Brittique Blog

My new blog

2010-06-22T14:12:00.000-07:00

I can now be found at Not Just Another Cupcake, a wink at the many stay at home mums who set up cupcake businesses. As a home creator I'll be finding inspiration in food, crafts, style, health and gardening. Enjoy!

Goodbye! It's been a great 3 years

2009-10-07T12:46:00.001-07:00

Source: Image Shack

Following the birth of my second son just 18 months after the first, I've decided to take some much needed maternity leave. Saying goodbye to a business that I built was a difficult decision but my family must now come first.

Brittique was launched as an online boutique to support up and coming British designers. Looking back I feel proud to have worked with so many top names including the already well known like Amanda Wakeley and Maria Grachvogel through to the new stars such as Louise Amstrup and Merle O'Grady.

Of course we have stock to clear so we've cut all prices by at least 50% - including the new season collections from Caroline Charles and Peter Jensen.

Thank you for all your support over the past 3 years. It has been fun and now I'm looking forward to spending time being mum for a while.

Merle O'Grady: Find of the month

2009-08-03T06:28:00.000-07:00

Merle O'Grady has caused quite a stir in a very short space of time. Her feather weight perspex jewellery was snapped up by Beyonce while on a break from performing in Dublin. Since then customers have been clamouring to buy her unique and striking jewellery. The lightness of the perspex is particularly good for those who love big dangly earrings. You won't even notice these but everyone else will.

Bionda Castana new shoe gods

2009-07-09T06:04:00.000-07:00

Grazia have named the design duo behind Bionda Castana the new shoe gods. Not only do Bionda Castana shoes look amazing but they're actually walkable. Good news if you're a size 40 because that's the last pair we have left of the Amber shown here.

A ball gown fit for a bump

2009-07-09T03:37:00.000-07:00

Normally an invite to a swanky black tie masquerade ball would be so exciting that I'd barely be able to sleep. But being so heavily pregnant I was dreading it. What to wear with such a big bump? And black tie means to the ground. The lovely Louise Amstrup offered me a beautiful black dress with a beaded bodice. But sadly it didn't fit the belly.

However I did manage to find some silk I'd stashed probably about 10 years ago waiting for the right pattern. So Saturday I did some manic sewing. Thankfully I did manage to get it completely finished and pressed with a couple of hours to spare. It was actually a very simple bump friendly and colourful dress just as I'd envisaged.

The event was a 40th birthday party for the wife of an ex-colleague of my man. I'd actually never met the wife. It's very odd going to a party not knowing the birthday girl. And I didn't even meet her on the night.What a party! Most weddings are not this extravagant. Held at the V&A Museum the surroundings were just beautiful. It had a Venetian theme, hence the masks. I'd bought ours online and hoped that it matched my dress - luckily it did perfectly.

Back to the party. There was a string quartet on gondola in the middle of the lake in the garden. After we moved inside past the sculpture gallery there was a live band. The daughters aged 13 and 10 sang a beautiful song from Hairspray where they had adapted the words for their mother. They were incredible! Such confidence. I had tears in my eyes. Following the band were opera singers. Other entertainment included massages, makeup sessions, an ice cream stand (see picture above!) and a photo booth.

I'd actually managed to slip my feet into these Gil Carvalho 4 inch heels for the occasion. While the shoes were very comfortable for my feet, it was my legs that had the problem. My legs held up quite well until about 11pm. By then I was ready to limp to the car and go home to my lovely soft bed. You can imagine the relief when I took off my shoes and walked on flat ground. Bliss! But beauty means suffering, even when pregnant!

Kate Tailyour features in Metro

2009-06-25T03:46:00.000-07:00

I feel really good when I'm wearing a great outfit. I feel even better knowing that it's not only made from ethically sourced, organic fabrics but that it's produced in Britain - actually just down the road from us in lovely Hackney. As featured in Metro today, Kate Tailyour's collection is just that, ethical and local, something that should appeal to eco-enthusiasts and fashionistas alike. This collection is available exclusively from Brittique. Look out for her AW09 collection which will be available for preorder soon.

