What Jools Wore

Chanel & Louboutin Inspired Trays for sale - new designs added

2016-11-22T18:39:00.004+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

I have been experimenting with these fab trays for a while now, and after lots of homework I have now got the perfect size trays in the highest quality. I have had such positive comments on them that I am now selling them in small quantities. They would make beautiful gifts, but they really do lift every room in your house to another level so why not treat yourself to one!

Plus, they make everything very Instagram worthy!!

Similar ones are on sale on Etsy and also through some online shops for over £175. Mine are all hand finished, edges are hand painted and finished (if you want this) and some are available for immediately delivery - bespoke ones within 1 week.

I have a couple in stock also at any one time - just ask what is available currently if you need one immediately.

Each one is sourced from highest quality materials trays are all natural wood and high gloss versions are wood finished in lacquer - they are beautiful to look at - I promise you will love them.

Priced at £75 for a high lacquered shiny gloss version in either size INCLUDING delivery within the UK.

This price includes the matching, fold away wooden stand - I have had amazing feedback from the trays that have already been delivered in the last two weeks ......

This is a brand new design - featuring the CC Logo inside a circle and the Chanel wording at the front of the tray - I really love this one.

Also available in a high gloss black track with white logo

I have ONE of each colour available right now ........

This is the larger style tray in a glorious black high gloss lacquer and hand finished in White.

Measuring 60cm in Length by 40cm Wide) there are so many uses for this one.

You could use it as a drinks display table for all your favourite cocktails, as an occasional table for all of your coffee table books and candles, or to serve Champagne and Canapés. Comes with matching BLACK fold away table stand.

I have ONE of these available right now

£75 including delivery in the UK

This is the classic, square size Chanel Inspired Tray in White and finished in matt black.

This is the NON GLOSS version, so perfect if you prefer a more pared down, classic look.

(I also have made this in the high gloss white - see below)

Measurements are 40cm x 40cm - it looks incredible on its stand with candles and flowers, or on a dressing table displaying perfumes and make up - it is a great size and looks very elegant.

Comes with matching WHITE fold away table stand.

Just ONE available right now

£70 including Postage within the UK

This version is the classic square size Tray at 40cm x 40cm - it looks stunning and is in super high gloss black lacquer. Trays are solid wood and then finished in the high shine so they really are top quality.

(This one is also available in white lacquer - please see below)

The black tray comes complete with matching BLACK fold away display stand.

You can showcase anything on here from your favourite shoes to coffee and macarons!

£75 including delivery in the UK

I just made this one today

The classic size tray in a high white gloss lacquer and finished with glossy black top edging. I am really pleased with how this one has turned out. You can add an extra Chanel logo underneath the CC sign if you want it - but it looks really good like this!

(I can also make them without the edging - it is completely up to you how you would like it finished)

Classic size 40cm x 40cm - this is so super shiny and looks very luxurious.

Would make THE most perfect gift

£75 including delivery within the UK - extra detailing or lettering £80

This one is super cute for all you Louboutin Lovers!

Imagine displaying your shoes on this - or having it on your dressing table to display your Louboutin Make up!!

Black Lacquered Tray with Black Stand, finished with Cherry Red detailing. Hand painted. This one was so much fun to make. £75 including postage in the UK.

Please just contact me if you have any questions or would like to place an order.

You can check out more photos on my Instagram page also - LouboutinJools

Thanks so much for looking

Loving these Chanel Inspired Trays

2016-11-22T18:39:00.003+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

I have been experimenting with these fab trays for a while now, and after lots of homework I have now got the perfect size trays in the highest quality. I have had such positive comments on them that I am selling them in small quantities. They would make beautiful gifts, but they really do lift every room in your house to another level so well worth treating yourself to. Plus, they make everything very Instagram worthy!!

Similar ones are on sale on Etsy and also through some online shops for well over £175. Mine are all hand finished, and edges are hand painted and finished (if you want this) and are available for delivery within 1 week of order. I have a couple in stock also at any one time - just ask what is available currently if you need one immediately.

Each one is sourced from highest quality materials - these are incredible to look at - everybody will be proud to show and have in their homes and they are a real talking and focal point.

My prices are £80 for the wooden, painted version and £90 for the high lacquered shiny gloss version.

This price includes the matching, fold away wooden stand and INCLUDES delivery within the UK.

This is the larger style tray in a glorious black high gloss lacquer and hand finished in White.

Measuring 60cm in Length by 40cm Wide) there are so many uses for this one.

THIS LARGER VERSION IS ALSO AVAILABLE IN A HIGH GLOSS WHITE TRAY FINISHED WITH BLACK LOGO AND WRITING, WITH WHITE STAND.

£90 including delivery in the UK

This is the classic, square size Chanel Inspired Tray in White and finished in matt black.

This is the NON GLOSS version, so perfect if you prefer a more pared down, classic look.

(I also have made this in the high gloss white - see below)

Measurements are 40cm x 40cm - it looks incredible on its stand with candles and flowers, or on a dressing table displaying perfumes and make up - it is a great size and looks very elegant.

Comes with matching WHITE fold away table stand.

£80 including Postage within the UK

(This one is also available in white lacquer - please see below)

The black tray comes complete with matching BLACK fold away display stand.

You can showcase anything on here from your favourite shoes to coffee and macarons!

£90 including delivery in the UK

I just made this one today

(I can also make them without the edging - it is completely up to you how you would like it finished)

Classic size 40cm x 40cm - this is so super shiny and looks very luxurious.

Would make THE most perfect gift

£90 including delivery within the UK

Please just contact me if you have any questions or would like to place an order.

You can check out more photos on my Instagram page also - LouboutinJools

Thanks so much for looking

Loving these Chanel Inspired Trays

2016-11-22T18:39:00.002+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

I have been experimenting with these fab trays for a while now, and after lots of homework I have now got the perfect size trays in the highest quality. I have had such positive comments on them that I am selling them in small quantities. They would make beautiful gifts, but they really do lift every room in your house to another level so well worth treating yourself to. Plus, they make everything very Instagram worthy!!

Similar ones are on sale on Etsy and also through some online shops for well over £175. Mine are all hand finished, and edges are hand painted and finished (if you want this) and are available for delivery within 1 week of order. I have a couple in stock also at any one time - just ask what is available currently if you need one immediately.

Each one is sourced from highest quality materials - these are incredible to look at - everybody will be proud to show and have in their homes and they are a real talking and focal point.

My prices are £80 for the wooden, painted version and £90 for the high lacquered shiny gloss version.

This price includes the matching, fold away wooden stand and INCLUDES delivery within the UK.

This is the larger style tray in a glorious black high gloss lacquer and hand finished in White.

Measuring 60cm in Length by 40cm Wide) there are so many uses for this one.

