February's Wishlist

Oh how I love a wishlist. This month combines satin gowns with techie sandals and funky hats with chic leather dresses. I’m known for meshing many looks into one. For me fashion is all about having fun and not putting yourself in a box. I can’t say I have just one style, I have loads and this is what makes my style interesting. It’s all about the mood I am in. I love combining gorgeous gowns with trainers, joggers with heels, and Birkenstocks with socks.

Now I want to clarify most of the this Wishlist is not at all sustainable, but I put these Wishlists together for mainly inspiration. It’s to show you how you can combine certain pieces together to make a kickass outfit. Now would I love all these pieces on here, yes absolutely!!!! But as I can’t afford a Rochas Duchess Satin gown at the moment, I’ll use it to inspire me to find something similar, maybe even a vintage piece! The nice thing about this style board is you can combine all these pieces to make several different outfits. It’s all about having fun with your wardrobe.

I’ve linked all the pieces below. Have fun!!!!

kelly xx

Wishlist: Dresses

I don't know about you but I love a dress. They are just so easy, especially in the warmer months. You don't have to think about it much. Pull out one of your beautiful dresses, pair it will a killer pair of sandals and viola the perfect outfit. With so much choice out there now, whether it be the high street or a designer brand, you will find a few dresses that will exceed your expectations. My problem is I've found too many dresses I would like to have hanging in my wardrobe. 

When looking for a dress to buy, there are a few things I take into consideration;

1. what is the dress made of

2. it is easy to wear or will it be fussy

3. can I wear it all year round

4. will it pack well

5. does it suit my body type

6. is this a dress everyone will have on at a party because I hate that!

Now there are some dresses that will mainly be a summer dress but I like the option of wearing it all year round. This means you'll get the most wear out of the dress. It's all about smart buying. Buy a dress that is truly beautiful and has more than one purpose. Buy a dress that can be dressed up or down. 

As I like to say Buy Less, Buy Better, Wear Always.

Below are a few dresses I am loving right now.

Rixo Tessa Cosmic Constellation Silk Cami Dress

Lucille Long Dress

Rebecca Minkoff Argan Dress

Mes Demoiselles Clothide broderie anglaise cotton-voile midi dress

Current Air Denim Midi Dress with Raw Hem Ruffle

Zara Long Printed Dress

Modetrotter Robe Florence Pom Pom Marine

Ganni Tilda Mesh Maxi Dress

Page of Air Vintage Laura Ashley Dress

Scoop International Fashion Shows Review

Is there a better way to spend a Sunday then to roam around Scoop International Fashion Show and discover new brands? I think not. I met up with the lovely Judith from Maison Archives and we discussed life, fashion and clothing pieces we just had to have in our wardrobes.

Part of me would love to have a shop again and a physical one so I could carry some of the brands I discovered while at the show. I believe my shop would have the best-curated selection of fashion and accessories around. But I’m not going open a shop right now. So I’ll just have to curate my selection for you. And keep dreaming about having one in my head. One can dream right?!

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LUCILLE

The first brand I came across that totally blew my mind was Italian brand, Lucille. Their whole collection was literally breathtaking. Couture appeal without the price tag. Now they are not cheap but the pieces are obtainable and completely wearable. A big plus in my book. 

Now their current collection AW17 collection, Iperchic and Supersnob, designed by Gaetano Navarra was inspired by the nineties subculture, Grunge. In this Collection, you will find a mix of romanticism, punk and Bohemia.

I saw their AW18 collection at the show and here are some of my favourite bits. 

http://www.lucille.eu

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THREE FLOOR

I also fell in love with Three Floor. The dresses were just immaculate and the colour scheme was so on point. I’m actually looking at a few dresses from their current collection to wear to a wedding in Berlin in April. 

https://www.threefloorfashion.com

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ATOIR

Australian Brand, Atoir caught my eye with their white polka dot plunging neckline dress. This dress is definitely on my wishlist. Designer Cynthia  Farchiona, believes in the love at first sight enigma for visionary, unforgettable designs. 

https://atoir.com.au

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BIBLIOTHEQUE

I liked the New York brand, Bibliotheque for its vintage inspired pieces. The collection seemed so easy to wear. Everyday pieces. 

https://www.bibliotheque-ny.com

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SERAPHINA

I met Fiona Hodges, founder of Seraphina (London & Goa) at Scoop and just fell in love with her brand. She grew up on her father’s tea plantation in Darjeeling. Captivated and inspired by the work of Indian artisans and their creation of block and screen printed textiles, she returned to India after working at VOGUE in London and Sydney, to begin the creation of her own collection.

