Monochrome Bliss

When it comes to shopping for my love of monochrome, it's safe to say that all logic goes out of the window financially! There's an element to this classic pairing of black and white that just takes my breath away, and it's such a versatile trend. Monochrome is a fashionable look that can be worked all year round, making it stylish to wear in summer AND winter. 

So I've recently been hitting the sales in River Island in search of some wardrobe updates, and I just couldn't resist these chunky black and white ankle boots! Not only were they a bargain on their original price, but they are also incredibly comfortable to wear if you're looking for footwear with some height, but don't want anything that's too elevated. These boots are fantastic to wear in all weather conditions too - I have been wearing mine with footie socks in the hot weather (note the breathable hole in the side of the boot's design), as well as wearing them in the rain (my birthday jaunt around the Lake District yesterday was living proof of this.)

Finally, let's not overlook the sheer attitude these boots add to an outfit! Their striking thick white sole contrasted with a black leather upper, buckle to the sides and zipper to the back scream, 'don't mess with me!' By far the best footwear purchase I've bought this season. 

If you want to read some more of my thoughts on the monochrome trend for summer, and maybe even pick up some styling tips in the process, feel free to have a browse of my article over on Le Reve's blog - you never know, you might just learn a trick or two. 

Thanks for reading! :)

Note: All images taken by Myself (Dawn)

Beyonce “Pretty Hurts”

Never a lady to shy away from starring in a controversial music video or two, Beyonce is back on top form with the newest track taken from her Visual album. “Pretty Hurts” is a powerful ballad which Bey sings beautifully, but the video definitely reveals her vulnerable side. 

Mrs. Carter’s character, Miss 3^rd War portrays the fast-paced ups and downs of beauty pageantry, showing off her first class acting skills in the process. Directed by Melina Matsoukas, the American director wanted to be able to capture what life is often like for young women, and how toxic beauty pageants can be. 

In light of her latest video, Beyonce has also recently launched a campaign entitled #WhatIsPretty. This campaign is inspiring for female fans in particular as it encourages them to upload either a photo or a video of themselves onto Instagram, to promote what the word ‘pretty’ means on a personal note.  

The Art of the Ankle

For me the ankle has always been one of my favourite body parts to decorate not just with jewellery, but with beautiful shoes as well. There are so many ways to customize our own look these days and emphasizing certain attributes only adds to the fun of dressing up as a feminine, fashion-conscious woman. 

When shopping for stilettos I tend to try and look for the whole package: a steady platform that is pretty comfortable to walk in, a quirky design or embellishment, and an ankle strap wherever possible. Stilettos can be your best friend if you choose a pair that has decent ankle support. After all, the last thing anybody wants is a strain after only a couple of hours walking around in that new pair of shoes! Chiropody foam also works wonders for providing additional comfort to arched feet.

Sometimes I like to customize my stiletto collection by adding a D.I.Y strap onto a pair that doesn't already have any. A simple how-to tutorial is all that is required if you have a favourite pair of heels that needs some extra support.

Making a bold footwear statement has always been one of the most appealing things about fashion, and I love nothing more than eyeing up new lines on the likes of Shoespie, Dr. Martens and ASOS. Flats are equally as 'out there' as heels though, which is why I spend a lot of my time wearing boots, pumps and smart shoes in addition to stilettos.



Note: Images are not my own.

Purple Rain...

Hey Bloggers!

Long time no see ;) Hope you've all been keeping as busy as I have lately? This morning's post is inspired by two things: 1. One of the new season's most uplifting shades, Purple. 2. The legend that is of course, Prince.

For those who are wondering how the 2 link together and who may not be huge Prince fans, it was actually revealed at last week's BRIT Awards that he would be performing a 'secret' gig in Manchester. I was so gutted that I couldn't go! But needless to say, his classic hit 'Purple Rain' along with my new American Apparel 'Violet Panache' Nail Polish are making up for that fact whilst keeping me inspired.

I always get super excited when the new season's fashion and beauty colours arrive. In this case I'm all about purple tones at the moment. Not only are darker hues a sultry alternative to black, but if worn in pastel, this is about as Spring-friendly as it gets. Take my American Apparel Nail Polish for example. This is a rich, metallic shade with subtle hints of glitter thrown in for good measure. So if you don't have time for nail art, this is a great alternative as you're getting colour, gloss and glitter all from one polish. :) Take a look at the colour below and let me know your thoughts? Also, what are your must-have colours for Spring 2014?

Midi Rings: Accessorize, Nail Polish: American Apparel Metallic Polish in 'Violet Panache'.

Note: All images taken by Myself (Dawn)