THIS LARGER VERSION IS ALSO AVAILABLE IN A HIGH GLOSS WHITE TRAY FINISHED WITH BLACK LOGO AND WRITING, WITH WHITE STAND.

£90 including delivery in the UK

This is the classic, square size Chanel Inspired Tray in White and finished in matt black.

This is the NON GLOSS version, so perfect if you prefer a more pared down, classic look.

(I also have made this in the high gloss white - see below)

Measurements are 40cm x 40cm - it looks incredible on its stand with candles and flowers, or on a dressing table displaying perfumes and make up - it is a great size and looks very elegant.

Comes with matching WHITE fold away table stand.

£80 including Postage within the UK

(This one is also available in white lacquer - please see below)

The black tray comes complete with matching BLACK fold away display stand.

You can showcase anything on here from your favourite shoes to coffee and macarons!

£90 including delivery in the UK

I just made this one today

(I can also make them without the edging - it is completely up to you how you would like it finished)

Classic size 40cm x 40cm - this is so super shiny and looks very luxurious.

Would make THE most perfect gift

£90 including delivery within the UK

Please just contact me if you have any questions or would like to place an order.

You can check out more photos on my Instagram page also - LouboutinJools

Thanks so much for looking

The Aquazzura Insect Boot and how to get the look for less.

2016-10-29T15:24:00.000+01:00

Insects!

I cannot say I am a fan of them on anything apart from clothing and accessories .......

The husband has a glorious Paul Smith Shirt covered in ants and it honestly really is the only way I want to see a large group of insects together.

But I have been drawn to the lushness of the rich velvet Aquazzura boots. They are beautifully finished with golden Fauna insects and they just look so decadent kinda Christmassy - especially in the deep burgundy colour.

but at £930 you are going to have to be seriously careful with them!

Well, Zara have given us a beautifully appealing option if you want the look but do not want the credit card bill ......

Beaded Velvet Ankle Boots - Zara £129

oooh I have serious lust for this pair of booties .......

you could team them with this adorable Bee bag too (which is way cheaper than the Gucci Dionysus Bee!)

or use this cutie on it's own to pick out the Fauna trend

Embroidered Bee Bucket Bag - Zara £29.99

What do you think?

Thanks for reading x

Help, I'm addicted to Bella Freud ..............

2016-10-27T18:24:00.002+01:00

Hi Lovelies,

Well, it all started innocently enough with a sweater that I found on sale last year.

I didn't buy because it was a designer brand - I fell in love with the burgundy and yellow colours that just went together so nicely (I think these colours look fab with blue denim), and the cute 'Blondes' motif spoke loudly to me!

and not long after I purchased it I started seeing it on some cute celebs. This always makes me love things more, because what can I tell you - I am incredibly (fashion) shallow!

There is something so comforting about a sweater. It signals the start of a new season and makes you instantly feel snuggly. My mum will disagree with this as she hates to feel things tight around her neck, but I love the cosiness of wearing a jumper.

Bella Freud cuts hers with a lovely long arm so they cover the hands which is my most favourite sweater thing EVER, and is incredibly handy if you haven't had a manicure ...

So, for those who don't know of her, Bella Freud is a London based fashion designer with impressive credentials! Daughter of the artist Lucien Freud and great granddaughter of the psycho analysis Sigmund Freud.

Bella is perhaps best known for her iconic 'Ginsberg is God' sweater - It was created as a tribute to the American Poet Allen Ginsberg and has seemed to be around for ever.

She created her other iconic sweater "Je t'aims Jane for Jane Birkin.

Jane had mistaken Bella's 'Ginsberg is God' jumper for Gainsbourg is God - thinking it was a reference to her musician lover Serge Gainsbourg (awkward!!!)

So Bella thought she should rectify this with another jumper design. Hence Je t'aimes Jane is on the front, with Gainsbourg is God on the back and the name Serve on the sleeve.

What a cute story!!

By far my most favourite of her designs is the 1970 sweater (it is her bestseller) so this was the one I REALLY wanted next. The placing of the 1970 is just perfect against the white. Its hard to explain but it just compliments it somehow.

Bella came up with this particular design while messing around on a photocopier .......

'I spied the date 1970 printed in the corner of a page of the book I was leafing through. Inspirited, I kept blowing it up, then cut it out and pinned it onto my black jumper. It had a rough charm that made me think of the early New York punk scene in the 70's, and Patti Smith'

and so I started my 1970 love with a beautiful baby blue colour

(it's a cotton mix so not a heavyweight at all)

I cannot tell you how happy this particular jumper makes me!

I love everything about it.

but, you know - its not a THICK jumper, so you need one of these for colder days too surely?

and so then this one found me .........

and if I thought that I loved the blue, well this one is EVERYTHING!!!

I think its the retro red, against the white (it helps that I love Arsenal too) - I absolutely adore this jumper. I purchased this one from Matches Fashion when I had a £100 off voucher

Fearne likes this one too!!

So I would love to tell you that I was now satisfied.

Yeah Right! The obsession continues and if anything is getting worse.

I 'needed' a black one - did I go for another 1970 or the very gorgeous Rainbow one

(the Rainbow is mohair so its super fluffy!)

So I decided on the rainbow one - I told you, I have a problem

and guess what, yes, Fearne's at it again!!

It should be delivered tomorrow and I am so excited about it ...... Sooooooo why am I still craving the black 1970?

Perhaps, if I just got that one - I might be then done ............ !!!

If anybody knows of a cure, please hit me up with it.

Maybe Sweaters Anonymous, Fashion Rehab or a 12 Step Programme?

Ooooh do you think she makes one that says 12 Steps on it ..........

Thanks for reading xx

It's all about Embroidery for Autumn/Winter and I cannot get enough of it!

2016-08-31T19:05:00.002+01:00

Hi lovelies,

It started with some embroidery on the yoke of a coat that I saw in Zara in the summer, and now it has become quite the obsession for me.

Yes, Embroidery is inescapable for this season and I for one cannot get enough of it. You can go for as little or as much as you like, you could start off by just going for an embroidered collar to give you the look, or really go for it and have it on everything, including your jeans! There is something for everybody I promise.

Here is a pick of some of the pieces that are available right now.

I had to have this one as soon as I saw it - I need the weather to change stat so that I can wear it asap!

Zara Embroidered Top £39.99

Here are some other Zara top picks

This skirt is adorable - but soooooo short! £29.99

And this cutie is adorable - wear it now and then pair it with a leather jacket and wooly tights all winter long - £49.99 - be quick though - its an instagram sensation just now.

