Lucy Laucht

Winter colour.

2012-01-22T14:32:00.000-05:00

{Bright pink Mexican pleated skirt: thrifted, gingham shirt: J. Crew, neon cashmere: J. Crew, bracelet: Lucy Folk, ring: thrifted, winter essential: Lucas pawpaw ointment, book: 'A history of the world in 100 objects'}

Tuesday.

2012-01-12T21:32:00.004-05:00

{Necklace: DinosaurToes Skirt: Country Road, jacket: H&M, shirt: J Crew, boots & bag: Zara, ring: Topshop}

Stripes!

January.

2012-01-08T20:29:00.000-05:00

{Pants, jacket, necklace and ring: Topshop, bracelet, Lucy Folk, shoes:Vince Camuto, top: thrifted, bag: Mulberry (on sale!) Curls courtesy of this amazing thing!}

It's with a head full of resolutions that I welcome 2012..more wine, less yoga, you know, the usual. Perhaps even blogging more often...Happy New Year!

December.

2011-12-23T16:43:00.000-05:00

There's nothing like a new job to throw the daily routine into disarray; the blog has been sadly neglected. So whilst I catch my breath, here's a snapshot of the past few weeks: {Gin, roses and vintage cameras, jools, fresh flowers in old jars, Celine dress & H&M clutch, friend ship bracelets via Lucy Folk (available here} and The Little Black list, vintage OdLR, my favourite Christmas tradition, Tea + British Vogue and a hangover, Comme des Garçons clutch & Zara beaded cape}.

Winter.

2011-12-10T10:14:00.001-05:00

{Skirt: J. Crew, sweater: Uniqlo, boots: Wittner, bag: Mulberry, coat: Zara}

Autumn

2011-11-26T15:20:00.001-05:00

{Vest: Topshop, pants: Jill Stuart, bag: Mulberry, shoes: Vince Camuto, sweater: Uniqlo}

Thanks for the pictures, Ms Samardak x

Gingham + Leopard.

2011-11-11T10:46:00.000-05:00

{Vest: Topshop, shirt: vintage, shoes: Vince Camuto, skinny jeans: Zara, bag: Mulberry, accesories: mix of vintage, topshop & Sheyna c/o}

Chartreuse.

2011-11-03T21:13:00.000-04:00

{Boots, skirt & sweater: Zara, bag:Mulberry, braclet: c/o Anjolee, H&M, watch: citizen}

Sunday.

2011-10-30T18:13:00.001-04:00

{Shirt & jacket: Zara, bag: Mulberry, bracelets (left to right: vintage, diamond bracelet c/o Anjolee- where you can customize diamond bracelets, tie bracelets c/o Sheyna, watch: vintage, photos: Netty}

Given my propensity to lose jewellery items that hold significant value, sentimental or otherwise, I'm doing my darn bestest to look after two new sparkly additions. (This rule does not, unfortunately, apply to things with the provenance of say, Forever 21.) These being my grandmother's beautiful 1930s engagement ring and the other, this diamond bangle.

The Edit.

2011-10-25T04:24:00.000-04:00

New pieces added: Shop The Edit.

Monday.

2011-10-24T09:57:00.000-04:00

{Trousers: Anna Sui similar here, bag: Mulberry, shoes: Tony Bianco, jacket: Topshop, necklace: Stella and Dot (on sale!) bracelets: c/o Sheyna}

Downtown.

2011-10-21T08:02:00.001-04:00

Read this blog and you will know that I love me a piece of sparkle. So when Miriam Haskell asked me to interpret my downtown style using pieces from the new collection made in collaboration with vintage fashion institution Decades, it was on.

After a day of downtown style pictures (follow @MiriamHaskell on Instagram to see more) I was invited to the Soho House pop up trunk show to see the collection, do some more social media'ing and to chat with the Miriam Haskell team. It was a delight to meet such down to earth, witty people who share the same clear creative vision- so thanks for having me guys.

Now, I’m not sure my warblings will do this collection justice so I'll let the pictures do the talking...

{Bracelets: Miriam Haskell for Decades, skirt & top: J Crew, denim shirt: H&M Kids, bag: Zara, watch: vintage Citizen}

If you are in New York and would like to shop the collection, RSVP to the Soho House trunk show either today, or tomorrow (11am-7pm) by emailing soho@dtwo1.com and follow Miriam Haskell on Twitter and Facebook.

The Edit

2011-10-19T04:00:00.000-04:00

"The Edit": the result of my love for hunting out the perfect thrifted designer pieces. A carefully selected collection of lightly worn designs which include The Row, Escada and Chloe. Hop on over to my Etsy shop to see more.

Love New York now more than ever

2011-10-18T09:00:00.002-04:00

{Dress: Paul and Joe, Bag: Mulberry, shirt: H&M kids, scarf: Gap, shoes: Witchery, bracelets: H&M, c/o Sheyna, c/o Alex and Ani, vintage}

au revoir summer.

Vintage dress

2011-10-13T21:13:00.000-04:00

{Dress: pinched from my mum, shoes: Ann Taylor, bag: Mulberry, shirt: H&M kids, bracelet: gift from Jessie, necklace: c/o Sheyna}

So, I am not a great subject. Ask my trusty photographers and they will tell you in many pictures I have either my eyes shut (see above) or I'm trying to work an incredibly unflattering pose.

Still, what's nice about these pictures is the dress. It was made by my mum sometime in the 70s and when I was old enough to stop wearing Kurt Cobain t-shirts and actually appreciate clothes, I made it mine. Thanks mum!

