White is alright

It wasn't that long ago when white shoes had the reputation of a one pence piece: low value, dirties quickly and is considered highly un-chic to carry on one's person. The only time you would be seen dead in white heels would be for fancy dress purposes, or risk ending up on the worst dressed lists of Heat magazine.

But, as is often the case with certain fashions, the white shoe is making a comeback, and all thanks to the blogosphere.

The new generation of trend-setters have gone viral, and it is now easier than ever before to see what people are wearing on the other side of the world, therefore mixing your style and finding inspiration from all corners of the globe. It doesn't matter if you live in Stafford or Sussex- you CAN dress like a Californian, if you choose. Such bloggers have given me a new found faith in the white shoe and, often spotted in them during summer months, street chic and fashion week, are able to carry off this previously dirtied trend with aplomb.

So, if I want to feel like I am on a sunny coast somewhere, or even just wanting to hold on to the British summer that little bit longer come August, I will be dressing my feet in these beauties from Zara: simple, to the point, and highly desirable. Plus, they will set off my summer tan spectacularly.

Meet you at the checkout.

Photo credit: f-2013.blogspot.com

What to wear: Non-interview interviews

Since finishing my final year at University, my mind has been rather pre-occupied with job hunting. I have found lots of advice and help with what to wear to formal interviews but it wasn't until yesterday when a friend was asked to 'pop in' to 'put a face to the name' that I realised just how little styling advice there is for those increasingly common non-interview interviews, particularly as the majority of job applications are now carried out online.

It obviously depends on the job/position/time of year/how much information is given away in that brief conversation, but I believe that these 'getting to know you' meetings are just as much of an interview as a formal one would be, but more about personality and competencies than a direct application set-up.

With that in mind, it is important to let a little personality show through, whether it is in the socks, jewellery or colours you wear. You want to look fresh, creative, and like you have stepped through the door in a classy 'oh this? I always dress this chic' way. Below, I have put together a couple of looks that work both for these non-interviews as well as in the office, once you get those job offers flooding through.

Of course, the same rules apply with having your hemline longer than your fingertips with your arms down by your side, and always dress for the job you want, not just the one you have. Even if you are the hardest working person in the office, if you dress shabbily, you will be treated that way. Finally, always wear closed-toe shoes. They don't have to be high, but nobody needs to see your bare toes while they are trying to focus on the job at hand. It's not professional, no matter how much you spent on that Shellac pedicure.





Trousers: Asos
Shoes: Zara
Blouse: Reiss
Necklace: Topshop
Clutch: Marni

Dress: Reiss
Jacket: Reiss
Shoes: LK Bennett
Bag: DVF