Thirty-Days.co.uk

TRANSITION: DAY TWO

2012-03-06T09:30:00.000Z

DAY TWO: Double stripes

Okay, so I'm not technically doing anything new here or wearing anything new but one of my fashion resolutions for 2012 was to buy less and buy better, plus to really take stock of my wardrobe. Sometimes, I get a little bored of Breton stripes so I thought a fun way to liven them up a bit would be to layer two of my old stripey tops, in this case my fine knit recycled Zara jumper over my favourite H&M long-sleeved tee. I like the way the white stripey sleeves stick out and mix it up from regular stripes.

This kind of layering is also great for the chilly weather at the moment - it gives a streamlined silhouette while keeping me toasty because as much as I love chunky knits, sometimes you want to wear something with a bit more shape that will fit under a slimline coat. More on that soon...

Worn with: Black Breton stripe jumper, Zara; White Breton stripe tee, H&M; Grey jeans, Miss Selfridge.

TRANSITION: DAY ONE

2012-03-05T15:04:00.000Z

Day one: Waffle knit jumper, Topshop

So, spring is just round the corner and with it, finally the chance to wear some lighter clothes. Unfortunately, with the weather being as it is, it still seems like a long time off - torrential rain yesterday and now gale force winds are making sartorial choices somewhat difficult. At the weekend, I did a massive clear out of my hanging wardrobe, throwing out about 80% of its contents and re-organising the contents in a way that I could finally see what I actually have. I came across my deer print dress from H&M that I bought at the end of last summer and optimistically thought that I would wear it today. Of course, with the weather being as it is, it couldn't be worn alone so I slung my trusty waffle knit jumper over the top.

I'd been on the hunt for the perfect black chunky waffle jumper for a while when on a rootle in Topshop I came across this one and fell in love. It was a staple piece of my wardrobe during LFW and I've worn it pretty much constantly since. I bought mine from the Petite range and in a larger size so it would be properly slubby because as most of you will know, I love a bit of grunge. At £36, it's been one of my best recent buys. It's still available [here].

Worn with: Deer print dress, H&M; Biker boots, New Look; Cable knit tights, Pretty Polly; Aviators, Ray-Ban.

Oops.

2012-03-05T11:54:00.002Z

I really am quite awful at blogging lately but with today's sunshine, my vigour for the cybersphere has been renewed and so, with that in mind I've decided it's time to get back on the Thirty Days wagon. This installment's theme will be 'transition'.'Huh?' I hear you cry. Well, simply put, with the British weather being as mercurial and deceptive as it is (today's sunny skies are marred by the icy winds), this month will be all about moving from Winter to Spring, albeit with one or two pairs of 70 denier tights. Keep an eye out, first post coming later...

Another apology

2012-02-18T15:58:00.001Z

So, I was meant to come back and then I vanished again. Oops, sorry. I've actually been beavering away on another little side project, just in time for London Fashion Week. If you remember, during LFW I've previously done a serious of posts called Postcards. Well, I thought that this year I might do it as a separate site, so TA-DA! I present to you, Postcards From London:

2012

2012-01-04T17:22:00.001Z

Hello and happy new year!

Once again, it's time for me to drag myself out of my non-blogging hole and announce that I am not in fact dead/in hospital/no longer blogging. Sorry. I really did mean to blog in December but it's a particularly busy time at work for our desk, then I had the small matter of creaking ever closer to turning 30 to contend with. I'm not quite there yet but 28 was enough to scare the crap out of me and make me start looking into Botox. Then of course there was Christmas which is never as relaxing as it's meant to be, with too much eating, drinking and too many relatives.

Aforementioned over-eating and drinking has meant that I have spent a disproportionate amount of time in my pajamas on the sofa and not really in any state to take photos.

However, rest assured I will be back shortly. I will do some kind of mash-up post of December. How's that for a deal?

In the meantime, please enjoy Holly wearing the necklace that I made for her to wear on New Year's Eve.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T12:36:00.001Z

Holly wears reindeer antlers and fairisle jumper, both Accessorize Pets

Merry Christmas!

AUTUMN: DAY THIRTY

2011-12-07T16:02:00.001Z

DAY THIRTY: Sheer drop-back skirt, Miss Selfridge

Throughout the season, the idea of a drop-back skirt had been building in my head but I wasn't entirely sure how it would work with my stumpy cankles but then browsing the rails one day in Miss Selfridge I came across this sheer black number and I knew that I'd met my match right there and then. Above the knee at the front and with a little mini skirt underneath, it works pretty well. I don't like to go too pretty with it so I usually wear it with something like the Marc Jacobs latin tee or a big jumper to grunge it up a little. And of course, my new and much cherished Creepers. The skirt is still available on the Miss Selfridge website [here]

Worn with: bronze and faux fur jumper, Next; Brother creepers, Underground London

AUTUMN: DAY TWENTY NINE

2011-12-06T15:02:00.003Z

DAY TWENTY NINE: Animal print Brothel Creepers, Underground London

Loooook! Look look look! My long lusted-for Brothel Creepers are finally on my feet and haven't left them since I got them, apart from showering and sleeping.

I was a bit apprehensive at first about whether they'd be heavy and weird to walk in with my previous experience limited to wearing them on a shoot but they are quite possibly the most comfortable shoes ever. And as an added bonus, they add about an inch and a half to my height, which for a flat shoe girl like me is very exciting.

They are available both on the Underground London website [here] and at Office if you can't bear to wait for delivery.

Worn with: snakeprint jeans, Dorothy Perkins

AUTUMN: DAY TWENTY EIGHT

2011-12-01T17:09:00.002Z

DAY TWENTY EIGHT: Leather and faux-pony skin satchel, Marks & Spencer

Those who follow me on twitter (@adulescent) will know that recently I've been tweeting up a storm about the spring/summer press days that are happening at the moment. Well, sometimes, filling up peoples' feeds pays off - at the Marks & Spencer press day, they ran a little twitter competition inviting visitors to tweet their thoughts on the collection and the best tweeter would win a satchel. I love a good twitter challenge and jumped on the bandwagon. As you've probably guessed by now, I won!

And I've been wearing my winnings ever since - its a great day bag as its got two large compartments, plus a zipper section in the middle and lots of little pockets that I've been filling with all of my usual handbag detritus. I've been getting lots of people stroking it lovingly and their surprise when I tell them it is in fact M&S has been great - it has a flavour of the Proenza Schueler PS11 which I have been eyeing on net-a-porter for quite some time but at a fraction of the price. Win.

The plain black version has already sold out online but you can get the equally lovely leopard print version [here].

Worn with: leather sleeve coat, Topshop

AUTUMN: DAY TWENTY SEVEN

2011-12-01T16:40:00.002Z

DAY TWENTY SEVEN: Sheer leopard print shirt, New Look

Sorry, I've been really quite rubbish at updating recently. Pre-christmas is always a little manic in our department and when you throw in moving floors to the mix, it's the equivalent of dynamite - it blew apart all of my carefully made plans.

Anyway, on with the show - last week, the lovely team from Instinct PR took me to see the Decades show at Proud Cabaret. I figured I should probably vamp up a little bit and I figured what better than a sheer leopard print shirt? A good thing about it is that even though it's sheer, the pattern means that you're not totally exposed - you can see my bra if you stare quite intently at my chest, which for the purposes of this experiment I will allow just this once.

Worn with: Leather shorts, H! by Henry Holland; Rivet belt, Asos; Airplaine necklace, NW3.

AUTUMN: DAY TWENTY SIX

2011-11-19T14:42:00.003Z

DAY TWENTY SIX: Gold nail varnish, MY Maybelline

Sometimes, you stumble across something so good that you don't want to share it but I figure that it would be downright mean of me NOT to share this discovery. A few weeks ago, when I was running around like a headless chicken getting ready for another wedding, I suddenly decided that my outfit would not be complete without a metallic nail.