Print + Stripes + Leopard

2011-10-11T20:20:00.001-04:00

{Skirt: J Crew, shirt: H&M, shoes, Vince Camuto, necklace: made by moi from stones bought at a market, bag: Mulberry. Photos: Thank you Ms Netty!}

Print + stripes + leopard = awesomeness

Hello, new skirt

2011-10-10T04:00:00.000-04:00

{Skirt: vintage, t: Country Road, sandals: Zara, bag: Mulberry. Pictures by Paul}

There's a vintage store in my neighbourhood where if you look past the pile of moth eaten furs and the fact that if you lit a match, the whole place would go up in a ball of polyester ignited flames, there's a gem or two to be had. Case in point, this pleated, chevron patterned midi skirt. The length is kind of man repelling but perfect for this lingering summer weather that's making New York so beautiful at the moment.

Lemon Tart

2011-10-09T08:10:00.000-04:00

Sunday is my recovery day. It's the day I turn the kitchen upside down, make an unholy mess and forget about the weeks trivialities. Cue this lemon tart. The key to the set of this tart depends on precision, which sadly is not something I am bestowed with. As delicious as it was, the blooming thing didn't set properly. Follow these instructions to the word and yours should!

You'll need: All butter shortcrust pastry

4 lemons (juice of 4, finely grated zest of 3)

170g of cubed butter

220g caster sugar

5 medium eggs

Leopard

2011-10-06T07:44:00.002-04:00

{Pants: Vintage: top: Isaac Mizrahi, shoes: Vince Camuto here, bag: Mulberry, bracelets: c/o Sheyna, necklace Marc Jacobs}

Flare

2011-10-02T19:07:00.000-04:00

{Stretch Flare Jean: c/o Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply, top: Isabel Marant Etoile, clutch: Comme des Garçons, belt: Vintage, wedges: Marc Jacobs, necklace: c/o Sheyna, other: vintage.}

Being of the short variety, I've always been rather wary of flared jeans. That was until I tried these from Ralph Lauren's new line, Denim & Supply. They arrived to the office where I promptly tried them on there and then, and they fit like a dream. Better still, they cost under $80. It is love.

Pretty Powerful- giveaway

2011-09-29T18:21:00.000-04:00

When Bobbi Brown asked me to write about my inspiration, I didn't need to think twice. My mum (as seen here in Spain, circa 1974, picking oranges from a cooler- tres glam) is the most inspirational person in my life. She's the strongest person I know, dresses beautifully in outfits of grey and tonal beige and always looks fabulous. Plus, she's bloody good at putting lipstick on using the rear view mirror whilst driving. She's held our family together through the toughest times I've ever experienced and she's always supported our decisions, even when I told her I was moving across the world for a boy. And she's never once said I told you so when I've called crying with homesickness and feeling sorry for myself.

Thanks mum.

So, to celebrate just how awesome my mum is, Bobbi Brown is giving away this rather lovely Pretty Powerful makeup palette. To enter, leave a comment on this post and tweet using the twitter button below, making sure you use the hashtag #prettypowerful. Winner chosen at random next week.

Fig Crostini

2011-09-25T09:06:00.000-04:00

Goat cheese fig crostini is all I can think about when I'm hungover. To make, drizzle honey over sliced figs & pear and roast for 10 minutes. Finish with sweet balsamic glaze.

Pour La Victoire Giveaway

2011-09-22T07:38:00.000-04:00

{Shoes: c/o Pour La Victoire (currently on sale) shirt: F21, skirt, belt & pin: vintage, bag: Zara, ring: Sportsgirl, necklace: c/o Sheyna. Photos by Netty}

I love these Pour La Victoire wedges because they make me damn tall, and it's nice to be on normal people height level for once.

Now, everyone loves shoes, and everyone loves free shoes even more. The generous folk over at Pour La Victoire are giving away the gorgeous grey pair featured above and all you need to do to enter is follow these easy peasy steps.

1) Hit the Facebook like button below 2) Leave a comment on this post together with your email address and 3) Like Pour La Victoire on Facebook www.facebook.com/PLVshoes and follow on them Twitter here www.twitter.com/pourlavictoire. ~~Random winner selected next week!~~ Contest is now closed. Congrats to Brianne Lee!

Gingham

2011-09-19T17:17:00.000-04:00

I wore this to the Anna Sui show last week when I had twenty minutes to make it from Union Square to Lincoln centre in rush hour. That day I learned these Marc Jacobs sandals were not designed for running nor subway stairs at high speed, that this orange vintage gingham check skirt is dangerously close to splitting and that Anna Sui's silk prints for next season are just awesome.

{Skirt: vintage, shirt: H&M, shoes: Marc Jacobs, Bag: Mulberry, necklaces: vintage, stone necklace: c/o Sheyna, ring: H&M} Photos: Netty

Geranium

2011-09-14T04:00:00.000-04:00

I've had this shirt 'forever' which is secret code word for Forever 21. I like to pretend it's silk (even though we all know it's polyester.) I'm drawn to geranium tones and this shirt joins a collection of nail polishes (essie: Meet Me at Sunset- you can't beat it), purses and even a terribly malnourished geranium plant (caring for plants is not a strength of mine.) This colour is a reminder of the long hot summer days we're reluctantly waving goodbye to.

{Shirt: F21, shorts: vintage, shoes: Ann Taylor, bag: mulberry, belt: Zara, necklaces: mix of vintage and c/o Sheyna}

Pleats Please

2011-09-12T22:15:00.000-04:00

Pleats are my wardrobe staple and this grey accordion skirt is a new favourite.