Embroidered Bags - Zara £29.99

Embroidered Top £39.99

The first shipment of these jackets from Topshop have already sold out - another batch are coming soon (I love it - I blame my obsession with Desperately Seeking Susan for this)

Topshop Embroidered Leather Jacket £295

Some more pieces from Topshop

Oasis have some really pretty pieces too

This top is perfect if you just want to touch on this trend …...

This gorgeous dress is from their V&A Tapestry Collection - they have some really pretty pieces

Warehouse have gone for a sheer bomber jacket style with embroidery

Embroidered Top - Next

and you can always rely on ASOS to have picked up quickly on a trend for great prices.

Soooo, are you tempted?

I will race you to Zara for the coat

Thanks for reading x

Success in the Summer Sales

2016-06-20T21:04:00.001+01:00

Hi Lovelies,

Yes the pretty awful weather we are experiencing (AKA Summer) had to have some benefits - the most important being that the sales have already been going on for a couple of weeks.
Sooo, what do you do? Do you grab the pieces that you want straight away or do you wait and take the chance that they will go to second reduction?

Well personally, in the winter sales I tend to buy the pieces that I want as soon as the sales start - I think that is probably because we seem to get so much more wear out of winter pieces in the UK and it is wretched to miss out on something you have really been wanting, but in the summer I only really buy the pieces that I wanted at full price, or if there are only a very few left in stock.

So when the Net-a-Porter sale started there were only 2 items in my wish list that I was hoping would be reduced.

I loved this dress as soon as I saw it - in fact I thought about getting this dress for the Garden Party at Buck House - But I still struggle with paying hundreds of pounds for Topshop Unique - I know that they are obviously better quality than your regular Topshop - but you know - it's still Topshop designers!

So I was crossing my fingers that it would go into the sale

Belfour Silk Tea Dress by Topshop Unique was £225 now £135

and I was hoping for the same with these boots.

If you haven't tried Rag & Bone - try them if you ever see them on sale - they are so cool - but also really comfortable so you can wear them all day and not give them a second thought.

Rag and Bone Harrow grey Ankle Boot £375 now £188

Well they were delivered today and they are both keepers. The dress is beautiful - even at sale time Net-a-Porter get it right - it came in a black garment bag and boxed - and the colour and feel of the silk is stunning.

And the boots - totally brilliant too (and smell amazing!!) and with this weather it is not like I am going to have to wait long to wear them ………..

and I have mentioned it on Instagram but I got exceptional service from Mulberry recently.

They tracked down a bag for me that had sold out online within 10 minutes of it going into the sale.

It was the Rose Petal Lily Bag in Ostrich (it was my birthday!!)

They gave us lovely treats of Champagne & chocolate truffles

Loving the brand new Dark Green Mulberry Bags - with thick ribbon handles

and this beautiful little purse is from the new season collection

Mulberry Candy Small Zip Around Purse £145

Very Cute together

And the Blossom Mulberry Totes went into the sale and they are a really awesome bag at an awesome price if you are looking for a work tote or a throw everything in bag!

Reduced to £297 from £495 the leather on these bags is stunning

I liked Neon Blue the best so chose that one

It is hard to get excited about anything else as we just don't really have the weather to justify buying them - so all of these pieces will work all year round so I am super happy.

Would love to hear about what you have managed to buy in the sales.

Thanks for reading xx

What to wear if you are lucky enough to be invited to a Buckingham Palace Garden Party!

2016-05-21T12:17:00.001+01:00

Hi Lovelies,

Well, the title above was EXACTLY what I typed in to Google when this incredible invitation was sent to us recently.

The only guideline you are given is to wear a Day Dress (with hat being optional) Garden Parties at The Palace are notoriously secret as you are not supposed to take pictures, so there were very few photos online of what people wore - which was probably a good thing. I wasn't going to be happy wearing something that wasn't really "me" and I wanted a dress that I would love to wear again.

So I just chose one that made me say - aww thats so pretty.

It was by Needle & Thread from Liberty London and it was the first dress that I tried

Needle & Thread Floral Tiered Dress in Pastel Pink £285

I wore it with some LK Bennett Sandals and my Chanel Kelly bag

and because it was a summer Garden Party in England of course I had to take a coat!

White Lace Coat by Love Label (I got it on sale for about £40!!)

So, at a little before 3pm we arrived at the Hyde Park entrance and joined the queue of excited people. This was the perfect opportunity to people-watch and check out some outfits! Celebrities for security reasons have to go through the same entrance so it was surreal to see them joining the line just like us.

After a security check you are free to follow the signs and see all of the grounds of Buckingham Palace and the marvellous lake - it really is quite incredible as you would never believe you were in Central London and you quickly become very aware of what a once in a lifetime event this really is - and all the while the Queen's Band is playing in the background!

I was prepared to keep my phone in my bag for the entire afternoon - but guests were taking pictures immediately - it is impossible really not to now - so if you are going - you ARE now allowed to take pictures on your phone - just not of the Royal Party which is fair enough!

At 3.30 on the dot, the high tea is served - people were queuing up well before this though!

You can have as many sandwiches and cakes as you can manage. They are served on rectangular white plates with a little indent for your teacup so that you don't spill anything!

Cucumber & Mint, Egg Mayonaise & Cress, and Ham & English Mustard Sandwiches (crustless of course!) were served with Coronation Chicken or Salmon & Cream Cheese tiny Wraps, Salmon and oodles of baby cakes - everything is made at The Palace kitchens.

You could then choose between Tea, Coffee, Iced Coffee or Homemade Lemonade - so civilised!

And while eating, just before 4 o clock you are encouraged to make a line and then the National Anthem played and Prince Charles walked out of the palace accompanied by 6 Yeoman of the Guard.

I cannot tell you how many celebrities we saw - they were literally everywhere you turned and included Ronnie Wood from the Rolling Stones, Pixie Lott, Holly Willougby, Fearne Cotton, Tony Hadley, Status Quo, Rick Parfait, Jess Glynn, Mike Rutherford, Martin Clunes, Sir Ben Kingsley, Joan Collins, a whole bunch of athletes and lots of very worthy Charity helpers.

It was a day we will never forget and I cannot begin to express how privileged we felt to be invited.

Best of all on the way out, you are allowed to tour the ground floor entrance of the Palace and then walk through the private square

and then you end up at the front of the palace looking out at the gates so that you can see everybody peering in - and get a glimpse at what it looks like from the Royals point of view - and you see the famous balcony from which all the best wedding pictures happen!

and we ended our beautiful day with dinner at The Oxo Tower

A special shout out to my new shoes - I knew I needed to wear wedges as most of the event was on the lawn and I wore a brand new pair of shoes for 12 hours and they were a dream - I honestly have never worn a comfier pair of shoes!

LK Bennett Ripley Gold Wedges £195

Thanks for reading xx

Holiday purchases !!!

