January 15 Round Up

Kimberley

Doing: This month I took my first furtive steps into magazine writing. I was asked to contribute to a local wee magazine on Edinburgh style. It's nice to put my degree to some use and I hope it's well received. I was also invited to be this month's cover girl, so I teamed up with photographer Mint and Chillies to create a cute wintry head shot. It's not out yet so I don't want to count my chickens but I think it's going to be a regular column!

Watching: I've started watching the new channel 4 comedy, Catastrophe. It stars Sharon Horgan and Rob Delaney as an unlikely couple thrown together by an accidental one night stand pregnancy. It's frank, it's funny and it's fast paced. I'm two episodes in and enjoying it so far.

Buying: This is a pretty boring fact but my new washing machine runs seriously hot and has shrunk all my clothes. This has forced- forced!- me to take advantage of this month's sales. Unfortunately, most of it has been boring office clothes but I did but a full sequin dress from Topshop! I'm a human mirror ball.

Clicking: I have signed up to Depop because there seem to be a lot of good offers on there from small designers and bloggers and January has been a good time to scope out all the post-Christmas bargains... but I haven't actually bought anything yet. How do you actually do that?!!


Helen
 
Doing: At the start of the month I took a wee trip to Oban with Ross and his family. It's always a nice drive across and the weather was crisp and sunny. We stayed in a lovely hotel and had a very tasty meal. I also had an awesome bath. I'm talking colour changing lights and lots and lots of bubbles! It was just a short trip but it was great to get away. It's got me planning some other wee trips I'd like to take through out the rest of the year.

Watching: I have been working my way through Pretty Little Liars on Netflix. Ross has been away this week so it's been on constantly. It is utterly ridiculous and I'm not really sure why I keep watching it but it's got be hooked. Don't you hate/love it when that happens?!

Buying: I've been trying my hardest not to buy anything this month. It's been tough with all the sales on but, as mentioned in our sales round up, I did treat myself to a little something. I picked up the chocolate bar clutch for a tiny £2. Pretty much the price of a bar itself. Now to plan a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory shoot.

Clicking: The lovely Glasgow Fashion Girl has relaunched her blog. It has a fabulous new look and her first couple of posts are right up my street. Her Valentine's Wishlist is full of stuff that I've been coveting and introduced a few more things to add to my own shopping list. So excited to see what she comes up with next. 

Blog Crushes 07

Kimberley is crushing on... Three Small Coincidences

I wish these girls had been my clique at high school. They are a ridiculous new force- all between 12 and 16 years old, these vintage loving kids are a force to be reckoned with. The collective instagram feeds of Isabel, Luna, and Viva shows how stylish these girls are- I can't wait to see their blog develop!


Helen is crushing in... Johanna Öst
Speaking of awesome vintage style check out this amazing Swedish artist. Her hair and make up is always spot on and her outfits are super vampy and generally kick ass. And on top of all that she also creates amazing art and illustrations. So much style, creativity and sass! Make sure you check out her Etsy which is filled with vintage finds and fabulous art.

We're also crushin' on...

• Godiva teach us how to shop ethically on a budget.
• Some great vintage shopping tips over on Honey Pop.
• There's still time to get involved in Ladybird Likes Valentine Swap.

Nail Inspiration: Winter Wardrobe

It's been a while since there's been any nail art on the blog, but I was feeling inspired so got my polishes out for some Sunday afternoon painting. I haven't painted more than a simple base colour for ages. What got me in gear to pick up the nail art pens again was looking through Nancy Mc Nails work on her new Facebook page. That lady is super talented and creates the most fun designs. I couldn't help but feel enthusiastic about decorating some little nail canvases. 

Now, I wasn't all that good to start with, but after not painting any designs in the last few months I'm more than a bit rusty. I gave it my best shot though and used last weeks winter outfits as inspiration. I took Kimberley's awesome Topshop hat and turned it into some pretty pink nails with sparkly little pom poms. I used Revlon's Scented Nail Enamel in Pink Pineapple meaning painting them wasn't only fun, it smelt super too.

 
As well as Kim's cute hat I also used my Vintage Style Me dress to create some tartan nails. Nothing too fancy, just some straight forward lines, but I'm pretty pleased with how they turned out. So, I may be a bit shaky but I've definitely got the bug back. Hopefully you'll be seeing more pretty nails around here.

Top 10 Knitwear Wonders

January. It's dark, it goes on forever and it's really bloody chilly out there. We hate being cold so we're spending our days dreaming of colourful and cosy knitwear. And what better thing to do with those dreams than compile a top 10 of our favourite knitted wonders.  



1.) Honeycomb Hat and Gloves Set | NorClothing
NorClothing is a relative newcomer in niche knitwear but is already making waves- being stocked in Topshop. Beautiful minimalistic pieces at affordable prices make these pieces so covetable- this set will be wearable for seasons. Also, we heart designer Eleanor Scott's instagram!

