Tuesday, 31 July 2012

Wardrobe Essentials #2

Varsity Closet

Who says "preppy" isn't fashionable? I say look out for these key pieces the next time you're looking for something to wear on campus

Buttoned-Up Shirt

Collar Necklace

The Blazer

Chino's and a Skinny Belt

The Satchel


Images:
theglitterguide.com
stylemania.com
rockinthatbling.com
prettystems.com
weheartit.com
couturecourier.tumblr.com
camilladelacoe.faljour
thenewmattyb.com

Friday, 27 July 2012

Style Icon #1

Alexa Chung

When people ask me "so...what do you do for fun?" I can't help but confess the truth that may lead to a few raised eyebrows....not to our fashionistas of coarse. Yes, I am an Alexa Chung stalker. And when I'm not filling my files with hordes of magazine clippings or google image downloads, I'm shopping for look-alike outfits. Who can blame me?? This British bomshell has a designer wardrobe that should have it's own strut on the runway. And let's not mention the Mulberry Bag named in her honor. See my tips on how to get her style:




1) A master in the art of mixing shapes and materials and combining feminine and masculine pieces to create an ensemble I try and imitate on a daily basis - yes I confess yet again. For that androgynous style try pairing a shirt with a sweater or boyish blazer and an ultra feminine skirt in floral prints or bright colors. Oh! and lets not forget the brogues!

2) Alexa is often seen in short and sweet feminine frocks. They remind me a bit of Sunday school dresses or Rachel Berry from glee but none the less I am in love with this 5 year old girly girl look. Be on the look out for pretty prints and soft tones and then add something super quirky like red tights or an ethnic patterned jersey.

3) To make any look "Alexafied", incorporate a collar. Mix a peter pan collared shirt and one of your uber girly dresses and there you have it. If you are looking for a more girl-meets-boy vibe, swap your peter pan for a sharper edge.

4) And for this season grab as many coats and wooly knits as you can find and squeeze them into your ensemle and there you have it. 

Simples!





Thursday, 26 July 2012

A Winter's Day in Cape Town


Wardrobe Essential #1

My closet is truly a haven filled with my most precious garments and accessories. Now that may sound altogether rather over-the-top but for a lover of fashion, clothes are to me what paints are to an artist. And, well basically I regard fashion as a piece of art. Everything you put together creates an aesthetic and the best part is you can make it completely unique. As with the beginnings of any masterpiece one needs a blank canvas and so below I've suggested a few essential pieces to start off your wardrobe. (Note that this is for a winter wardrobe):







1) Pick a nude color palette as this makes mixing and matching pieces a lot easier and are classic colors. Make use of accessories (scarves, bags) to brighten up your wardrobe. You could also buy 2 of the same garments in a different color or pattern.

2) It's not necessary to have every single jacket shown but pick 2 or 3 to start off your wardrobe.   Ensure jackets, blazers and cardigans fit well and are not too tight. You can test this by holding out your arms straight in front of you. If it tugs heavily or the shoulder seams pop up opt for a bigger size.

3) Find a good pair of jeans to take you from day to night. A pair of dark denims or black pants are a wardrobe essential as these can be paired with, well anything really (not to mention very slimming). You can play around with leggings and stocking in different textures and colors and is a good way to keep up with trends.

4) The 3/4 sleeve dress is a fantastic winter piece not to mention the skirts in rich winter colors and textures.

5) Pumps are essential for any seasonal wardrobe but invest in a good pair of leather boots to keep you warm and looking very classy during the chilly season.