2016-04-13T10:59:00.000+01:00

Hi Lovelies,

I love holidays - I just absolutely hate flying, and so we tend to leave it until the last possible moment to book anything so that I can't stress out (too much).

I wish I was one of those people that booked all of their breaks months in advance and could count down the time until I was going, but in reality, I don't think it is ever going to happen! And so we have booked a week in Dubai for next week and with so little time I am feeling woefully under prepared. In 4 days I will be on my way there.

I have booked a hypnosis session for tomorrow which I am hoping is going to go great, and so now that is sorted I have to think about what to take along - so online shopping has been my best friend.

Now, the most important thing surely is new sunglasses obviously!! (no? Just me?) It's a sickness - every time we go away I have to buy a new pair, and I knew EXACTLY which ones I wanted.

The Chanel 5340H Sunglasses with double pearls on the arm

I have been boring my friends with them with repeated trips to Sunglasses Hut to try them on (sorry guys)

but they are £408 and I just didn't want to pay that much for them.

The woman in the store said - think of them as more of a piece of jewellery - err I don't think so - although come to think of it some Chanel pearls would go rather nicely with them ………..

and so PretaVoir came to the rescue (pretavoir.com) they sell them online so do not have the overheads of the stores, and whilst not cheap, they were a much better price and their service has been exceptional

I went for the Chanel 5340H in dark blue with cream pearl arms - yummy

I could have waited and tried to get them duty free at the airport, but I didn't want to run the risk that they might not have them, and the price was actually better from Pretavoir than the duty free price would be, so it was a no brainer really. They are arriving this afternoon, so I am excited to receive them.

And going somewhere beautiful is just the excuse I needed to try my first Self Portrait dress.

I have wanted one for ages, I love everything about their ethos - principally that designer dresses do not have to cost the earth and that you can purchase exquisite quality materials with great fitting without it having to cost thousands of pounds.

So I have ordered the Azaelea lace dress in Antique Rose

(which is also arriving this afternoon - thank you MatchesFashion for your same day delivery)

I will be pacing the hallway this afternoon waiting for these to arrive!

Self Portrait Azealea Lace Dress £240

(available in beautiful pastel colours for this season)

So after indulging in those goodies I thought I should get back to the high street (and my current wardrobe) for other pieces to take

I found this cute skirt in Zara - perfect for popping over swimwear during the day as it has an elasticated waist, and then to pair with a camisole or vest top in the evenings

Embroidered Skirt - Zara £39.99

This little dress from Topshop comes in powder blue for this year, and I also have the bright yellow and white ones from last summer which I am going to take as they are so light and easy to wear

Applique sundress - Topshop £36

and I picked up these cuties (they come in cream and black)

Crochet detail Sundress - Topshop £29

These Floozie & French Bikini's from Debenhams are adorable

I literally wanted every single design they had, but chose these two

Floozie by Frost French Striped Bikini - top £26.50 bottoms £15

and this one even has little silver starfishes on the end of the straps - it's amazing!

Floozie & French Seahorse Bikini - prices same as above

White Pompom trim Beach Kaftan - Topshop £30

and from ASOS I have these bits

Off shoulder dress - ASOS £38 (size down if you order this one)

Stripe Linen off shoulder sundress - ASOS £38

and the first thing I will pack will be my favourite little cherry sundress from Traffic people

Last year when we went to Dubai I packed far too many shoes (a shocker I know)

but having now been, I know that evening shoes just don't happen there - it is far too hot. So I am taking some cute sparkly flats, flip-flops and this very neutral pair of tan wedges which will go with everything and are low enough to wear during the day too.

I'm verging on being very sensible here

Kurt Geiger Miss KG Pineapple Wedges £55

So what do we think? A couple of pairs of shorts, a silk kimono for evening and some vest tops and I should be ready - now where did I put that San Tropez tanning mousse ……

Thanks for reading xx

The Chloé Faye Bag

2016-03-15T18:19:00.000+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

Hope you are all doing well.

I have to confess that I haven't bought a Chloe bag that I have loved in years. After the incredible success of the Paddington it was almost as if they lost their way, but I still loved their leather so I persevered - obviously (after all - I am not a quitter!!)

Over time I have tried the Paraty (far too heavy) the double strap Marcie (purchased but didn't make the cut - the shoulder straps never sat comfortably for me) and I have purchased more Mini Marcie Crossbody ones in various colour ways than I care to admit (great price point, but they were never quite big enough).

So I err on the side of caution now as it is safe to say my history with Chloe has not been smooth - but I really feel like they have finally got their groove back.

I really liked the Drew bag when it was released (although shockingly I didn't want to own one) but finally, with the Faye Bag they have released a bag that I really, really like. It has very clean lines, is slimline so wears well on the body, and I love the silver & gold ring mixed hardware with the attached pendant chain. It just looks incredibly luxurious and beautiful. It has a real 70's vibe to it.

Chloe Medium Faye Bag

The Faye Bag also comes in a cute small version

(the strap is long enough to wear cross body)

and some modelling shots …… (credit - Pinterest)

Prices start from £865 for the Small size cross body

The Medium starts from £1190 for a plain leather

approx £1490 for Suede & detailing

and up to £2200 for a python bag

So, which ones is your favourite and has anybody purchased one? I would love to know your thoughts please.

and as always - Thanks for reading x

Gulp …. The one where I need to look for lower heels!

2016-03-02T12:44:00.001+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

I got a new job recently - I am absolutely loving it, a dream job for me - the ultimate styling gig! but I must confess that 8 hours standing up and being on your feet all day is something that I have not been used to in previous roles - and I am feeling it!

Soooo, I have had to think about more "sensible" height heels as it is the legs and feet that feel it the most - my poor tootsies at the end of a day are really hurting!

Well, this is a whole new world for me - I am a little one, so I have mastered the art of tottering in ridiculous heels, but it is just not possible for an entire day. Tell me I am not the only person who cannot wear ballet pumps? They hurt soooo much more than heels - they are just the most uncomfortable pair of shoes ever created - I love how they look on everybody else - but completely flat shoes are more painful for me than a heel.

So a mid heel has to be the way forward right now.

Balenciaga have just released this absolutely stunning pair of boots - I love everything about them - especially the shape and the zip detailing. But I am wrestling with spending this kind of money in March - how much wear will I get out of them before Summer?

Attempts to justify them would be greatly appreciated please …… I do think it is worthwhile to splash out more on a really good pair of boots.

Balenciaga Haussman Leather Ankle Boot with back zip detail £575

ooh you just know these are gonna smell amazing!!!

