BRAND IN FOCUS // VANS x DAVID BOWIE

THE Vans x David Bowie Collaboration HAS LAUNCHED

Vans sneakers are classic. David Bowie? Also classic. Finally, after several sneak previews, the VANS x BOWIE celebration collection has launched today!

Vans pays homage to the icon’s legacy with an Off The Wall collection of footwear and apparel. Drawing inspiration from some of Bowie’s most influential works, this collaboration celebrates a joint force between Vans and “the man who fell to earth”- two entities who for decades have championed the different and the strange, leaving a lasting impression on generations of misfits.

For the sneaker fans, there are all the greatest Vans hits, all of which modelled after a Bowie album—like Ziggy Stardust Sk8-Hi’s or Aladdin Sane Old-Skools My personal favourite!) And if you’re not in the market for footwear, there are tees and hats in the mix, too. The full range consists of 6 pairs of trainers, along with Bowie-branded t-shirts and baseball caps.

Shoe sizes appear to range from UK size 2.5 through to UK 12. Clothing sizes start at XS through to XXL.

House of Vans has also released details of a special night of Bowie’s music, art and fashion planned for London’s House Of Vans on 11th April – if I could be there, I would be, with all of the bells on!

A statement on the House Of Vans event reads: “From Bowie-themed photo opportunities and face painting workshops to live music performances, the venue will be alight with the spirit of Bowie. Let’s Dance DJs, DJ Scarlett and Atlantic Soul Orchestra, plus Wall To Wall Bowie and the Blues Kitchen’s in-house band will provide the music and perform some of Bowie’s greatest hits.”

Tickets are free, with those interested asked to register at the House Of Vans website 

Check out some images of the new range below. Which are your favourite? If only they came in Kids sizing – we’d be all over this range!

image

 

—-

image
‘Aladdin Sane’ Old Skool – £75.00
CLICK TO BUY
image
‘Hunky Dory’ Slip-On – £65.00
CLICK HERE TO BUY
image
‘Ziggy Stardust’ Sk8-Hi Platform – £90.00
CLICK TO BUY

 

 

image
‘Blackstar’ Slip-On – £60.00
CLICK HERE TO BUY

 

 

image
‘Space Oddity’ Era – £65.00
CLICK HERE TO BUY
image
‘Bowie’ Sk8-Hi – £80.00
CLICK HERE TO BUY
image
‘Serious Moonlight’ Trucker Hat – £28.00
CLICK TO BUY
image
‘Aladdin Sane’ T-Shirt – £28.00
CLICK TO BUY
image
‘Ziggy Stardust’ T-Shirt – £28.00
CLICK TO BUY

 

 

image
‘Aladdin Sane’ Jockey Hat – £28.00
CLICK TO BUY

 

 

 

—–
For clarity, this is not a sponsored or paid post – but does contain Affiliate links to VANS.com (UK site). I only promote items that I genuinely like however, so be safe in the knowledge that I’m in love with this brand collaboration.

BRAND IN FOCUS // HOLLY WILLOUGHBY x M&S – THE DENIM EDIT

HOLLY WILLOUGHBY x M&S – THE DENIM EDIT

Holly’s new Must-Haves: The Denim Edit launched today! Have a look at Holly’s hand-picked pieces from the season’s essential denim trend, items available instore and online at MarksandSpencer.com
—–
Say hello to Holly’s Must-Haves, the denim edit. The TV star, fashion favourite and Mama to three, has hand-picked her favourite pieces from the latest denim collection at M&S, including some of her most-loved shapes and styles – think the denim dress, the button-through skirt and, of course, the classic skinny jean.

“This edit has been really fun to pull together. I’ve always loved the simplicity of a denim dress and I live in high-waisted skinny jeans at the weekend. These pieces are really versatile and super stylish too”

—–

Displaying

THE Denim Midi Shirt Dress – £49.50

This denim shirt dress is as comfortable as it is stylish. Sitting at a midi length, the long sleeve dress features a smart belt detail that’s perfect for adding a touch of shaping at the waist, while statement buttons and two front pockets offer an extra splash of interest.
Holly says:“This denim dress is so versatile. Try yours with a simple ankle boot for a classic look that will see you through season after season.”

 

—–
Holly Willoughby wearing a blue denim boiler suit

THE UTILITY JUMPSUIT – £55.00

Slip into something fabulous with this stunning long-sleeved jumpsuit. Designed to flatter, sleek details like a collared neck, metallic zipped chest pockets and patch pockets at the waist make this a prime example of utilitarian chic. A versatile piece, wear zipped up for a neat finish or half open for layered looks – or customise the silhouette by rolling the legs and arms up for a cropped finish. This pure cotton jumpsuit is made from sustainably sourced cotton, for a fashion statement that offers supreme style and comfort.

