Outfit Post...muted tones for Winter

Style Theory: There is nothing better than colour.. in the summer bold colours clashed together look bright and eye-catching. In the autumn/winter muted colours blended and layered upon one another create a subtle palette,  they reflect the shades of nature, pinks, greys and dark reds, complimenting and illuminating winter skin. Add a dash of metallic and a splash of sparkle for a 2015 spin...

Twist & Tango Arleen PVC Trousers, £89 // American Vintage Boolder Cardigan in powder, £110 // American Vintage Blossom Black Jumper, £85 // Becksondergaard Wool grey Scarf, £85 // From StXavier Beaded Bag, £75 // IvyLee Bronze Polly Boots, £170 - All From Quattro Rish

This is one of the outfits I styled for one of my favourite boutiques, Quattro Rish in Reigate, if you happen to live in the area pop in, owner Ivy has an amazing eye for cool Scandi brands and beautiful French tailoring. The prices are varied and there are always so many items that inspire me, I always leave clutching a Quattro Rish bag with something I know I will wear non-stop.  You can mail order via phone  01737 235468.

These boots are incredibly comfortable and the cardigan and scarf are both super soft. The leather look trousers are the best I have tried on, they do wrinkle a bit but I don't mind that, I love the fact they are not too hot and claustrophobic, but comfortable and light. I have ordered the cardigan for Christmas and a pair of boots (fingers crossed they have some in stock!)

I love finding beautiful independent boutiques that have new exciting brands, I find mixing and matching with high street staples like Zara and Topshop creates a balanced and interesting wardrobe and reignites my love of fashion..

However, now to shift my mind to Christmas presents, it is 1st November tomorrow and I have not started my Christmas shopping..not.one.thing..*mild panic* and as I am from a big family there are a lot of people to buy for as well as my two little ones..so I hope to get my Christmas gift thinking cap on and write a few Gift blog posts..anything exciting, gorgeous you have found in your shopping travels I would love love to hear about!

Until next time, hopefully armed with Christmas inspiration, Frances xxx

Thank you so much to Quattro Rish for collaborating with me on this little styling project, I loved it!

Red Rules...

Style Theory: Grey and black, although incredibly chic can become a little lack lustre. I am feeling my monochrome wardrobe needs a shake up and a red knit will be the perfect colour pop..

Images via Pinterest

A red sweater can add an eyecatching focal point to an outfit, pair it with slouchy jeans and trainers (ideally with a flash of red on them, I am a huge fan of a spot of colour matching) Or pair your jumper with grey trousers and courts for a cool work look. Aran knit style sweaters are still big news and remember to buy on the bigger side rather than fitted. If you are concerned about your silhouette wear with skinny blue jeans and heels for a slick, chic look..

Her are my favourite on the high street now...

Clockwise from Top Left
Bella Freud 1970 Jumper £280
J Crew Cashmere blend sweater £110
Karen Millen £115
H&M Tassel Jumper £13.99
Uniqlo (mens) Merino sweater £24.90
Zara Bell Sleeve Sweater £23.99

A quick bright colour fix for you Autumn/Winter looks, I am still loving the Bella Freud sweater but will probably opt for the Zara or Uniqlo option!

Which one would you go for? As always I would love to hear your thoughts and comments, until next time Frances xxx

Winter Capsule Wardrobe Must Haves.... STEAL vs SPREE

Style Theory: My capsule wardrobe items for this season, a simple palette of creams and greys, chic understated, practical and cool. Can be mixed and matched with colours such as navys, deep plums, reds to add depth and variation. A simple formula that will work for women of all ages..

I have created two versions, the first is 'Spree' expensive, luxurious, investment pieces that are made of the best quality fabrics and are high on my wishlist...