I am also loving Miu Miu's suede Espadrilles

Suede Espadrille Platform Sandals £310

Strapped Suede Espadrille Platform Sandal £400 also from Miu Miu

but they are only espadrilles! So I would much prefer the topshop version personally

'Wolf' Platform Espadrille from Topshop £42

They come in lots of different colours

and these look like you could wear them all day too

'Hippy" Suede Wedge Shoe - Topshop £30

'Naomi" Buckle Sandals - Also Topshop £56

and on the subject of Miu Miu - I ADORE this shirt - it is so inspired by Miuccia Prada

Pair it with a pair of black cigarette pants or a pencil skirt for right now

and then wear with white pieces when the sun finally comes.

Printed Tie Neck Shirt - Topshop £42

Thanks for reading x

The Oscars 2016

2016-02-29T01:43:00.000+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

My absolutely favourite fashion night of the year is finally here. I get far too excited about the whole event.

So here are some pictures of the gorgeous gowns worn tonight. I am being fuelled by Tea & Toast - so that you can wake up to them.

Giuliana Rancic surprised me with how lovely she looked in a gorgeous white Georges Chakra gown

Alicia Vikander in custom Yellow Louis Vuitton

Sofia Vergara in Navy Marchesa

Olivia Wilde also chose white - she wore Valentino

Charlize Theron - Lady in Red Dior

Naomi Watts accessorised her beautiful Armani Prive dress with her hubby Live Schreiber!

Olivia Munn wore an orange one shoulder Stella McCartney gown

Rooney Mara - WOW! Givenchy Couture

Heidi Klum wore Lilac Marchesa

Margot Robbie shimmered in a gold Diane von Furstenberg sequin gown

Eddie Redmayne & Hannah Bagshawe both in Alexander McQueen

Brie Larson wore Blue ruffled Gucci

Isla Fisher in Floral off the shoulder Marchesa

Saoirse Ronan wore emerald green bespoke Calvin Klein

Julianne Moore in Chanel Couture

OK, I could devote an entire blog to Cate Blanchett's Armani dress ….

Old Hollywood Glamour Alert - Jennifer Garner in bespoke Versace

and I could look at these two all night!

Jack & Rose are back together …..

Leo & Kate Winslet (wearing Ralph Lauren)

Lady Gaga wearing a Brandon Maxwell pants suit

Tina Fey in purple Atelier Versace

Charlotte Rampling looked super elegant in Armani Prive

The Gorgeous Jared Leto in Gucci ...

Reese Witherspoon wore a purple & black silk gown by Peter Copping

Emily Blunt dressed her bump in Prada

Matt & Luciana Damon - both wearing Versace

and finally

Jennifer Lawrence in Dior Haute Couture

Soooo, which look is your favourite - let me know please

Night Night …… !!!!

Pay Day Treats …...

2016-02-26T17:48:00.003+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

Everywhere I went today, people were in a good mood. And in each place these happy people mentioned that it was payday and that they couldn't wait to treat themselves! The Nail bar was packed, and the hairdressers are full all day today (can you tell I have not had a bad day!) - I think January & February have been really long months for everybody.

So, as it was treat day, I purchased a couple of goodies from Zara.

This jacket was on my hit list as soon as it came into store - it is so very Chanel - and so very cute with the velvet ribbon bow and trim detail. This one should arrive early next week but these are the stock piccies - how lovely does this look!

Tweed Jacket with Bow Detail - Zara £69.99

and I got a pair of Flares to team this jacket with. And with the new leather platform shoes that I blogged about recently I have a whole outfit planned!

Mid Rise Flared Blue Jeans - Zara £29.99

and I fell for this absolutely stunning dress by Dolce & Gabbana this week - it completely sums up Spring & Summer.

But I really didn't fall for the price tag!

Dolce & Gabbana Printed Daisy Silk Chiffon Dress - £2400

Yes - that's right - £2400!

There is absolutely no way I could justify that price

BUT ….. I got a very similar one recently that I absolutely love and is a very similar style

Traffic People Silk Flyaway Dress in Cherry Print £38 on Sale!

So, a very different price point - but just as lovely - and it looks really pretty on.

Thanks for reading x

The Baftas 2016

2016-02-14T20:44:00.000+00:00

Celebrities turned out in force in a cold Covent Garden tonight for the British Film and Television awards 2016. Long gowns were definitely the order of the day - and covered cold legs.

Cate Blanchett looked sublime, Kate Winslet & Isla Fisher looked hot in a super elegant way - but if I am honest, everybody else left me feeling almost as cold as they felt. I was left with the feeling that we have seen this all before. I hope we see more exciting, fashion forward gowns at The Oscars.

Julianne Moore wore Georgio Armani (it looked fab with the cape) & styled with Emerald Earrings

My favourite look of the night was Kate Blanchett wearing Alexander McQueen

Dakota Johnson wore a Red Frilled Gown by Dior

Kate Winslet looked classic - but played it pretty safe in figure hugging black Antonio Berardi

Alicia Vikander wore Louis Vuitton

Emilia Clarke (Game of Thrones) wore a red Victoria Beckham Gown

Rooney Mara wore a pale gold Givenchy Haute Couture dress -

Quite a hard colour to pull off with pale skin in Winter

Isla Fisher managed to make it work

Sacha Baron Cohen & Isla Fisher - who looked gorgeous in a white column gown by Stella McCartney

Eddie Redmayne with his wife Hannah

Swoon! Leonardo Dicaprio

What are your thoughts? Would love to hear from you

Thanks for reading x

Valentine Date Outfit

2016-02-11T22:57:00.002+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

We are going to go out tomorrow night to celebrate Valentine's instead of Saturday or Sunday - in the hope that it is not quite so contrived out there (I really dislike dining out on Valentines Day when they put you so close to the couple at the next table that you may as well be eating together!) A lunch date for me is much nicer.

I loved it when Carrie tries to make a dramatic exit after her row with Miranda & gets eaten by the balloons!

and Samantha also had her own ideas about dining out ………

It has been really cold today and the forecast is for even lower temperatures tomorrow and so at this moment in time - this is what I am planning on wearing for dinner.

(Disclaimer - this could well change!!!)

I love a sleeve in the cold weather

Hepburn Dress with Lace Hem - by Traffic People

and I had a little Valentine Manicure today - my nails are really making me smile

and I am going to carry my Vintage Chanel bag

and wear these little boots for the first time

(I grabbed these in the Karen Millen Sale for 75% off!)

Karen Millen Lace & Suede Ankle Boots - reduced to £50

Are you doing anything special this weekend?

Would love to hear about your plans.

Thanks for reading x

Dreaming of warmer days …...

2016-02-08T20:58:00.006+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

So, on the wettest, windiest gloomiest day of the year so far, what else would I be doing but looking at Sun dresses.

Urgh, I am so bored of tights and scarves and gloves and carrying an umbrella everywhere. I almost got blown over today - and my hair looks pretty interesting!