2.) Hidden Message Mittens | Eka via Godiva
Chunky mittens are just what's needed when heading out into the cold. These ones are nice and neutral, so easy to wear with any outfit but watch out for the surprise on the thumbs. Such cute little smiley faces! AND, as if that wasn't enough, they're joined together with string. Old school (primary school) style. 

3.) Jumper with Message | Sonia by Sonia Rykel
We had to include something by the official Queen of Knits herself. Are you Dreaming? it asks. Yes, of this jumper.

4.) Blanket Scarf | Hilary Grant
We LOVE Hilary Grant knits. Understated, classy yet fun too. And oh so soft and warm. Just look at this mahoosive blanket scarf. Not only perfect for staying warm out of doors but also for snuggling up on the sofa.

5.) Watermelon Sweater | Shelia Couture
There best way to battle the winter blues is with something summery. This fruity watermelon jumper makes us think of warmer days but still keeps us toasty while we wait for them to actually arrive. Plus the subtle pattern is oh so cute.



6.) Penguin Blanket | We Are Rushworth
Since spotting this at the Scotland Re:Designed last year, we have been dreaming about this blanket. The print, the colours, the way it matches perfectly with Kimberley's living room decor. We have just seen that the scarf version has been released too!

7.) Bobski Bobble Hat | Lazy Oaf
One of the more 'demure' Lazy Oaf prints, this bobble hat still manages to be vibrant and punchy. Even we can pull this off with our granny chic styling.

8.) Tree Socks | Donna Wilson
Master of quirky knitwear had to make an appearance on our list. While we love some of her larger items (hello, house coat!) they're a little out of our January price bracket. These fun socks bring some bright Donna Wilson charm but in a much more purse friendly way.

9.) Lipstick Embellished Sweater | House of Holland
Sweat rather than knit but it's cosy and embellished with lipsticks so it totally counts! Plus a bit of sparkle is very much needed in this grey month.

10.) Super Sweater | & Other Stories
Slouchy, simple and just plain super. Of course we love this!

So that's our top 10. What would be on yous?

Styled by Kimberley: Winter Warmers

Fur fur fur! I always feel 100% better when I'm wrapped up in a wonderful fluffy faux.
I love textiles and tactile fabrics are generally more luxe so winter brings out the best in soft fuzzy wools and silky skins and wonderful layers. This coat I've had for a year or two now, and it's actually pretty well worn in- and I keep forgetting to replace the missing button- but any time I wear it I feel like some ridiculous pimpin' 00's rapper. In a good way. Right?

Any decent wintry look requires layers and this outfit is certainly that. I've trebled my faux fur count with my rabbit tail mittens and fluffy pom pom hat in neutral colours. Then I've played on the rabbit motif with my cosy oversized bunny jumper. I also wanted something more elegant underneath so I've kept my lower half simple and chic black. My favourite print is actually only barely seen- the adorable Bambi print on my black turtle neck crop. I just got it and it is perfect.




Can we just talk about these dreamy photos? I worked with my fabulous photographer and stylist for the day, Paulina from Mint and Chillies photography. You might remember I took part in her blogger project. She is a master of natural light and works magic on skin to make her models look impeccable. These photographs are part of a photoshoot we created together for Southside and Old Town Advertiser- you'll be seeing my big mug on the cover next month! Starting in February I will be contributing a column on fashion and Edinburgh style, so look out for the free community mag in plenty of local businesses in the Edinburgh area.

I love what we have achieved in these photographs- and producing a variety of neutral expression headshots is much harder than I thought! so I'm so grateful to Mint and Chillies for braving the cold. I had to go home afterwards and snuggle under a duvet with a hot water bottle to heat up again. But then isn't that all part of the January fun?




Coat | H! by Henry Holland
Top | Oh My Love
Jumper | The Whitepepper
Skirt (just seen) | vintage
Bag | Accessorize
Boots | DUO boots
Mittens | Warehouse
Hat | Topshop

All photographs courtesy of Mint and Chillies.

Styled by Helen: Winter Warmers

Coat | Charity Shop
Dress | Vintage Style Me
Boots | Zara
Bag | Accessorize
Scarf | Handmade
Hair Clip | Luna on the Moon
Necklace | c/o Bonnie Bling
Flower Ring | Runaway Fox
Bee Ring | Miss Selfridge
Skull Ring | Datter Industries

Here's what I wore for a walk around the park at the weekend. Most of this outfit consists of items I got for Christmas. I'm always one for getting gifts and wanting to put everything on all at once. In the past this has resulted in me wearing blue and orange tracksuit bottoms with a yellow and black tshirt, topped off with a mint and brown cardigan. Not a good look. Luckily for me, this time around, a lot of my presents coordinated perfectly.