SPREE:

Coat - Gianni Malin Wool Coat £315
Jumper - Jigsaw Aran Cable knit £149
Jeans - MiH Breathless Jean £195
Scarf - The White Company Cashmere oversize Scarf £198
Bag- Gucci Soho Disco Bag £650
Trainers - Golden Goose £260

The grey coat is this season's colour of coat to have, it is beautiful, understated and will go with everything. Perfect for wearing with jeans or throw over a party dress for a chic look. Add a deep plum or mustard oversize scarf for a pop of colour. 

The winter white sweater, such a useful piece, I tried this Jigsaw jumper on recently, it is fab on really soft and cosy and a gorgeous fit and the roll neck sits perfectly.

I am officially obsessed with the Gucci Soho bag and am saving for one..red or black not sure..think it will be black as it is super practical.

Golden Goose trainers the ultimate super cool trainers, so expensive but look so cool on..

STEAL:

Coat - Zara £59.99
Jumper - Topshop £45
Jeans - Topshop £40
Scarf - Travelling Bazaar £40
Bag - Topshop (Leather) £38
Trainers - Stan Smith @Office £66.99

These are maybe not super cheap alternatives but are mid priced high street and made of good quality fabrics so they will last.

The coat is wool, I love the masculine shape it really will look fab over your shoulders with a glittery, shimmery Christmas dress. The scarf is 100% wool and gorgeously oversized but not so big that you are unable to wrap it round your neck, it sits perfectly. 

The Topshop bag is leather, a fab shape, very Gucci-esque and looks far more expensive that it's £38 price.

Stan Smiths are the comfiest trainers I have ever had, honestly if you buy them you will not regret it and get so much wear out of them.

My Style: 

For running around at the weekend..

Sunglasses- Spain
Jumper - Boden £89
Jeans - Topshop £40
Trainers - Footasylum £79.99
Bag - Aurora Willow Bag £64.50

Trying on the Jigsaw sweater in my Spree edit above..

Jigsaw Sweater - Link above
Zara - Biker Trousers - sold out
Stan Smith Trainers - Link above
Bag - Yosa Uk £19

So there are a few capsule wardrobe ideas for this season, I would love to invest in the Spree but unfortunately I am more on a steal budget!! Are you a fan of grey, do you already have any of these key pieces, what is your ideal style for this season??

Next time I will be finding the best Christmas Gifts for her under £100..or also known as my Christmas list ;-) Thanks so much for reading and as always I would love to hear your thoughts and comments, until next time Frances xxxxx 

Holiday Buys from Jack Wills - AND 30% Off

Style Theory: Teenage heaven for us oldies ;-) I am a little partial to a meander through Jack Wills as they have some stunning shirts and blouses amongst the cool teenage gear. Until MIDNIGHT SUNDAY they have 30% off (with code FRIENDS) here are my top tips to buy either you or as a Christmas gift for those girls in your life....

Star Lelant Boyfriend Shirt £59.50 - now £41.65

Star Lelant Boyfriend Shirt £59.50 - now £41.65

I love this shirt and will be buying it to wear for evenings out over Christmas. It is quite Kate moss  (see image below of some cool styling) The shirt is oversize, I tried on size 10 (I am normally size 10 and it fits perfectly) It is beautiful, the collar sits beautifully either done up to the top or unbuttoned. Pair with black skinny jeans and heels for a cool, laid back look..

A few more cute tops that caught my eye..

Wensley Lace Frill Top £59.50 with discount £41.65

Navy lace always looks classy, the sleeves on this top are incredibly flattering and I do love a peplum top at Christmas, it covers a whole lot of overeating gently skimming over a mum or mince pie tum! I would wear this with a pair of distressed boyfriend jeans or blue flared jeans and trainers or leopard print heels for a gorgeous wintery date night at a country pub look...

Like this...

Or this black peplum top...

The Larvin Peplum Top £39.50 with discount £27.65

Love this with black skinny jeans and heels..chic and stylish.

The Ultimate Indulgence - A Cashmere Hoody 

Baldwin Cashmere Hoody £159 after discount £111.30

Deliciously luxurious and extravagant, this hoody will be a great layering piece for the winter and would se you through to the Spring and colder summer evenings. It is machine washable which is always a winner for me!