So, I know it's vaguely ridiculous, but here are some very pretty Spring/Summer pieces that can take our mind off of the fact that it has been hard to get out of our PJ's since the beginning of January!

I NEED these! They are online and in store already at Zara. I saw them last week but I thought it was too early to think about them - but now I realise I must have them!!

Wooden Platform Leather Sandals - Zara £59.99

I would team them with this fab dress by Self Portait

Bow Strap Guipure trim Dress £320

Natural Fibre Off Shoulder Sun Dress (I love this so much!) ASOS £38

Daisy Print Mini Dress - Self Portrait £240

Fit & Flare Dress with Mesh Inserts ASOS £55

You could team this with a sweater for right now

Striped Opaque Skirt - Topshop £55

and I took the little Vintage Chanel out to play

And if you want to treat yourself to a little Valentine treat - you know, just because you are fabulous and completely deserve it - how about this little beauty?

Who needs to wait for boys when you can buy this yourself

How adorable is THIS? And it is limited edition so it won't hang around for long

I put in a cheeky order for this today as it was the first time I had seen it available

Burberry from London with Love Illuminating Bronzer Palette

Available at Burberry.com - £45

Thanks for reading x

Valentines Ideas …….

2016-02-05T17:45:00.003+00:00

I love Valentines - an entire day devoted to romance. And this year is even better than usual as it is also The Oscars Ceremony! So basically - you can eat chocolates AND look at beautiful gowns and shoes - all on the same day - how splendid is THAT!

Think Valentine and you immediately think of reds and pinks - so here are some little ideas that you can subtly or not so subtly drop some major hints about! Good luck lovelies …… maybe keep this page open!

Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G from the Lipstick Tree Love Bit £23

Byredo Loose Lips Candle £50 Selfridges

Fluffy Heart Socks - Topshop £3.50

If you are being super spoilt - Mulberry Mini Cara Quilted Bag £995 - Mulberry.com

Silver Plated Heart Keyring - Aspinal of London £45

Diptyque Olympia Le Tan Scented Candle £44

Wild at Heart Valentines Flowers - from £80

Red Fiery Spritz Red Mulberry Leather Keyring £60

Charotte Olympia Love Me Shoes £445

Alexander Wang Alpha Bucket Bag £650

Bella Freud 1970 Sweater £280

Louboutin Heart Pumps £475

or get the look from ASOS!

Passionate Sling Back Heart Pumps - ASOS £45

Pointed Long Time Heart Flats ASOS £22

Self Portrait Azaelea Dress £240

Tin of Valentine Biscuits £39.50 Biscuiteers.com

enter the code LOVEYOU for a 10% discount

Mulberry Mini Lily - Croc Print Fiery Spritz

(this is the newest one that will fit the iPhone 6) £375

Tom Ford Cafe Rose Perfume £145

Agent Provocateur Kari Lingerie Set

Chloe Small Drew Shoulder Bag - £1140 available at Chloe & Harrods

Which is your favourite ….

A guide to buying Vintage Chanel

2016-02-01T15:09:00.002+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

Yay, I am spoiling you with all these bag blog posts right now.

Well, as you may recall from my last blog, I had a mass readjustment of the bags that I had, and have started to swop them out for bags that I have promised myself I will use and not just look at.

And a chance to buy this beauty came up and I couldn't resist it (Thank you Karen).

I owned a new Chanel Medium/Large Flap a few years ago - it was my absolute holy grail bag and PC bought it for me when he went to the States one time. Back then they were £2.5k and so I think it cost just over £2k duty free. (They have gone up an astonishing £1k since then too)

And it was a beauty, everything you could want in a bag - but I was terrified to use it! It was so plump and puffy and so new and shiny that I worried about it with every wear - and I seemed to scratch it every single time I wore it too. I just didn't enjoy the experience of using it and so I sold it on.

I have had a few (OK, quite a lot) of different Chanel bags since then, but I never returned to the Med/Large classic flap because of the issues I had experienced.

So, vintage is without question - the way to go! The bags from the 1980's & 90's are so superior in the craftsmanship used - the leather is much thicker than the flaps now (literally incomparable) and the hardware back then was gold plated with a hallmark on the front of the CC clasp that you do not get anymore. Modern bags are just gold coloured hardware.

The design has not changed at all since the first bag was originally made in February 1955 (hence it's name - the 2.55) so it looks exactly the same as a 2016 bag.

You still have to do your homework of course, and only buy from somebody you trust - but the right bags do come along from time to time - and when they do you can become the owner of a piece of history. And you will not be scared to use, as 1. They are cheaper than a new one and 2. They have already been loved and used, so you are really not worried about using them.

So if you are considering vintage - what should you look out for?

Well, don't worry so much with the early bags about having a matching authenticity card - over the years these are going to be misplaced. The same with the dust bag - most will not come with the original one.

Get one that has been authenticated from one of the Chanel Expert sites. This only costs around £10 and any seller not supplying one of these - then walk away - you will eventually find another one.

The hologram sticker, may be misplaced (mine was still intact so I know it was from late 80's) if the bag doesn't have one - don't let that put you off as they can rub off over the years, and authenticators can tell from the hardware, stitching and interior if a bag is real or not.

And I am very funny about odours - this one has none thank goodness - but if a seller states that there is a musty smell - you can't always get rid of that - so decide if it is a deal breaker or not.

So, let me show you my new little cutie! Its a black Lambskin with gold hardware and burgundy interior. I have spent this morning cleaning it with cotton buds and muslins with specialist lotions and potions (try the Handbag Clinic - they sell products online) and then conditioned it.

Hard to believe this bag is almost 30 years old huh!

Interior after a good clean

The Original Burgandy Chanel interior

I will do a modelling shot with her as soon as I take her out to play.

So, would you buy vintage if you had the chance?

Thanks for reading xx

Oodles of Mulberry ………..

2016-01-26T20:23:00.000+00:00

Hi lovelies,

You know that feeling that you sometimes get that everything in your wardrobe isn't right any more? Well I have been getting that feeling about my handbags!

It is my own fault - I find one I like and even though I have quite a few others, I hate swopping over (it is such a faff!) - so I tend to use one far too much and the others do not get a look in.

Soooo, I thought how nice would it be to start completely over! Could you imagine getting rid of every bag in your collection / possession and beginning again from scratch? Quite a nice idea, right?

Well, that is exactly what I decided I would do. A kind of New Year Detox if you will.

I am not going to pretend that moving some of my current bags on wasn't tough - I get far too attached to them (even the ones I am not using!) but in the back of my mind was the thought of how much fun it was going to be to replace them with new ones - and this time, to try and only buy ones that I will want to reach for lots of times, and I definitely wanted to lose some of the ones that I found were too precious to use - after all, whats the point of a bag that never comes out of the closet.