However, I've always found metallic nails notoriously tricky - they're either super watery or so gritty that your nails feel thick and lumpen. This one is neither - two thin coats produce a beautiful shimmery effect that looks almost like Minx. I added one layer of Ciate top coat and my nails have survived a week of moving without chipping. Two sparkly thumbs up!

AUTUMN: DAY TWENTY FIVE

2011-11-18T13:45:00.003Z

DAY TWENTY FOUR: Blue and green palm print sweater, Versace x H&M

So, unless you've been living under a rock for the last few months, you'll no doubt be aware of the Versace X H&M collaboration that has been whipping the fashion world into a veritable neon leopard print frenzy for the last few months. Originally, I really wasn't that fussed - sure it's great but I draw the line at having to queue overnight to get my hands on a dress. It just so happened that I was in town yesterday morning for a breakfast meeting and on my way to run another errand, I thought I would nip in to a few stores and see how the collection looked.

I didn't even bother with the flagship on Regent Street, having seen the queues that snaked down and round the corner to the Courthouse Hotel. Instead I headed to the store opposite Bond Street tube station, which was also ridiculous - clothes flung everywhere, queues and I swear I saw two girls wrestling over something sequined.

Giving up, I headed to Selfridges where the queues were much smaller and you didn't even need a wrist band to get into the menswear section which worked well for me - the tills were also located there so in order to pay, you had to make the passage through, where inevitably a lot of women changed their minds about their purchases and flung stuff back onto the rails so I got some pretty decent pieces of womenswear - expect them to drop on the blog over the next few days in some way, shape or form.

Saying that, this sweater is actually from the menswear collection - I had planned on wearing it as a dress but since it's ever so slightly too short, I teamed it with my neon pink Boutique by Jaeger skirt for a real Miami vibe.

Just call me Donatella.

Worn with: Pink neon skirt, Boutique by Jaeger; pink neon belt, Marks & Spencer; Gold chain, Vintage; Gold brogues, Office.

AUTUMN: DAY TWENTY FOUR

2011-11-16T15:00:00.000Z

DAY TWENTY FOUR: Afghan knitted scarf, Weardale Cottage Crafts

One of the side effects of working in fashion is that you're always wishing your life away on seasons. When you're looking at summer dresses during September or coats in February, it does funny things to your head and as such, you end up planning your wardrobe six months in advance. Or at least, I do. When I saw the House of Holland show back in February, I immediately fell in love with the oversized Afghan knit scarves and began investigating where on earth I could get one since there was no way I could afford the price attached to the ones I'd fallen in love with. Originally, I'd thought about buying two blankets and stitching them together so I started hunting on eBay. I came across Weardale Cottage Crafts, a small family-run business that sell their hand-knitted blankets through eBay and a plan was hatched. I emailed them, giving a rough explanation that I was after a blanket sized scarf and after a bit of back and forth, I'd commissioned my scarf, which arrived in time for Fashion Week.

Of course, then we had our weird Indian summer so I haven't been able to wear it as much (except for when I've worn it as a shawl/poncho type combination) but with the recent cold snap, my scarf is finally getting the wear it deserves!

Worn with: grey sweatshirt, Petit Bateau; Sunglasses, Ray-Ban.

AUTUMN: DAY TWENTY THREE

2011-11-14T17:11:00.000Z

DAY TWENTY THREE: Wool and leather sleeve poncho, H&M

I don’t know what I was thinking putting on a wool poncho the day that our department had to move our fashion cupboard, I really don’t. However, I was so excited to have finally got my hands on it that I think I would’ve worn it even if it was 30˚C. I’ve been after it ever since Jackie Dixon of Show Me Your Wardrobe appeared in The Daily during LFW wearing it. I have stalked various branches until the other day, early for an appointment, I ducked into the giant Regent Street flagship – lo and behold, there it was, just one size small left. Hurrah!

So, while it was a sad day saying goodbye to our cupboard, at least I got a little joy from my purchase.

Worn with: denim shorts, Zara; Studded toe boots, Stuart Weitzman; Breton tee, Day Birger et Mikkelson

AUTUMN: DAY TWENTY TWO

2011-11-11T09:00:00.002Z

DAY TWENTY TWO: Black parka, Vince

This whole season has, bar a few days, been unseasonably warm so you may find yourself wondering why on earth I'm dressed as an Eskimo. Well, last night I was doing a night shoot on location, styling a story outdoors right by the River Thames where it was FREEZING cold. I got some strange looks when I was coming into work in my arctic coat but I think I was the only person on the shoot who didn't really feel the cold anywhere other than their face.

Back when I was a costume assistant many, many moons ago on films, I got pretty used to standing around in muddy fields for hours at a time, often at night and that time has taught me that even the mildest days in winter will not translate to mild nights. Thanks to that experience, I have a veritable wardrobe of shoot coats with deep pockets and big hoods to keep me warm. This one from Vince is definitely my favourite due to the HUGE hood which means I can have my hair tied back underneath it. All too often hoods on these kinds of jackets do not provide enough space for my overly-large cranium, let alone the thatch of hair that I have that needs to be tied back on these occasions.

Anyway - awesome coat, awesome shoot. More details nearer the publication time.

Worn with: Zig-zag scarf, Barbour; Grey skinny jeans, Miss Selfridge; Grey sheepskin boots, Emu.

AUMN: DAY TWENTY ONE

2011-11-10T10:00:00.000Z

DAY TWENTY ONE: Cream tie front shirt, New Look

I originally bought this shirt back before London Fashion Week with the intention of wearing it sometime during it but somehow, never got round to it. So, as per a lot of my purchases, it has been hanging in my wardrobe (tags still attached) for about two months and waiting for a moment to shine.

That moment finally happened today - my boyfriend and I recently hit our eight-year anniversary. Kinda scary, no? Sadly, due to work and other things, we haven't quite got round to celebrating until two weeks after the date so when he suggested we finally go for dinner, I wanted to wear something that would take me from press days to the office and then on to our belated anniversary dinner. As I dithered in front of my wardrobe, this shirt suddenly caught my eye. It's not my usual style but when I took off my coat, two of my colleagues both looked slightly puzzled before telling me that I looked nice. So, I guess it works.

Worn with: black snakeskin jeans, Dorothy Perkins; gold chunky chain, Vintage; Prosecco, from the boyfriend.

AUTUMN: DAY TWENTY

2011-11-09T10:03:00.001Z

DAY TWENTY: Prince of Wales check jacket, River Island

I tend to do all of my winter jacket and coat shopping in August and I bought this jacket during one of those mini-heatwaves in the summer. Of course, trying on wool jackets in 30C heat during the Friday afternoon madness that is Oxford Street seemed like a totally sane thing to do at the time. God only knows why. I wish I could say I'd been high because that would be a slightly more believable excuse rather than the reality of the sudden desire to buy my winter wardrobe as I systematically sweated through my summer wardrobe as I tried to navigate the gormless tourists.

I don't know quite what drew me to this jacket, maybe I'd been listening to my 80s playlist too much that week but there was something about this really rather retro style that sucked me in and made me think of Princess Diana. Whether it's the double breasted style, the slightly padded shoulders or the PoW check, I'll never know but now whenever I look at it or wear it, I'm reminded of her. I'm not sure if that's a good reason to buy a jacket or not but it worked for me.

Plus, it's a great jacket for now as it's thick enough to keep me warm on the grey drizzly days that seem all too frequent right now but doesn't make me overheat on my daily commute from hell on the packed tubes.

Worn with: neckline detail jumper, New Look; Grey denim shorts, Zara.

AUTUMN: DAY NINETEEN

2011-11-08T16:08:00.000Z

DAY NINETEEN: One-shoulder playsuit, Topshop

Being in our late twenties, my boyfriend (not the boy in the picture, that’s our friend Alex) and I have suddenly found ourselves at an age where our friends have started buying houses, getting married and having babies. The other week, we attended our third wedding of the year, that of our university friends Jenny and Steve.