Our PR gets papped with Kate Bosworth

2009-06-23T12:20:00.000-07:00

Source: Just Jared

PRs really do have the active social life don't they? Our wonderful PR Liz was at the recent Rodarte dinner hosted by Kate Bosworth and happened to get snapped in the background. Liz is wearing the fabulous Louise Amstrup stripe panel dress while Kate is looking rather regal in this Rodarte frock.

So excited about these shoes

2009-06-19T07:54:00.000-07:00

Of course I love all the shoes I stock but some I love more than others. These Verity by Bionda Castana fall into that category. They are so elegant and, the best bit, they're orange! I do have a thing for orange. Remember my ginormous Chloe Heloise handbag? These shoes are going to look great with that. They'll also look great with the new AW09 collection from Louise Amstrup with the hint of orange in the print.

Preorder Verity now to avoid disappointment.

Emma Cook speaks out about rumours

2009-06-09T02:55:00.000-07:00

We can all breathe a sigh of relief that rumours circulating last week that Emma Cook was closing were just that, rumours. Emma Cook spoke with Grazia this week dismissing the rumours and confirming that her label was continuing but with a focus on a lower priced diffusion range as well as her collaboration with Topshop. What good news!

Shop Emma Cook here at Brittique.com.

Giant shoe sale: 40-90% off all shoes

2009-06-08T01:16:00.001-07:00

Plus get an extra 15% off this weekend only. Sign up for our newsletter for details.

Daily Mail's best boutiques

2009-05-28T04:08:00.000-07:00

Daily Mail featured Brittique as one of it's best boutiques.

"The latest fashion news, latest designs and preorder of collections to come are some of the options at Brittique, a beautifully designed online boutique with a fabulous selection of covetable contemporary clothes and accessories including dresses, bags, heels and jewels."

Thanks Patricia from Thesiteguide.com and Daily Mail!

Metro's favorite new accessories

2009-05-28T03:52:00.001-07:00

Metro picked the infamous Amber by Bionda Castana as their top new accessories for the summer. These shoes became a must have item after Agyness Dean wore them for British Vogue. You're in luck if you're a size 40/41 as that's the only size we have left. Remember they do come up about 1/2 a size bigger but can be laced in.

2009-05-27T11:05:00.000-07:00

Source: RihannaDaily.com

Rihanna seems to favour emerging British designers. Last year she stepped out in Emma Cook's fantastic jumpsuit - I can't wear mine enough in summer! Recently the American based singer was spotted in this Hannah Marshall short sleeve jacket. She really is super stylish and it is great to see a celeb who doesn't have to be dressed in big name designers all the time. It would be wonderful if more celebs would embrace up and coming designers from across the globe.

My lost top found after 2 years of searching!

2009-05-19T04:21:00.000-07:00

Attending the Madonna concert in Madison Square Gardens last year wearing the too small Louise Amstrup Bow Top, Amiee McWilliams leather trousers and a clutch by Ignes

Over 2 years ago I had a press request for the Louise Amstrup bow top. The press sample was already out at Elle Magazine so I reluctantly sent off my personal top. Sadly it vanished. Elle claimed it had been returned, my warehouse claimed they hadn't received it back and my PR didn't have it either. Luckily we did get press from it and very quickly sold out of all tops.

I was so upset. It really was my favorite top. I loved wearing it with white jeans and silver shoes as well as the leather trousers shown above. I even begged Louise Amstrup to make me a new one but she didn't have anymore fabric. But she did send me a size 8. It was OK, but it wasn't really long enough for me to wear comfortably with my skinny jeans. I preferred the drapy feel of the size 12.

We have just moved warehouses in the last couple of weeks and I have been personally overseeing the stocktake and packing of all my beautiful Brittique.com clothes. There was an odd box leftover that seemed to have damaged clothes and just stationary items so I just left it - until today. What a surprise I got when I unpacked it and right at the bottom was my beloved top neatly folded in the magazine's bag. I'm thrilled! But now I'll have to wait a few months post baby to get back into it.

The future's orange

2009-05-18T11:41:00.000-07:00

As soon as I saw these Bionda Castana Verity shoes I thought of the Louise Amstrup AW09 collection. I just love orange and can't wait to pair these Verity's with the Louise print pinup dress and matching slim wrap belt in orange. The shoes and dress are available to preorder now with delivery in August.

