver.

It's part wool, part cashmere and the perfect fit. As you can see, the colour is a yummy camel toffee and whenever I wear it, I'm always stopped to ask where it's from. This cape is a prime example of the sheer brilliance of Isabella Oliver at it's best, and granted, it's last season but sophistication never goes out of fashion!


Isabella Oliver's Spring Summer collection is available online, I already have my eye on a few things I'd love to buy for the new season; the Coco Blazer, £159.00 is top of my list, closely followed by the Classic Wrap Dress, £99.00. What's on yours?

Web: www.isabellaoliver.com

Style Note: Fancy Legwear

I've always believed that a good pair of tights can do wonders for the legs and these designs from Wolford have just reconfirmed that.

The brand is well known for its innovative, luxurious hosiery, and the latest collection of legwear holds true to the brand's creative edge. I'm loving the work on these Fringe Tights, they rock don't you think? And below, the Parisian inspired Hot Dots is oh-so opulent; with delicate tone-on-tone diamonds and knitted-in bow. The cutest of all has to be the Zora; made with an opaque effect to create the illusion of laced boots.



Wolford Partner Boutique London
3 South Molton Street
London, W1K 5QB

Tel: 020 7499 2549
Web: www.wolford.com
Fringe tights available at: www.tightsplease.co.uk

Style Note: Handmade Happiness

This week's style note is dedicated to the craft of handmade products. I've been inspired by fellow blogger Muhsine of Bubblegarm who impressed me with her handmade shabby chic travel brush roll, and it got me thinking about cute gifts that make ideal stocking fillers this Christmas.

I've headed over to ESTY and ethical shop Love Eco in pursuit of handmade happiness, and of course I couldn't leave out Muhsine's fabulous travel brush roll (which I've made an order for already). I think you'll love these too:

1. Mini Soapsicle Set - £3.03 (converted from $5.00)
Oh so cute soaps shaped like popsicles. Comes in four fragrances; cherry, blueberry, watermelon and pineapple. Mmm.
www.etsy.com

2. Handmade Magnets by Inkjet Design - £4.00
These will look so pretty on the fridge!
www.etsy.com

3. Chicken Doorstops from Love Eco - £13.00 each
Simply fill up these lil' chickens with rice, zip up and away you go, your very own unique doorstop made from vintage fabric remnants.
www.love-eco.co.uk

4. Travel Brush Roll - Price available on request
With 9 pockets for your key brushes, it rolls up and ties with a cute bow. This is the prototype and hopefully the finished product will be ready soon. Pre-order yours!
www.bubblegarm.blogspot.com

Style Note: Pretty Snug...

On days like this, nothing makes me happier than slipping into my thermal booties, lounging with a cuddly water bottle and doing a spot of online shopping.

Here are a few of my favourite things to buy this season, from the oh so divine Moschino Cheap & Chic Gloves (my star buy) to the luxe Manoush Gilet Jacket; it's gorgeous finds like these that make Winter all the more indulgent.

1. Manoush Black and Cream Gilet Jacket - £382.50
www.fifiwilson.com

2. Shepherd Sheepskin Ballet Pump Slipper Stone - £35.00
www.riftshoes.com

3. Luxury Faux Fur Hot Water Bottles - £19.95 each
www.vagabondcosmetictoiletbags.co.uk

4. Moschino Cheap & Chic Stab-stitch Gloves - £50
www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Style Note: Winter Luxe at River Island

The high street's interpretation of seasonal trends is always interesting to see and I'm particularly impressed with River Island's approach to AW09. Featuring jewel hues, graphic prints and directional shapes, the store's latest collection has a distinctly luxurious feel.

Like a wonderland of Winter luxe, the collection combines opulent textures and richly coloured fabrics with modern tailoring and directional shapes. Paying homage to Britsh and International designers, the new pieces take on the prowess of Balmain, the feminine grandeur of Graeme Black and the luxury layers of Jaeger London.

My choice of stand-out pieces begins with this dazzling Amber satin dress in the intense purple hue. It's shape is voluptuous and powerful, for a look that will undoubtedly make an impact. The Erin taffeta skirt and Jupiter Shell top is also a head turning match, whist the faux faur jacket worn with the fringe leather skirt and acid wash hoodie is beautifully eclectic and so nomadesque. However, my favourite piece has to be the Jackson Dress with statement shoulders, graphic print and body con paneling. It's definitely on my style radar. To see the new collection click here.