I know that tradition states that you shouldn’t wear black to a wear a wedding but I do not naturally gravitate towards the block coloured dresses that you see in Coast - my one attempt at wearing that random shade of purple to a wedding almost killed me but that’s another story – plus we were only attending the evening celebration so I figured black would be fine.

I had been planning on re-wearing my navy Miss Selfridge dress from Day Twelve but at the last minute I had a change of heart and decided to mix it up with this one-shouldered playsuit that I picked up in Topshop a while ago and have been dying to wear. Seeing as I rarely go anywhere more fancy than my local pub at weekends, it’s been languishing in my wardrobe since the late summer when I grabbed it for the absolute bargain price of £7.50 in a sale, only to see it during fashion week in another branch still for the full price of £50. Can we say STEAL?

Just so you can see the detail, here's a solo shot:

Worn with: Nude and black patent pumps, Office; 2.55 bag, Chanel.

AUTUMN: DAY EIGHTEEN

2011-11-07T14:51:00.000Z

DAY EIGHTEEN: Gold ear cuff and comb, Asos

Remember how last week I said that I’d never had as many compliments and questions about a piece of jewellery until I wore the big blue faceted necklace from Freedom Premium? Well scrap that because there’s a new contender in town - this ear cuff from Asos. When I first saw it while surfing around during my lunch break, it took me back to my teenage years when I was what you would gently call ‘alternative’.

For this, read multicoloured hair, too much eyeliner, spikes on everything and trousers that could double as a tent when required. Of course, some of this still translates to my wardrobe today – the voluminous trousers may have been swapped for bruise-inducing skinnies but I still love a lot of eyeliner and have a serious weakness for spikes so I knew straight away that I needed this cuff in my life.

This also partly results from the fact that I can’t really wear earrings (except for my cartilage piercing) as when I do I get what I call ‘triangle face’. You’re probably going ‘huh?’ right now, right? Simply put, ear studs plus my labret stud (the one under my lip) equals a triangular set of studs that make me look slightly odd so I have barely worn earrings for about 9 years now. Well, that and the fact that I’m highly allergic to most metals apart from platinum, titanium etc which means any earring habit would prove to be a rather expensive one so I figure I’ll stick with cuffs for now.

AUTUMN: DAY SEVENTEEN

2011-11-04T11:00:00.003Z

DAY SEVENTEEN: Snakeskin jeans, Dorothy Perkins

I am a leopard print girl through-and-through. I own a leopard version of probably every time of clothing and most accessories at least one time over so when snakeskin was hailed as the animal print of the season, I panicked slightly. Somehow, snakeprint doesn't suit me, or at least I didn't think it would.

I'd been debating a pair of snakeprint jeans/trousers as a way to break myself into the print gently (somehow snakeprint by my face just doesn't work) for quite some time when the lovely girls at Dorothy Perkins invited me to pick a pair of jeans from their new capsule range. I had to drag my myself away from the leopard print styles (got enough of those already) and decided to take a risk and order the snakeprint. When they turned up yesterday, I decided that I had to try them on immediately and good lord, they're incredible. I walked out of the fashion cupboard and straightaway I looked like I'd lost weight. I would like to point out I do not have naturally thin legs but somehow these trousers create the best optical illusion I have ever seen. I'm aware that you can't see the print in the photo above so here's a close up:

These jeans aren't available on the website yet but as soon as they are, I'll post a link. Definitely worth a purchase.

Worn with: Kimono top, River Island; Grey tee, H&M; Ribbed vest, Chinti & Parker; Boots, New Look; Necklace, Diva at Miss Selfridge; Ear cuff, Asos.

AUTUMN: DAY SIXTEEN

2011-11-03T11:32:00.002Z

DAY SIXTEEN: Latin tee, Marc by Marc Jacobs

The other week I had a last minute trip to Paris for work to assist on a few shoots which turned out to be a really fun trip. After our second shoot, we were lumbering through the streets of Paris on our way back to our hotel before we legged it to the Eurostar when we stumbled across the Marc by Marc Jacobs store.

As my editor knows how obsessed I am with MJ, he rolled his eyes and said that we could have a brief pitstop. Not needing to be told twice, I virtually sprinted into the shop and being a seasoned MJ shopper I knew that somewhere in the store there would be a sale corner. It took me approximately 10 seconds to home in on it and more specifically, the latin tees that were going for €5 each. Total bargain.

I have this weird love for Latin. When I was at school, it was my most hated subject but since doing my English degree at university, I have a whole new appreciation of it. The script on this tee is hard to read in the photo (apologies for the terribly MySpace-y photo as well) but it reads Veritas Inlustrat which means truth enlightens. You may’ve noticed that I’m wearing another one in Day Fourteen – that one reads Inter Nos (between us). I like these tees as not everyone knows what they say. Is that weird?

Worn with: Necklace, Freedom Premium; Striped cardigan, Topshop.

PS: I've joined Bloglovin'. Come join the party here.

AUTUMN: DAY FIFTEEN

2011-11-02T11:00:00.002Z

DAY FIFTEEN: Faceted bead necklace, Freedom Premium at Topshop

I have longer been a sucker for a statement necklace and I think that this necklace from Freedom at Topshop's new Premium collection is about as statement as they come. Simply put, it was love at first sight for me when I first saw another girl wearing the gold version and it seems to be the case with everyone who lays eyes on it - the first time I wore it, I spent the whole day fielding questions about it wherever I went, including my commute home on the tube. It's a great piece on days when I can't decide what to wear as I simply add it to a plain tee and jeans and I'm done.

There are so many great pieces in the new Premium range and I want them all, although at the higher price point than normal, I'm going to have to be selective with what I buy. Check out the whole collection [here], this particular necklace is [here]

Worn with: grey sweatshirt, Petit Bateau.

AUTUMN: DAY FOURTEEN

2011-11-01T11:00:00.001Z

DAY FOURTEEN: Polka dot trousers, Topshop

When I first came across these trousers, I was convinced that they would not be flattering in the least but there is something magical about them. I don't know what it is but the second I put them on, I felt like I'd lost half a stone and hence they came straight home with me. Sadly, they've since sold out but River Island are doing a pair of jeans that are incredibly similar [here] and for a fraction of the price of the Topshop pair. I'm tempted to buy them in the black-on-black version [here]

Worn with: Latin tee, Marc by Marc Jacobs; necklace, Freedom Premium; polka dot pochette, Aryn K; nude pumps, Office; Sunglasses, Ray-Ban.

AUTUMN: DAY THIRTEEN

2011-10-30T21:42:00.000Z

DAY THIRTEEN: Grey melange tee, French Connection

I am a sucker for a grey top. I own more grey tees and jumpers than anyone else I know and it has become somewhat of a running joke that wherever I go, chances are I will be wearing something from my extensive grey top collection.

So when this tee arrived on the Friday before the X-Factor started (complete with a bag of popcorn) to celebrate French Connection's new advertising campaign that was to air the next night during the first episode, I thought all of my christmases had come at once - favourite snack and favourite style top in one package? Woohoo!

You can get your own grey melange tee [here]

Worn with: leather fronted trousers, Oasis

AUTUMN: DAY TWELVE

2011-10-30T19:45:00.000Z

DAY TWELVE: Navy beaded dress, Miss Selfridge

Smack bang during LFW this year, one of my lovely friends got married. It meant running straight from a day of shows home to quickly change before driving out to Surrey to join the evening party so I needed something that was suitable but that also required no ironing as I would literally have about 15 minutes to turn around my look. As you can see from my daytime look from Day Seven, I didn't even have time to change my hair or makeup!

