White Monday

So, it's Blue Monday, supposedly the most depressing day of the year. Apparently it's the mix of there being a high in debts, the amount of weeks past Christmas we are, and the basic fact that it's a Monday that makes for such a horrid 24 hours. For me though, today has been anything but. As you'll know if you live in the UK, or are from another country laughing at England's inability to handle such weather, over the past few days we've been hit by a blanket of the white stuff. 

I was lucky enough to have a snow day and spent the majority of it snuggled in bed reading the latest issue of Vogue. However, I did brave the chilly weather for a while this evening and went on a snowy wander. I layered up, donned my big black ankle boots, and grabbed my camera so that I didn't miss the chance to use such a beautiful backdrop for an outfit post.

I'm wearing, red jumper - thrifted, tartan midi skirt - thrifted, heeled black boots - H&M 

I hope none of you have had a blue Monday! What did you wear in the snow today?

Thanks for reading, 

Bethany Paige X 

Seeing style in the soccer Mom

They're belly button grazing, rolled at the bottom, the opposite of figure enhancing, and often seen slightly battered on the legs of "soccer moms" climbing out of their SUVs. They are, in principle an opposing force to fashion. In fact, they're widely regarded as a disgrace in the world of clothes. Granted, the style scene has witnessed some rather strange revivals (I'll point you in the direction of shoulder pads), but this isn't so much of a rekindle. Were Mom jeans ever, well, kindled? I'd say that the answer to that is "no", but now suddenly, thanks to Topshop, apparently they're hot.

How this happened completely escapes me, but somehow I'm beginning to lust after them. Not even so much beginning anymore. Perhaps it's a case of them being so completely awful that they cause the laws fashion to inverse, and manage to spin their way from gruesome through to the other end of the spectrum - gorgeous. Or maybe I'm delusional.  Either way, I can see endless styling possibilities for them. Imagine them with a pair of ankle strap white heels and a plain white oversized t-shirt, or a checked shirt and some studded pumps. They could work, albeit unconventionally, to create so many looks. You have to admit, they're looking a little more high fashion now you think about it. 

So, judge me as you will, but I won't rest until Mom jeans become a part of my wardrobe, and preferable the blue pair on the far right of the picture. What do you think though, Mom jeans: Yay or nay?

Thanks for reading, 

Bethany Paige X

So okay, you're probably going "Is this like a Noxema commercial, or what?"

If you follow me on Twitter or have met me in the flesh, it's entirely likely that you would've heard me quote the 1995 film Clueless at least once, probably several, times. It has to be one of my favourite films, and if you haven't figured out that one reason behind this is the absolutely killer style of some characters, you probably haven't seen it! If this is the case, I urge you to do so because honestly, I'm not sure we can be friends anymore otherwise.

Clueless epitomizes 90s fashion, looking at the melting pot of styles that was so common of the time- Everything from plaid shirts to skirt suits, and right through to white knee high socks. The style is woven into the film effortlessly, whilst Cher and Dionne's love of shopping highlights even further some of the wild fashion choices associated with the era that make it so amazing. After gawking at, and often trying to replicate, their outfits for so long, you can only imagine my excitement to find out that legendary fashion brand Wildfox have created a whole collection based on Clueless!  Not only a legendary brand, but a personal favourite brand of mine too. The whole lookbook is gorgeous and truly embraces the "whatever" 90s spirit, whilst still managing to drag the clothes into 2013 successfully.

I must give them snaps for their courageous fashion efforts:

"She could be a farmer in those clothes!"

"But seriously, I actually have a way normal life for a teenage girl. I get up, brush my teeth and pick out my school clothes"

"And the fact that you hang out with Dee and I, well..."

"Speaks very highly of you"

"Did I show you the loqued-out jeep Daddy got me? It's got four wheel drive, dual side airbags and a monster sound system" 

"Been shopping with Dr Suess?"

"Cher's main thrill in life is a makeover"

"Murray's geometry class is right by Elton's locker, and taped up inside was the picture you took of Tai"

"And my buns:they don't feel nothin' like steel"

"Dude, what's wrong? You suffering from buyer's remorse or something?"

"Isn't my house classic? The columns date all the way back to 1972!"

If like me you love clueless and the Wildfox collection, you might enjoy reading some of my other posts on 90s fashion like this one.

What do you think of the lookbook?

Thanks for reading, 
Bethany Paige X

The Delevingne effect

Perhaps I'm the only one, but every now and then I have to remind myself that high fashion models are real people. Whilst they parade down the runway in numerous outfits, probably worth more money than I earn in a year, it's almost impossible to think that they belong anywhere else. Maybe that's what makes a good model, someone who looks as though they were made for the catwalk and as though it's their sole purpose in life. Cara Delevingne describes herself as a "professional human being", and although this is a little modest, it's partially true. Her job is to be what the the fashion industry view as the perfect woman, to show off their clothes to their full potential. And with 38 shows and 54 looks under her designer belt at London fashion week s/s13 alone, it's clear that she's doing a pretty good job. In fact, she's quickly becoming one of the most widely recognized British supermodels of the moment.