Brittique shoptalk at Dream Sequins

2009-05-14T02:13:00.000-07:00

When I first started to Twitter I didn't really understand it's power. In the past month of twittering I have discovered some incredible bloggers and reached a more international customer base. Who would have thought?

One of the incredible bloggers I've "meet" is Dream Sequins. Based in my old city of New York, she writes about emerging fashion designers and independent boutiques. Sometimes just various tidbits about food and travel. You can follow her on Twitter.

I recently "chatted" with Dream Sequins and the result of this up on her website now. It's a little snapshot of Brittique from a fashionista's perspective.

PS. Check in with Dream Sequins for a fantastic giveaway bonanza that will be announced soon.

Designer Hannah Marshall Spills on Fashion

2009-05-12T00:29:00.001-07:00

Hannah Marshall is one of the most talked about new designers. There is a good reason for this. Her style has sharpened since she first launched at London Fashion Week in 2007. Her collections are now entirely in black and feature strong silhouettes, broad shoulders with a sharp, tailored feel. For someone like me who doesn't tend to wear too much black it can be daunting to sift through. But when you need a LBD you can't go wrong with her collection.

Read Hannah Marshall's views on fashion with Elle Magazine.

Book review: Lowboy by John Wray

2009-05-05T06:32:00.000-07:00

Source: Amazon

Normally if I read a book review I don't read the book. They tend to spoil the plot for me. I prefer to start a book with only a vague idea of what the book is about. Lowboy was different. I read the review in the New Yorker and was intrigued.

The after reading the NYMag's review I knew I had to read it.I can't really add much to the fabulous reviews out there but to say that there is a subtle twist towards the end that it brilliant. The book is simply written and gripping. Apparently Wray wrote the whole book on the subway!

I was a touch confused about the ending and had to reread the last couple of pages a few times but after reading this review I now understand. Highly recommend it for your next book club - it's an easy page turner!

Spring bank holiday sale - extra 30% off everything

2009-04-30T12:30:00.000-07:00

Psst... We're on sale to get an extra 30% off everything just enter SPRING09 upon checkout.

Any questions? Just email help@brittique.com.

New Arrivals: Amber shoe and Kate Tailyour

2009-04-26T12:49:00.000-07:00

The long awaited Amber from Bionda Castana have arrived. And guess what? They're even better in real life than in all the press. I love them and of course had to take a pair for myself. Limited sizes left.

Also new in store is the ethical designer Kate Tailyour. Her draped silhouettes are easy to wear and all made from ethically sourced and produced fabrics. What's even better is that they're made right here in the UK, in London actually.

Fashion fuels death threats

2009-03-31T13:45:00.000-07:00

Vogue recently reported that Peter Jensen is at the centre of a fashion feud over his interpretation of Greenland's national costume. Following the presentation of Peter Jensen's AW09 collection the designer received a series of complaints including a death threat.

Of particular concern to the native Greenlanders is Peter Jensen's interpretation of the kamic boots. Peter Jensen told Vogue "The collection and the boots were made out of pure love and meant as a celebration from the trip which we went on in November. That I am now getting death threats is really taking this thing out of proportion."

I love the boots and was disappointed to learn that they're only available from a certain high street retailer... We have however placed our AW09 order for the clothing. I can't wait for the beaded sweater dress and the digital print Citizens of the World blazer. This blazer is just so versatile and can be interpreted in so many ways from preppy to layered and geek chic. Preorders are now open with delivery in September.

InStyle wedding guest dress picks

2009-03-30T09:21:00.000-07:00

InStyle's wedding special featured two Kirribilla dresses as their top wedding guest dress picks. As I said before, I'm loving the brilliant blue Helen with Amber from Bionda Castana. Image it with a colourful fascinator? Almost makes me wish I had a wedding to go to this summer!

Vogue on Vogue

2009-03-28T03:04:00.000-07:00

Vogue Editor Alexandra Shulman. Source: FBC

On Thursday I went along to the Fashion Business Club meeting “Vogue on Vogue”. Online editor Dolly Jones was interviewing Vogue magazine editor Alexandra Shulman. While I’m not a magazine junky and prefer online to magazines, I was interested in what Alexandra had to say about supporting young British designers and her perceived or obligation of role of Vogue. One interesting fact for me is that we both have the same favorite magazine, The New Yorker.