{Skirt: c/o Alainn Bella, top: Elie Tahari, bag: Mulberry, belt & shoes: vintage: ring: H&M, bracelets: c/o Sheyna, stone necklace c/o Sheyna}

Get 15% off full priced items at Alainn Bella by using the code lucy

Create your own jewellery and get 20% off any purchase at Sheyna by using the code Lucy20

Back on the Grid

2011-09-10T19:07:00.000-04:00

{From top, left to right: Anouk Colantoni and Nicole Warne looking muy lovely, Brahmin: check them out, gorgeous bags aplenty. Candice Lake demonstrating her best photographer yoga, whilst Anouk Colantoni looks every inch a New Yorker next to two yellow cabs. Candice holding up traffic on 6th Ave- no models were harmed. Nicole from Gary Pepper Vintage, absolutely stunning despite the drenching rain and 4.30am call time.}

So, I've completely fallen off the map recently and there is a reason why. I don't usually go into detail about what I do for a living, but when I'm not posting pictures of myself (which sounds almost as ridiculous as it is) I'm dreaming up creative campaigns and digital strategy for fashion brands. So, as you can imagine, around this time of year everything gets rather busy and I don't have time for outfit posts. And trust me, there's no better formula for mismatching outfits and dark circles under the old eyes like pulling together a 24 page advertising shoot in five days, which includes an international photographer and cast, various NYC locations, and the tail end of a hurricane.

Miraculously, it all came together and we shot Brahmin's Holiday look book with the gorgeous Candice Lake, (who is just as stunning, funny and talented as everybody says she is.) It intermittently poured with rain all day but the crew was amazing and all I can say is, thank god for the luxurious RV- our temporary Tribeca home which housed a crew of 30. It was literally 4 times the size of my apartment.

Now Holiday is shot, it's onto Spring!

Check out Candice's take here.

Turquoise & yellow.

2011-08-29T04:00:00.004-04:00

This yellow Jill Stuart dress is among one of my first sewing machine victims. Its wide kaftan shape was good for the beach only, so I tailored it slightly and wore to Vogue on Thursday, where I felt like I belonged on a cruise. In a nod to fall, everyone was beautifully chic in black and muted shades. I'm not sure if I'm ready to relinquish summer and colour just yet.

{Dress: Jill Stuart, bag: Brahmin, sandals: Zara, necklace: mix from flea markets, bracelets: c/o Alix and Ani}

Notes on a Week.

2011-08-26T08:25:00.001-04:00

{African Turquoise Stones: Acquired from the most amazing flea markets in Cape Cod and turned into a necklace by moi. 'A cup of tea is the key to Happiness' The Queen via good friend Camilla, cup from Anthropologie. Red Comme des Garçons purse: a gift from a very dear friend, which I will treasure forever (purse and friend). 70s necklace with lapis lazuli stones: another Cape Cod find. Sewing machine- the gift that keeps on giving:(not pictured) gift from boyfriend. Now I can tackle the pile of clothes I've bought myself promising I will alter.}

New Gems

2011-08-25T04:00:00.003-04:00

{Bag: Brahmin, skirt: Urban Outfitters, shirt: Topshop, shoes: Zara, gold bracelets c/o Alex and Ani, necklace: vintage from Cape Cod flea market.}

Postcards

2011-08-23T04:00:00.007-04:00

Finds like this make long, fruitless hours spent searching through mothy old thrift stores seem worth it. I fought tooth and nail to get my hands on this Missoni dress and damn it was worth the effort.

{Dress: Missoni, shoes: Marc Jacobs, bag: Mulberry, belt & necklace: vintage, ring: H&M}

Blue Gingham

2011-08-19T04:00:00.001-04:00

A suitably nautical-themed post for a weekend away in Cape Cod. Have a great weekend!

{Skirt: DVF, shirt & belt: Vintage: shoes: Zara}

West Village

2011-08-18T04:00:00.000-04:00

My new favorite dress ever. That is all.

{Silk print dress: c/o Jennifer Chun- fall collection, shoes: Zara, shirt: H&M, jewellery: Marc Jacobs, Shashi, Topshop & vintage}

Details

2011-08-15T04:00:00.001-04:00

{Accessories: Topshop & vintage rings, bracelets: Shashi, Catbird, Maria Diakos, necklace: Vintage & Brooklyn Charm, shirt: J Crew, bag: Zara, belt: vintage}

Brunch with Kenneth Cole

2011-08-13T12:26:00.000-04:00

On Thursday I joined a small group of bloggers and editors for brunch and the rare opportunity to meet Kenneth Cole, the man behind the brand. We were celebrating new site wheredoyoustand.com which aims to encourage debate on fall fashion trends and several hot topical issues. It was an event full of informed conversation; from lighthearted fashion commentary to contentious issues affecting society today- exactly what the new campaign aims to incite.

{Brunch at Little Owl, Tess's arm party, Christine from My Style Pill}

Ikat

2011-08-11T04:00:00.001-04:00

{Skirt: J Crew, belt & shoes: Zara, shirt: H&M, bib necklace: Lizze Fortunato: vest: H&M}

Wild Horses

2011-08-09T04:00:00.001-04:00

I've had this top 'forever' which is a nice little euphemism my co-workers and I use to describe something from Forever 21. Honestly, whilst I thoroughly enjoy a good thrifting rummage, I don't have much luck at F21 as I find the whole experience a little too overwhelming. However last week I walked straight in and found this vest- it reminds me of Australian designer Josh Goot's painterly prints.

{Top: Forever 21, skirt & belt: vintage, shoes: Toni Bianco, bag: Zara, ring: Zara, necklace: Brooklyn Charm & Marc Jacobs, nails: Essie 'Jazz'}

Photos: Netty Devonshire. Creative Narrative: Julia Zaborowski ;)

Notes on a weekend.