Her dresses are so beautiful and can be worn all year round. I have my eye on a few. She has a pop up happening in Belgravia at 73 Elizabeth Street SW1W 9PJ starting 19 February go and check her out. 

https://seraphinalondon.com

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MUSULA JEWELS

Now most of you know how much I love earrings!!!! I mean I love big earrings, the bigger the better. I can’t tell you how in love I am with Musula Jewels. They are truly unique. All their earrings are done by hand using the same embroidery techniques they use on bull flighting costumes. I can’t wait to have a pair of my very own. 

http://www.musula.com

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CELESTE MOGADOR

I spotted Celestie Mogador the moment I stepped foot into the Saatchi Gallery but didn’t actually have a proper look at the brand until I was about to head out the door for home. The French brand hand-embroidered all their jewellery and accessories and each piece is definitely one of a kind. My kind of jewellery. 

https://www.celeste-mogador.com

I hope you enjoyed my finds. 

kelly xx

A Christmas Guide

Who's started their Christmas shopping? I have, just, and I am so glad I planned it all out this year. To be honest, I don't have many people to buy for. My husband and I don't get each other gifts. We take ourselves to a nice dinner or plan a day out in London instead. We figured spending time together is better than buying each other material things. We mainly have to think of gift ideas for our daughter Edith, my niece and nephew, my brother-in-law and his partner and our parents. I do buy small gifts for my girlfriends. This year I am sending them all their Christmas gifts after the New Year so they have something special to bright up their dull January. 

I've put together a beautiful selection of gifts that I would personally love to receive or give to a friend or family member. I try very hard to shop with a small business so I can support them while also giving a very unique gift. I feel it's so important to give a gift with meaning or that is special. I don't believe in buying a gift for the sake of it. You've got to put some thought into it.

Here are some great gift ideas for you.

1. Makeda Matheson - Intarsia V Sweater Pink Berry - This jumper is just gorgeous. I instantly fell in love with the colours when I came across it on Studio B Fashion's website. Made of Mongolian Cashmere, this jumper would last a lifetime. Why give gifts that last forever??!!!!

2. Andrew J. Miller - Pink Light - I am such a huge fan of artist Andrew J. Miller. London based Andrew uses instant film to achieve effects by manipulating the emulsion during the developing process, separating the image emulsion from the film base, double exposing the film, overlaying the transparencies or by varying the temperature and the developing time. This  process adds mood to all his images. They are truly stunning pieces of art. 

3. Chase and Wonder - Who doesn't love a great wash bag? I definitely do and I absolutely love this Chase and Wonder Lady in a Mask Wash Bag. I think I may buy this for myself. 

4. Hoxton Mini Press - Have you checked out Hoxton Mini Press yet? They have the loveliest books, mainly London themed and they are the perfect coffee table book. They are the perfect gift!

5. Sophie Ward x Lollipop - Oh my God, I cannot tell you how much I love the recent collaboration between artist Sophie Ward and interiors shop Lollipop. Sophie has created limited edition zodiac sign silk scarfs and prints. They are seriously gorgeous!!!! This is definitely on my birthday wishlist!!!! Head over and have a look.

6. The Small Home - Sheepskin slippers are the perfect gift for this time of year. I fell in love with The Small Home's slippers. They are handcrafted and embroidered and are just so beautiful. Great price point too!

7. Roads - I understand perfume is very personal and has to be tested before bought, but I highly recommend heading out to Liberty's and trying Roads selection of stunning perfumes. I am obsessed with I Am Dance. To me, it's the perfect fragrance. 

8. Konoc - For a smaller more personalised gift, I highly recommended heading over to Kong's website and ordering all your friends personalised leather keyrings. They are handmade by owner Sally and her husband. They are just beautiful. The perfect gift without breaking the bank.