Love this layered look..

The Cream Jumper

Cable Sweater £69.50 with discount £48.65

The cream jumper is a winter must have this season, I would size up a couple of sizes for a slouchy look.

I love an oversized aran in the winter, it looks luxe and cool.

There are my Jack Wills picks and with the 30% discount it makes the prices more palatable. I always buy the younger guys in my family a few bits and pieces from there for Christmas as well as some teenagers in the family, lots to choose from.

I am going to get shopping, are you? Which pieces catch your eye? As always I would love to hear your thoughts and comments, until next time Frances xxx

Looking Forward...

Style Theory: M&S are really upping their game next season and I wanted to share with you a few key pieces I fell in love with at their SS16 press show. I will be looking out for them as they tick theSpring/Summer 2016 trends, are practical and affordable....

My Star Pick

The Bag of the Spring

So Chloe-esque but actually faux leather (looks pretty good) so a fraction of the price (apologies I forgot to find out the price but it will be reasonable) This will arrive in stores and online in January so a perfect post Christmas treat? Or, for me, a birthday treat as it my Birthday in Jan (far too close to Christmas!)

The Dresses..

Per una Dress £75

I bought a similar dress a few years ago from &Other Stories in black and have worn it non stop through the summer, for weddings, dinner dates and evenings on holiday. I love the colour of this one and will be looking to buy this one for my summer holidays next year.

Limited Edition Dress £45 Brooch £19.50

This is one of those dresses than can be dressed up or down. It would look fab with a pair of pale tan strappy sandals, or clash the print with leopard print shoes or wear with Stan Smith trainers for a laid back vibe. The tie at the front will conceal a small tummy and the long sleeves makes it super flattering. I love the eye brooch, it adds a modern twist to a traditional dress. I can definitely see this working in my Spring wardrobe.

The Blouses/Shirts..

Frill Blouse £29.50

A subtle take on the Miu Miu blouse of this season. This is a shape I can really get on board, with a pair of blue skinny jeans and white superga trainers for a cute, on trend look.

As you know I am fond of a victoriana blouse and this one looks beautiful, almost antique with it's soft blush colour and gold details. I am afraid I do not have the price of this one but will update this when I find out.

The Skirt...

Autograph Skirt £199

A luxe leather skirt in the most divine forest green, I would love this to wear now with a black polo neck, black opaques and heels. The wrap 'utility' look is key for next season, wear in the Spring with tan heels and a simple tee. A pricey piece but when seen in real life it looks sumptuous.

The Smart Dungarees

Limited Edition Top £29.50
Limited Edition Dungarees: £49.50

Dungarees are now the norm, this elegant pair of dungaree will look great in the spring with pointed heels and a blouse. Simple but tailored, a relaxed look that is perfectly SS16.

The Shoes..

A beautiful warm khaki tone in faux suede, these have a mid heel and the tie details brings them perfectly up to date.

The Jacket

Indigo Collection Jacket £59

A soft, feminine take on the bomber jacket, pair with a grey sweater, boyfriend distressed jeans and a pair of Stan Smiths for a cool look.

The Bucket Bag..

Cute, faux leather bucket bags that will go with every outfit. Add the stripe one to an all black summer dress for a chic look.

A little sneak peak into what M&S has in-store next season, some really stunning pieces that I am looking forward to adding to my Spring wardrobe.

Back to the present now and a couple of my outfits from this week..

MY STYLE

For running around town for a day of Press Shows and meetings..

Coat: Zara similar here
Dungarees: H&M similar here 
Blouse: Zara sold out
Trainers: Footasylum 
Bag: c/o Dune

For work at the boutique..completely adore this scarf it is oversize, the most perfect shade of grey, 100% wool and so so soft and non itchy..