2011-08-07T20:10:00.000-04:00

{Radishes: not the tastiest but they look darned pretty hanging up in my kitchen. New skirt: the word millefeuille springs to mind when I think about my new DVF skirt, Pink: I bought this J Crew shirt a few months ago believing I would never wear it. Not true. Turns out there are so many ways to wear flouro pink. Books: should always be artfully stacked. Missoni: I went through hell and high water to make this thrifted Missoni mine. It looks rather pretty with my H&M and vintage turquoise ring too. Just Desserts: I made these decadent crème fraiche and white chocolate lovelies for a dinner party on Saturday. Rather good but so rich; we all lay on the floor afterwards.}

Sartorial-less

2011-08-03T11:09:00.000-04:00

{Vest: American Apparel, skirt: Alberta Ferretti, jacket: vintage, shoes & bag: Zara}

Right as my trusty photographer Netty Devonshire and I were taking these photos, Scott Schuman of the Sartorialist happened to walk by. Needless to say, he didn't stop to photograph us (possibly overwhelmed by how stylish we both looked?) Anyhow, this Alberta Ferretti skirt is proving to be a summer favorite and I have to keep reminding myself it is not ok to wear it everyday of the week.

New Dress

2011-08-02T05:00:00.001-04:00

This new dress is a particular blend of man repelling. Billowy, shapeless, embroidered. I love it. Boyfriend's response to new dress: "It looks a little bit like a duvet cover" Result!

{Dress: Paul and Joe, bag: Zara, sandals: Zara, accessories: vintage & Brooklyn Charm}

Stoop Sale

2011-07-29T18:38:00.001-04:00

Here I am, living the dream, pretending I'm just hanging out on my stoop, you know.

After a crazy week of work & meetings (including a couple with the gorgeous Christine from My Style Pill) I'm bringing in the weekend with some well deserved cocktails. Have a good weekend!

{Skirt: Helmut Lang, sandals: Zara, shirt: H&M, bag: Mulberry, belt: Vintage, accessories: Shashi, vintage & Brooklyn Charm. Nailpolish: Essie Sag Harbor & Clambake}

Photos: Netty Devonshire

Happy Anniversary, New York

2011-07-23T10:43:00.022-04:00

One year ago today I moved to New York. I arrived with a suitcase of shoes, a head full of dreams, no job and no where to live. Friends of mine and people who read this blog will know my amazing little brother Adam had recently passed away. I left family, friends and familiarity for this hot, heaving, dusty city; determined to prove I could pick up the pieces, follow my dreams and build a life.

There's a saying, 'nothing worth having comes easy' and looking back, I remember feeling quite sorry for myself for the first few months- all in all some rather privileged problems to experience. One second this city crushes you to pieces and the next creates a moment so beautiful you want to cry. And sometimes, you cry because you spent your weekly food budget on a cocktail.

So one year on. I have a job I love, an awesome apartment, an amazing boyfriend and group of friends who are like family- definitely a life. Thanks New York, it's been lovely.

New shoes

2011-07-18T21:36:00.000-04:00

I'm on the perennial hunt for tan shoes- and these ones are pretty darn perfect. I hunted them out in the Zara sale and I've worn them every day since.

{Shoes, accessories & bag: Zara, dress: vintage, accessories: Catbird, Vintage & Shashi}

Print.

2011-07-05T21:22:00.000-04:00

{Dress: Chloe, sunnies: Topshop, accessories: vintage}

Summer Fridays

2011-07-01T16:29:00.000-04:00

{Dress: Topshop, shirt: H&M, bag: Mulberry, shoes: Marc Jacobs, belt: vintage}

Glitter Guide

2011-06-21T11:36:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago the lovely Glitter Guide team came to my Brooklyn apartment to shoot a 'Style At Home' feature. In anticipation of this, there was mass flower buying/ cleaning/ shopping and even the procurement of one rather large fig plant. Check out the results on the Glitter Guide here!

Beachin'

2011-06-18T08:03:00.000-04:00

{Bikini: Seafolly, dress: Jill Stuart, ring, purse & sunnies: H&M, cuff: vintage}

That rooftop again

2011-06-15T21:32:00.000-04:00

{skirt: vintage, shirts, both Zara, shoes: Mollini, sunnies: Topshop}

Antelopes

2011-06-08T04:29:00.000-04:00

Mixing prints. A wardrobe challenge if ever I knew one. A million 'how to' articles exist, proffering equivocal advice like 'If you have two patterns of the same style, such as two plaids, you'll do best by mixing up the scale of the print'. Eh, what?

There's a fine line between nailing cohesive coordination and in cold light of day, appearing like you got dressed in the dark (so I have found.) Perhaps ability lies in genetics. You're either born with or without, like rolling your tongue or having dimples. So here's my interpretation of mixing print, this silk skirt with its little cavorting antelopes (yes, they are antelopes.) It is my worn and loved go to print, which unusually, does seem to go with everything.

{Skirt: Topshop, t: Isabel Marant Etoile, jacket: Sportsgirl, necklace: Lizze Fortunato, shoes: Aldo, bag: Zara}

Seeing Stripes

2011-06-05T15:44:00.001-04:00

Captured in a rare moment of English sunshine, this outfit is me blending in with the nautical sea side surroundings. This vintage skirt is the newest addition to my pleated skirt collection. I don't think I'll be able to stop till I have one in every colour.

{T Shirt: H&M, skirt & belt & accessories: Vintage, ring: Topshop}

Print

2011-06-03T16:25:00.000-04:00

{Dress & bag: Zara, belt: vintage, scarf: GAP, accessories: vintage}

Sneak Peek

2011-05-30T13:47:00.002-04:00

Let's face it, we're all obsessed with how everyone else's homes compare to our own. It's usually a good insight into one's domestic life and when I found out Tim Melideo and crew were coming to my apartment to shoot a feature for the soon to launch Glitter Guide I went from decorating slump to flat spin. (I needed a vintage white dresser and a giant fig plant) Can't wait to see the final pictures!

{Jacket: vintage, shirt: J Crew, skirt: Adam Lippes, belt: vintage, bracelets: Catbird, watch: vintage Citizen}

White

2011-05-27T17:51:00.001-04:00

Not realising the vagaries of tradition I wore white about eighty times before Memorial Day this year. What is it with that?!