9. Krait London - I'm a sucker for a great coat/dress. The Teal Flora Coat is beautifully made by artisans in India. All fair-trade by Krait London. Check out Alice's collection. Her wrap dresses are so beautiful and very very comfortable. I can't wait to get my hands on this coat and a pair of her trousers. They are very cool!!!!!

I hope my Christmas guide has introduced you to some new designers and given you some gift inspiration.

kelly xx

MAKEDA MATHESON- INTARSIA V SWEATER PINK BERRY

Andrew J. Miller - Pink Light

Chase and Wander- Lady in the Mask Wash Bag

Horton Mini Press - People of London

Sophie Ward x Lollipop Silk Scarf

The Small Home - Handcrafted Sheepskin Moccasins

Roads - I Am Dance Perfume

Konoc - Personalised Leather Keychains

Krait London -

Skincare for Everyone

Skincare has been on my mind lately. I mean A LOT. I've been using the same product for years now, which I'm happy with for the most part, but I wanted to give an all-natural product a go. Like the mainstream beauty market, the organic beauty market has a lot to choose from and if I'm honest I never know where to start. I end up buying products I'll never use. 

I came across Nadur via Instagram – yes the world of instagram. I had been looking for an organic oil cleanser to replace the one I have been currently using. I tried many non-oil organic cleansers but didn't find them suitable for my skin. But then I discovered the Genie, an oil cleanser by Nadur (‘nature’ in Celtic). I asked if I could try a sample and they happily obliged. 

I've been using the Genie for a few weeks now and do like it. I started off as I do with every product: sceptical at first, but after using if for a bit, I'm happy with the result. It leaves my skin feeling very refreshed and clear. Because I use a waterproof mascara I have to use an additional eye make-up remover because nothing seems to take this mascara off! I hope to try their other products as well like their Visage Antioxidant Face Oil in the future.

They also have products for the gentleman in your life! The Smooth Pomegranate and Gotu Kola Shaving Serum sounds lovely and for those with beards they have Celtic Brew Condition Bread Oil. Sounds like a great stocking stuff to me!

I love the ethos behind the brand, 100% natural 0% comprise. They are fully committed to creating an all natural product suited for both men and women of all skin types. Focusing not only a natural product but also sustainable production. Exactly what I like to hear. 

Here's a few bits of information from their website, because I couldn't write it better.

This is how we roll

Essential, minimalistic formulas that focus on maintaining and supporting the “acid mantle’, (the skins natural defense mechanism). Developed to address inflammation, (a common denominator in most skin issues) our clean formulas are made with natural, non-toxic ingredients selected for efficacy and performance.

Where the magic happens

Nadur formulas are a careful blend of science and artistry. Using “green chemistry” we harness nature’s freshest active ingredients to create products that are safe for you and good for the planet too!

Getting serious about quality

At Nadur we create all of our proprietary formulas, source all of our raw materials and manufacture our products directly. This ‘close to source’ process gives us greater control over the quality and authenticity of our ingredients which allows our customers to purchase with confidence and peace of mind.

Naturally ethical

As a brand we believe in the motto “beauty is as beauty does”. Our commitment to the environment is extended to all of the earth's inhabitants, people as well as animals. While we share the real and growing concerns for our natural environment and its wildlife, we are just as alarmed by the plight of the people that subsist in some of these environmentally fragile regions. Reciprocity, sharing and fair play are beliefs we work hard to promote. Supporting education and improving living conditions in deprived areas of the world has been and will continue to be of paramount importance to us as a company.

We are Now. We are Nadur.

So if you're looking for a new 100% natural beauty product, check Nadur out. You won't be disappointed. 

https://bynadur.com

https://www.instagram.com/by.nadur/

kelly xx

London Fashion Week Festival

Let me take a moment to say, yes this post is very very late. I actually had it all ready to go right after I attended LFWF, unfortunately, my computer froze and I lost the whole post. I was too tired to start again, so I am finally starting again!

I had the pleasure of attending the London Fashion Week Festival with Emma from Finlay Fox and Karen from N4Mummy. We had a lovely time.  This years designer showcase featured Fyodor Golan, which was absolutely fabulous. I can honestly say, I wanted the whole collection.