Scarf: Travelling Bazaar
Sweater: Zara old season
Jeans: Topshop
 Boots: Clarks  

Back to winter inspired fashion for the next few blogs and I have a few fabulous Christmas Gift blogs started, I haven't started my Christmas shopping yet, things have been super busy so next week I am focussing and the buying will commence!!

As always I would love to hear your thoughts and comments, what do you think of the M&S SS16 edit, any pieces catch your eyes? Until next time Frances xxx

Which Trainer Tribe are you?

Style Theory: Cool, comfortable and can look pretty edgy, trainers are a day to day staple for us busy ladies. Wear them to the office to make travelling easy, perfect for the schoolrun or chasing round toddlers, trainers are a trend we can all get on board with. I am a huge fan and I think cross a few trainer tribes as for me pretty much any trainer goes..

Trainers can be worn with pretty much any outfit, the perfect item to tone things down making an look effortlessly cool..so lets start with the Trainers Tribes..

The Luxe Tribe

Money is no object, the name is key but best if it is subtle..the creme de la creme of the trainer world..

Gucci @Net a Porter £435

Wear with crop, black kick flare jeans and a forest green silk shirt for a glamorous, grown up look.

Golden Goose @Matches £250

My favourite luxe brand, these are my style of choice, I love the leopard print details and the worn in look. These with go with everything from your little black dress to boyfriend jeans and sweater.

Saint laurent @Net A Porter £380

The star details makes these trainers stand out, would look simply chic with a black trouser suit and white tee and delicate gold jewellery.

The Sporty Tribe

Trainers in their true form..the sports trainer or running shoes, use them in the gym, wear them out in the evening either way these look pretty cool..

Nike Flyknit Racer Trainers £130

Super cool, I love the mix of the turquoise and gold, great with an all black outfit.

Nike Air Max Thea @Office £84.99

These have been the trainers 'to have' over the past few years and now are classics. They look chic and cool and again can be worn with everything, love them with the dungarees and white tee in the streetstyle photo above. 

Nike Air Max @Office £96.99

These are super chunky but are amazingly flattering on legs, the depth of the trainers make legs look thinner. Love the grey and bronze colours, these will add interest to any look.

The Retro Trainer Tribe

Adidas Stan Smith £67

I live in my Stan Smith trainers, they are the comfiest trainers I own and I have worn them throughout the Summer, autumn and winter. They are, in my opinion, the ultimate all- rounder trainer. I love the neo white colour (the more worn yellowing colour as seen in the photo above).

Adidas Superstar @Office £61.99

These trainers have stood the test of time, I had my first pair at university 20 years ago (yikes!) and completely treasured them then. I still have a pair from 15 years ago and believe it or not they look as good as new. Love them with black skinny ankle length jeans and a grey coat (see photo above)

Adidas Gazelle @Office £66.99

For those preferring the understated trainers this is for you. It doesn't shout but just shows that you have your eye on the trends and subtlety is your thing.

New Balance £67

A sugary take on a classic. The colours bring this retro New Balance trainer up to date and would make a cute outfit with blue skinny jeans, white shirt and huge oversize beige scarf.

The Metallic Tribe

Golden Goose @Net A Porter £270

Luxuriously glittery, utterly over the the top but so gorgeous. I love, love these, keep the rest of your outfit paired back to black, neutrals, let your feet doing the talking...

Adidas Superstar £79.99

I have just ordered these, I spotted them on Its.Reb instagram feed and fell in love with them. She was wearing them with black, ankle length jeans and a white shirt and bomber and looked amazing..

Superga @John Lewis £50

I have these and again have worn these so much, if I want to look a little smarter but still be super comfortable I wear these with a black dress or my dungarees and a smart blouse. 

I think I cross most of these tribes and am now dipping my toe in the metallic tribe..not sure I will pull them off but I will try! Here are some of my trainer looks from the past couple of months..

My Style

I am a huge trainer fan and live in them every day!

Which trainer tribe are you in, or do you, like me, dip into all of them? As always I would love to hear your thoughts and comments, until next time Frances xxx