THE ULTIMATE AND THE REALISTIC - MAY 2012

So this month (after Accessorising April was a huge success), that I was going to only boost my wardrobe with purchases and bargains from ebay. I was doing seriously well picking up three great dresses - one half price from the Boohoo outlet, a monochrome scarf printed dress from New Look for 99p and a draped black Berska dress, with studded shoulders for just £1.20 (they will feature in a post soon I promise).

My big mistake was to think that I could indulge in a bit of 'harmless' screen shopping - I would like to say that I felt guilty buying the dress and tights from Missguided, oh and the shoes from ASOS (least they were in the sale), but I don't...not even a little bit, I wore them all together and I felt great in them and I get to share the look with you in my next outfit post...so that makes it OK right?

So to make up for my digressions from the plan, I am going to construct my realistic wish list for May, entirely from bargains to be found on ebay...it was actually easier than I thought!

The Realistic (all ebay remember)

MTV Leopard Print Vest - £4.99; Silver Metallic Jeans - £24.99; Studded Cuff - £2.65; Faux Suede Leopard Platforms - £18.55; Pink Silver Studded Bag - £19.99; Double Cross Ring - £1.99.

TOTAL: £73.16

The Ultimate

Wildfox Love is Everything Tee - £65.00; Rag & Bone Metallic Zebra Legging - £158.00; Felder Felder Taupe Gold Spike Bracelet - £95.00; Vagabond Conga Flatform Sandals - £65.00; Rebecca Minkoff Wallet Bag with Studs - £145.81; RP/Encore Carrot Spike Rings - £75.00 for silver/quartz.

TOTAL: £472.81

I'm really loving all my ebay picks, the pink studded bag and MTV tee may just have to be purchased immediately (I have an addiction, I need help). Still if I had the money, I would replace my entire wardrobe with Wildfox pieces - the LA brand only made it onto my radar this week after discovering it on the gorgeous Tessa-Jay's blog Circa Now. Check her out, she is a dream!

So what is on your wishlist this month?

Any fab ebay bargains to share?

Gems x

CHECK ON CHECKS

Last weekend I went out for a lovely Saturday lunch for some warming Mexican Tapas on a rainy day. Is anyone else insanely sick of the rain yet - it can be glorious sunshine outside, but in the five minutes it took me to decide I'm gonna get some fresh air, the sky has gone grey and it's raining up a storm. And don't get me started on the wind - it makes having an umbrella pointless, and results in any wonderful style and beauty look you have put together, look a soggy mess once you reach your destination.

Anyway, before I rant you into a boredom induced coma, here's what I wore.

 

Checked Trench Coat, New Look
Nautical Style Scarf, H&M
Royal Blue Jeans, Dorothy Perkins
Converse Hi-top Sneakers
Slogan Tank with PU Trim, Miss Selfridge
Open Checked Shirt and Belt, H&M
Headband, Primark
Necklace and Rings, H&MNYC Spring Street polish; Collection 2000, Sherbert Lemon

And I couldn't leave you without showing you a picture of the incredible food from the fabulous Las Iguanas, and the good news is, they have plenty of locations throughout the UK - so to say something incredibly cheesy, get some spice in your life.

Nachos, Pear and Brie Salad, Jumbo Pawns, Calamari and Tostadas, there was also some glorious Chorizo in there too.

So how have you all been spending your weekend, where have you been going and what have you been wearing?

And to all my little lovelies down under I hope you had a fantastic Mothers Day!

Gems x

BEST OF THE MET BALL

This week saw one of the world's biggest fashion event - the annual Met Costume Institute Gala, which took place on the 7th May at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art. Equivalent to The Oscars in the fashion world, the theme of this year's event was Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations, so the pressure was on to get it right on the red carpet.

Well it pleases me to say that many thrived under the pressure, with some of the attendees literally knocked my socks off, seriously they are on the other side off the room and my feet are getting cold. Unfortunately, as with any event where it's important to get it right, there were some who pushed the boundaries way to far, ending up on the boundaries of crazy town, which had be reaching for the blindfold...be prepared, at the end of this post there will be some of these epic misses, with the fashion police unable to help you, so view at your own risk.

Anyhoo, lets get to the red carpet pictures and my top ten hit in the style stakes...

Number 10 - Scarlett Johannson in Dolce & Gabbana

Scarlet's creamy skin is the perfect accompaniment to this one of a kind beaded blush dress - particularly love the voluminous tulle of the fish-tail skirt, it is so Old-Hollywood Glamour.

Number 9 - Marion Coillard in Dior Haute Couture

Pulling off the sheer trend to absolute perfection, Marion is absolutely glowing in this deep purple number - I'm loving the bling details, this dress is so good the poor woman in the background in the boring white number is hanging her head in shame.

Number 8 - Solange Knowles in Rachel Roy

 

Solange was showing her sister how it was done (who was unimpressive in an overly fussy Givenchy Haute Couture gown by Riccardo Tisc) in a vibrant sunflower yellow gown with on trend pleplum detailing - I love how she has kept her make-up natural, topping off her look with her trademark afro.