Fyodor Golan is a London based label with a distinct visual language catering to a seductive, fragile and fearless women. Both designers come from a Fine Arts background infusing expressive approach with clean geometric silhouettes, which was very apparent in their AW17 collection. 

Some of my favourite looks from their AW17 Collection below. 

After the showcase we had a chance to visit the shopping area which I found several very lovely brands.

Sarah Baily

North London mum with a whole lot of style. Leather goods handcrafted right here in London. 

Seven Boot Lane

Family-run business since 2012, designing womens shoes that stand the test of time and are completely wearable and comfortable. 

FromNicLove

Needing a creative outlet, Nic started messing with all things glitter, realised she had a nac for it she taught herself how to make jewellery and the rest is history. Manufactured in London and Vegan Friendly!

Other brands I saw but didn't get any photos:

Morv London- They have this bordeaux dress that is to die for!

Millie Mackintosh - She has this amazing military blazer that is definitely on my wishlist

and many many more!

Thanks for reading!

kelly xx

A Mini Photoshoot

You’ve probably noticed recently I am kinda in love with this outfit. Yes I have posted a few photos of it on instagram, but I figured why not? When you love an outfit, post it! Let people know why you love it and promote the designers who made it too! Small designers need to be told that their products are loved!

I’m a big fan of promoting women. When women come together to support each other amazing things can happen. The outfit I’m wearing in these photos is designed by women.  Let’s talk about the Super Her tee. Is it not amazing???!!!! I think this tee is so true, us women are all Super Hers, we are bold, brave, smart, forward thinking, supportive, creative, kind and all around kick ass!

The Super Her Tee is designed by London brand Zazou on 100% organic cotton tees. Check them out! Their tees are so comfy and very cool!

The Leopard Skirt is by Gestuz. The designer Sanne Sehested wanted to create a brand decidated to the kind of go-to staples you can build your look around to feel and confident in. This leopard skirt does just that!

The amazing Tiger Earrings by Rosita Bonita! Designer Roweena Harrison brings us a dreamy collection full of hummingbirds, tigers, beetles and fruity fruits. Her earrings are handcrafted in her studio in Margate.

Last but definitely not least, I have to give all the credit to Bethany from Studio B Fashion, if it weren’t for her incredible taste I would not have discovered any of these brands. Bethany uses her extensive buying experience for major high end brands to bring you a beautifully curated selection of small brands that will fit perfectly into your everyday wardrobe. Thank you Beth!

So please check out these beautiful brands. Remember that when you buy from a small brand, they do a little dance when they get your order! It's true!

kelly xx

Green Going

What exactly does going green mean? Well, to me it means responsibility, transparency and sustainability; and this applies to fashion, interiors, beauty and even our food. These three things are so important. It's our responsibility to ask the questions: Where does this product come from? Who made it? Is this product environmentally friendly? Now it may be hard to find a product that ticks all the boxes but if we all start encouraging our favourite brands to show more responsibility, transparency and sustainability then we just might start making a change.

Change starts with you. Ask yourself: Do I need another green shirt and am I actually going to wear it more than once? Over-buying is polluting our earth. I truly believe in buying less but buying better. How many times have you looked into your closet and said: I have nothing to wear!!!!!! Yes I know, I've been there many, many times. But once I started buying nice items, I stopped saying those 4 words. Because now I do have nice things to wear and beautiful ones too! 

The fast-fashion buying cycle is an average of 50 times a year. A ‘buy-better-buy-less’ is 2 cycles a year. Just think how planning out your wardrobe each season will 1) save you money, 2) give you the best suitable clothing options for you that season and 3) help save the environment. I'm not saying go out and boycott the high street. What I am saying is: Think before you buy and remember you don't have to keep up with the masses. Find styles that work for you and occasionally update them. Go ahead and buy one crazy, on-trend piece; but don't buy 50.

A few ways you can go green:

1. Buy less, buy better

2. Shop small

3. Buy vintage or secondhand

4. An important one, wash your clothes less, this will help save water and keep your clothes lasting longer and looking better.

5. Customise your clothing with patches, buttons, or have it reworked. 

I know I didn't go into loads and loads of details on how to go completely green, but be watching out for more tips and links to great websites that will educate you with all the right information.

One I would definitely start with is: Fashion Revolution. This website will give you the low-down on what you can do to help change the fashion industry for the better.