There are probably not many designers who's bags I haven't tried if I am being completely honest! In fact I am struggling to think of a single designer who I haven't dipped into at least once heheheheee.

I love Saint Laurent & Valentino, loathe the prices at Hermes, never truly fall for anything at Louis Vuitton, dislike the resale value of Prada (and this has to be a consideration when you are as fickle as I am) adore Balenciaga but the husband hates them and I used to love Mulberry but fell out with their ridiculous price increases.

But wanting (and loving) the Mulberry Cara bag so much renewed my interest in Mulberry, and I have been really surprised by the new bag choices I have made so far!

Sooo, let me show you some new bags that have made it into the fold ……

Mulberry Medium Lily in Steel Blue with Silver Hardware

Another little Wallet to go with the Oxblood Cara

Mulberry Small Size Zip Around Blossom Purse in Oxblood

This next one is a big departure for me. I don't own any black daytime bags - I am always attracted to colours - just like a Magpie!

But buying the black Prada purse earlier in the month made me realise how worry free and easy they are! So a black bag was on the list, and this one has shocked me by how much I love it.

And look how cute they are together

Mulberry Small Bayswater Buckle Bag with soft gold hardware

I am not a fan of the Bayswater Bag - it is too heavy, and business like for me personally.

But this is a totally dream - it is more winged at the sides - so looks very cool when carried, it is lightweight and smells amazing. I love it

I am really shocked at how much I like this one - it is just a really easy bag

and I can see me using this one a lot

So all in all - quite a productive January so far

So, what else will be joining these babies - well I will keep you posted when I find the next bag that I fall for.

Soo, would you be brave enough to start over - or are you far too attached to the bags you already own?

Let me know please, would be great to hear your thoughts.

Thanks for reading xx

Because nothing says Valentines Day quite like Louboutin

2016-01-14T20:23:00.003+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

You know sometimes when a pair of shoes speaks to you (mine usually start the conversation with - buy me, buy me) and you cannot stop thinking about them.

Well this is what happened to me yesterday. These Louboutin's have, if you pardon the pun - completely stolen my heart. They were released just this week and will sell out fast - and they have them in a perfectly manageable 85mm and a 100mm Heel ! I can't stop looking at them.

They are Louboutin, They are Patent AND they have Hearts on - seriously, what's not to love!

Christian Louboutin Doracora Nude Shoes with Neon Pink Heart £475

(Available in Nude at Net-a-Porter)

and the Black Patent pair are available from Selfridges - also £475

The 85mm pair are available exclusively from ChristianLouboutin.com

Daisy Ridley wore the leopard print pair to the Star Wars Premiere

The leopard version are currently only available in the USA

They are just awesome aren't they?

In other news. the Karen Millen Ankle boots arrived today and they are beautiful - by far my best sale bargain of the year.

But the Jeans I blogged about yesterday are already on their way back - they took long in the leg length to a whole new level - the amount I needed to take them up by meant the whole flare would actually disappear - even with a huge heel!

Oh well - one out of 2 isn't so bad is it.

Thanks for reading x

Mulberry Cara and some January Sales Bargains …….

2016-01-13T18:20:00.001+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

I made myself a promise to blog lots more this year - I may not be able to get back to doing it daily but I will be much more present!

Lots of the sales started super early this year, but it pays to be patient as there is ALWAYS a second reduction. It's a gamble if there is something you just "have" to have, as there is always the worry that the piece you want in your size will sell out - but I have noticed that very few items sell out the way they used to - which means you can usually get a brilliant deal.

Now, this first baby I wouldn't exactly describe as a good deal - but it was a bag that has been on my radar for a while. Mulberry do only reduce once - and it is never a great discount either (30%) If they don't sell out they then go to the outlet stores for the same price, so it is hard to get a good deal - but Harrods offered an extra 10% off and in my warped mind, that made it a little bit more bearable!

And I must confess to being pretty besotted with it so far.

Mulberry Medium Cara Bag in Oxblood with gold rivets

I love that you can use it as a rucksack or as a shoulder bag - it works well with black, but I have added a couple more colourful pieces from the sale to go with it.

Ombre Coat - ASOS - was £110 - now £55

and I waited patiently for the Karen Millen denim Flares that I was coveting - and this week there is an extra 20% off of sale prices (no code required, it is taken off automatically at checkout) so I have ordered these

Karen Millen Atelier Flared Jean with Braided Waistband

Were reduced to £80 from £125, but now £64

Although I suspect the money I have saved I will now be spending on having about 6 inches lopped off …… !

and these cuties were a total steal - and a great colour match for a new bag!

Lace & Suede Ankle Boots - Karen Millen

Were £155 - reduced to £50 and now £40 with the extra 20% off!!!

and lastly, we took a fab trip to Bicester to find a new wallet.

The 2 wallets I currently have are bright coloured - It is rare for me to buy a grown up "Classic" wallet - and it is harder still to find a nice one in a compact size.

Prada came to my rescue - and it smells lush too

Black Leather Wallet with Gold Hardware - Prada at Bicester £250 (was originally £480)

Thanks for reading xxx

All the gowns from the 2016 Golden Globes

2016-01-11T01:06:00.002+00:00

Hi Lovelies,

Yay, it's awards season time again, and it gets underway with a goodie - The 73rd Golden Globes in Los Angeles.

And the first chance of the year for us to get a glimpse of some incredible designer gowns. I am all kinds of excited - and have rounded up some of the best for you to wake up to. Let me know which ones you like the best.

Gina Rodriguez wore a blue satin Zac Posen - who doesn't love a ball gown with pockets!

Jaimie Alexander (Blind Spot) wore a plunging emerald green Genny gown

Joanna Froggatt (Downton Abbey) in lilac Reem Acra

Eva Longaria in white embroidered George Hobeika

America Ferrera wore citrine Jenny Packham

Sofia Bush in classic Narcisco Rodriguez - damn it - whats Jennifer Aniston gonna wear now!

Emmy Rossum wore strapless red Armani Prive

Alicia Vikander wore white Louis Vuitton

Sighing at Leonardo ……

Rosie Huntington Whitely accessorised her gold Saint Laurent gown with Jason Statham

Kirsten Dunst looked stunning in black velvet Valentino

Jennifer Lopez wore a Chartreuse coloured Giambattista Valli

Here's Cookie!!! Taraji P Henson wore a white column gown with a train by Stella McCartney

Kate Bosworth wore beaded pink Dolce & Gabbana

Kate Hudson never usually gets it wrong.