I'm currently back on the other side of the pond for a visit and it feels amazing to be home with the family. Happy Memorial Day weekend!

{Skirt: Alberta Ferretti, shirt: Zara, belt: vintage, shoes: Steve Madden, sunnies: Topshop}

What goes

2011-05-24T05:00:00.003-04:00

In terms of outfit inspiration, Mondays are always dire. When it's 8.45am, I'm all out of ideas and throwing shoes around in frustration, for some reason I reach for this shirt and start playing musical outfits. It's as if in my pursual to nail the perfect eclectic look, or if not that then just an outfit which looks half decent, all rationale deserts me and I'm like, yes, this floral pattern will work with that stripe shirt combined with this purple skirt. Sadly, not so. Anyway, today I eschewed the purple and stripes for a more tonal bronze skirt- and I don't mind it.

{Shirt: Topshop, skirt: Miss Selfridge, bag: Zara, belt: vintage, bracelets: Catbird, necklaces: Vintage & Marc Jacobs pictures by Netty}

Ikat

2011-05-23T07:12:00.002-04:00

I find wearing colour somewhat of a challenge, even though recently my wardrobe is becoming full of it (nothing to do with Jil Sander & Proenza Schouler, of course.) When Banana Republic sent me this skirt it was ON. Its silk fabric, high waist and pockets all make for skirt perfect-ness and I've loved Ikat print since the Dries Van Noten SS '10 collection. You can find it here.

{Skirt: Banana Republic available here, Topshop, belt: Vintage, shoes: Sportsgirl}

Rolling stone

2011-05-20T06:00:00.000-04:00

Here I am, demonstrating to our bemused neighbours my current fascination with chunky stone jewellery. The agate stone necklace was made for me by my stylist friend Christie, a girl with exquisite style and the belief that jewellery should always be worn paired for maximum impact. The large ring looks deceptively like amethyst crystal but is in fact a rare find from the H&M accessories department (in other words, plastic made to look like amethyst) and the smaller vintage ring is turquoise.

{Dress: Witchery, Jacket: Zara, shoes: Tony Bianco, belt, vintage, rings: vintage & H&M, necklace: made by a friend}

Red Check

2011-05-18T11:30:00.000-04:00

Lately I've become rather obsessed with all things J Crew and in particular, Jenna Lyon's sense of style. Sometimes, as I attempt to cram my modest clothes collection into one small corner of my teeny apartment, I close my eyes and imagine what it might be like to own a gargantuan closet similar to hers, with chaise lounges and fireplaces and all sorts of closety-goodness. (Head over to my tumblr and you shall understand why) Anyway, this shirt was a vintage find but I like that it has a J Crew- feel.

Thanks again to ms. Devonshire for the photos. Follow her hilarious tweets here!

{Skirt: Thierry Mugler, shirt: vintage, bag: Prada, belt: Zara, bracelet: Ex Voto, shoes: Tony Bianco}

Tickled pink

2011-05-17T07:47:00.000-04:00

This pink silk shirt is so completely ridiculously bright I have no idea what to wear it with.

{Pink shirt: J Crew, shoes: Steve Madden, accessories: Vintage, book: Spoonbill & Sugartown}

Camouflage

2011-05-16T10:11:00.000-04:00

The best thing here is that subconsciously, I've managed to match my outfit to my surroundings.

{Sweater: Zara, skirt: Country Road, shoes: Aldo, necklace: Lizze Fortunato available here}

Sequins

2011-05-13T20:10:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was one of those amazing New York days which definitely called for a sequin or two. After a day of meetings I headed to 5th Avenue for the Manolo Blahnik Tous event hosted by Elle followed by dinner with Beth and Blair. I'm having a love affair with New York right now- how spring, a little sunshine and some green leaves can change things.

Also, thank you to Netty- work-wife and all round awesome best friend who took these photos. She'll do anything for an iced coffee :-)

{Sequin skirt: Beacon's Closet, shirt & bag: Zara, shoes :Tony Bianco available here, belt: vintage}

Fashion at your fingertips

2011-05-11T13:38:00.002-04:00

The shopaholics of Australiacan rejoice at the launch of westfield.com.au- Westfield’s ecommerce site which offers more than 250,000 items from 2,000 brands. With brands like Saba (pictured) and Tony Bianco (the label that foundedmy obsession with nude shoes) I’ve already decided I want theseand a new pair of theseRead more about it here

Squared

2011-05-10T20:33:00.000-04:00

{Dress H&M, jacket Topshop, belt Vintage, shoes vintage Jimmy Choo, accessories vintage & made by a friend}

Ballet Flats

2011-05-07T10:16:00.000-04:00

I'd be lost without nude ballet flats, a wardrobe staple that has been on repeat purchase for years. As a fashion assistant in London I learned they extend the leg line, making even the most vertically challenged person appear instantly altitudinous. (Beware of dark colours! The make you look shorter!) Sometimes when you know what suits, you've just got to run with it.
This pair are from J-Crew and in Australia I loved these from Country Road.

That Jacket

2011-05-04T19:41:00.000-04:00

Rosemount Australia Fashion Week is taking place in Sydney at the moment and I can't believe it's been a whole year since I was last there. I've been following it here and it's great to see designers like Josh Goot returning to show. Throughout last year's shows I lived in this Bardot jacket and despite being from a relatively inexpensive brand, it has a great cut. I mixed it with a J Crew skirt (who incidentally are launching online in the UK soon) and the 'ol faithful bag.

{Skirt: J Crew, jacket: Bardot, shoes, Urban Outfitters, shirt: Topshop, bag: Mulberry}

Finds

2011-05-01T16:29:00.000-04:00

Weekend finds: Dress: Beacon's Closet, Bib Necklace: street seller

Roof with a view

2011-04-26T20:49:00.000-04:00

New York, you are so lovely right now.