I bought this dress from Miss Selfridge last year after I fell in love with the vintage style of it and the fact that although it's pretty much completely covered up at the front, it is also virtually backless which definitely adds the sex factor - I'm not sure I could wear it during the day part of the wedding but for the evening party it definitely ticked all of the boxes!

Worn with: 2.55 leather bag, Chanel; Tights, Wolford; Black quilted leather pumps, Office.

AUTUMN: DAY ELEVEN

2011-10-30T16:56:00.000Z

DAY ELEVEN: Hot pink chunky knit, Zara

During the menswear day of LFW, I had a little time to kill between shows and somehow, I ended up in Zara where I came across a fluorescent pink chunky knit. Now, those of you who've been reading for a while will know that earlier in the year, I decided to step out of my monochrome comfort zone and into colour. Needless to say, despite my best efforts, over time I have once again scuttled back to my black-and-white box.

Maybe it was the sleep deprivation or the food deprivation oh so common during fashion week, but suddenly I found myself unable to leave the shop without this jumper. And since then, I have worn it so often, it has become my best cost-per-wear purchase of the season. I call it my I-don't-wear-pink pink jumper, as seen here as Simona and I traipsed around the Albert Docks of Liverpool:

Worn with: grey skinny jeans, Miss Selfridge; Leopard print scarf, Louis Vuitton; Studded boots, ASH; Leather bag, Jaeger; Wayfarer sunglasses, Ray-Ban.

AUTUMN: DAY TEN

2011-10-30T16:45:00.000Z

As I mentioned in my previous grovelling post, straight after LFW finished, Simona and I hopped a train to head up for an overnight visit to Liverpool with a couple of other journos and the lovely girls from Chase PR to attend the opening of the first ever stand-alone store for Simply Be. Having rarely travelled beyond the Watford Gap, I was somewhat anxious about heading quite so far north but I have to say, Liverpool is an awesome city and full of lovely people who were super helpful when I dragged Simona around during our free time to try and locate a cheap army-issue parka. ANYWAY. Shall we have some photos?

The Simply Be store front, located at One Liverpool

Mmm champagne

The Powder Room girls gave guests mini manicures

What I wore: brown leopard scarf, Louis Vuitton; suede jacket, unknown; cream ruffled top, Topshop; Leather leggings, Oasis; Cream leather pumps, Office; Mini quilted bag, Chanel.

NOTICE ANYTHING DIFFERENT?

2011-10-30T14:35:00.000Z

Sorry that I haven't posted in a really long time, straight after LFW I headed up to Liverpool for the opening of the first ever stand-alone store of Simply Be. When I got back to the office, I got thrown straight back into a busy schedule, then suddenly I was asked to go to Paris for a night to assist on some stories - in short, it's been a bit mental.

As well as that, I've been contemplating moving from Tumblr for a while. Don't get me wrong, I like it but I'm not sure how well it works as a platform for my blog. So, after much debate, I've moved back to Blogger.com, which is funny seeing as I left it in a fit of rage after my blog-before-last, Adulescent, because it pissed me off. However, it's been a while and Blogger has had an overhaul so I decided that it was time to do the same with Thirty Days.

I'm in the (very lengthy) process of moving over all of the old editions onto here so it'll be a while until the archive is complete but in the meantime, I've started posting again. Hurrah! I'm still in the midst of getting everything set up so please forgive me if things are a little hit-and-miss for a few days.

AUTUMN: DAY NINE

2011-09-19T14:55:00.000+01:00

DAY NINE: Printed maxi skirt, Forever 21

Day four of London Fashion Week was also maxi skirt day on the Express fashion desk so I thought I’d get our lovely fashion assistant Simona to hop in the photo - funnily enough, the basis of our outfits is the same (maxis plus biker jackets) but I think you’ll agree when I say we wear our looks very differently!

Worn with: bat tee, Zoe Karssen; suede biker, unknown; biker boots, New Look; hat, Littlewoods; sunglasses, Ray-Ban; bag, Prada; Afghan blanket scarf, Weardale Cottages.

Simona wears: pink maxi, Minnie’s; ballet pumps, New Look; leather biker, Asos; Tilly bag, Jaeger; belt, Gap.

AUTUMN: DAY EIGHT

2011-09-18T14:50:00.000+01:00

DAY EIGHT: Mohair cape, Prada

Found this while rummaging in some of the wardrobes, decided it was perfect for an allegedly laidback Sunday at the shows. Forgot the whole no-shoulder-bags issue with capes, ended up lugging my tote in the crook of my arm. Not good, I may have fashion week induced tennis elbow.

Worn with: Grey tweed & leather trousers, Topshop; Black silk tee, Gap; Nude ballet pumps, Office; Hat, Littlewoods; Stingray clutch, Salvatore Ferragamo; Gold aviators, Ray-Ban.

AUTUMN: DAY SEVEN

2011-09-17T14:46:00.000+01:00

DAY SEVEN: Blue leopard scarf, Louis Vuitton

I was misled by the sun in the morning and naively wore a suede jacket. That’ll teach me not to carry an umbrella to fashion week.

Worn with: Sheer maxi skirt, Topshop; grey tee, H&M; Wayfarers, Ray-Ban; jacket, unknown; gold brogues, Office; Stingray clutch, Salvatore Ferragamo

AUTUMN: DAY SIX

2011-09-16T14:43:00.000+01:00

DAY SIX: Leather detail blazer, Miss Selfridge

Also known as day one of London Fashion Week, I decided to start comfortably with jeans and this blazer with another nod to the masculine trend.

Worn with: sheer blouse, New Look; grey jeans, Miss Selfridge; gold chain, vintage; gold brogues, Office; Wayfarers, Ray-Ban; belt, Gap; Leather bag, Chanel.

AUTUMN: DAY FIVE

2011-09-15T14:38:00.000+01:00

DAY FIVE: Leather fronted trousers, Oasis

By the time you read this, I will have been awake since 6am and knee deep in London Fashion Week. I had to find a replacement for my beloved Topshop leather skinnies that famously split on the bum during last season’s Menswear day and I found these on a lunchtime breeze through my local branch of Oasis. They’re a bit high-waisted for my liking but when worn with a tee, they’re fine. I will no doubt also be wearing these at some point during LFW so keep an eye out for their reappearance.

Worn with: slogan tee, Wrangler; Black plimsolls, Converse; Gold chain, Vintage.

AUTUMN: DAY FOUR

2011-09-14T14:28:00.000+01:00

DAY FOUR: Slogan tee, Wrangler

I have a love-hate relationship with slogan tees but when Wrangler sent me this one as a thank you for going to their Summer Party, I couldn’t help but laugh. As well as being funny, it’s a super soft pre-distressed cotton and I just HAD to wear it at the weekend.

Worn with: Black jeans, Topshop; Gold chain, vintage; Gold aviators, Ray-Ban.

AUTUMN: DAY THREE

2011-09-13T14:26:00.000+01:00

DAY THREE: Grey skinny jeans, Miss Selfridge

A very grey look, I know but let me explain - it feels like I have been on a perennial hunt for a new pair of grey jeans for the past two years, since my favourite pair of Topshop Baxters finally gave up the ghost and split horrendously. Since then, I have tried on and bought endless pairs but nothing has quite matched my strict criteria in the grey jeans category. Then, last week during Fashion’s Night Out I stumbled into Miss Selfridge to investigate a jacket that I’d seen earlier in the day and happened across this pair.

And oh, it’s a match made in heaven - they have the slightly stretchy fit that old Baxters used to have (before someone in their design team decided to screw me) and they just fit perfectly. I can forgive the pre-distressed scratches as they have an awesome colour and cut. I’m tempted to buy a second pair off the bat in case Miss S decides to get rid of their stretch too. Perish the thought.

If you want to experience the wonder of Miss Selfridge’s jeans, click [here] for this pair.

