Architecture meets fashion

On the first Monday of October, which conveniently happens to be today, is World Architecture Day. As architecture is often inspired by- and in itself inspires- fashion design, I have put together a selection of architecturally fashionable pieces in homage to this annual event.

Kicking off the architectural fashion feature, Skyscraper heels have always held a special place in my heart for those special parties where there is little walking to be done, and a seat never more than 100 yards away... Think skyscraper heels, think Charlotte Olympia.

Windowpane checks are big news once more thanks to J. Crew and Stella McCartney. Pick up a pair of smart office-to-bar-friendly trousers for the new season, like this pair from J.Crew. They tick two structural boxes: minimalist lines and windowpane checks.

In architectural terms, Fleur-de-Lys is a very feminine baroque-inspired style which always serves well to counteract the androgynous and minimalist styles prominent on the catwalks and street style stars of the last few years. Hunt No More, a young and playful Australian brand, has created a Fleur-de-Lys themed collection for AW13/14; with one particular dress named just so.

To add a sense of drama to this season's key cocoon coat, throw a decadent baroque scarf over your shoulder and fasten with an art deco brooch. This Kenzo scarf is available here.

Iconography is literally iconic this season, with Dolce & Gabbanna amongst others creating a collection inspired by religious icons, church architecture and the luxurious decor of the Byzantine mosaics. Some may consider this dress out of budget at over £10,000, but I still think it's beautiful. Surely it can't hurt to look..?

Photo credits: theoutnet.com, net-a-porter.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

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