I’m sure you’re all more than familiar with the phrase, “fast fashion”. It’s one which is bandied about willy nilly and somewhat disparagingly these days. Now I understand that the fact Topshop et al churn out new goodies every week changes the way we approach fashion and no doubt tempts us to spend our wages on brand new togs when they should really be going on rent. And yes, it feeds our consumerist culture and often shamelessly rips off catwalk looks. But when I hear “fast fashion” I don’t immediately think of Primark or sweat shops or fake Louis Vuitton bags, although those do admittedly reflect the darker side of it. No, for me “fast fashion” is more about the fact that during any given season new pieces are constantly cropping up in High Street, mid range and even designer stores. It’s the fact that the wish list I permanently keep in the memos section of my blackberry (yes I am sad enough to do that) changes and expands constantly as I stumble across newly released fashion booty to entice and inspire me. The thrill of seeing what’s in store for the season to come doesn’t disappear after your first decent spree because you know damn well that in another couple of weeks there will be new sartorial delights to feast your eyes on. So in the interest of catering to the material girls inside all of us (and giving myself a good excuse to constantly browse the shops) I’ve decided that from now on I’ll come up with a weekly wish list. After all, one per season just isn’t enough.
Having cropped up on the catwalks at Stella McCartney, Marc Jacobs, Paul Smith and countless other designers, polkadots are seriously big news this season. I’ve been searching high and low for a polkadot piece that takes my fancy and this adorable, frill hemmed dress by Charles Anastaste is just divine. Perfect for wearing in the day with chunky loafers and a peacoat and simply add heels and a glass of champagne for effortless evening chic.
If, like me, you have a pathological hatred of being cold then these super cute cashmere socks by Pantherella are an absolute must-have. You know what they say, style starts with the toes.
Another essential wardrobe component for chilly autumn mornings; cashmere glove-lets. Not quite bold enough to try this season’s Mustard trend head-to-toe? Then these little beauties could be the perfect solution.
Shamelessly girly and unapologetically fun, these sparkle-tastic platforms from Aldo are the ultimate in festive season footwear.
Whilst we’re on the subject of shoes I highly recommend you hot foot (sorry, couldn’t resist) it down to Pretty Ballerinas and get your hands on a pair of these leopard print lovelies. They’re guaranteed to put a spring in your step.
Forget about Ponies, all any little girl really wants is their very own Mulberry bag. In ultra soft haircalf and covered in golden fox heads the Bayswater’s latest reincarnation looks good enough to eat! Sadly I don’t think my budget will quite stretch to it this month but hey, a girl can dream.
As you know all too well, I am utterly obsessed with Whistles. Jane Shepardson can basically do no wrong and these elegant silk shorts are irrestistably chic.
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Dalmation print blouse from Topshop Unique, £110
available at www.topshop.com |
Topshop Unique’s is always one of the most in-demand shows during LFW and judging by this Dalmation print blouse it’s not hard to see why.
There are few things more annoying than buying a necklace that you then see being worn by half of Oxford Street. To avoid such a disaster check out Anne Bowes Jewellery. Her pieces is made up from vintage components sourced all over the world and are each completely unique.
December is fast approaching and we all know what that means… Time to start writing those Christmas lists! And what chicer way to jot down all your wildest fancies than in an elegant, Aspinal notepad?
Love Ella. X