The dress is from Kimberley (she obviously noticed how often Vintage Style Me pops up in my outfit posts) and it goes so well with the bag my friend Susan gifted me. Seriously, the colour is spot on. The scarf was knitted by my big sis and I have to say I was very impressed. She's not the most crafty of people (her last knitting attempt turned out like this) but after this epic item I'm now hoping for a birthday tea cosy. The other present elements of this get up are the cute bee ring (also from Kimberley) and this awesome Bonnie Bling snowflake necklace. We were sent one each by the lovely Betty & Bee. Mine is so shiny and I love the juxtaposition of having a shape that represents something cold in a warm gold colour.




Not only do these items go together rather well, they are also pretty perfect for chilly winter days. These photos were snapped in Dundee on a very sunny, but very crisp day. The large circle scarf kept me super cosy and being able to wrap it round more than once really helped add extra insulation. The dress is made from nice, thick fabric which only added to my toastyness. I even managed to brave a few shots without my coat on, just to show it off. Also tartan always makes me think of winter. Probably because I spend most of the colder months on the sofa wrapped in a tartan blanket. The snowflake necklace was the finishing touch to this wintery ensemble.

One thing I do feel I need to invest in is some mittens or gloves. The railing in the above photo was freezing! It wasn't until I wrapped my hands around a nice hot cup of coffee that the feeling returned to my fingers. Do let me know if you spot any nice knitted items to keep my paws warm on chilly days. It seems to me like the shops are making way for spring collections so there doesn't seem to be as many practical things about. Don't they know that winter usually drags on until at least March!





How are you keeping warm this winter?

Our Sale Picks

1.) Jumpsuit | Samantha Pleet
I absolutely love this print, it's so magical and detailed. I mean who doesn't love a print that features monkeys, goats and UNICORNS! Plus the jumpsuit shape is a real show stopper.

2.) Nail Varnish in Raindrops | Illamasqua
I've been wanting to try out Illamasqua products for a while. Not only do they have an amazing array of beauty offerings they also don't do any nasty testing on animals. The only thing that's stopped me buying from them is the fact that the prices is a little higher than what I normally spend. That's were a good old sale helps out. It gives me the chance to try something new, without breaking the bank. Then if it turns out to be fabulous I won't mind spending that bit extra next time. This shimmery bluey grey is just beautiful.

3.) Deco Triangle Pendant | Katze Shop
And I think the nail polish above would go rather splendidly with this lovely necklace. The simple deco shape is so easy to wear and the holographic sparkles make it even more special.

4.) Doughnut Clutch | New Look
I love me a novelty handbag and have been eyeing up so many these past few months, including all the New Look food based ones.When I spotted some of them in the sale for only £2!!!! I knew it was time I added one to my collection. I went for the tasty chocolate bar but this doughnut one was also winking at me.

5.) Day Time Sites and Night Time Delights Clutch | Sew Lomax
Speaking of novelty clutches, I saw this ingenious creation  when we were at The Wardrobe and fell in love. It features a large pouch for day time which has a smaller one for evening outings. They can be attached together for extra space or detached for separate occasions. So very versatile! And two beautifully embroidered bags for £12, what an absolute bargain.




1.) Trapeze Artists Collar | Cleo Ferin Mercury
I love pretty much everything in this sale- Cleo's scarves are a delight- but the 1950's inspired collars are top of my list. I'm also pretty tempted to pick up the sweet little Christmas pudding one for next year...

2.) I'm Yours Shoes | Irregular Choice
This was actually the first time in a long time that I've checked out Irregular Choices website and I have to say, it made me dizzy! So much fun on one page- and that's before you look at the shoes. When I was at Uni I had a real fling with their courtesan shoes and I had a few- the most memorable had knickers printed all over them! The brand is back in the limelight thanks to their innovative bunny heels and new wedding collection but these changeable velcro slogan shoes are fun too!

3.) Bits & Bobs Pouch | Lulu Guinness
Who doesn't love a bit of Lulu Guinness? I thought I'd pick something non lips-shaped for a change and I adore these little humbug jars on this pouch. I have absolutely no idea what I'd keep in it but who cares when it looks this cute!

4.) Florence Jaquard Skirt | Teatum Jones
Arrgggghhhh! I have been in love with this skirt forever but at £1130 it was seriously out of my price range. Now at 70% off it is expensive... but oh so tempting!! I think if I had the opportunity to try it on I would be skipping the food shop this week to buy this beauty.

5.) Trident Necklace | Sugar and Vice
And now to calm myself down with something extremely affordable- this little piece to make me a mermaid. At this price I can take the shell necklace too!