{Cashmere sweater, Alberta Ferretti skirt, vintage jewellery, Zara bag} Pictures by Paul

Charmed

2011-04-22T09:58:00.000-04:00

{Gold necklaces: Vintage stand on Bedford Ave, amethyst crystal: Brooklyn Charm, backdrop, RUSSH Magazine}

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Is it spring yet?

2011-04-17T16:28:00.000-04:00

Behold, the first real day of Spring in New York. The blossoms were out, the sun was shining and it was so warm, I didn't even need a coat- although I wasn't ready to abandon the old faithful black tights quite yet.

{Dress & bag: Zara, boots: Wittner, furry vest: Topshop, accessories: vintage}

Neutral colours

2011-04-16T13:44:00.000-04:00

{Clutch: Beacon's Closet, Glasses: Classic Specs, Nail polish: Jazz by essie, ring: Topshop, necklace: vintage}

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Variations on a theme

2011-04-12T21:24:00.001-04:00

What can I say, I like skirts.

{Left to right: Alberta Ferretti, vintage, Miss Selfridge, vintage, unknown, Zara, Topshop, vintage, Country Road}

{Left to right: Vintage, Topshop, Forever New, Adam, next 3 skirts vintage, Topshop}

Colour pop

2011-04-10T19:37:00.000-04:00

This season's runways were an explosion of tangerine, cobalt and fuchsia, and for a serial beige lover like myself I'm not sure where to begin. Mixing colours requires serious effort and sartorial dexterity, and I'm yet to be inspired by a suitable pairing for the orange Michael Kors shift I bought recently. What goes with orange?! For now it sits incongruously next to tonal shades of caramel and the palest salmon pink- I'll stick to standing near bright walls for my colour fix whilst I work it out.

{Silk dress: Portmans, boots: Zara, jacket: Bardot, fur: Zara, ostrich leather bag: vintage, pics by Paul Appleton}

perfect pair?

2011-04-07T22:40:00.000-04:00

So I have a thing for trousers. Much like my other preoccupation with skirts (high waist, A line, paperbag, short, long, 3/4 length, you get the picture) I'm on the perennial hunt for the perfect pair, the ones that will change my life. And at least if not that, then a pair which will make my legs appear a good 3 foot longer. I found this navy blue tapered Bassike pair recently and fell in love with the exaggerated cut on the pockets. I wore them with another sartorial favourite of mine; leopard, or as my mum affectionately terms anything feline print-esque- Kat Slater. I'm afraid only English readers or those familiar with the programme Eastenders will understand this moniker, but look her up, she's all class.

{Trousers: Bassike, top: Chloe, jacket: Bardot, belt, shoes, hat & accessories: vintage}

Perfect Pleats

2011-04-05T17:27:00.000-04:00

There's a little bit of fashion hoopla surrounding the Whistles Carrie skirt, so much so that the hot pink pleated number has become the most blogged and tweeted about item of the moment (Is the PR girl for Whistles currently kicking back in Aruba, considering her career complete?) I think there's something about pleated skirts for summer. Not the rough, thick pleat skirts of gym class heyday, but instead, light fripperous pleats that flutter against bare legs in the breeze. I missed the boat on the Whistles skirt but found this one from Topshop sale instead, worn here Jil Sander style with a crisp white T shirt.

{Skirt: Topshop, T: H&M, shoes: Tony Bianco, jewellery & belt: vintage}

A little London trip

2011-04-03T11:37:00.000-04:00

Last week I swapped a wintery New York for a surprisingly sunny London to go to the TOD's Art Plus Drama party at the Whitechapel gallery. TOD's is a long time supporter of the arts in many forms, and the party included a screening of An Italian Dream, a ballerina performance choreographed by Teatro alla Scala, and actors such as Ashley Walters and Tom Hiddleston performing dialogues and monologues written by contemporary artists.

I joined fashion bloggers Kristin from The Clothes Whisperer, Nadia from Frou Frouu and Anne from stylistandthecity (for their take on the evening check out their blogs) and we talked George Lamb (so handsome!), Jude Law (who arrived long after I had turned into a pumpkin) and the nuances of New York vs London living.

Despite the fact I like to pack with extreme precision, a pre event mercy dash to Zara was still required, where thankfully I found this perfect jewelled number hanging solo on the rail. Sans boyfriend and photographer I didn't get any photos on the evening but wore it again (with that giant bag that keeps appearing in every photo) on Thursday for my meeting at Vogue.

{Cape: Zara, jeans: Tsubi, top: Witchery, bag: Zara, boots: Witter}

Rooftop sun

2011-03-20T18:00:00.000-04:00

Today felt sufficiently springy enough to attempt a one layer outfit. Turns out it wasn't really warm at all, and after these photos were snapped it was back on with the coat and six layers. Eh, a girl can dream.

{Silk dress: Jill Stuart, collar: vintage, belt: Beacon's Closet, bag: vintage, shoes: River Island}

All photos by Paul Appleton

Silk Spring Shades

2011-03-19T15:40:00.000-04:00

Spring= silk shirts in sherbet shades

{Left to right: Ralph Lauren, Topshop, Zara}

Goodbye hat...

2011-03-06T20:47:00.000-05:00

These photos make me kind of sad because they were taken before this hat and I parted ways somewhere on a Delta flight between Milan and New York. It was the perfect camel coloured hat, the one I had been looking for forever and had finally found. Alas, it turned out to be a short lived relationship.

{Hat: vintage, jacket: topshop, shirt: H&M, jeans: Tsubi, bag: Zara, boots: vintage}

Milan

2011-02-26T15:52:00.000-05:00

I'm currently in Milan for fashion week- a crazy few days working on some amazing projects and meeting some great people. Thanks for the photo Ms Devonshire!