Holly says: “This boiler suit is so on-trend for the season ahead and gives you a great silhouette. What’s not to love?”

CLICK TO SHOP THE UTILITY JUMPSUIT

 

—–

THE Denim Ruffle Shirt – £32.50

A gorgeous head-turner, this frill shirt adds some chic texture to your most stylish looks. Made of soft and breathable Tencel fabric, this high neck shirt is finished with a touch of ruffle on the neckline and neat cuffed sleeves. Tuck into high waisted jeans for a trendy double denim outfit.
Holly says: “I love the frills on this shirt – they make it feel quite girly. Plus, you can rock the double denim trend by wearing it with jeans or a denim skirt.”

 

—–

THE WESTERN SHIRT – £32.50

 

This pure cotton denim shirt makes a brilliant choice for elevating any casual wardrobe. Tailored for a flattering fit, this long sleeve shirt features a neat collar and contrasting buttons for a lovely finish.

Holly says: “A modern take on the western shirt, this one features puffed sleeves and a pleated hem for a feminine silhouette.”

CLICK TO SHOP THE WESTERN SHIRT

 

—–

Displaying

THE Denim Mini Skirt – £25.00

The chic denim mini skirt will be the perfect partner for everything from your favourite knits to printed tees. Featuring a classic contrast stitch and panel detail, this pure cotton skirt offers soft and comfortable wear, with a button front for a touch of shine in its metallic fastenings.
 
Holly says: “This skirt will be rivalling jeans for top spot in my wardrobe this season. I’ll be wearing it with everything from trainers to cowboy boots.”

CLICK TO SHOP THE MINI SKIRT

 

—-

 

Hope you enjoyed this edit – I’m hoping some of these denim pieces will accommodate my growing bump! Or perhaps M&S, if you’re listening, can you please make Maternity versions of these lush pieces too, maybe?  That would be nice!

Shop this essential edit online and in selected stores now and transform your everyday wardrobe!

C
✖️✖️✖️

 


For clarity, this is not a sponsored or paid post – but does contain Affiliate links to MarksandSpencer.com. I only promote items that I genuinely like however, so be safe in the knowledge that I enjoyed this edit!

THE EDIT: Something For The Weekend | 03/06.

IMG_0727

I’m going to be curating a weekly ‘Top 8’, ahead of the weekend, looking mostly at online shops. This week I’ve looked at the New Arrivals of some of my favourite online shops. All products are available currently on the UK sites and are priced in GBP. It’s been a real mixed bag weather-wise, so this week’s Edit reflects that!

This week’s online shopping Edit:

1: HELMUT LANG: Oversized Cashmere Coat – £955.

2: MARKUS LUPFER: Embellished Sweatshirt – £250.

3: ASOS: Pintuck Blouse with tie detail – £36.

4: SAINT LAURENT: Leopard Lunchbox Bag – £1095.

5: ANNINA VOGEL: Horsehoe Necklace, 9ct Gold – £250.

6: TOPSHOP: Ruffled Peplum Top – £40.

7: TOPSHOP: Topshop Boutique Boyfriend Jean – £55.

8: TOPSHOP: FANG Flatform Sandal – £49.

#MoMSFTW 

MM.

Love. Want. NEED: Bella Freud | The 1970 Jumper.

IMG_6454
London jewellery designer, Sheherazade Goldsmith, wearing Bella Freud at home: Credit The Telegraph.


I first saw this jumper around 2 years ago. It was being adorned by the likes of Kate and Alexa; and like my favourite fashion-people I’d also lusted after the monochrome version of the now infamous 1970 slogan jumper. Much to my family and mates’ disgust confusion dislike, we’re big fans of the 1970’s. Fans of the fashion, music and most predominantly, the design and (Mid Century) interiors of the era. So this jumper struck more than *just* sartorial chord with me. But then I saw a Telegraph article on (aptly named) jewellery designer Sheherazade Goldsmith, and she was wearing a red version of my favourite woollen piece. Be still my beating heart…

So from then, I lusted for the red colourway. The super-soft Merino Wool. The cut and design. The design itself takes its signature motif from a book clipping that Freud used to wear pinned onto a plain jumper.

I do have splashes of colour in my mostly-black wardrobe and I would tend to go for red or green, unless its a vintage or leopard print (or red or green variations of leopard print!) of course.

So the red 1970 Jumper by the lovely Bella Freud is firmly on my NEED list. More or less at the top.

