L. K. Bennett SS'16 Breakfast

Earlier this month I was utterly spoiled by the wonderful peeps at L. K. Bennett, alongside a gaggle of my fashunnn faves, with a delicious breakfast at the stunning Mondrian London’s Rumpus Room, hosted by Brand Ambassador, the formidable Alex Meyers. 

We were given a sneak peak at the upcoming (predictably gorgeous) SS’16 collection (the over-the-knee boots will be a BIG hit, and are firmly now on my wish list) and each given a ‘goody bag’ to end all goody bags; a brand new L. K. Bennett Mariel Bag, hand-painted with our initials by esteemed British artist, and TLC Fave, Boyarde.  I meeeeean…!! You can only imagine our excitement!

Above (L-R) Clockwise:  Alex Meyers, Pippa Vosper, Kelly Eastwood (TLC), Anna Hart and Laura Fantacci. 

My bag was in orange, a favourite of mine for accessories (LKB had clearly done their homework!) and I couldn’t wait to hit the streets (whilst also wearing my prized Fianna Suede Ankle Boots) to give it a twirl. 

Shop TLC's LOOK...

After all of our bespoke Mariel bags had hit Instagram, there was such a demand for these gorgeous, bespoke bags that. L. K. Bennett decided to run a competition to win one, hand-painted with the winner’s initials.  Sign up on their mailing list HERE to automatically be in with a chance of winning. 

Street Style Photography: Ella Sadika

Debit Buy: Zara's Rubberized Effect Sunglasses

I’ve been enjoying my sky blue Rubberized Effect Sunglasses from Zara (above, on the way to pick up the keys to my new HOUSE – hence, the shocked/excited/confused look!) ever since the sun put his hat on, albeit briefly, earlier this year.  Although now sold out, Zara have just brought out this sea green pair (below right) which are just as awesome and affordable.  A summer must have methinks.  Available HERE (RRP. £15.99).

The 'Leading Ladies' of Marks and Spencer

This is not just any Autumn/Winter’13 campaign... This is an M&S Autumn/Winter’13 campaign.  Goodbye lovely Twiggy and sweet Myleene, step forward Marks and Sparks’s latest line up of successful, creative and independent ladies (*insert preferred Beyonce song whilst reading); Helen Mirren, Grace Coddington, Ellie Goulding, Karen Elson, Darcey Bussell, Katie Piper, Helen Allen, Nicola Adams, Laura Myula, Monica Ali and a very miserable, almost pained, looking Tracey Emin (well, she is more used to mostly wearing Vivienne Westwood after all!)  Shot by photographer Annie Leibovitz in various dramatic locations, including on a boat at Tower Bridge (above), this ‘womanist’ (ew!) campaign must have cost a fortune to put together.  I can’t help but wonder if something a bit simpler (and maybe a bit smilier?!) may have been more cost effective. 

J. Crew Pop-Up

I recently attended the J. Crew pop up, a two-day sneak peak of the autumn/winter ’13 collection ahead of their launch in the UK on Regent Street this November.  I was met by a rainbow of delicious Italian cashmere (which you could charmingly have monogrammed), a plethora of gorgeous, wearable printed silk and a selection of sparkling, custom-made jewel collars which would make any outfit delightfully unique.

Below (L-R): Henry Conway and Annabel Simpson, Astrid Harbord and Kelly Eastwood

I love J. Crew’s easy and accessible approach to dressed up daywear, and I was specifically enamored with their statement necklaces. some of which were created by New York based jeweller Lulu Frost.  Although vintage in style, these necklaces are thoroughly modern and awoke my inner-magpie… I want them ALL!

Above (L-R):  Astrid Harbord, William Woodhams and Annabel Simpson with Coco Bear

The all-American retailer also announced they are teaming up with Central St Martin’s fashion school on a series of design projects as well as offering a new scholarship.

 My top J. Crew picks for the summer...
Above (L-R): Bijoux Bow Ballet Flats - RRP. £207.26, Crystal Compilation Necklace - RRP. £143.69, Vacationland Blouse - RRP. £108.85, Collection Cashmere Sweater in Punk Floral -RRP. £224.68, Mini-Pineapple Bikini Set - RRP. £85.07