{Jacket: Supersocial, boots: vintage, bag: Zara, dress: Sussan, shirt: H&M, belt: vintage}

Lunch, part 2

2011-02-19T11:53:00.000-05:00

For such a small person I have quite the affinity for gigantic handbags like this new Zara one. I bought it as a hand luggage solution for an upcoming Milan FW trip and whilst it's perfect for containing every essential known to man, including the kitchen sink, the size of it actually means finding anything is impossible.

These photos were taken by Laurel Dailey after our lovely lunch

{Bag & scarf: Zara, coat: Supersocial, boots: Wittner, skirt: Vintage, patterned top: H&M, jacket: Topshop, watch: vintage Citizen, accessories: Topshop & COS}

Lunching in NY

2011-02-15T22:02:00.000-05:00

Back when I started this blog (take a journey through my archives friends- a hilarious and cringe worthy read, I promise) I certainly didn't think my life would involve New York lunches with successful bloggers who actually make a living out of this strange art. Fast forward one year and here I am, at lunch in the midst of fashion week, listening to four talented and beautifully dressed women discuss digital media, blogging, the wonders of tumblr, freezing weather and a few other random things in between. Afterwards, the lovely Laurel Dailey took some shots of us all dressed up in our finery, much to the amusement of passers by. Big thanks to Beth from B.Jones Style, Taylor from Sterling Style, Jessica from What I Wore and Laurel Dailey. Come back to New York soon people!

Obligatory Sex in the City style shot- how could we not...

I've got green eyed monster for pretty much all of Beth's wardrobe

All photos by Laurel Dailey (above), who has the most bitchin' hair in the world

Gold

2011-02-13T17:12:00.000-05:00

Until the weather improves, all outfit shots are coming straight from the corner of my kitchen- not the most inspiring backdrop but then better than photos of me outside,wearing the same coat, looking cold. I love this gold skirt from Australian store Forever New, especially because it reminds me of this skirt from the Etro AW 09-10 collection.

Weekend spoils

2011-02-06T19:51:00.000-05:00

Some weekend spoils... New glasses from Classic Specs- an awesome Brooklyn based company, check them out here www.classicspecs.com - choose your frames, upload your script and they arrive within 7 days- and all glasses only cost $89, clutch bag: H&M, hat: vintage

Tan & camel

2011-02-05T19:54:00.000-05:00

{Jacket; Topshop, boots: Dolce Vita, jeans: Ksubi, shirt: vintage, necklace: vintage, scarf: vintage Biba}

Spring 2011 might be all about zesty orange hues but I'm not ready to relinquish the camel tones just yet...

Gold

2011-01-28T20:19:00.000-05:00

There's four foot of snow outside my door and I have no hope of wearing these gold shoes for a few months yet, for now it's nothing but wellington boots.

{Shoes: vintage, YSL makeup, Citizen watch/ vintage, ring: Topshop}

Thursday

2011-01-20T22:20:00.000-05:00

I don't mind admitting it's been a life long ambition to actually step foot inside the Vogue offices (don't laugh), so you can imagine the indecision of what to wear now I actually go there for meetings. I'm not one of those people who owns an orderly closet or whose outfits are decided the second they wake up, so today I kept it simple and opted for my new Zara dress with a pair of boots.

{Dress: Zara, boots; Wittner, accessories: Vintage & Topshop}

Mid week inspiration

2011-01-19T21:06:00.000-05:00

Love these AW11 Zimmerman collection images- found on one of my favorite blogs Harper and Harley

New Year!

2011-01-08T21:39:00.000-05:00

This year I have no hopeless New Year's resolutions having resigned myself to the fact I shall never drink enough water nor drag myself out of bed for a morning run each day. I'm quite at peace with this realization! Happy 2011!

{Necklace Ex Voto, Shorts: Topshop, vest: COS, Shirt & shoes: Topshop, belt: vintage}

Blue Note

2011-01-01T07:29:00.000-05:00

{Shirt, Witchery, shorts: H&M, top: Topshop, vintage tulle necklace, boots: Urban Outfitters}

Snow

2010-12-27T15:28:00.000-05:00

{Boots: Sigerson Morrison, gilet: Lanvin for H&M, jacket: Topshop, jeans: GAP, accessories (hidden under the layers) Ex Voto jewels

A little inspiration

2010-12-23T16:35:00.000-05:00

By some small miracle, this week I was able to catch one of the very few flights leaving New York for London. I arrived to silent frosted fields, icicles and complete chaos; we Brits love a crisis. I'm not a chic flyer. I favor sweat pants, scraped back hair and an industrial amount of moisturizer. With this in mind, I've forgone the outfit photo of this spectacle and instead posted some inspiration pictures. happy christmas!

Sources: B.Jones Style The Sartorialist Garance Dore

A layer or two

2010-12-01T21:10:00.000-05:00

It's been quiet on the outfit front lately, seventeen layers and the necessity for tights each day doesn't inspire me much. I keep seeing these wonderfully elegant women, killing it will their gorgeous winter outfits, and I wonder how they do it. I suspect they must be either really cold or taking cabs everywhere.

{Gilet: Topshop, skirt: Beacons Closet, shirt: Witchery, accessories: all vintage}

With thanks

2010-11-25T18:42:00.000-05:00

Today was cold with that low wintery light I forgot existed when I lived in Australia. We drank fresh coffee and got excited when stray snowflakes fell on the street. We walked through McCarren Park and down empty roads which usually throb with life.

Cultural differences are one of the most exciting aspects to living in a foreign country and I didn't grasp the magnitude of Thanksgiving before living in America. The concept is pretty awesome- like Christmas without the flagrant commercialism and it's nice to stop for a minute and think about everything you have to be grateful for. For me it's amazing friends and family, moving to New York and creating a life with someone who makes me laugh everyday, fresh coffee and snowflakes. Its been a tough year but I'm feeling pretty grateful right now.