Alexandra spoke openly and candidly about her experience and was actually quite witty. Upon taking the job she had no idea or even interest in fashion. She didn’t realize that fashion was in seasons and still claims to have a more pedestrian view of fashion while her fashion staff talk about referencing great artists and events.

Dolly (not her real name by the way) asked if Alexandra felt that she fitted the fashion mold. The crowded room laughed when Alexandra said that one comment she hears continuously is that she doesn’t look like the editor of Vogue magazine. She always replies that she’s been the editor for 17 years now so this is what the editor of Vogue looks like.

She believes that fashion has become the whipping post for the celeb culture, eating disorders and other woes of the world. She said it’s just wrong and she actually enjoys the debate. Vogue was recently heavily criticized for putting Cheryl Cole on the cover. Alexandra said she enjoyed having Cheryl and believes she is a face of fashion. Besides, it was incredible for sales.

I was about to ask about Vogue’s role and obligation in the support of young designers. Alexandra said she feels a duty to support them despite the fact that they don’t give a single penny of advertising revenue. She believes that during the last recession some of the greatest trends emerged and this time is no different. She saw signs of that at the recent LFW. In reply to Dolly’s questions about how Vogue are dealing with the recession and changes in spending habits Alexandra said that Vogue has always been about an aspirational lifestyle and it will continue to present that lifestyle in a way that is not offensive.

There were a lot of questions from the audience, most just wanting to draw Alexandra’s attention to their brand. Something I should really do but it’s not my style. I do hope that Vogue can continue to support young British designers, especially in these times.
On the way home from the meeting I did pick up the latest copy of Vogue. I haven’t read it yet though. Had a delivery of New Yorkers instead!

Brittique launches on Twitter - 20% off your next order

2009-03-25T12:17:00.000-07:00

We've succumbed to the power of Twitter. Follow us to receive 20% off your next purchase. Stay a step ahead with tweets of the newest arrivals and sales previews.

Perfectly pretty new arrivals from Kirribilla

2009-03-25T07:45:00.000-07:00

Kirribilla's dress only collection is always a delightfully sweet collection of perfectly pretty dresses. As the design trio say, "you're too pretty to wear pants". These super sweet dresses are now available on Britique.com. I think the brilliant blue Helen dress will look incredible with the new Amber shoes from Bionda Castana.

My new mama blog

2009-03-21T13:29:00.000-07:00

Any mothers out there check out the new blog TightKnitMamas I've started with a few of my mama friends in New York. While we're now spread out over oceans and the US, we're blogging about parenting, knitting and other random things that means a lot to us mums.

Sometimes beauty does not mean suffering

2009-03-19T00:17:00.000-07:00

As a mad snowboarder the death of anyone while skiing or boarding really shakes me. But the death of Natasha Richardson is especially shocking. It's not just because she's a young mother but because these types of injuries can be avoided by wearing a helmet.

In 2000 when I was learning to snowboard I took an especially nasty fall. It really shook me and I could see stars for days and had a sore spot on the back of my head for months after. After the initial panic attack wore off I went to the nearest ski store and bought a helmet.

At that time in our little ski resort of Fieberbrunn I was the only adult wearing a helmet. I did not care how silly I looked, I just knew that I needed protection.

Now more and more adults are wearing helmets. In January I noticed that in Fieberbrunn more people were wearing helmets than not and Snowbird was the same.

In the same way that the terminal illness of Jade Goody has increased the number of women seeking pap tests, I hope that the tragic death of Natasha Richardson will encourage you all to forsake beauty and wear a helmet on the slopes.

Fly the Co-op

2009-03-16T04:02:00.000-07:00

Relative new comers Cooperative Designs have created a stir since their launch four seasons ago. The launch of their SS09 collection in stores today generated press on both Vogue and Zoo.

Since Brittique started stocking Cooperative Designs in AW08, the styles have moved away from the ultra quirky handknits to a more streamlined and wearable feel. Customers really responded at London Fashion Weekend and most of their summer 08 collection was snapped up.