Here's a few brands above that I truly respect. These brands are stylish, well-made and care about transparency and doing their part. Enjoy

1. Morv London Pintuck Gunpoint Dress

2. A Beautiful Story Nirmala Smokey Quartz mix silver bracelet

3.  Sarah Bailey Green Girl Gang Jacket

4. Miista Georgette Green Leather Flat

5. Konoc Osprey Forest Green

6. The Acey Dark Green Merino Wool Scarf

7. A Beautiful Story Holiday Earth Bracelet

8. Rouje Gaben Dress with Dot Print

9. Vejas V-12 BMesh Extra White Emeraude

10. Kowtow Escape Crew

11. Rosita Bonita Scared Scarab Earrings

12. Dora Larsen Holly High Apex Triangle Bra

kelly xx

Wishlist- A Few New Favs

Boy has the weather changed! I was in Berlin last week and it went from super mild to just about freezing. When packing for my trip, layering was key. I chose to pack pieces I knew would all work together just in case I had to layer up for a chilly day. I did, that's for sure. 

But this post is not about what I packed for my Berlin trip, maybe I should put one together. It's about what I am eyeing up at the moment. All of which will look fabulous on and can be worn in many different ways. When shopping for new items for my wardrobe, I first think about how it will fit in with what I have already and ask myself: Will you get manyy wears out of this garment? It's so important for me to wear pieces over and over again. I'm so over fast fashion, it hurts my soul. Now don't get me wrong I do buy high street pieces. I think it's all about being selective. I've bought pieces from Zara that have lasted me years. To maintain a sustainable lifestyle it's about not over buying and choosing pieces for your wardrobe that are timeless and stylish. 

So why are the pieces in this wishlist some of my favs at the moment?

1. Topshop Black Velvet Tuxedo Blazer - I think this blazer is a dream. From what I can see it is cut well and should hang nicely on. You cannot go wrong with a black velvet blazer in your wardrobe. Pair it with jeans and a logo tee or match it with a pair of black velvet trousers for a really nice party look. 

2. Rosita Bonita Deco Wing Earrings - As some of you may know already, I am obsessed wth Rosita Bonitas earrings. I first found out about the brand through Studio B Fashion. I ordered the tiger earrings and have not looked back. I am now in love with the Deco Wing Earrings. They are just gorgeous and I promise you, you will wear them all the time. Her earrings are light and so so wearable. 

3. Miista Leah Velvet Flats - Oh these flats have been haunting me! I tried them on at Miista's AW17 collection launch party and fell in love instantly. I couldn't decide between these and a pair of embroidered boots. I went with the boots, which I have worn a lot but I am now regretting not buying these beauties as I believe they are sold out (they come blue and red as well). They are handcrafted in Italy and are just gorgeous. 

4. Gestuz Leopard Midi Skirt - I have had eyes on this skirt for awhile now. I consider leopard print a basic now. This skirt from Gestuz is such a stable as leopard print never goes out of fashion. It's midi which is a great length. This skirt can be worn with trainers, flats or boots. I plan on pairing this skirt with Zazou's Super Her shirt, but it also looks great with a big heavy jumper. 

5. Knit Planet Smile Jumper Black - I just love Knit Planet. The husband and wife duo have created beautiful and wearable knits for both kids and adults. Their jumpers are soft, comfortable and wash extremely well. I have now bought myself two of their jumpers and plan on buying the same from my daughter. The Smile jumper is made with 100% merino wool and is machine washable. Super smart. I've already worn mine over and over again. You will not be disappointed. 

6. Zazou Organic Super Her Shirt - I am a sucker for a soft logo tee. Logo tees are everywhere at the moment and don't seem like they will be going out of fashion anytime soon. To be honest, they are the easiest tee to wear. You can pair a logo tee with anything and it will look current and super on trend. 

7. Veja V10 Natural Suede - Veja's are probably the coolest trainers around. I'm a big fan, I have 4 pairs. They are made of 100% natural materials which is really great. They are comfortable and look good with just about everything. I borrowed these shoes from Holly over at The Acey for a styling video and they are now on my wishlist as they are just so nice. I love the neutral colour, they will match with everything. 