{Jacket: Topshop, sweater: H&M, shirt: H&M, shoes: F21, trousers: Sportsgirl, accessories: vintage}

Hello forgotten friend

2010-11-21T21:09:00.000-05:00

I bought this vintage Christian Dior blazer a little over four months ago when I first came to New York. I arrived in the midst of a heat wave, when the sun beat relentlessly down and at the time I remember thinking I'd never been so hot in all my life. Just the idea of a wool coat in the sweltering July heat was enough to bring on heat rash and I couldn't even bear to look at it. Pushed away into a suitcase and forgotten about, I pulled it out last week for the first time.

{Outfit: Blazer: Dior, skirt: Forever New, shirt: H&M men, boots: Zara}

Wardrobe Block...

2010-11-16T21:41:00.000-05:00

I've been suffering from a little writers block of late, and not to mention a slight existential wardrobe crisis too. How can it be that I have closet positively bursting with clothes I love, yet at the moment, nothing feels right. Each morning is a merry dance of trying on at least six outfits before discarding the majority into a crumpled heap of sorry looking rejects. Anyway, this was a lucky one which managed to make it past the pile...

{Outfit: Jacket: Topshop, Dress (worn as top) COS, Skirt: Vintage, belt: Zara, boots: Wittner, watch: Citizen}

Seeing Spots

2010-11-09T12:50:00.000-05:00

{Leopard print dress: Beacon's Closet, belt & clutch: vintage}

Cropped Chop

2010-11-03T10:08:00.000-04:00

I inherited my love of vintage from my mother. Years ago, (the mid nineties when cropped tops were in- cringe) I completely desecrated one of her fabulous Liberty print scarves. I chopped it in half to create a backless halter neck top and now all that remains of the once beautiful silk scarf is one sad little sliver bearing the Liberty name. After this I think my poor mother did well to hide other vintage treasures from the fate of my dressmaking scissors. That was until recently when she, assuming I was past the stage of cropped tops, let me look through her collection of vintage pieces. There amongst Biba scarves and the remnants of Liberty, was this amazing silk skirt which she had made from a 1950s housecoat.

In other news, this week Kate Moss and I have something in common- we're both sporting a home-cut fringe. Whilst she arrived at the launch of her final Topshop collection looking glossy and gorgeous after 'getting bored one night and cutting it with kitchen scissors', my attempt didn't work quite as planned (see above)- hair appointment has been booked.

{Skirt: Vintage, shirt: H&M, heels: River Island (£10! sale!) accessories: vintage}

Looking Back

2010-10-28T12:11:00.000-04:00

Last week when the weather was chilly and crisp with the suggestion of winter, I took a flight from New York home to England. I walked through midtown to the station with a head full of thoughts and retrospect and although I was only going home for a visit, the departure made me think about the past and the present.

In 2007 I spent a year traveling round the world. It was defining and wildly exciting, and although I'd like to say the adventure left me enriched and worldly, sadly at the tender age of 23 the experience was lost on me. Finding the local bar and having a thoroughly good time was the closest to culture I got. I stayed out until 6am and watched the sunrise across tropical oceans and lived a blissful existence with only one pair of flip flops in my bag.

Now, as 2011 appears on the horizon I don't know how to feel about letting go of 2010. This year I have lost more than I thought possible and life has changed more than I could have imagined. I lost my brother and afterwards witnessed in my mother, sister and father the incredible determination we posses as human beings to survive. I was overwhelmed by the support from people I know well and people I hardly know at all. I guess I can say my faith in humanity got stronger this year.

Not long after I chose to move to New York with my boyfriend. Now there's a life changing experience. He arrived with a vintage suitcase and I with a case of thirty shoes which he regularly carried up five story walk ups whilst we couch hopped. Looking for somewhere permanent, we encountered showers in cupboards and baths in kitchens before finding an amazing little apartment. Whilst our kitchen inventory amounts to only two pans and a penknife, it feels like home and that's what counts.

What have I learned from this year? Apart from the obvious and a few other bits and pieces, I can say I know one thing. If in doubt, just do it. Life is too short!

{Top, shoes & vintage fur: Beacon's Closet, skirt: Topshop, bag: Mulberry, watch: Citizen}

Sequins

2010-10-22T13:29:00.000-04:00

Liza Minnelli in florid sequins aside, I love a bit ofsparkle. For his winter 2010 collection, British designer Ashish Gupta createdenough dazzle to impress the most seasoned Olympic male ice skaterincluding sequin-imitation cable knit v-necks and plaid shirts.

I found this skirt at Beacons Closet with the originaleye-watering price tag still attached. It also had hideous hem trim, which Ipromptly hacked off. Unfortunately seamstress skills never were my strong point, and now wheneverI wear it a trail of sequins follow in my wake.

{Skirt: Beacon's Closet, Jacket: Beacon's Closet, top: Topshop, Bag: Mulberry}

Double Denim?

2010-10-13T08:33:00.000-04:00

I've always been a little wary of the double denim trend. To get it right, you have to channel Alexa; faded shades of denim paired with beachy hair and a slick of youthful insouciance. Get it wrong and you are in Jeremy Clarkson territory circa 1990, mid rise blue wash fashioned with a middle age beer gut and unfounded arrogance.

Whatever your inclination; double denim is in, given blessing last season by labels like Chloe and Twenty8Twelve. Therefore making a huge number of the double denim wearing population fashionable by default.

I found this denim shirt in H&M, and for fear of resembling that Britney and Justin denim disaster at the American Music Awards, I think I'll stick to mixing it with prints for now.

{Outfit: Shirt: H&M, skirt: Zara, shoes: Beacons Closet, belt: vintage, bag: Mulberry, bracelets: Shashi}

The long and short of it

2010-10-11T08:32:00.000-04:00

{Outfit: skirt, jacket & boots: Zara, bag: Mulberry, belt: vintage, shirt: Sportsgirl}