AUTUMN CHECKLIST: PART TWO

I admit, I have been utterly useless these last few weeks when it comes to blogging. Combine a very busy work season with the process of trying to buy a flat and you get one very exhausted me, top it all off with rain and wind and you have one very exhausted, damp and pissed off me. I've spent the last few days sliding all over the place in my Topshop boots (distinct lack of grip on the soles) so I decided that today it was time to switch out to my old buddies Converse All Stars. Noone likes a stylist with a leg in plaster and I could see that coming a mile off if I carried on in the boots, think they'll have to wait for drier days.

Now, I'm usually a classic black All Stars girl, switching out to white or cream in the summer but I got sent this pair by Littlewoods back in the summer during the Olympics and today I felt like I needed a bit of colour to my look - wearing black skinnies and a black coat needs a bit of breaking up sometimes, plus the berry/wine red seemed very seasonally apt, especially when teamed with the masses of leaves at my bus stop.

In fact, I liked this colour so much that when I customised a pair at Schuh a few weeks ago, I went for high tops in the same colour but that's another story for another day.

Converse All Stars available at Littlewoods [here]

AUTUMN CHECKLIST: PART ONE

Every autumn, I have a check list of new things that I want for the season and without doubt, a pair of boots (or maybe even two) is always on there. I have always wanted ankle boots but until recently, I was convinced that ankle boots would never be mine on account of my splendidly hideous cankles. You're probably shaking your head at this point and muttering something about me being crazy but y'know, once you get something into your head, it becomes very hard to shift hate of a body part. Even more so than the body part itself.

Anyway, my general rule with key purchases for the new season is get in there early. Like coats, the good stuff comes out while you're still thinking about what you're going to pack for your beach holiday. I bought these back in June when I was a little bit tipsy. I then, as I do every year, spent a few weeks staring at them, thinking I was mad for buying them and that I should take them back (god, was I really that drunk when I handed over my card?). I also didn't wear them for fear of having to take them back and not being able to return them. This in turn led to what-if-they're-not-comfortable anxiety and oh-god-what-have-I-done-itis. Good lord, it was like a buckled leather Catch-22. Traumatic.

I finally decided that I liked them in September (oh yeah, just ten weeks since I'd bought them) and decided that I wanted to wear them to Fashion Week. Of course, I procrastinated with breaking them in until it got to the point where it was the Thursday night before LFW kicked off, there were clothes, shoes, bags and more clothes strewn literally EVERYWHERE and I thought sod it, I'm wearing those tomorrow. I lobbed some Compeeds and a blister stick in my bag and prayed that the shoe gods and knee deities would align and allow me a peaceful fashion week without blisters or dislocations.

See, my knee was another factor. I haven't worn any kind of heel for over two years, not even a little two inch number like these for fear of another dislocation. But I am proud to say that so far, so good. I wore them three days out of five at LFW and at no point did my feet or knees start to compain. Hell, I even ran for a bus the other day while wearing them and that really doesn't happen often.

While they're cut out on the sides (Topshop's attempt at transitional boots, I believe), for winter I'm rocking them with socks that peek out. For this purpose, I have bought numerous pairs of the same Topshop lace edged socks that usually just about pop out. I even coordinated my socks to my jumper today. I'm cool like that. Or something.

Worn with: sunglasses, Valentino; scarf, All Saints; jumper, Chinti & Parker; leather shorts, H! by Henry Holland; socks, Topshop; watch, Michael Kors.

BRIGHTS: DAY FOURTEEN

DAY FOURTEEN: Studded sandals, River Island

With the brief window of a whole day of sunshine that yesterday afforded me (thank god as I was shooting outside), I took the opportunity to finally wear my mental new sandals from River Island that I bought over Jubilee weekend.

I'd been lusting after these for a while but I didn't know if they were a step too far until my lovely friend Holly convinced me that yes, we both needed them in our lives. Matchy matchy.

Anyway, I digress. I don't usually go for sandal styles with an ankle strap as God has cursed me with dreaded cankles but I think that frankly anyone looking at these is so distracted by the colourful spikes that they fail to notice my fat ankles.

Unfortunately, I was running around like a loon yesterday thanks to the weather and a brief hour of cloud-related panic that I only managed to snap this quick photo of my sandal-clad feet on the tube. Must do better next time. Apologies.

In the meantime, if you fancy your own pair of mental sandals, they're available [here] for a very reasonable £35.

Worn with: Khaki jeans, Topshop; neon varnish, American Apparel.

BRIGHTS: DAY TWO

DAY TWO: Mesh ballet pumps, Nelly

Heatwave - YEAY! New shoes - DOUBLE YEAY! First up, apologies for the lack of posts over the weekend, our ever delightful internet connection decided to up sticks and piss off on holiday, meaning that I was at the mercy of my 3G connection which does nothing for my laptop. I spent the whole weekend trying to do things on the rest of my Mac stack to no avail. Coupled with a ridiculous workload, I have been incommunicado from most of the internet world. And the real world for that matter.

But let's talk about shoes, yes? I love shoes. Behold the newest addition to a shoe collection that means that I will very soon need an extra room just for footwear. They are from Nelly.com, which is kind of like a Swedish ASOS and has just launched in the UK to massive fanfare and an awesome party not long ago at one of my favourite venues, Aqua London.

I picked up these particular shoes for three very specific reasons:

1) I have had orange ballet pumps on my mind for quite some time now. They have seeped into my consciousness like a bad smell and I could not get rid of the thought. I think this is a run-on from my obsession with orange at the beginning of the year, but on a more manageable and less look-like-a-plague-victim level.

2) The mesh. Thanks to my dodgy grandma knees, I have to wear insoles in my shoes at all times or risk the wrath of my joints. This means that most styles of sandals are out of the question when this plus my freaky toe-post hating toes factor into the equation, meaning I spend most of summer in ballet pumps and with stinking feet. I bet you wanted to know that, right? Well, the mesh on these means that my feet can breeeathe this summer. Hurrah!

3) They are only £14.95. Amazing.

They are so amazing in fact, that I am giving serious thought to buying them in every colour combination that they come in. You can buy this particular fetching orange and blue combination [here], blue and pink [here] and my next purchase, neon yellow and green [here].

Worn with: grey skinnies, Topshop

TRANSITION: DAY THIRTY

DAY THIRTY: Snake print slippers, Jones Bootmaker

At long last, the final installment of Transition. Apologies for the delay but what with the monsoon-like rain, winds and generally grey skies, I've been stuck back in my winter clothes and Converse for the last few days and I don't like lying to you all or being totally ridiculous like 'oh yeah, its pissing rain but here I am in some silky trousers and some sunglasses!'

I've been hoarding several new pairs of shoes for a few weeks now, just waiting for the weather to get better so that I could finally start wearing them. Waking up to some sunshine today but still not feeling confident enough for mesh or open toes, these slippers from Jones Bootmaker felt like the perfect compromise.

The other week, I went along to ogle their Autumn/Winter wares (and oh, how lovely they are) and while I was there, I got to pick a pair from their current collection. I've been avoiding slipper-type shoes all season on the belief that they made my cankles look worse but these don't seem to do that as they're cut a little higher on the top of the foot so they don't look as flat and non-existent as a lot of other styles.

You can get them [here] in the snake/taupe colour or in black suede [here].

Worn with: Grey skinnies, Topshop

AUTUMN: DAY TWENTY NINE

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

FLATS: THE FINALE

…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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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.