The summer 09 collection went live on Brittique this past weekend. Think citrus stripes in bodcon styles with cutout shoulders. My favorite has to be the little steffi beach suit. With it net lining, bobble zip and cute boy style shorts it really is a holiday necessity. If I wasn't going to spend all summer pregnant I'd imagine throwing a frisbee around Victoria Park wearing my little play suit and bare feet, hair back in a messy pony. Alas, it's bare feet and empire dresses for me!

The latest in London youth trends

2009-03-10T03:05:00.000-07:00

London Fashion Weekend is over. After a gruelling 5 days I slept most of Monday and wouldn't mind a little kip now too!

After moving back to London from New York a mere 3 weeks ago, LFW'end was the first time I've been immersed in London Fashion. And what an eye opener. The girls in the East Village are tame compared to London girls.

LFW'end really was an eye opener as far as trends. There were so many young girls in attendance - we're talking 16-22 - and they're just so fashion forward. I'd like to say imaginative too but while it was, they mostly all stuck my rules.

The first thing I noticed is that skirts are short. And I mean SHORT!! Bum skimming. This fact didn't escape the security guards at the show either. They really thought they were in heaven. Many girls weren't even wearing skirts or dresses, just tops that barely covered their bum and semi opaque tights. Even girls who didn't have the legs have embraced this trend. I saw a couple bend over and yes, I saw everything! Should we blame Sienna Miller for this?

Source: Stylebakery

The second thing I noticed was the hair styles. This is one area that there was not much of a deviation from the trend. That trend seems to be an evolution of the bed head and side party which is now lightly teased with an exaggerated side part that is swept right across the forehead.

Source: Stylescout

While I appreciate the power of a trend, many of these young girls should really take a look in the mirror and decide if these bum skimming tops/skirts and forehead covering styles really suit them. Perhaps they could modify the trend and wear what actually suits them.

That said, I've unplugged my GHDs, teased up the roots of my hair and will test drive the full side part today. It's not a far cry from my usual and it will be interesting to see the looks I get - although I am pushing a pram, hardly a style accessory of the 16-22s!

We're at London Fashion Weekend

2009-03-05T01:06:00.000-08:00

Exhausted is an understatement after the opening night at London Fashion Weekend. The organisers have had record ticket sales with Saturday and Sunday completely sold out - unless you want the mad rush from 3-5pm on Sunday.

Last night was crawling with shoppers all out for a bargain. And there are definitely bargains to be had and much haggling over prices. I do feel that store owners are more willing to negotiate on prices this season which is great for the shopper.

So come down and visit us and see the amazing spring/summer collections we have available plus hundreds and hundreds of items most discounted by between 50-90%. We're at stand LA11 which is on the bottom floor (phew, no stairs this time!) right near the VIP lounge.

Back to London

2009-03-02T08:43:00.000-08:00

Source: Vogue

After a brief nearly 2 year stint in New York, I'm now back in London. While I'll miss the many beautiful friends I've made there, it's great to be back in London where Brittique is based and really get back into things.

I arrived back in the Ol' Blightly just in time for London Fashion Week. With the great coverage you get online these days, there's hardly a point to waiting out the incredible delays, sore feet and elbowing to get to shows. But one show I couldn't miss was Louise Amstrup's. I'm such a huge fan of her textured, high quality tailoring. And I've written here ad nauseam about the incredible fit - it really should be tried.

Louise Amstrup's AW09 collection did not disappoint and Vogue liked it too. It had a slightly harder feel with a more structured shape to the jackets and lots of leather details. Her print for the season is a black and white swirl with vibrant hints of fluro yellow and orange - perfect for accessorising with bright shoes and bags. As usual my only disappointment is that I can't wear the collection now!

No misstep for Agyness Dean

2009-02-10T07:31:00.000-08:00

Agyness Dean is one of those people who always looks amazing - even with an eye patch following an incident with a mascara wand! In the March 2009 issue of British Vogue she looks breathtaking in this vivid silky gown and statement bangle. But I agree with ShinyStyle, what really makes this outfit is the shoes.

When Natalia at Bionda Castana first showed me these shoes I wanted them. They are just stunning and will liven any outfit from a plain dress to jeans. They are available in limited quantities at Brittique, the only place you can buy them in Europe. Pre-purchase yours now and you'll be wearing them in March.