Incredible body - such a bad dress choice - it's by Michael Kors - which says everything really

Cate Blanchett slayed it in Givenchy

Lily James - Stuns in Elie Saab

Kate Winslet in blue Ralph Lauren

Jennifer Lawrence wore a red cut out column gown with an incredible Chopard Diamond Necklace

Lady Gaga looked incredibly elegant in Versace Black Velvet

Real old hollywood glamour

Katy Perry wore pink & got her golden globes out too ……

Sooooo, whats the verdict - let me know !

Autumn has me feeling proper 70s ……...

2015-10-16T16:45:00.002+01:00

Hi Lovelies,

Crisp autumnal days - oh gosh is there any better time of year really?

Autumn always feels so fresh - the summer dresses are now a distant memory and are safely ensconced up in the loft for another year - which means there is plenty of room in the closet for some comfy knits and new jackets …………

And I'm feeling very 70's inspired right now - think Ali Macgraw (google her - younger ones!!) or Farrah Fawcett - and this means that Flared jeans are on my radar - with a smart blazer and a sweater or long sleeve striped tee underneath - finished off with your favourite scarf.

If like me, you still obsess about the Chloe Braided Flares (I missed them the second time around too). Then Karen Millen is your friend this season

They have bought out an Atelier range of braided waistband jeans (limited to 230 pieces per size) and they look epic (or at least they would if I lop around 6 inches off of the bottom of them).
If you are an ickle one like me, don't be scared of flares - you can hide a giant platform underneath them - and give the illusion of looking tall!

High Waist Flared Jeans - Atelier Collection at Karen Millen £125

I purchased a very 70s style satchel to wear - also from Karen Millen.

(see, it doesn't always have to be serious designer!)

and I am really enjoying using it right now as it is worry free.

The zip around the front flap which opens up is very much like the Tom Ford Jennifer Bag

Structured Leather Satchel - Karen Millen £160

and I'm finishing the look with this little blazer

Navy Wool Blend Double Breasted Jacket - Next £65

I have picked up some fab cashmere sweaters from Zara - they are so soft - well worth the investment - but be quick - their cashmere pieces sell out pretty fast.

100% Cashmere off Shoulder Sweater - Zara £99.99

and I loved it so much I got it in the grey too ……

Snuggly! - Grey Cashmere Sweater - Zara £99

and hey, don't just take my word for it - here are some celeb style inspiration looks for you

So, what do you think - is it a look you can get on board with for Autumn?

Let me know.

Thanks for reading xx

Ooooooh its the Hermes Apple Watch

2015-10-05T17:05:00.000+01:00

Hi Lovelies - Gosh it has been ages since I have blogged - I am really sorry - life has got in the way - I am going to rectify this from today.

And speaking of time (do you like what I did there!) - it feels like ages that I have been waiting for this collaboration.
Ever since Apple announced at the beginning of September that they were collaborating with Hermes for a version of the Apple Watch, I was hooked. I already wanted the Apple Watch - now it was going to become a need!

Apple and Hermes have both kept this deliberately low key. Apple really needed Hermes to help sell this watch - it hasn't sold the numbers they expected, and this is great for Hermes as it brings them a whole new audience, but there was very little information available.

In fact their were no details on prices for the UK at all until launch morning today.

I called Hermes Bond Street last week, and they were running an appointment system which they had closed as it had got out of hand, so I decided right there that I would try my luck at the Apple Store instead.

And I am so glad that I did - this was a super easy purchase. There was no drama, no queues, just lots of lovely people carrying fabulous bags, oohing and ahhhing over the watches, and they had limited stock of every style.

Sooooooo, I tried the double tour style (this wraps around the wrist twice and is available in 3 colours. It was far too fussy for me - I wanted to keep this simple. So it was between the black and tan single strap for me.

Prices are crazy. It was always going to be, but the lowdown is here

Hermes Single Tour 38mm (Available in 3 colours Fauve (Tan) Noir (Black) or Capucine (Red)

£1000

Hermes Double Tour 38mm (Available in Bleu Jean, Fauve (Tan) Etain (Grey) & Capucine (Red)

£1150

The Cuff is the most expensive item in the collection - but only comes in the larger 48mm size.

Price in UK is £1350

The leather is as lovely as you would expect - butter soft, hand stitched and smells amazing too!

I expected I would walk out with the black version, but with the screen staying black until you touch to activate it - it looks very dark and the stitching is also black.

For me, by far the nicest was the Tan - it has the hermes contrast white stitching - and it looks extra special - so I took a huge breath and bit the bullet ……..

I don't think I am ever going to get bored of making a call from my wrist!

This version comes with 3 changeable Hermes Watch Faces - so you won't get bored

and you can customise it in lots of ways

I am having lots of fun playing with it!

You know what to do - let me know your thoughts!

It's good to be back xx

Bag Rescue ……… because who treats their Chanel bags like THIS !!!!

2015-05-19T22:23:00.002+01:00

Hi Lovelies,

oh I do like a project!

I was checking ebay as you do for little Chanel treasures (hey, I only allow myself to do it once per week I promise - it is not possible to go cold turkey completely) when a very sad looking bag caught my eye.

It was incredibly badly described - err hello…… the title I kid you not was just CHANEL BAG ………. and it was clear from the pictures that the poor thing had been abused by its owner. This was fine by me as it meant it was not attracting any attention.

It was a CAM Chanel Chain Around Messenger bag and was only 10 months old - but it had at some point rubbed against jeans and the seller hadn't even bothered to try and clean it off! How can you not want to try and fix a bag that cost you almost £2k ………

Well I went back and forth with the seller (whose feedback was good) and it resulted in a very large box delivery chez Jools!

I emailed the Handbag Clinic with the pictures and they were brilliant - they said they could make the bag look like new BUT the rub being the current time to restore colour transfer bags is 3-4 months - meaning summer would be over and this is most definitely a summer bag!
So I then asked them if I tried to clean it myself and really ruined it - would they still be able to restore it for me! "Absolutely" was the reply so I thought well what have I got to lose ………

So I ordered some specialist leather kits online and waited for this poor scrap of a bag to arrive

First impressions were - ok where the hell am I supposed to start with this!!

But closer inspection showed that thankfully most of the marks were restricted to the back of the bag

Poor Baby!

So I set to work with cotton buds, a lint free cloth and a stain remover from The Leather Clinic.

Very tentatively at first because Chanel leather is so delicate.

I also had no idea how long the marks had been there - but they started to lift almost immediately - it was actually really fun to see it start to look like it should again.

Baby Wipes were perfect for the delicate edges of the chain

3 hours later - and she looks like this ……..

This bag has just been released for 2015 too - I took a big chance with it but got it for a steal!

So in a couple of days I can deep condition her to stop any drying out

but I'm kind of in awe of how amazing it now looks - and how lucky I was to find her

Thanks for reading xx