Worn with: leopard coat, Reiss; Sunglasses brooch, Vintage; Horse tee, Topshop; Black plimsolls, Converse; Wayfarers, Ray-Ban.

AUTUMN: DAY TWO

2011-09-12T14:21:00.000+01:00

DAY TWO: Sheer maxi-skirt, Topshop

I have been hunting this skirt for weeks, possibly months in fact. I spent the latter part of the summer trying and failing to track it down. And then, as if by magic, when I went to the Topshop Outlet the other week there was one randomly amongst the endless pairs of jeans in my size and for less than a quarter of it’s original price. Methinks that this will be coming out to play for London Fashion Week…

Worn with: Tuxedo tee, New Look; Boots, New Look; Wayfarers, Ray-Ban

AUTUMN: DAY ONE

2011-09-11T14:18:00.000+01:00

Okay, double apology owed. I promised I’d be back and it’s been, what, a week since? Sorry. My main reason has been a total swamping in my day-to-day job. As some of you may know, in the real world I work as a stylist for the UK newspaper The Daily Express. For our September 2nd edition, we decided to turn our main fashion on its head and rather than shoot the story on a model, this season our readers got to meet the team behind the pages:

For my trend, I chose Masculine - as you’ve probably gathered over the last year or so, I’m a big fan of the tomboy look. The outfit was pretty much my dream look and as such, I’ve bought pretty much everything since - I’m still in search of the Creepers from Underground. Long story as to why I don’t have them yet but we’ll come to that on another day. I have to say, it’s very weird being on the other side of the camera - it’s one thing when it’s on this blog and quite another when it’s in a national newspaper!

For those of you who can’t read the small print, here’s the full breakdown of my outfit:

Coat with leather sleeves, Topshop; Sheer leopard shirt, New Look; Wingtips, Asos; Trousers, Topshop; Creepers, Underground; Gold watch, Michael Kors

FLATS: THE FINALE

2010-05-18T23:56:00.000+01:00

…or is it?

During the last 30 days, I’ve had lots of people ask me if I’d carry on past the one-month mark, whether I’d do another item or just chuck it in altogether. Well, I’m not ready to jack it in quite yet.

From next week, I’ll be back with another 30 days but with something other than shoes. Truth is, I’d quite like to wear a few of my favourite pairs again but all you shoe-fetishists out there, fear not, the flats challenge will be back sooner rather than later as there’s still a slew of shoes that need to be dusted down and aired out.

So, don’t forget to check back here during the week for more details of my next 30 day challenge - I’ll be revealing details before the next round goes live next Monday.

See you all next week for another month of challenges!

FLATS: DAY THIRTY

2010-05-18T23:54:00.000+01:00

DAY THIRTY: Gold leather braided sandals, Hermes

Drumroll please! Today is the final day of the fun little experiment that has been 30 days of flats so I thought it only right to go out with somewhat of a bang with these gorgeous gold Hermes sandals. These are another find from the second-hand shop in Chelsea and were again pretty much brand spanking new when I purchased them a few weeks ago. I’ve been saving them for today and it seems that the weather gods decided to play along and give me some sunshine to wear them in. As you might be able to see, they too have the espadrille-style rope base that I’ve become fond of recently and the slingback means that they don’t go flying off as I trot down the street in them.

Worn with: Black skinny jeans, Topshop; Chain print top, New Look. Not pictured: Grey leather biker jacket, Topshop; Grey leather bag, Jaeger; Grid print scarf, Deena & Ozzy

Check back later for one final very special post and some exciting 30 days shaped news… Bet that’s made you curious, hasn’t it?

FLATS: DAY TWENTY NINE

2010-05-17T23:52:00.000+01:00

DAY TWENTY NINE: Pink patent leather ballet pumps, Marc by Marc Jacobs

We’re almost at the end of this fun little experiment and admittedly, these are pretty new to the stable. I am a total Marc Jacobs junkie, so imagine my delight when I came across these pretty pumps in a second hand shop in Chelsea for £50. It would’ve been rude NOT to buy them, especially as they’re brand new - not a single scratch on the soles. They’re a nice little burst of colour in my otherwise monochromatic wardrobe and for that (and the fact that they’re MJ), I love them.

Don’t forget to have your say about whether I should continue beyond 30 days in the comments section! Believe me, there’s still a lot of shoes that could do with an airing.

Worn with: Black leggings, Topshop; Stripe sheer tee, H&M. Not pictured: Black silk cardigan, Zara; Grey leather biker jacket, Topshop; Grey leather bag, Jaeger.

FLATS: DAY TWENTY EIGHT

2010-05-17T23:51:00.000+01:00

DAY TWENTY EIGHT: Blue chambray pumps, Lands’ End

My espadrille obsession continues, although in a slightly different form today. This pair from Lands’ End are what I can only describe as the ultimate hybrid - ballet pump meets rope-based espadrille. I got these not too long ago and in the purposes of research, just discovered that they’re currently on offer on the Lands’ End website (link above) for five quid off. I really wish that I didn’t know that as it now means that I’m debating the same pair in the bold stripe.

Worn with: Grey jeans, Uniqlo; Blue bat wing sweater, Topshop. Not pictured: Grey leather bag, Jaeger.

Before I go for this evening, I have some questions for you, dear reader. Think of it as customer satisfaction if you will. As you may’ve noticed, the deadline for 30 days is rapidly approaching which makes me kind of sad as I’ve had a lot of fun doing this project and getting comments from everyone who reads it. Now, the question is should I continue beyond the 30 days? The truth is, I’ve still got a lot of shoes to wear and if you guys are game, so am I. Another option that I toyed with was to do another item as a 30 day challenge. I’d really like it if over the next 48 hours or so, you could all leave your opinions in the comments section or hit me up via twitter.

FLATS: DAY TWENTY SEVEN

2010-05-15T23:50:00.000+01:00

DAY TWENTY SEVEN: Black grosgrain and silver stud ballet pumps, Topshop(2009)

I bought these last winter and due to their non-leather body, I decided that they were too fragile to wear sloshing through puddles. Now that the weather has finall improved (albeit marginally) I can finally wear them and tonight was due to be their first outing to a gig but at the last minute exhaustion from this week’s exploits meant that I decided to stay at home. Therefore, these little stunners will have to wait a little longer to make their grand sartorial debut beyond my front door.

Worn with: Black skinny jeans, Topshop; Black and white stripe jumper with epaulette detail, Zara.

FLATS: DAY TWENTY SIX

2010-05-15T23:49:00.000+01:00

DAY TWENTY SIX: Grey, white and green paint-splatter espadrilles, Topshop

Firstly, I once again apologise for posting late. I didn’t get home until about 2:30am last night after flying back from my work trip. By that time, all I could do was kick off my shoes and fall into bed after a 22 hour day. Ouch. Anyway, on with the shoes. Oh look, another pair of espadrilles, I told you I was having a moment, didn’t I?

I bought these in Topshop on the same day as the gold woven leather sandals from Day 25. I dithered about which colour to get them in before eventually settling on the grey pair. Espadrilles were a good choice for my long day - we were up early shooting our final story before a short break and then packing up to make our flight. These are still a little tight on top but the canvas will soon give and after that, I have a feeling they won’t be leaving my feet much!

Worn with : Denim shorts, Zara; ‘Peace’ vest, Zadig & Voltaire; Green cropped parka jacket, River Island; Studded belt, Gap. Not pictured: Floral printed bag, Gap.

FLATS: DAY TWENTY FIVE

2010-05-13T23:47:00.000+01:00

DAY TWENTY FIVE: Gold leather woven sandals, Topshop (2010)

So, I know I’m meant to be wearing existing shoes from my collection but a few weeks ago I was surfing around during my lunch break and came across these little beauties. At only 25 quid, I could hardly say no, could I? I find that sometimes with Topshop shoes (particularly their sandals) it’s advisable to go down a size, as I have with these - I ended up buying them in both a 36/3 and 37/4 but the latter ended up going back as my short stumpy toes look decidedly better in the smaller size. So far, they’ve proven to be very comfortable and their leather soles are a flexible god-send in comparison to the pair I wore yesterday. They’re still in store, so grab them while you can by clicking on the link above.