If you so desire, you can own this seemingly cult classic by clicking the link here: Bella Freud at Selfridges.com

Which colourway would you go for?

tumblr_nuig12MHki1s722apo1_1280

bella_models_oct1518008

tumblr_nuigavhHED1s722apo1_1280

1970_jumper_cactusgreen

#MoMWishList

MM.

 

About Bella Freud:

Freud was born in London, England. She is the daughter of Bernardine Coverley and artist Lucian Freud and great granddaughter of the inventor of psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud.

She is renowned for her signature jumpers Je t’aime Jane, Ginsberg is God and 1970. Fans of Bella Freud include Alexa Chung, Laura Bailey, Kate Moss and Alison Mosshart.

Bella launched her eponymous label in 1990. Her first collection featured sexy knitted dresses in bookish colours, mini tailored suits and a small selection of shoes and bags. Bella went on to win Most Innovative Designer at the London Fashion Awards in 1991 and produced a Super 8 short film ‘Day at the Races’ as an alternative to a fashion show. Bella’s second film ‘More Clothes’ directed by Kate Garner was shot on 35mm film and showcased the SS 1992 collection.

Seasonal catwalk shows followed, then in 1999 Bella began her fashion film collaboration with John Malkovich, co writing and producing three short films: Strap Hanging, Lady Behave, and Hideous Man. In 2001 Bella also collaborated with rock icon Anita Pallenberg on Memo, a limited edition magazine featuring the AW2000 collection, inspired by the film Performance.

From March 2000 to 2003 Bella consulted for British heritage brand Jaeger, rejuvenating their image and bringing British dressing to a younger audience.

Bella’s love of film continued and in 2013 she art directed the short film Je T’Ecoute, produced by Laura Bailey starring Lara Stone, which screened at White Cube Bermondsey. Bella’s directorial debut ‘Girl Boils Egg’ is a two minute film featuring Punk, commissioned by Nick Knight for SHOWstudio.com.

2013 also saw the development of the RTW collections and expansion into the beauty market. The Bella Freud Eau de Parfum collection was launched in 2014 and has gained a cult following.

What Eli Wears | Little Bird by Jools.

IMG_1554

You’re likely to see a lot of posts about Little Bird by Jools Oliver on my blog – ones like these: Brand in Focus and Proper Boy’s Shoes.

I actually adore Little Bird at Mothercare. As mentioned, several times, we look like we live in the 70’s, so Little Bird ensures we all match!

This is one of my favourite little outfits that Eli is currently sporting: ’74 Blue Tee, Green Terry Towelling Shorts (I KNOW!) and Navy Buckle Shoes.

IMG_7915

IMG_3077

IMG_4973

IMG_1820

IMG_1088

IMG_9450

 

All styles available from Mothercare.com

MM.

 

BRAND IN FOCUS | Hello Apparel.

Screen Shot 2013-11-04 at 19.55.07

I LOVE finding new Childrenswear brands. Hello Apparel has been on my radar for a little while – I just haven’t gotten round to writing up my Brand In Focus for them!

Hello Merch is an independent company started in 2008 by Sam Means as an outlet for artists to manufacture and sell merchandise online and on tour, without giving up their rights by signing major label-style merch contracts. Hello Apparel is available for Adults as well as kids; although, I think the kids range is much cooler! ;o

Unfortunately, Hello Merch is just available for import at the minute. But the ever so lucky Southwood Stores will be the ONLY UK stockist very, very soon! So keep your eyes peeled! I actually cannot wait!

Here are my favourite pieces, that I’d love to dress Mr Eli in!

NCC_6579_1024x1024NCC_7032_1024x1024
Hello (Kids) Navy Raglan Pullover, $35.00.

hacoloronesiesall_1024x1024
Hello Individual Onesies,$18.00.

helloblacktriarrow_1024x1024
Arrows (Kids) Black Tri-Blend T-Shirt,$22.00.

hellohappy123r_1024x1024
Sunglasses (Kids) Raglan Tri-Blend Shirt,$24.00.

 

MM.

What Eli Wore | Denim Dungarees Day.

Photo 24-10-2013 12 14 22

What Eli Wore:
Mini Club Denim Dunagree Set – £16.00, Boots.com
Classic Converse Low-Tops in Black – £24.99, Office KIDS.

——————————————————————————————————————
Before we even knew we were having a boy, we decided that we wanted a happy little ‘un wearing denim dungaree’s, stripes and Converse. At 14 months old, this has FINALLY happened! And Mr Eli looks wicked!