Coming soon: sell your preloved Brittique purchases

2009-02-03T13:57:00.000-08:00

I love this Basso & Brooke gown. I've worn it to every wedding I've been to since it came out in February 2007. It never fails to make me feel spectacular. But after so many weddings and special events it's done the circuit. People are going to start whispering that I own a boutique and yet wear the same dress over and over and over.

Inspired by the need to declutter, we are about to launch Brittique preloved. What better way to bulk up your bank balance and clear out your closet of unworn items than resell them? Just email us details of the items you wish to sell along with your price. Once it has sold you send out the item. When the customer is happy we'll send you the money. We don't charge you a commission, we'll add a little something on top of your price to cover our costs.

So start sorting those closets and email us.

Lily Allen wears Cooperative Designs

2009-02-01T18:03:00.000-08:00

While there has been some speculation about Lily Allen's hair/hair extensions, there's no denying where she shops - Brittique of course. Lily shows her indie style here wearing the Aztec inspired Box Jumper from Cooperative Designs. Available now at Brittique.com.

Evie Belle on sale for just 24 hours

2009-01-28T14:26:00.000-08:00

We won't be stocking Evie Belle anymore so we're giving you one last chance to purchase any item from the collection for 30% off. Purchase by Friday and enter EVIEBELLE at checkout to receive your discount.

Choose from tailored trousers and wonderfully soft jersey separates. These classics will be a fundamental addition to your recession proof wardrobe.

Perfect party dresses for under £100!!

2008-12-10T13:46:00.000-08:00

UPDATE: TOFU now available up to size 14!!

Don't think you get buy a designer party dress for under £100? Think again! Introducing Tofu. New to Brittique Tofu offer feminine frocks with personality - and for a very good price. All the perfectly pretty party dresses above are under £100. The only dress that's more is the one featured in The London Paper this week. The Jerry Fish dress with it's layers of silk is still a recession proof £119. Check out their very cute coats too.

Great knits and fab fringed boots

2008-12-08T13:26:00.000-08:00

As Metro said today, those of conservative disposition, look away: this knitwear is for rockers - and boots too! If you picked up a copy of the London commute essential, you would have seen the fab jumpsuit by Cooperative Designs. We just got this in last week and are awaiting the photos. We know for a fact that one very popular blonde model of the moment has one. I can't wait to see where she wears it.

These Camilla Staerk boots are rather daring too. Not feeling the fringe? Give them an instant update by removing the fringe and wearing them plain.

Always check your gauge

2008-12-08T06:46:00.000-08:00

Every knitter's nightmare - you spend hours, weeks, months knitting away at a garment with a vision of how the finished jumper/vest/sweater will look. You take it off the needles and - voila! - it's too big or small. This just happened to me. I even knitted a gauge swatch and everything was fine. Must be a problem with the pattern. I've decided to try to wash it a bit and see if it will shrink rather than frogging and starting again. The worst thing is that I've run out of yarn. So now have to wait for Mr postman before I can finish.

The vest is beautiful though. It's from the Debbie Bliss premiere magazine and is knitted up in Debbie Bliss Como yarn. It's a nice bulky weight so knits up fast. I just added an extra cable repeat to make it into more of a tunic than shorter vest.

In other knitting news, I took a workshop with the infamous (if you're a knitter and addicted to Ravelry) Jared aka Brooklyn Tweed. Jared is the most incredible knitter and pattern designer. And because he's a photographer by trade the photos on his blog will inspire you to pick up the needles even if you're never before had the urge.

The workshop was on Jared's Hemlock Ring blanket. My blanket, when I finally get it finished, it going to look great thrown over one of my leather chairs in the lounge room next to the fireplace. Nice and snuggly for winter. Although it will probably be next winter!

To console myself that my vest is too big it's time for a cuppa and a couple of home made choc chip cookies. These are better than most cookies because they're made with oats and coconut. The coconut makes them really moist while the oats make them, ahh, umm, healthy?

It's tea time!

2008-12-01T07:13:00.000-08:00

Google kindly email me notifications of all blogs and websites that link to Brittique. I check them all and enjoy discovering new blogs who have discovered Brittique. Recently a blogger had linked to the new Emma Cook collection and commented on all the items she wanted.