Worn with: Black strapless blouson silk playsuit, Reiss. Not pictured: Striped bikini, New Look; Floral print canvas bag, Gap.

FLATS: DAY TWENTY FOUR (AGAIN)

2010-05-13T23:46:00.000+01:00

DAY TWENTY FOUR: Pink leather ruffled sandals, Topshop (2008)

My sincerest apologies for the delay in posting but I couldn’t get onto my computer until almost 11pm last night and by that time I was so exhausted that the idea of staring at a computer and doing complicated things like thinking were most definitely out of the question. We spent most of yesterday shooting on a boat which meant that these Topshop sandals didn’t get much wear as I spent a vast majority of the time running around barefoot which was probably only a good thing. As much as I love these sandals and their great summer colour, the wooden soles mean that as far as comfort factors go they’re pretty low but fashion is pain so I still wear them.

Worn with: Black and cream stripe strapless playsuit, Topshop; Studded belt, Gap. Not pictured: Floral canvas tote, Gap; Striped bikini, New Look.

FLATS: DAY TWENTY FOUR

2010-05-12T23:45:00.000+01:00

It’s been a long working day, today will have to wait until tomorrow. Apologies for the slackness but you’ll get a double post tomorrow. Oooh!

FLATS: DAY TWENTY THREE

2010-05-11T23:43:00.000+01:00

DAY TWENTY THREE: Pewter leather slides, Primark (2008)

Today’s been a busy day full of recee-ing and shooting, so comfort was a big issue - especially in heat. I bought these Birkenstock-esque slides from Primark two years ago and again, they were another multiple purchase as I found myself buying a second pair about a week later as they well and truly won me over. They started off very bright and shiny but then quickly broke down to more of a crackled pewter shade which I really like - and at only four pounds a pair, they were truly at the bargainous end of my shoe collection!

Worn with: Denim shorts, Zara; Red micro-stripe tee, New Look. Not pictured: Blue studded leather bag, Marks & Spencer; Blue wayfarer sunglasses, Ray-Ban (these are actually glued to my face)

FLATS: DAY TWENTY TWO

2010-05-10T23:41:00.000+01:00

DAY TWENTY TWO: Blue and bronze leather espadrilles, Penelope Chilvers (2010) 

Today’s a day of travelling as I’m off to Turkey for work until Friday so I need to wear shoes that are comfortable, have a little give and still look nice - these leather espadrilles from Penelope Chilvers are just the ticket. I got them as a press gift a few weeks ago and I love them so much that I’m considering buying another pair as I’m having a total espadrille moment.

These are a bit pricey at almost £80 but they’re worth pretty much every penny. They also have a really cool affect - the more you wear them, the top colour breaks down to reveal a metallic colour underneath. There’s lots of different colourways to choose from and my next ones will probably be the pearly white or jaunty saffron yellow.  Or maybe both, bank manager allowing.

Worn with: Blue skinny jeans, Miss Selfridge; Striped jumper, Boden. Not pictured: Grey leather biker jacket, Topshop; Grey UFO scarf, Topshop Unique; Pewter cross body bag, Burberry.

FLATS: DAY TWENTY ONE

2010-05-09T23:40:00.000+01:00

DAY TWENTY ONE: Nude pleather ballet pumps, Topshop

Before you say it, yes I am wearing trackpants today. It’s Sunday, I’m relatively hungover and I’ve got to pack for a five day work trip that I’m going on tomorrow so if you think there’s any chance that I might squeeze myself into something less comfortable, you’re grieviously mistaken. These little ballet pumps are great for running around the house and that’s all they’re really good for as they have very thin soles. When I bought them, they actually came with a little warning sticker to say that they shouldn’t be worn outside for extended periods so these remain definite indoor shoes, rather like a pair of expensive cats - if expensive cats cost 16 quid and came from Topshop.

Worn with: Cream cropped trackpants, Abercrombie & Fitch; Black cow print t-shirt, Marc by Marc Jacobs.

FLATS: DAY TWENTY (CONTINUED)

2010-05-09T23:38:00.000+01:00

DAY TWENTY: Leopard print ballet pumps, Office

My sincerest apologies for not posting yesterday. Although I left myself plenty of time to get ready, I had several wardrobe crises which meant that in the end, I actually ran out of time to post as our cab also turned up early just to add to the mix. Anyway, on with the shoes. I love a little bit of leopard print, particularly when it comes to shoes - this pair from Office have pretty hard backs and I’m yet to break them in fully but when worn with tights and accessorised with the pain-numbing qualities of alcohol*, I made it through the evening despite the state of my feet after Day 19.

Worn with: Black sheer studded dress, French Connection; Belt, Gap; Black tights, Wolford. Not pictured: Black wool biker jacket, Topshop; Black quilted bag, Chanel.

*Thirty Days does not advocate or endorse alcohol abuse. Please drink responsibly. Preferably in flat shoes.

FLATS: DAY TWENTY

2010-05-08T23:37:00.000+01:00

I’m having to spend most of today barefoot and house-bound owing to my shoe related injuries from yesterday but I’m off to a fancy pants event this evening, so check back later this afternoon for my red carpet take on flat shoes.

FLATS: DAY NINETEEN

2010-05-07T23:35:00.000+01:00

DAY NINETEEN: Grey cotton plimsolls, New Look (2009)

Remember how the other day I was raving about New Look shoes and how incredibly comfortable they are? Well, that doesn’t apply to this pair. These are the devil in shoe form. When I put them on this morning, they were fine. By the time I’d finished my appointments they’d completely shredded my feet and I was half a pack of plasters down. I’ve spent the whole day looking like a Michael Jackson fan after I had to put on thick white towelling socks with them to stop them from actually demolishing my feet entirely. Today was really NOT the day for this to happen but ho hum, you wear and learn - I have most definitely learnt never to wear these again without tights/socks between me and the beasts.

Worn with: Black skinny jeans, Topshop; White cotton vest, H&M; Blue check shirt, Topman; Studded belt, Banana Republic. Not pictured: Grey leather jacket, Topshop; UFO scarf, Topshop Unique; Black eel-skin bag, Prada; Plasters; Grimace.

FLATS: DAY EIGHTEEN

2010-05-06T23:34:00.000+01:00

DAY EIGHTEEN: Black leather ballet pumps, French Sole

Today is the first day in the history of 30 days of flats where I couldn’t remember if I’d worn a pair of shoes previously or not and I mentally had to do a quick check before I realized that actually, I’ve never worn these before, ever. This lovely virginal pair of pumps is from famed ballet shoe emporium French Sole, where flat shoe lovers can find pumps in every print, colour and style that you could possibly imagine. I was told in the shop that you need to go up one size due to the narrow nature of the shoes but these are already slipping and sliding on my tights-clad feet so maybe I should’ve gone for my regular size. I guess only time will tell.

Worn with: Black tube skirt, New Look; Cropped striped tee, New Look; Zipper trim cardigan, Topshop. Not pictured: Grey leather biker, Topshop; Black scarf, unknown; Black eel skin cross body bag, Prada.

FLATS: DAY SEVENTEEN

2010-05-05T23:33:00.000+01:00

DAY SEVENTEEN: Black canvas Chuck Taylor All-Stars, Converse

It’s another chilly day in London and with the clouds looking distinctly like they might open and pour, I figured that practicality would have to take priority today so out comes yet another pair of trusty Converse. I bought these recently to replace my original pair that saw me through university and beyond as they were covered in paint and riddled with holes. This pair have fallen apart far more quickly, with the rubber trim hanging off and the backs have already worn through inside. Hmm.

