A quick thank you…
…to everyone who has followed and/or commented on this blog so far. I was really daunted by the idea of starting afresh but in the end I just felt I had to go for it – and you’ve made it so much lovelier and (dare-I-say) easier than I ever thought it could be!
A few people have tweeted me to say they can’t see where to leave a comment – underneath the post title there’s a little speech bubble with a number in it, if you click on that it should take you to the comment form. I will be redesigning my blog slightly once my new host is all set up so I’ll make it more obvious!
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Back to the press day!
In November I went to the Fluorescent PR press day for a look at some SS12 collections. At the time I really enjoyed my sneaky peek but it barely felt like winter so I’ve saved this for the inevitable post-Christmas/New Year downer, when we’re all sick of the weather, sick of our wardrobes and want to look at something a bit more bright and shiny to make us feel like summer is on the way. Prepare to make a shopping list: it was a really wonderful selection of goodies.
Boux Avenue
Predominantly a lingerie and nightwear retailer, Boux Avenue also stocks homewares such as scented candles and keepsake boxes as well as beauty products like Rose Petal lip balm and White Chiffon hand cream. The rails I browsed featured some exquisite pieces, including beautiful sorbet-coloured lingerie sets and glamorous, old-fashioned polka dot swimwear.
Besides beautiful wares, Boux Avenue also offers absolutely fantastic customer service and free bra fittings. On my old blog I wrote a post about my experience shopping in a Boux Avenue store (edit: old blog now defunct).
Click here to shop at Boux Avenue.
Jarlo London
Always a good place to find a pretty dress, the Jarlo London ‘Girl About Town’ SS12 collection is inspired by street style and young starlets. A riot of colour, I can easily see myself slipping on one of these gorgeous pieces for a day spent eating ice cream and befriending squirrels in the park.
Click to shop at Jarlo London.
Me & Zena
There was an appearance by the well-known rabbit rings but my eyes were drawn to the new stationary-inspired ‘Back to School’ collection: pencil bangles, necklaces and rings were joined by pencil sharpener pendants and chunky rings. Perfect for my inner stationary geek, I plan to buy the pencil ring in both yellow and blue.
Click to shop at Me & Zena.
Fairytales and Hidden Notes
This is a brand I’d never come across before but I immediately fell head over heels for the whimsical British designs. Teacup rings? Typewriter necklaces?! Bubble blower necklaces?! I literally wanted it all.
Every item is designed by Aartthie in her London studio and is inspired by her own childhood of making things, along with an obvious love of prettiness.
Click to shop at Fairytales and Hidden Notes.
Emma Fielden
Since selling her very first collection to Harrods 13 years ago, Emma has made hats for the likes of Roisin Murphy and Christina Aguilera, as well designing a diffusion line for Topshop.
How magnificent are these floral pieces?!
Click here to find Emma Fielden stockists.
Beyond Skin
Yet another brand I hadn’t come across before, goodness knows how, Beyond Skin is an ethical label selling vegan and vegetarian footwear worldwide. The SS12 collection is vintage-inspired, featuring retro shapes such as block heels and the summer-staple wedge.
These fun zig-zag print courts were my favourites.
Click to shop Beyond Skin.
Rosie Wonders
Selling jewellery, cards, tote bags, baby clothing, prints and stationary designed to reflect Rosie’s love of illustration, every single piece is quirky, fun, and covetable. Any collection featuring ponies, deer and moustaches has me instantly reaching for my purse.
p.s. Her website has the cutest ‘about me’ I’ve seen on any website ever.
Click here to shop Rosie Wonders.
