Head's up!

Hair accessories have been a big part of my style repertoire for as long as I can remember, and it was always the final touch added in the morning to my school uniform.

In my opinion, this winter saw some of the best hair accessories this side of the nineties, from the crowns at Dolce and Gabbana to Rodarte's barbed wire headband. So what does this year have to offer?

Aside from the predictable flower garlands of the festival season and wide-brimmed floppy hats of hazy summer days, this spring we will be seeing more than the buds of May and warm rays of the sun. The oriental infusion of catwalk trends lets you play with the new up-do, thanks to Emilio Pucci.

 



Meanwhile, Dolce's summer fling will be with headscarves and colour clashing earrings to top off a folk-inspired look. Do this at home with your own selection of lightweight scarves. If all else fails, it is a great way to avoid a tan line from your fringe!

Finally, if you don't want to add yet another felt hat to your collection or you have the urge to take up a new hobby, it seems that turning to nature and becoming a beekeeper is very à la mode. The best bit? Don't fret about changing your headwear!

Photo credits: GoRunway

Brolly good show

The trouble with December in the south West of England is that more often than not it is lashing with rain, gale force winds and no sign of any picturesque snow. This means your faithful sidekick to see you through the grey skies is, by beyond compare, the humble umbrella.

Here is a selection of the prettiest and most spectacular array of umbrellas out there, proving you can be chic in the winter, and beyond. They may be so nice you can't wait to step outside just to use them!

Cath Kidston, £32

Fulton, £30

Ted Baker, £29

Totes, £28

Rihanna for Totes, £15

Lulu Guinness, £32

Alexander McQueen, £395

Photo credits: asos.com; House of Fraser, Totes, Lulu Guinness, Net-a-Porter.com

Losers weepers

Anyone who hasn't yet heard of Australian label Finders Keepers is losing out. Mentioned in a previous post (here), I have fallen head over skirt for this brand which has made a name for itself in my closet, cuddling up to my others from the likes of McQueen, Paul Smith and Tibi.

The 'You Sent Me' style that I personally went for also comes in a dress version, available here, but I decided to leave the dress as it wasn't lined as well as the skirt- buy it here and here- and I am not one for a sheer dress unless it comes with a slip.

I have never before pulled on a skirt and felt that my legs look photoshopped, until now. The cutaway hem has a slimming and leg lengthening effect which could previously only be achieved with the help of Tracy Anderson or a really good dream. Plus, paired with a simple white tee and subtle strappy heels, it is a skirt which certainly does all the talking, therefore taking away the headache of pairing together printed separates.

Now the secret is out, spread the word. You can thank me when you see yourself in the skirt and fall back in love with your legs!

Photo credits: Harvey Nichols

Magic moments

Ever made the mistake of buying a pair of trousers, skirt, top or jeans that are way too tight, but you persevere and wait until you've shifted those last few pounds you always meant to exercise off, but needed a bit of motivation to do it? I have.

My 'motivation' trousers are a lovely summer cropped tailored, flat-fronted pair by McQ Alexander McQueen. Bought at my usual UK 8, I was heartbroken when I got home to find they were small to size by almost a whole dress size. Not ideal. They waited patiently, unworn, hanging in my closet (still with tags attached) teasing me and splitting my heart between my two loves: food and fashion.

It is shameful to admit that I have had these trousers for two years and, up until now, I have been unable to do up the top button (resulting in a very un-graceful dance to wiggle them on and then straight back off again). This morning, one very rare 'slim'-feeling day, I reached into the depths of the wardrobe to pull them out... et voila!!!

Forget Magic Mike, this is Magic McQueen. They both know how to make a girl feel good, but the big difference is one is about taking clothes off, the other is about putting them on. But with these trousers? I'm Team McQueen- can you blame me?

Features: Castor Jacket by RM Roland Mouret; Pink stretch-crepe cropped zipped shrug by Narciso Rodriguez; Faux fur clutch by Ceannis; Striped cotton trousers by McQ Alexander McQueen; Heels by Aldo Rise X Preen

Photo credit: Goody Two-Choos