It's hard to have missed Cara over the past year; she's graced the pages of all magazines worth mentioning, walked for some of the biggest names in fashion, and been the face of ad campaigns for DKNY, Burberry, and Chanel. Not bad for someone who only a few seasons ago was a model for ASOS! It's easy to see why Miss Delevingne was snapped up by such high profile designers so quickly though. She's simply stunning. She has the kind of beauty that makes her perfect for fashion, the unconventional and totally memorable look she's known for. Even her eyebrows have become the focus of fashion legend!

If you don't know the name, you'll certainly know the face:

What can I say? I have a rather large girl crush! Before I go, I'd also like to wish a very Happy Birthday to the gorgeous Shana who, much like myself, has been hit by the Delevingne effect.

Thanks for reading, 
Bethany Paige X

Simply shoes

The world of shoes is a complex one, and one that can be hard to navigate. Endless styles, patterns and colours, with different fastenings, embellishments and adornments, screaming with style, can be more than a little overwhelming. Non-surprisingly, the idea of a minimalist, no nonsense heel is appealing to most fashion lovers. Bidding farewell, if only for 24 hours, to heavily decorated footwear and replacing them with simple two strap stilettos is refreshing, and the style possibilities are endless. Colours are kept to one, two at the most, and finishes are basic. The effect however, is the quite the opposite. There's something about the simplicity of an ankle strap stiletto, that makes the wearer seem effortlessly stylish and as though they're surrounded by sophistication. Ultimately, sophistication never goes out of style, and such shoes can only be seen as an investment. 

Alexander Wang £445

Tibi Carine Leather Ankle Strap Sandals £259.29

ASOS (HARLOT) £45

River Island £65

River Island £70

Thanks for reading, 

Bethany Paige X

White washed Baroque

This a/w has been the season for opulence, with beautiful embellishments, heavy fabrics and luxurious colours  causing a style revolution. Designers including Dolce and Gabbana bought back Baroque style clothing, and brocade prints became a style essential throughout the cold weather. It seems however, that lavish catwalk pieces have had a shift for s/s13. The deep reds and golds of winter have been replaced by bright spring whites, giving them an altogether more fresh look. The decorative effects and intricate embellishments remain and give the historical style a slightly futuristic feel.

A new take on an old trend:

Balmain:

 Christopher Kane:

Rochas:

Are you loving this season's baroque, or looking forward to the fresh spring palette?

I hope you've all had a lovely Sunday,
Bethany Paige X

Street style appreciation: Vintage kitty

Today I met up with eBay and Topshop addict Chloe, for another edition of street style appreciation. This lady has some serious style, and manages to mix modern and vintage pieces to form something perfectly eclectic. After crushing on her clothing for quite some time now, it seemed only right to invite her to become the second member of my street style squad. She's a very deserving member, I'm sure you'll agree.

 

Chloe wears: Shoes - eBay originally Tuk, socks - Topshop, Dress (worn as skirt) - eBay originally Topshop, Shirt - Tophop, watch - eBay, peace bracelet - Topshop, Cat necklace - Topshop, bag - Primark, Jacket - Miss Selfridge

Where's your favourite place to shop?

Definitely eBay, purely because it has a great collection of vintage pieces that aren't as pricey as they would be in highstreet equivalent stores. I'm a complete addict, and check the eBay app for new clothes and accessories every day. In terms of the highstreet my favourite has to be Topshop but I also dip in and out of the Urban Renewal collection for Urban Outfitters.

What's your favourite eBay buy?

Probably my Cat shoes, originally from Tuk (pictured above) . I wear them all the time, and they go with most of my wardrobe because they're black and work amazingly with skirts. I get some strange looks when I wear them, but still absolutely love them. Plus, they were only £20 which is a complete bargain!

What do you think is the biggest fashion faux pas?

I hate matching velour tracksuits. They're so disgusting, where's the appeal?! I also dislike knee boots in shiny patent fabrics, I think they're really tacky. I'm not a big fan of snapbacks either, or when people try really hard to be "hipster". Not a good look.

What is your favourite era for fashion?

I like most eras to be honest, and try to take inspiration from all of them. I especially like mod 60s style though. I adore the film Quadrophenia for its fashion, it's amazing.

What's your outfit staple?

I have this green parka coat that I've absolutely worn to death! I considered spray painting The Who symbol on the back of it but couldn't quite bring myself to. I think it would look great but I love it too much to risk it going wrong, it was quite expensive. Anything velvet, denim or leather is also an outfit must.

Who are some of your style icons?

Alexa Chung! She looks beautiful in everything; there's not one of her outfits that I don't love. I also like the artist Grimes, not for her clothes in particular, but because she does whatever she wants in terms of style. Her individuality is inspiring for me. Music influences my clothing choices quite a lot actually, I love the Vaccines and Swim deep.

How do you finish an outfit?

Dark lipstick is something I'm really getting into recently. Rimmel's Kate Moss collection always looks fabulous, and today I'm wearing Rimmel Starry Eyed. I think deep reds and purples really suit me, and matte finishes are easier to pull of.


Her coolness is undeniable! Thank you so much for your time Chloe, you've left a certain fashion blogger extremely jealous.

Thanks for reading, 
Bethany Paige X