Worn with: Black skinny jeans, Topshop; X-ray print studded tee, Zara; Black and sequin waistcoat, Toki & Nabi; UFO scarf (just seen), Topshop Unique. Not pictured: Grey leather biker, Topshop; Grey leather bag, Jaeger

FLATS: DAY SIXTEEN

2010-05-04T23:31:00.000+01:00

DAY SIXTEEN: Cream and navy leather ballet pumps, Office (2009)

Yes, it’s the final pair of those Office pumps that I seem to own in every single colour-way going. Despite the blisteringly cold wind, I decided that I would channel spring with a muted take on the nautical look today and with their navy toe caps, these are the perfect compliment to another one of my wardrobe staples, a breton stripe jumper.

Worn with: blue skinny jeans, Miss Selfridge; Grey and blue striped jumper, Boden. Not pictured: Grey leather biker, Topshop; Blue paint scarf, Urban Edge; Grey leather bag, Jaeger.

FLATS: DAY FIFTEEN

2010-05-03T23:30:00.000+01:00

DAY FIFTEEN: Yellow leather ballet pumps, New Look

I’m feeling a little tired after yesterday’s celebrations so I decided to cheer myself up with my bright yellow pumps from New Look. I own these in about five different colours as they’re really comfortable, although the soles are a little on the thin side so they’re not ideal if there’s lots of walking to be done. Thankfully, today’s walking has been limited to house-car-restaurant-car-house so it’s all good.

Worn with: Blue skinny jeans, Miss Selfridge; Grey cashmere-mix tee, Asos Black; Leopard-print cardigan, Topshop. Not pictured: Grey leather biker, Topshop; Black quilted mini-bag, Chanel; Black scarf, unknown.

FLATS: DAY FOURTEEN

2010-05-02T23:28:00.000+01:00

DAY FOURTEEN: Navy cropped wellies, Joules (AW2010)

Today, we’d been planning to have a barbeque for my boyfriend’s 27th birthday but the weather conspired against us and it has pissed it down - on and off - all day in London so we’ve been forced inside for most of the day.

As such, when I went to do the food shop this morning, I decided that wellies were the order of the day to deal with water-logged car parks across West London. I got these a few weeks ago as a press day gift and they’ve proved very useful as I’ve hopped from puddle to puddle in my quest for paper plates and sausages. This short style won’t be available for a few months but in the meantime, you can get a knee-length version from their equestrian range right now - check out their website for details. (Link above)

Worn with: Blue skinny jeans, Miss Selfridge; Chain print top, New Look. Not pictured: Green cropped parka, River Island; Grey leather bag, Jaeger; Oversized beanie, Topman

FLATS: DAY THIRTEEN

2010-05-01T23:27:00.000+01:00

DAY THIRTEEN: Camouflage canvas ballet pumps, Primark (2007)

Sorry for the delay in posting again, it’s my boyfriend’s birthday on Monday so I had to make my way to Westfield today to finish my present buying. Going to Westfield on Saturdays is a bit like going to war, so in honour of the battle wounds that I would (and did) collect, today I decided on my camouflage ballet pumps from Primark. I originally bought these for a friend’s army themed party where everyone had to wear some form of the pattern to gain entry. As I was heading there straight from work, my old cargo trousers and tees would’ve probably got me weird looks on the tube so these shoes seemed like a good compromise. I hadn’t worn them since but as they’re a dark pattern, they pass by most people unnoticed, except my friend Owen who seemed to like them.

Worn with: Black Baxter jeans, Topshop; White oversize triangle-print vest, Aqua. Not pictured: Grey and black oversized cardigan, Gap; Grey leather bag, Jaeger; Game face.

FLATS: DAY TWELVE

2010-04-30T23:26:00.000+01:00

DAY TWELVE: White canvas slip-ons, Converse (2001 Limited Edition)

Apologies for the delay in posting today, it’s been a crazy day which started with my handbag breaking just as I got too far from my house to go back and change it.

Anyway, HURRAH it’s Friday so I’m going casual and busting out the Converse again. I bought these while I was still at school and they come out every summer. I didn’t have a chance to wash them before I threw them so they look at bit like they’ve been through the wars. You probably can’t see it very clearly in the picture but they have a red and white swirly floral print that runs along the rubber trim - that coupled with the fact that they’re slip-on rather than the standard lace up style sold them to me all those years ago.

Worn with: Blue skinny jeans, Miss Selfridge; Polka dot vest, H&M; Grey vest, American Apparel; Leopard cardigan, Pure Collection. Not pictured: Grey leather trophy biker, Topshop; Spoon necklace, Aqua; UFO scarf, Topshop Unique; Broken leather saddle bag, Prada.

FLATS: DAY ELEVEN

2010-04-30T00:07:00.000+01:00

DAY ELEVEN: Beige leather moccassins, Catarina Martins (2009)

When my mother brought me back a pair of these from her trip to Florence last year, at first I was a little bit dubious. There was something that invariably shouted GRANNY SHOE at me every time I looked at them but gradually, I came round. It may be something to do with the fact that they’re really, really comfortable and their funny nudey-beige colour looks really good with even the slightest of tans - please note that my ankles are not that orange in real life. At least, I hope not.

Worn with: Blue skinny jeans, Miss Selfridge; Micro-stripe tee, New Look; Leopard-print scarf, Marks & Spencer. Not pictured: Grey blazer, Topshop; Brown leather saddle bag, Prada

FLATS: DAY TEN

2010-04-29T00:04:00.000+01:00

DAY TEN: White canvas plimsolls, Primark (2008)

As I’m going to be spending this afternoon running around press days followed by an event this evening, I need some comfy shoes to pound those pavements. My toes are feeling the burn from yesterday’s pair of pumps so softness was a key factor in choosing these plimsolls as today’s pair. Of course, running around town means that by the end of the day these’ll be more grey than white but you can’t have it all. These are another Primark find, one that I liked so much that I rushed out and bought a second pair as there’s always one set in the wash - these were fresh out this morning and as you can see, they’re already looking a little dirty. Oh well.

Worn with: Blue vintage wash Baxter jeans, Topshop; White slubby tee, Asos. Not pictured: Grey blazer, Topshop; UFO print scarf, Topshop Unique; Navy leather bag, Marni;

FLATS: DAY NINE

2010-04-28T00:01:00.000+01:00

DAY NINE: Blue metallic ballet pumps, Primark (2007)

Apart from Office and Topshop, a large portion of my shoe collection used to come from Primark. I know that it’s cheap, slave labour made, killing rainforests and blah blah blah but when I was interning, it was the only place where I could afford to go shopping. I think these were about £4 and the summer that they came out, I literally bought them in every colour going. Most have now gone to the great shoe cupboard in the sky but this pair has proved pretty resilient, despite the creases and the battering that I give all of my shoes.

Worn with: Grey denim shorts, Topshop; White spine print tee, Hannah Marshall for Matches. Not pictured: Blue leopard cardigan, Marks & Spencer; Green cropped parka, River Island; Blue splash print scarf, Urban Edge; Silver bauble necklace, Phase Eight; Navy leather bag, Marni.

FLATS: DAY EIGHT

2010-04-27T00:00:00.000+01:00

DAY EIGHT: Grey suede and black patent toe cap ballet pumps, Office (2010)

Yes, I know, it’s another pair of the Office toe cap ballet pumps – I can’t help it, I love them too much not to wear them. These are actually my most recent acquisition and they have a geometric pattern stitched into the suede instead of quilting like the rest of my collection and they’re more shallow cut meaning that there’s some serious toe cleavage for any foot fetishists out there.