Faux faur jacket, fringe leather skirt and acid wash hoodie

Erin taffeta skirt and Jupiter Shell top

The Jackson Dress

Prices
Acid wash hoodie - £29.99
Erin taffeta skirt - £34.99
Faux faur jacket - £69.99
Fringe leather skirt - £85.00
Jackson Dress - £49.99
Jupiter Shell top - £29.99

Web: www.riverisland.com

Style Note: Dorothy Perkins gets Balmain fever

If like me you've been admiring the military style Balmain Jacket, (safe in the knowledge that the price tag is above your spending threshold) then here's some good news. Dorothy Perkins has just launched their new designer inspired line of courtesan chic pieces, including a jacket that is the closest I've seen to Balmain on the high-street. The military jacket is a bargain at £100 and I'll admit that it will never match the sheer beauty of the original crystal-embellished canvas jacket, but when you haven't got £6,560 to splurge, is this not the next best thing?

The new DP Collection is rather delectable; boasting rich embellishments, deluxe brocade, 3D jewels and silky velvet. Other pieces that stand out are the gold boyfriend blazer, £80 and the purple velvet power shoulder dress, £35. The items mentioned do not appear to be available online at the moment so it's best to check in store, but there is still a cool selection from the new range via their website, with more being added soon. Watch this space.

Find your nearest Dorothy Perkins store

Web: www.dorothyperkins.com

Style note: Belle and Boo

Today I'm introducing the collection of artwork that is Belle and Boo. I first discovered the illustrations whilst shopping in Paperchase for a few birthday cards. I was searching for something vintage looking and sweet. On my way out of the shop, I saw a pretty little girl with bobbed hair, bright eyes and wearing the cutest vintage dress - beautifully illustrated on a postcard. I took it home to display on the notice board and I've since collected a great deal more.

The illustrations capture the moments of childhood you'll always remember; friendships, nature, your first pet. It's the nostalgic, vintage charm that I adore and the hint of Parisian style. Prior to the postcard purchase, I'd never heard of Belle and Boo's Mandy Sutcliffe, but I've since come to learn that as well as being a fantastic illustrator, she is also the author of a number of children's books including Evie's Seaside Lullaby.

The collection is also available on prints, clothing and accessories. Visit the online shop and you'll find adorable pocket mirrors and bags, but it's the 'Lost' dress that I'm shamelessly in love with. It's just the kind of clothing that I'll be kitting out my future sprog in! (If the baby is a girl, of course, and no I'm not expecting... just thinking ahead!) It's official, Belle and Boo has to be one of my most coveted creative pickings for this year.

Web: www.belleandboo.com
For London Stockists click here
Also available at www.etsy.com

Style Note: The Carrie Necklace

Mr. Big and Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City

Are you self-confessed Sex and the City junkie? I'll admit that I can watch the reruns to the high heavens. I have the movie proudly displayed in my DVD collection and I still swoon over the Carrie's style. Despite the show's end, it seems that the fictional fashionista continues to ride high on the best dressed list and one of the key accessories allowing us to tap into Ms. Bradshaw's style is the identity necklace.

Carrie necklace, www.mynamenecklace.com

Made popular by the episode where Carrie finds her lost necklace at the bottom of her clutch bag in Paris, it remains one of the most googled jewellery pieces in the UK, often referred to as the "Carrie necklace". The delicate reference of your name, gracing the collarbone has a certain bespoke appeal and when worn simply, provides a sophisticated finish to your look. I wear mine with small stud earrings and usually with a plain white tee or a pretty cashmere top. Subtlety in colour and style helps pull the look together I think. Customised necklaces are available from £19.95 at www.mynamenecklace.com.

To finish on a nostalgic note, let's take a look at that SATC episode where Carrie finds her identity again! Love it.

Style Note: Feeling Frou Frou?

When it comes to playful lingerie, they say less is more, and that saying couldn't be more true when it comes to Primark (or 'Primarni' as many of us lovingly call it!). But I'm talking about the price, not the detail. I always say that you can't go wrong with Parisian chic panties - frills and bows -you know the type: flirty, pretty little numbers that bring out the 'frou frou' in you. I've found some great finds from just £2.50.