When I read through the blog though it was not just on fashion but a starvation journal. This poor, troubled girl dairied everything she ate (or didn't) while other disturbed people congratulated her on only eating 1 tablespoon of ice cream, half an apple and litres and litres of black coffee a day followed by hours at the gym. Of course she'd have major slipups - her body was starving! - and she would punish herself by eating less and exercising more.

The blogger's thinspiration was the many images of catwalk models with their skeletal figures plodding down the runways. The fashion industry has a responsibility and I hope all the press of the size zero model doesn't quiet down and more is done to promote a healthy image.

I'm doing my bit. I'm working at my desk with a a fresh warm slice of my homemade banana cake with a weak, black Earl Grey tea. Here's to the fashionistas who eat!

Deliciously dapper gents

2008-12-01T06:27:00.000-08:00

Dressing a man is really hard work. I discovered this first hand recently when I grew weary of my man's wardrobe which was far too heavy on work wear and Abercrombie casuals.

First up, where do you actually go? There's the High Street but I generally have issues with the cut, quality and ethical production of my stores. So that really leaves designer boutiques and department stores. Most department stores are pretty boring with the same old world wear - great if he needed more suits. Macy's was just scary! All gangsta rapper and Ed Hardy. In the end we did manage to find a few good pieces in DKNY, Tommy Hilfiger and Hugo Boss. It was slim pickings though.

Help is here from deliciously dapper gentleman's stylist Mr Gammon. Advising viewers of the Vodcast what to wear for the season's festivities, Mr Gammon selected the new Peckham Rye for Brittique paisley scarf. The perfect paisley scarf is the ideal gift. And if you buy it for your man you can wear it too!

Ilse Crawford for Brittique

2008-11-11T05:18:00.000-08:00

Remember the Sex and the City episode where Samantha is desperate to become a member of Soho House? Then she finds a membership card and sneaks in only to be discovered after she puts on a terrible British accent. Well Ilse Crawford is the vision behind the Soho House brand.

Ilse Crawford has teamed up with Volvo to design this stylish and practical travel bag. It's available exclusively on Brittique.com with only a few bags remaining.

One woman's trash is another's treasure

2008-11-01T18:54:00.000-07:00

Just this evening I was throwing out my rubbish in our "trash receptacle" room when I saw this shiny gold silk in a bag in the paper recycling box. On closer inspection it was a gold jacquard silk Emporio Armani jacket! Someone on my floor had thrown it out!

It's a touch tight but in perfect condition. It's edged in snake skin leather and has amazing striped silk lining and a stand up collar. While it's labelled a size US6 It seems as if someone has accidentally washed it because it's really shrunk and is more like a 2 and the silk is really crumpled just like when you wet it. I'm pretty sure that if I send it to the dry cleaners they'll give it a good press and stretch it a bit and make it sit properly. What a find! Thank you neighbour! I'm just a bit afraid to wear it around now in case they see me in it and think I'm a scavenger...

D&G sample saleing

2008-10-31T11:13:00.000-07:00

Vest Camilla Staerk, top Mango, scarf Salvatore Ferragamo, bag Chloe, trousers D&G, shoes vintage.

Dress D&G, cardigan Massimo Dutti, scarf Louis Vuitton, shoes vintage.

It's sample sale season. Prada's was a couple of weeks ago, Max Mara was this week as was D&G and Vivienne Westwood starts 10 November. I went along with come colleagues on my consulting job to D&G - WOW! It was cheap. Most items were 90% off. I got this black pencil dress for $127.50 and the tweed distressed trousers for $180. Just fab!

The dress has a patent leather attached belt and a large gold exposed zip up the back - and pockets! I do love a dress with pockets. The trousers have distressed raw seams on the leg and waist. They're uncuffed, a touch short and I think they look great rolled.

While a bit more conservatively dressed than usual, I've been consulting the past couple of weeks. Soon I'll be back to my usual style.

I also bought another denim corset style dress with an attached red patent leather belt and straps. It looked fine while i was fighting to see the mirror in the crowded communal dressing rooms, but i put it on at home and it's SOOO low. The vest nearly extends to my naval and I don't think it's my thing. I'll just write it off as a sample sale mistake. We all have those right?