Photo 15-10-2013 18 39 33

I love Boots.com for Boy’s clothes. Even better that you get your Advantage Points – or even better still, you can spend your Advantage Points and get FREE clothes! Amazing.

Today Mr Eli wears the Denim Dungaree set – with stripey poppered vest, featuring super cute elbow patches. These dungarees are just great, really hardwearing and are lined with jersey so are lovely and soft on your little one’s legs too. Clever people at Boots Mini Club also made sure that nappy change-time is a breeze (in theory nappy change would be a breeze… if only I could keep him still!) with popper fastenings to the legs. I love the little turn up too, I always give Eli the Shoreditch Roll Up anyway, but the bottoms often roll back down – so it’s nice that this one stays put!

As always, Mr Eli is rocking his Converse sneaks.

Photo 21-10-2013 14 05 59

 

The only thing is, these dungarees appeared to make my baby look like an actual toddler… he’s no longer a baby, I know. But still. Boo 🙁 He does look really grown up in this outfit – I’m sure it made him even more mischievous than usual too!

MM.

My favourite cosy jumpers, online now!

jumpersforblogpost

 

BRRR! It’s getting chilly out there!  Here are my favourite cosy jumpers for your little boy (or girl!), that are available online, NOW!

#1 – Tootsa MacGinty New Forest Jacquard Jumper, Blue – £40.00 From JohnLewis.com
#2 – John Lewis Baby Moose Fair Isle Jumper, Blue – £15.00. From JohnLewis.com
#3 – Retro Cosy Jumper, £22.00 – £24.00. From Boden.com
#4 – Knitted sweater with buttons at the side, £15.99. From Zara.com
#5 – Cable crew neck jumper, £11.00 – £12.00. From Next.co.uk
#6 – John Lewis Baby Bear Jumper, Grey – £15.00. From JohnLewis.com
#7 – Black patterned crew neck, £13.00 – £14.00. From Next.co.uk
#8 – Cosy hotch potch top – #16.00 – £18.00. From Boden.co.uk
#9 – Tootsa MacGinty Cloud Knit Jumper – £34.00. From JohnLewis.com
#10 – Knitted stripe jumper – £5.99. From H&M.com
#11 – Fisherman style jumper, £13.00 – £14.00. From Next.co.uk
#12 – Marled sweater, reduced from £14.95 to £11.99. From Gap.com

 

MM.

What Eli Wore | The #MrandMrsSpinks wedding.

Photo 01-10-2013 15 24 37

What Eli Wore:
Heritage waistcoat, shirt and tie set – £21, Next.
Heritage formal trouser – £13, Next.
Classic Converse Low-Tops in Black – £24.99, Office KIDS.

——————————————————————————————————————

Our very dear friends, Camilla and Tom, got married last month. It was an honour for OH and I to be their witnesses. So it was only right that Mr Eli got dressed up smart-as-a-carrot for the very special event! We went to a few shops for his outfit – but this one from Next was just perfect. In fact, it was ridiculously perfect! <Scroll down>
Photo 01-10-2013 13 40 21
For half of the day Eli didn’t wear his waistcoat. It was a massive struggle to get any clothes on him – he’s such a wriggler (and SO strong now!). We did eventually get the waistcoat on him for the meal however. I did look for a smashing pair of brogues for Eli to go with his Heritage suit – again to match his Daddy. But alas, I could not find any in his size. He’s the first size in infant Converse now, so this was their first outing! He looked wicked!

The shirt that comes with this set is great – it has a stiffened button-down collar, like an adult size! I particularly liked the grown up grid print. The Heritage suit is a cotton blend with fine tweed effect print. The trousers are adjustable which is really handy. The suit is quite hardwearing; something you always need to think about with toddlers, especially as Eli spent a lot of his time crawling around! The waistcoat has a lovely pocket square detail – good job it was stitched in, Eli would have had it straight out!
Photo 11-09-2013 22 09 33
Mr Eli and his Daddy’s had matching tie’s!

These two ties were purchased almost a year apart – AND in two (very) different shops! Eli’s mini-me tie comes as part of the Heritage set from Next, while OH’s tie was from AllSaints; which he purchased for a wedding last year at River Cottage.
Photo 01-10-2013 15 35 30
Mr Eli was such a good boy during the ceremony and meal; and had a wonderful time playing with the other children in the creche.

This Heritage suit from Next is perfect for weddings, christenings, birthday’s – any special occasion you can think of really! Mr Eli received lots of compliments about how smart he looked. A definite must-buy!

The Heritage set from Next is available to purchase online, here. This suit is available as separates, 3 months – 6 years. Prices do vary depending on the size.

MM.