Number 7 - Jessica Alba in Michael Kors

 Usually I would hastily skip over anything with too much gold lame as it was one of the worst things to come out of the '80's but Jessica is dazzling in this exquisitely draped one-shoulder gown. The Grecian goddess topped off her look with scarlet lip, dramatic swept hair and amazing Wilfredo Rosado jewelery.

Number 6 - Elizabeth Banks in Mary Katrantzou
 

It's a look that is sure to divide fashion critics and fans everywhere, but I love the mis-matched patterned peplum skirt and cape style top, it is so interesting and makes Elizabeth's figure look as fantastic as it is without showing off too much skin. The minimalist Louboutin heels Cartier jewels finish the outfit to perfection.

Number 4 - Amber Heard in Zac Posen

  Amber is someone who doesn't usually make it onto my fashion radar, but she is looking stunning in this dusky pink ball gown. The sweetheart neckline shows of her ahem assets beautifully and the structured fit accentuates her womanly curves.

Number 5 - Candice Swanepoel in Rag & Bone

The vibrant Royal blue looks absolutely amazing on the Victoria Secret model - the custom made gown fits like a glove and the sensual sheer panels made sure we saw just enough of her killer legs.

Number 3 - Kate Bosworth in Prada

Kate looks absolutely incredible in her first ever custom gown, Prada have created something really special for the Superman actress. Covered in luxurious ostrich feathers and featuring a low back this fab mini dress was sure to be a head turner - and that deep plum lipstick...kiss me Kate! 

Number 2 - Carey Mulligan in Prada

 

Narrowly missing out on my Number 1 spot, this blinging prom dress is absolutely incredible - if I was in the market for Prada (I may as well be in the market for miracles) this little number would be right at the top of my list. I love how Carey let the dress do all the talking with muted shoes and total lack of accessories, and how about that stunning hair?

Number 1 - Camilla Belle in Ralph Lauren Collection

 How could any other gown be Number 1 than this ultimate stunner from Ralph Lauren, of course it helps that Camilla has a figure to die for. The plunging neckline, the metallic beading, the simple matching accessories and Old Hollywood glam hair and make-up...it all works. Love, love, love.

Of course with such fabulous-ness present on the red carpet, there has to be a trade off! Yes I'm afraid it's that time to discuss the red carpet mishaps...if you don't think you can take it, feel free to stop reading at this point...all the big babies gone? Good...let's get this over with.

Number 5 - Bianca Brandolini in Dolce & Gabbana

No that's not the sun, it's a dress that is causing more glare than the sun - I swear a few of the more anemic looking attendees were flocking around Bianca hoping to get a bit of colour in their faces...don't look for too long

Number 4 - Kirsten Dunst in Rodarte

I really want to like this look because Kirsten was brave enough not to play it safe, going for the classic red carpet gown, but every time I look at it, all I can think is 'grumpy secretary circa 1920's' complete with blah hair. On the plus side...no I can't there's nothing, I hate it!

Number 3 - Christina Ricci in Thakoon

Christina made it on to my worst dressed list as she was on the road to perfection, but then took a detour to bonkers. The black lace and nude silk is gorgeous and the Tiffany diamonds are drool worthy, but what on earth is that giant bow at the back? Its craptacular Christina, sorry...stunning face though!

Number 2 - Sarah Jessica Parker in Valentino 

Sarah seemed to be flying the flag for sustainable fashion by resurrecting her prom dress from the 1980's. The wishy washy print, crumpled fabric and frumpy fit do nothing for Sarah and it is such a shame, because the girl can dress...usually!

Number 1 - Chole Sevigny in Miu Miu

Chloe is someone I always look forward to seeing on the red carpet, because it is either to be amazing or a disaster, unfortunately at the Met Ball it was bad, despite the dress being barely there it still managed to make the svelte star look frumpy and the shoes are boring. What is impressive though is that she managed to time travel to the 1960's to fashion the dress out of a door screen...was that too mean?

Who was your best dressed of the night? And who didn't get it quite right?

Gems x

Photographs courtesy of Glamour.com

MY BEDROOM DOOR - MAY 2012

As some of those who read my blog will know, I don't have a wardrobe...I know a girl who loves fashion, not having a wardrobe seems a bit strange, but due to space issues, it just isn't an option for me right now. But don't cry for me, I have found a way around it - I hang all my favourite pieces of the month on the back of my door where I get to see them all the time...Result.

So with the beginning of May, I thought it was about time I dug some of my beloved summery outfits from storage to display on my bedroom door to get me in the mood for the warmer weather ahead. Well it has rained ever since I hung them up there...typical. Hopefully I will get to wear them soon, and for your scrutiny, here are my May favourites.

