
Miss Selfridge love their tulip skirted waterfall collared dress so much this is the second season they've bought it to us, this time in black (last season it was sold in two shades of grey and then gold for Christmas). Obviously a very good seller, if you fancy the shorter, puffier version of the look (right) it's £45. Meanwhile, George at Asda has obviously spotted a trend, and are now bringing us a budget version of the look, with a slightly longer skirt without the seam and pleat detail you'll find in the funkier alternative. Yours for only £16, the George offering is more work appropriate and definitely more wallet friendly.
This dress has been calling to me for days but I kept putting off writing about it because it's seemed such an obvious thing to do. A pretty retro-inspired floral dress? On Catwalk Queen? In a post by Gemma? Well...they do say you should write what you know, don't they? I hope at least a few of you come here because you know I'll continue to bring you pretty frocks at regular intervals.
So here it is, my latest love, a Monsoon Fusion creation that's yours for £60...
Continue reading >>

Click image to enlarge
Zips are the trimming du jour at the moment, they lend a tough bling to any outfit which you just can't get anywhere else. Fans of the shiny metal teeth will love Sebastian Errazuriz' zip dress, I say dress but actually you can wear it as a top, a skirt and even convert it into an elaborate neckpiece.
It definitely makes me want to go to my local craftery (yes I just made that word up) and buy twenty metres of zips to make into some sort of accessory or item of clothing. For more wonderment visit Errazuriz' website.

I love Motel's bright floral dresses. Part Amy Winehouse, part 90s jumble sale, they've got that unique cross-season power. Wear them now with opaque tights, ankle boots and a cropped leather or tuxedo jacket, or wait until Summer and team them with fringed or gladiator sandals and beach hair. The prints are just the right side of naff, and the shapes just the right side of puffy. And most importantly, they're affordable - £39 each in various colourways and sizes 8 - 14.

Last week I took a trip to Whistles HQ for a look at their Summer collection. It plays to the strengths of the brand, with lots of silk sheaths, beautiful fabrics and subtle details, but you'll also be glad to know it includes more 'entry level' pieces at slightly lower prices. Don't suddenly expect Primark-style pricing (that's not their aim!) but there are more tops in jersey and silk for under £50, and a younger feel to the entire range...
Continue reading >>
There is no time for modest mouses in this American Apparel version (above, left) of House of Holland's spandex mesh dress (above, right). Their micro-mini long-sleeved nylon sheer dress leaves very little to the imagination. At least Holland's design, from his spring/summer '09 collection, attempts to cover up your lady parts with black-and-white spotted fabric. Nevertheless, if you think you can make this work (bless your heart!) then check it out at American Apparel's website, it's US$32. Me? I'll pass thanks.
[via Is Mental]

Click image to enlarge
We're all looking forward to the new collections coming into the high street but it's not all about the big stores, some of the smaller labels have equally exciting things on offer and while they might be a little more expensive they're well worth the investment, and the warm glow you'll get from helping out an independent.
Each of these pieces is guaranteed to pep up and update your wardrobe, wear them now as part of a warm, layered ensemble and sling them on in summer for some effortless cool outfits. Jump through for product details.
Continue reading >>