Worn with: Grey skinny jeans, Uniqlo; Striped top, Day Birger et Mikkelson. Not pictured: Rope necklace, Asos; Black wool biker jacket, Topshop; Black and cream grid scarf, Deena & Ozzy; Navy leather bag, Marni

FLATS: DAY SEVEN

2010-04-25T23:58:00.000+01:00

DAY SEVEN: Grey canvas Chuck Taylor All-Stars, Converse

Everyone loves a good pair of Converse, including me. I think I own about 15 pairs in various colours and designs, so you’ll probably see quite a few pairs on here, especially on weekend posts. Today, I did a mad dash around Westfield and then the supermarket in preparation of barbequeing again, so I pulled out one of my trusty grey pairs. They’re battered to kingdom come and the entire insides have worn away on the heel so I have to wear them with socks but I love them and can’t bring myself to chuck (pardon the pun) them away.

When I was at university and before the advent of ballet pumps, Converse were pretty much all I wore so they hold a special place in my heart and indeed, shoe collection. One of the best places to buy them is definitely Office, which has one of the biggest variations in terms of style and colour, as well as often having exclusive designs - I’ve got the leopard print pair firmly in my sights.

Worn with: Black ‘Baxter’ jeans, Topshop; Grey and navy stripe jumper, Boden. Not pictured: Green parka-style jacket, River Island; Grey/green studded bag, Max C

FLATS: DAY SIX

2010-04-24T23:56:00.000+01:00

DAY SIX: Silver leather sandals, Topshop (2009)

I have a feeling that weekends, particularly Saturdays, may throw up something of a conundrum in the flat shoe stakes. Today, I’m heading to a barbeque during the day and then a party in the evening, so I need a pair of shoes that will carry me through both events without ripping open my feet. These sandals from Topshop should do the trick - they’ll keep my feet cool as I loll in the park and then later this evening, I’ll pair them with black trousers and a smarter top for the party or maybe even a dress, depending on how warm it stays.

Worn with (day): Dark denim shorts with studded waistband, Zara; Striped vest, Topshop; Grey bandaeu top, American Apparel. Not pictured: Grey and navy striped jumper, Boden; Red leopard print scarf, Marks & Spencer; Brown leather saddle bag, Prada

I’ll update later with ‘Worn with’ for the evening. Enjoy the sunshine, everyone!

UPDATE: Worn with (night): black leather leggings, H&M; White racer-back vest, H&M; Grey blazer, Topshop; Red leopard scarf, Marks & Spencer; Black safety pin clutch, Bodhi

FLATS: DAY FIVE

2010-04-23T23:55:00.000+01:00

DAY FIVE: Black quilted leather with patent toe caps, Office (2009)

Remember how I said on Day Two that I had bought three pairs of the same Office shoes? Well, here’s pair number two. I get a lot of comments on these as they’re so similar to the Chanel ones (minus those beautiful interlocking CCs) and to boot, they’re super soft and comfortable, which is good as yesterday’s numbers ripped up my feet slightly (can you spot the plaster?). I was gutted when I was told that they wouldn’t be carrying over the style for 2010, so imagine my delight to find some new colourways while browsing in my local branch of Office the other day. I feel a purchase coming on…

Worn with: Black Baxter jeans, Topshop; Black and cream striped tee, BDG; Not pictured: Trophy biker jacket, Topshop; UFO scarf, Topshop Unique; Grey leather bag, Jaeger; Hangover.

FLATS: DAY FOUR

2010-04-22T23:53:00.000+01:00

DAY FOUR: Nude leather ballet pumps, Topshop (2009)

This is actually my second pair of this particular pump after the first pair were chewed up by an over-enthusiastic (and teething) dachshund puppy that we were dog-sitting last spring. It took a lot of stalking around various branches and an almost obsessive bashing of the Topshop website until I finally found another pair, such is my love for them. This is another pair from the spring regulars stable of last year and as it’s finally warm enough to wear them, I figured that they’re the perfect foil to my leather panel leggings.

Worn with: Leather panel leggings and sheer stripe tee, both H&M. Not pictured: grey blazer, Topshop; Black scarf, unknown; Grey leather bag, Jaeger

FLATS: DAY THREE

2010-04-21T23:51:00.000+01:00

DAY THREE: Red coated canvas Mary-Janes, Topshop (2009)

I’m busting out of monochrome and embracing a little colour on this sunny, sunny day. These shoes were an impulse purchase by my mother, who then lost the receipt when she was going to return them so I took them off her hands. This is actually the first time that I’ve worn them as the backs were a little stiff and they felt a little tight but as I’ve been walking around today they’ve thankfully loosened up a little bit. I’m always weary of styles with straps as my legs are pretty curvy but I there’s something kind of charming and Marni-esque about these, they remind me of the Start-Rites I used to wear to school.

Worn with: Red and white micro-stripe tee and black tube skirt, both New Look; black opaques, Wolford. Not pictured: Grey blazer, Topshop; Black cardigan, Gap; Black scarf, unknown; Grey leather bag, Jaeger.

FLATS: DAY TWO

2010-04-20T23:49:00.000+01:00

DAY TWO: Cream quilted leather gold toe caps ballet pumps, Office (2009)

I bought these last summer and loved them so much, I bought two more pairs in different colour ways (no doubt, coming soon). At £50 a pair, they’re a lot cheaper than their Chanel counterparts but the quality is definitely there. In all honesty, I’m surprised I haven’t worn through these yet as they’re part of my staple wardrobe and my feet are barely out of them. I’m actually kind of sad that I don’t get to wear them for another month now. Boo.

Worn with: Black ‘Baxter’ jeans, Topshop; White slubby tee, Asos. Not pictured: grey/black Chanel-style jacket, Peacocks; Grey leather trophy biker jacket, Topshop; UFO print grey scarf, Topshop Unique; Grey leather ‘Tilly’ bag, Jaeger

FLATS: DAY ONE

2010-04-19T23:46:00.000+01:00

DAY ONE: Pewter woven leather ballet pumps, Topshop (2009)

I bought these late last summer and have only worn them about four times since, even though they’re lovely and soft. Saying that, I wore them last week with bare feet and they sliced open my toe - hence the tights today. Well, that and the slightly cooler weather.

Worn with: Grey tee, H&M; Striped skirt, New Look; Black tights, Wolford; Not pictured: Yellow cardigan, Brora; Grey leather trophy biker jacket, Topshop; Blue printed cotton scarf, Urban Edge; Grey leather ‘Tilly’ bag, Jaeger

Rate ‘em or hate ‘em? Let me know.

THIRTY DAYS OF... FLATS

2010-04-18T23:43:00.000+01:00

Before I begin this fun little fashion experiment, I thought it wise to give you all a little background. Pretty much a year ago to the day, I decided it would be a good time to sort out all of my shoes, organising them into categories. In the process, I realised several things:

1. I own a lot of pairs of shoes.

2. In particular, I own a LOT of flat shoes.

3. I spend an awful lot of money on said shoes but only wear about four pairs on rotation.

Before I go any further, we’re going to need a little more back story. By day, I am a Junior Stylist on a national newspaper. While most of my peers run around in sky high stilettos (mid-heels be damned), I am confined to flats due to hyper-mobile joints which have resulted in my left knee blowing out three times.

As I mentioned in point three, I seem to wear a handful of pumps on rotation, despite the fact that I own far more pairs than is probably healthy. Therefore, for the next month, I will be attempting to wear a different pair of shoes each day, with no repetition. I’m hoping that not only will it mean that I will actually get to air out some pairs that have lived in crates since last year but also jolt me sartorially out of my uniform of black jeans.

Starting tomorrow, each day I will post a photo of the shoes of the day on here, along with details of what they were worn with and to, because let’s face it - you wouldn’t wear the same shoes to a wedding as you would to a Pitch’n’Putt. My only question for you all out there is whether you’d prefer a full outfit photo to put the shoes into context or whether knees down will suffice? Leave me a comment and let me know.

Wish me luck.