1.) Pleather Biker Jacket, Matalan.
2.)Tweed Cap, Matalan
3.) Paisley Printed Dress With Sheer Sleeves, Unbranded.
4.) Vest with Pleather Trim, Miss Selfridge
5.) Leopard Print Dresss, H&M
6.)Nautical Jacket (worn here), Triple S
7.) Colour Block Track Jacket, H&M
8.) Metallic Maxi Skirt, Primark
9.) Nude Ruffle Dress, Ravi Famous
10.) Striped Dress, H&M

 

As you can probably tell, May is a little more punkish than April was, with my pleather jacket, leopard print dress and vest with serious attitude. I seriously want to get out in the sun in my little dresses and perhaps even tan up my luminous legs, but it seems I may have to wait a little longer. 

Hopefully next month I won't have to fill my coveted bedroom door slots with thick cosy jumpers!

What items have made it into your favourites this month?

Gems x

TREND ALERT - PYJAMAS

Yes that's right, Pyjamas are set to be one of the hottest trends of the upcoming season, and not for the bedroom, but to actually walk around in public - it gives the phrase "Day to Night Dressing" a whole new meaning. Anyone, who is anyone is rolling straight of of bed onto the red carpet in their finest silk, paisley and ditzy floral jammies.

Rihanna in Emilio Pucci and Eliza Sednaoui in Salvatore Ferragamo

Lou Doillon in Marni for H&M and Charlotte Ronson in her own design.

Caroline Sieber in Louis Vuitton and Stella McCartney in her own design

At first I wasn't sure about the sleepwear for the streets at first, felt a little bit like wearing a bra and knickers for the beach instead of a bikini. But, after doing a little bit of research, the trend has actually grown on me - I may not have the balls to wear a full set of pyjamas out in public, but a girly teddy or even sleepwear inspired pieces may just find their way into my wardrobe.
So anyway, here is how I would wear, or style the trend...

1.) Necklace and Tube Top, H&M; Monochrome Patterned Wide Leg Trousers, New Look'; Shilo Strap Raffia Platforms, Topshop.
2.) Navy Embroidered Kimono, Topshop; Trousers, H&M, Rivet Clutch, Romwe; Patent Fuchsia Pump, Forever 21; Carved Winter Rose Necklace and Octavia Stud Ring, Rock n' Rose
3.) Button Up Bralet and night shorts, Topshop; Leopard High Heel Boots, Romwe; Bow Cut-Out Ring and Bangle, Pretty Little Thing 
4.) Mustard Vest, Miss Selfridge, Gears Silk Like Yellow Harem Pants, Romwe; Platforms, Deichmann.

What do you guys out there think of the pyjama trend, you would roll out of bed and straight out of the front door?

Have a Great Weekend :)

Gems x

ROMANCE WAS BORN - AW 2012

Those that know a little bit about me will know that I am a huge fan of Australian fashion - yes sometimes it can be a season or two behind the trends, but it is always so fun, innovative, quirky and exciting. I hope that more big UK retailers will follow the lead of Urban Outfitters and realise the potential of Australian fashion labels and brand out.

One of my all time favourite Australian fashion labels, Romance Was Born have excelled themselves with their Autumn/Winter 2012 collection, entitled 'Happy Campers'. Featuring plenty of tribal-inspired prints, multi-coloured metallic foils, bright colour pops and a very cute little owl, designers and co-founders Anna Plunkett and Luke Sales have continued with their signature aesthetic - kaleidoscopic colour, cultural influence and a mixture of texture and bold prints. It is tongue-in-cheek fashion at its best and I just love it.

Here are some of my favourite pieces from the collection - although I must say I would wear every single garment!

How seriously awesome are those prints and metallic foils? I practically need a bib to look at the range!

What do you guys think of the Winter 2012 offering from Romance Was Born? Do you have a favourite overseas fashion label?

Peace Out!

Gems x

COOKING ON GAS!

Last weekend it was my my boyfriend's sister's birthday, and being the gorgeous, generous and lovely person that she is, she threw a huge BBQ for family and friends. As most of in the UK will know that recently the weather isn't exactly BBQ-friendly, luckily a huge gazebo was erected (hehe!) to protect us revelers.

The food was fabulous, the atmosphere was brilliant and I had a really wonderful time - so anyway, here is what I wore for the occasion.

Denim Shorts, Oasis; Ruffled Cardigan and Black Tank, Primark; Sequined Lip T-Shirt, Triple S via Ebay; Leather-Look Leggings, Ebay; Converse Trainers; Ring, H&M; 'Gems' Necklace, Punky Pins.

All pieces are in the process of being washed as the smell of BBQ smoke has permeated every fibre. It is my own fault, I huddled around the BBQ all day for warmth, seriously I was almost curled up on that thing. And when that went out I snuggled up to the chimnea (an outside wood burner), which my boyfriend thought would be a good idea to lick in his drunken state - cue a roll of the eyes from me and a very sore tongue or him :)

What have you guys been wearing in this wet weather that I am so over?

Gems x