What Kimberley Wore: Ball and Chain Party

Dress | Glamorous
Coat | H! by Henry Holland (old)
Shoes | Lotta from Stockholm
Clutch | Dorothy Perkins
Hairclip | Alternate Normality
Bone ring | Bloody Mary Metal
Mid ring | Forever 21

When we were first invited to the private non-weddingy wedding celebration of our faves, The Edinburgh Casting Studio duo, I intended to wear something sequined. Thank god I had my usual last minute outfit change because I could not match up to (and wouldn't want to) the full length mermaid-meets-Jessica-Rabbit dress of the bride. I mean it- Poppy is hottest bride EVER. Sensational.

Instead I went with a comfortable scuba dress and low heels made for dancing (or so I thought...) As you can see I'm still loving my new hair waver, although I must admit this was second day wear, and I topped it off by adding this amazing cocktail hair clip. I've got so many compliments since I got it at Christmas time. I also brought along my oversized YES / NO clutch from Dorothy Perkins, which always seems to be a conversation starter. Perhaps that should be inquisition starter, as people always want to ask me 20 questions with it. NO I don't like answering YES/NO questions with the bag.

I met Helen at her super glam train station dressing room, so the lighting is pretty dramatic. Very vampy- I think I look more like a lady of the night ha! Unfortunately we had such a great time at the party itself that we forgot to take any snaps between us!



The party was full of the funnest of people and I felt totally at home. We bumped into many of the other Hillstreet Design House collective and the wonderful Mint and Chillies photographers, along with other familiar faces. Soon we were all up dancing to the eclectic music requests and there was some pretty serious dancing competition out there. The party really was everything I think of with Poppy and Luis- fun, mad, and uplifting times. They are clearly loved by all who attended and I'm glad to say I'm among that crowd.

Plus I finally found out the secret of the Hillstreet Design launch cake, so my night really was worthwhile! :P

What Helen Wore: Ball and Chain Party

Dress | Coco Fennell
Tights | Primark
Shoes | Clarks
Bag | Secret Santa (aka Wee & Twee)

Last Friday we had the pleasure of celebrating a very unconventional marriage between Poppy and Luis, the designers behind Runaway Fox and The Edinburgh Casting Studio. I may have only met them a few months ago, but they really are the nicest people ever. I was so happy to get the chance to party with them in honour of their big day. They'd tied the knot earlier in the week and their Ball and Chain Party was all about marking the occasion with drinks and crazy dancing. It really was an ace night and I can't wait to hang out with these guys more in 2015.

To mark such an awesome occasion I wanted to wear something special. I got this Coco Fennell dress from my (very generous) sister for Christmas. As excited as I was to wear it, I managed to keep it aside for this special shindig. The flamingo's got a fair few compliments on the night and the skirt was perfect for dancing around like a maniac, which is exactly what I did. Having to travel straight from work meant I kept accessories to a minimum, with polka dot tights and a comfy-ish pair of heels (for all that dancing). The addition of the pink fluffy clutch was a no brainer. It was perfect for fitting in all my crap and the pink went perfectly with the flamingo embroidery. Told you you'd be seeing more of it on here.




We snapped these shots in the train station shortly after I'd gotten changed in the toilets there. Yes I am that glamorous. Unfortunately the lighting wasn't so hot, so apologies for that. I know it's only January but I can't wait for summer and the brighter nights. Winter is such a pain for blog photos!

A huge congratulations to the happy couple and thanks again for inviting us along. It was a great night and hopefully just the beginning of a happy and joy filled year!

What Helen Wore: NYE

Top | Wear Eponymous*
Skirt | Wear Eponymous*
Shoes | TK Maxx
Necklace | Karen Mabon
Clutch Bag | Secret Santa

For our New Years Eve celebrations I made a bit of a last minute outfit change after receiving these Wear Eponymous goodies in the post. To say thanks for organising our photo booth at The Wardrobe, the lovely folk at Wear Eponymous very kindly gifted us some vouchers. I saved mine for sale time and managed to pick up a whole outfit! I thought the crop top was pretty apt for our little retro party, even if it is slightly more 90's than 00's. Some Spice Girls and Billie Piper did make it onto our epic playlist from the past, so I think I get away with it. 

To carry on the late 90's vibe I paired it all with some platform shoes and this rather fabulous fluffy clutch bag. This is what I received as my Shop Small Secret Santa gift. It came in a lovely sleek black box, tied with a white ribbon. There is just something about a present wrapped so well that makes it even more exciting to open.  I was very happy I found this inside and am super grateful for all the care and attention that went into it. You will definitely see it popping up in many more of my outfits, I can guarantee it!




After eating my weight in cheese and picked onions, drinking too many sugary alchopops and winning at Card Against Humanity it's safe to say I welcomed the new year in style. The 1st was spent in unicorn pyjamas, hugging the cat and watching kids films. I was more than happy with that but am hoping the rest of 2015 is a tad more active. I'm going to second Kimberley's thanks to everyone who followed our escapades throughout 2014. We can't wait to see what this year has to offer and hope you'll join us for the ride!