Now you're guaranteed a far greater lingerie section at the Oxford street branch, but if you just fancy popping in closer to home, head down to your local Primark and take your pick from their SS/09 collection. Today I'll be spending my loose change on the Candy Cane and Aqua Seersucker set. So pretty and shamelessly affordable.

Image Credits:
Candy cane bra £5.00 with matching thong £2.50, Primark
Aqua seersucker bra £5.00 worn with matching thong £2.50, Primark

Primark
499-517 Oxford Street,
Westminster,
London, W1K 7B
Web: www.primark.co.uk

Weddings: Shane Ryding Launches New Collection

Today I had the exciting opportunity to witness the launch of Shane Ryding's new bridal collections, designed exclusively for London boutique Luella's Boudoir. And what a show it was! Set in the stunning grounds of Christ Church Spitalfields E1, the venue was the most picturesque setting and entirely fitting for the occasion.

There were two collections in total, the first entitled Peony Wedding, was sweet with a hint of rockabilly vintage. The second, self-titled was ice-maiden meets old silver screen glamour with curvaceous shapes, and stunning accents - all tied in with utterly gorgeous headpieces and dreamy veils.

The show made me reminisce on my own nuptials back in 2007, and the dresses? Well they made me want to say "I Do" all over again. The editorial team from You and Your Wedding and Cosmo Bride were out in full force, and we got to chatting. It was a unanimous opinion that the collection was fresh, enticing and ultimately inspiring, encompassing the luxury and fairy tale romance of a high society affair and yet there was enough versatility in shape, cut and price tag so that the collection has something to offer almost every bride.

Now all I have to do is convince my hubby to renew our vows so I can wear the 'Libby' Dress (which you'll see in a moment). Wish me luck, and in the meantime, enjoy my pick of the best from the catwalk.

Jules

Minnie

Sabrina

Libby

The collections are available now at Luella's Boudoir:
Luella's Boudoir
33 Church Road
Wimbledon Village,
London, SW19 5DQ
Web: www.luellasboudoir.co.uk

See the Shane Ryding London Website for more stunning dresses:
Web: www.shaneryding.com

Style Note: London Named Most Stylish City

When I started this blog, I already new this fact, but for those in any doubt, I had to share this news: London is officially crowned the UK's most stylish city! 1,000 people across Britain's biggest cities found London leading the way in style diversity, the latest trends and key looks.

A great look and a fabulous nautical ensemble, love the beret.

Hailed as one of the epicenters of the fashion world, London topped two categories: Britain's Most Stylish City and Britain's Most Eclectic Fashion Taste. All this according to Clothes Show London. To pay homage, I've selected my favourite pics from the blogs that are Style Scout - London's answer to the Satorialist and Style Sightings, the global fashion emissary. Enjoy!

The foxy librarian look of mini skirt, statement socks and t-bar mary janes are really working here.

Retro with a modern twist - the red band with bow adding a hint of Alice in Wonderland.

Fantastic layers, so effortlessly casual and yet smart!

Pink socks and stilettos - a brave move that works well with this stylista's skinny jean, leather bomber look.

View more stylish Londoners at:
stylescout.blogspot.com
stylesightings.com

Image credits: Courtesy of Style Scout and Style Sightings

Style Note: Practically Beautiful Accessories

As a journalist, I'm constantly on the move and there are three must-have things that I always need to hand; My MacBook, Blackberry and iPod. However in carrying such essentials it becomes quite a tedious feat to remain stylish and chic without looking cluttered and overly business like.



That's why I adore the glamourous but practical accessories available at Violet May. The London based company has an impressive range of mobile phone purses with the perfect space to hold your iPhone, Blackberry curve, storm or just about any model. And then there's the laptop cases and clutches; spacious and roomy for your notebook and yet so fashion led. All items are made from stunning Italian snakeskin embossed leather and the collection has already been featured in Vogue, Grazia and In Style.

Violet May's founder, Claire Collins knows all about juggling business with leisure. As a successful business woman herself, she saw a distinct lack of luxury business accessories that a woman can carry to post-work engagements and look fabulous. So Collins set about producing an ultra stylish range of luxury accessories that she knew 'busy bees' like myself would love and cherish. The brand boasts quite a fashion following with model and business mogul Elle MacPherson leading the way.



Finally! Gone are the days of cumbersome executive cases and awkward phone covers - these beautiful business accessories enhance rather than detract from your style, making it far easier to look professional and still the fashionista.