8. Rouje Gabin Dress with Dot Print - How chic is this dress? It's so French and wonderful. I just love the colour and the cross over detail at the front. It's unique, timeless and pretty. This dress is definitely a winner in my book. 

9. Justine Tabak Petticoat Lane Dress in Black Corduroy- What a beautiful dress. This dress is such a staple. Pair it with the amazing neutral Veja's for a school run look or a pair of beautiful boots from Miista. 

Well there you have it, some beautiful pieces I would love to add to my wardrobe. All these pieces are effortless and can be worn over and over again.

Happy Shopping!

kelly x

Be the Light

In a world full of darkness I want to be a light. I'm so sadden by the horrible events that have unfolded recently. I sit in bewilderment wondering what would posses someone to hurt another human being. But believe it or not despite all the craziness that is occurring all around us there are good people in the world, people just like you and me that want to change the world for the good. It is our duty to bring joy, happiness and love to those around us and if each of us do our part in our own envirnoment then the world will be a better place. It's as easy as saying hello to someone in the morning or smiling at someone on the tube or asking someone if they need help. These little gestures matter and they will make someone feel good and feel special. Be the Light to those around you.

Let's meet a women that is trying to bring joy to those around her, Lynsey, owner and designer of Bax and Bay. Lynsey launched Bax and Bay back in 2015 with a capsule collection of baby changing bags called the cub bag but since has expanded the collection adding t-shirts and accessories for kids and adults. Her womens t-shirts are uplifting, fun and are guaranteed to put a smile on your face with their bright motifs, hello sunshine slogans and her ever so popular mama fox tee. Better yet a percentage of every purchase goes to one of the many charities they support. 

I am just loving her brand new Be the Light Sweatshirt in grey. It's soft, oversized and has the best slogan money can buy right now. It says it all, Be the Light. That's what I am trying to do and I hope you are too.

Check out Bax and Bay's full collection here.

kelly xx

A Walk Through India Sense Organics

kelly xx

Autumn Dresses

1.   Arket Chambray Wrap Dress 2. Topshop Black Tassel Earrings 3. Dieppe Restrepo Black Rod Boot 4. H&M Satin Wrap Dress 5. Topshop Pink Tassel Earrings  6. Topshop Marmalade Boot     7. Gestuz Leopard Print Dress 8. Miista Leah Velvet Flats 9. Topshop Tassel Earrings 10. Simply Be Velvet Dress 11. Miista Billie Velvet Boots 12. Rosita Bonits Leaping Tiger Earrings

Now that autumn is amongst us, I thought it appropriate to start planning my autumn wardrobe. I'm a sucker for a dress. My dress wishlist is probably a mile long. I in fact need blouses but instead of searching for the perfect blouse I look for dresses instead. I mean a dress is so easy and comfortable and pretty! You can't go wrong with a dress.

When looking for a dress I am automatically drawn to a midi dress. I find a midi dress very chic compared to a mini dress. I love the fact a midi will cover my legs but also show off my shoes. Here I have picked four dresses that give you a variety of styles and can be dressed up or down. Versatility in a dress is crucial for me. I focus more on quality then I do quantity these days. Yes I do love a high street dress, like the wrap H&M one above. It's chic, the colour is beautiful and it looks expensive. All winners in my book. 

I consider myself quite stylish and I'm very much into fashion but I do not focus too much on trends. I like to keep up to date with what is hot at the moment but then I apply what is appropriate for me. 

I do love the velvet trend at the moment and I will definitely rock it. I love the Simply Be Velvet dress above. They specialise in plus sizes but luckily a size 12 should fit me like a dream. I've also spotted a few velvet blazers which I hope to add to my autumn wardrobe. Not pictured here but I'll post soon. 

Leopard print will never go out of style for me. I will continue wearing it for as long as I live. It's fun and there are so many versions of a leopard print that it would be hard to get bored. I absolutely love the Gestuz Leopard print dress above, it's stunning! And I can't wait to hang it in my closet. 

Let's talk about the Arket Dress! It's so cool. It's simple which I love and it can be worn in so many ways. Wear it with black ankle boots like I have above or trainers or heels. Either way will look stunning.

So those are a few of the dresses I have on my autumn wishlist. I hope you find one that suits you!

Happy dress shopping!

kelly x