The best winter blues

For me cobalt blue will always be a winner. It works on all skin tones, it works in all seasons, it is timeless. But it comes and goes in phases, the good news is that it is coming back for Autumn / Winter '12 - in a big way. It made a bold statement on the catwalk from the likes of Mulberry, DKNY and Erdem brightening up the traditional autumnal hues. So keep your summer tans and thoughts of ocean azure by making cobalt the primary colour of your wardrobe.

On the catwalk: Mulberry autumn/winter '12

1.  Rag and Bone Jean 2. Rosatica, Amore lapis lazuli necklace 3. Erdem, Drisana lace gown
 4. Proenza Svchouler, Merino wool sweater 5.  Stella McCartney, Giannina intarsia wool sweater 

Vintage treasure

For my sister's 18th birthday I wanted to get her something special and something that would last, which explains why jewellery is always such a common present. However when I came across this great find in a junk shop in Edinburgh I saw the potential to create something unique that she could take with her to university.   

The original case was lined with wallpaper but I decided to brighten and freshen it up by improving the lining using Cath Kidston fabric. I used a 90% PVA and 10% water mix to stick the fabric down and once this had dried I applied another layer (of 50% PVA, 50% water) on top to help stiffen the fabric. To tidy up the edges I stuck a coordinating ribbon around the rim of the case - a lot easier than trying to fold over the edges.

I'm really pleased with the transformation because the case still retains its vintage charm from the exterior but when you open it up its prettiness is surprising. To continue the Cath Kidston theme I made her a few cushions cutting out scraps and patterns from left over fabric and then bought some items which will add homely touches to any uni room.

Florals continue to flourish

Any pattern which can brighten up the usually dark and dull autumnal palette is bound to be a winning trend. By the looks of the catwalk, floral prints are entering another bloom and here to stay for another season. Move on from this summers pretty pastels, the new florals are all about texture, bold and commonly feature striking cobalt blue hues. Forget delicate, be daring. 

From left: Erdem, Dolce and Gabanna,
Burberry Prosum, Temperley London

The power of flowers

Raf Simons proved that quality and quantity really did matter in his debut show for Dior (previously blogged). This video shows the spectacle being created with over one million peonies, orchids and roses (plus four days of hard work).

Bryn

My Mulberry bag lust has just increased, again...

The new Bryn collection adds to the timeless satchels in the Mulberry family. Day, work and travel are all sorted with the simple and versatile design of the bag. Multi-purpose justifies the cost doesn't it?

Gone are the days of trying to squeeze everything into our impractical yet pretty sized handbags. Bryn can solve the problem, it's sophisticated and spacious. So now we really can carry the kitchen sink - with style.

An event to remember

A 21st should be an opportunity for celebrations reflecting on annecdotes of your childhood, with slightly embarassing speeches from parents, shared with friends and family who will continue to stick around for future milestones in life. In my opinion my friends 21st birthday occasion did just that, and more.Undoubtedly the company, food and drink were great but admittedly the setting is also a major factor and the decorations and attention to detail, in what is already a beautiful house, made this event extra special.

It was originally intended to be a summer garden party but the unpredictable British weather wasn't quite acting according to the correct season so space was optimised using a long tressel table to seat all the guests and decorated with colour co-ordinated table decorations.
It has definately given me some aspirations for my birthday event, better start planning!

Handmade Mulberry bag cake

'Wish box' for guests

Fairytale slippers

To commemorate the re-launch of arguably the most glamourous Disney film, Cinderella, Christian Louboutin has revealed his interpretation of Cinderella's glass slipper and one thing is for sure: you wouldn't want to loose one of these. The signature red sole is embellished with crystals and two butterfly embellishments, not a shoe fit for every day but it is capable of making any girl feel like a princess.
"Cinderella is not only an iconic character when it comes to beauty, grace and fairytale love, but also shoes," said Louboutin and I think this wonderfully summarises fashion as a form of escapism in which there are no limits in the world of fantasy and fairytales.

Louboutin's Glass Slipper

A sketch of the glass slipper

Crystal adorned butterfly embellishment