Elle MacPherson with her Gold Python Blackberry Purse available at Violet May London

Violet May London

Tel: 020 7253 2048

Web: www.violetmaylondon.com



Image Credits:

Elle MacPherson image sourced at blog.violetmaylondon.com

Style Note: Love Eco - friendly and fashionable

As much as we care about the environment and hate the idea of melting glaciers, the threat of animal extinction and global warming, it's fair to say that many of our fashion choices aren't exactly eco-friendly. So I was excited to hear about the launch of Love Eco - a new ethical online shop that features highly fashionable eco clothing, accessories and fantastic products for the home.

It's the next big thing in eco fashion, taking online shopping to new ethical heights. The concept is simply to provide a place where people can shop for products that reduce the impact we make on the world. Love Eco showcases the best eco-friendly products available, in one place, so we don’t have to search for it.

Eco Button Clutch

There's a little something for everyone at Love Eco, from vintage accessories to quirky tees. I'm particularly impressed with the Eco Button Clutch in rich chocolate brown. This delicious looking soft leather clutch features lime vintage buttons and is lined in a glamorous lime silk. Made from 100% reclaimed leather, the bag is a limited edition and in huge demand right now.

The Eco Bucket Bags are another winner for me, perfect for throwing everything in! All eco-alternatives are handpicked, tried, tested and supplied by trusted ethical sources. Eco-friendly fashion has never looked so good.

Web: www.love-eco.co.uk

Style Note: Cool hues at Talullah Tu

As you may know, two of the key colours for spring/summer is cobalt blue and teal. It graced the catwalks at Richard Nicoll SS/09 among other designers and is proving a favourite among celebrity stylists. My choices for accessorizing with these cool, fresh colours are from online accessory boutique Talullah Tu.

Based in London but delivering everywhere, this chic little shop has some fabulous pieces including style icon Mischa Barton's new collection of bags. Unique cocktail rings, stunning necklaces, bracelets to swoon over and statement handbags - I'm finding them all here.

What's even more fantastic is the prices - they are so recession friendly. So here's my pick of on-trend pieces that are rich in design but not in cost. Joy!

Huge Cobalt Flower Stones Cuff Bracelet, £16:00

Makki Teal Electric Disco Eel Clutch Bag, £85:00

Web: www.talullahtu.co.uk

Label Love: LdG by Louis de Gama

This London fashion designer never ceases to delight me with his eclectic style and harmonious fusion of textures. His creations are smart, sexy and feminine but strengthened with a balance of tapering and tailored lines. Louis de Gama - the East London resident who launched his first collection 9 years ago, consistently fuses unlikely partnerships between leather and silk chiffon.

Having graduated at the University of Westminister he went on to work with bespoke tailoring company Salvatore, this before a successful stint at fashion house Boudicca. Since the start of the new millennium, his designs have been stocked at discerning boutiques in New York, Tokyo, Athens and Lisbon as well as his own store - LdG, located on Brick Lane.

The LdG Spring/Summer collection is one of my most coveted style offerings of this year. It's so cleverly put together: a series of dreamy dresses, vampish and yet saintly - accentuating the silhouette whilst being gracefully fluid. I simply must pay homage to the genius it is. So here are my pick of the best pieces.

Check out the hint of body con shaping and the gorgeous layers of chiffon and silk. Who wouldn't feel and look amazing in one of these?




LdG by Louis de Gama
5 Cheshire Street,
London E2 6ED
Web: http://www.louisdegama.com

Style Note: Retro on the High Street

I've been keeping a close fashion eye on London of late, and it's quickly become apparent that many of us are keen to add a bit of retro style to our modern wardrobes.

Yes, we've officially entered into a moment that I like to call 'retro remake' - a happy medium between on-trend pieces with a hint of vintage (without necessarily buying authentically vintage) If you get my drift?

So today I've been scouring the high street for affordable retro remakes, and I've found some great looks and vintage inspired accessories. The prices are ideal for 'credit -crunch shopping' too.

Retro clutch, £24.99, TK Maxx

Retro diamante vintage sunglasses, £3.00, Primark
This is such a steal! Love it!

Paisly print maxi dress, £55, Wallis

Main Image Credit:
Stripe Cardigan £22, high waist jeans £28 and Tan Wedges £40 - All from Next