Introducing Bionda Castana SS09 by Imelda

2008-10-30T18:37:00.000-07:00

Nothing gets the heart racing like a new pair of shoes. Perhaps that's why shoes outsell clothing on Brittique. When I saw the new collection from Bionda Castana by pulse raced and I knew I had to have them. They're just so yummy! No wonder the designer's won the Vogue Italia's Who In On Next award. While not available until February, preorder yours now.

Since no one know's shoes like Imelda, see the superbly funny blog for details of my recent discussion with the one and only.

Louise Amstrup heads East

2008-10-30T16:41:00.000-07:00

A huge congratulations to the exceptionally talented Louise Amstrup. She is heading to China to show her SS09 collection at Shanghai fashion week. Preen and Basso & Brooke are just two of the big names who have preceded her.

Louise Amstrup really is one of the most talented young designers. It is hard to beat the quality of her finish and I urge you to try the fit of the tailoring. Nothing fits me better which is why I'm always wearing it!

I recently placed our order for Louise's SS09 collection and I can tell you that it's her best yet. And Vogue agreed. Preorders will open soon but in the meantime if there's anything you really must have, just email us.

Not so coiffured in NYC

2008-10-27T14:35:00.000-07:00

Today I tried to pull myself from the grey/black rut I'm in wore my new plaid, flannel, ruffle top by Ivy with a black Amanda Wakeley pencil skirt, vintage shoes stolen from my mother and black waist belt by Mardelle de Caille.

As you can see I don't have time to do my hair. I'm lucky to introduce my hair to a brush once a week. On occasions I get out the GHD's (love love love them) but most of the time it's the bed head slept in look.

New York women always surprise me with how coiffured they are. Where do they find the time to style their hair? Who has a spare 30mins each morning? It's even more apparent when you go to the Upper East side. This is where you find the typical twinset-with-pearls-lady-who-lunches type wearing a Chanel jacket, pearls, of course, boot leg jeans and a sensible shoe from Tods or maybe a sturdy heel. The hair is immaculate the nails are shiny and the look is one of careful consideration.

This morning I had an appointment on the Upper East Side and felt strangely "under dressed" despite my pencil skirt and heels. I just wasn't put together enough and looked like a fish out of water. But then I spied a girl waiting at the lights who looked as out of zone as me. She had the same bed head hair, although platinum blonde, leggings with big Belstaff boots and a black cocoon coat. She looked fab. As I got closer I heard her talking on her "cell" - she was British! Of course she was.

More bows and a sad day for Camilla Staerk UK

2008-10-24T14:22:00.000-07:00

I didn't realise I owned so many "bow things" until I snapped my pic this morning wearing this beautiful draped dress from Louise Amstrup and matching red ankle boots from Camilla Staerk. These ankle boots are my absolute favorite pair of shoes so I have them in a number of colours. The heel is just the perfect height - 70mm - and the toe is has the perfect "pointiness". So I was really sad when I read the news that Camilla Staerk will be no more.

Yes I know it's not really Camilla Staerk and the real Camilla Staerk designs under Staerk. But there shoes and garments had a nice feel about the cut and quality. The collections have sold well here on Brittique and I'll be sad to see them go.

Given the current economic conditions this isn't going to be the last time we wish a design house RIP.

Did we skip autumn? I'm feeling the bows

2008-10-23T14:42:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure about London but here in New York it's FREEZING! Around 8C actually. But it just seemed like a couple of weeks ago that I was sitting out in the park with my little boy in a tank top and shorts. It was actually three weeks ago and now there's salt on the roads and there's a valuable section of my tween-season wardrobe that didn't get an outing once again. Last year my autumn wardrobe stayed in the closet because I was heavily pregnant. This year it's been skipped!

The past weeks I have been consulting with a corporate client on fashion trends. It's a reach back to my banking days and a nice break from being immersed in my own business 24/7. While everyone else walks the hallways in suits, I don't own any so I'm enjoying tapping into a more corporate side of my style, one that hasn't been out in a while.

What I'm finding though is that I'm a bit stuck in a black/white/grey rut. I'm putting in another Brittique.com order tonight to try to rectify this. I'll show you what I purchase. Can't wait!

Sometimes it's incredible how quickly a trend reappears. Today's coat and top both feature large bows at the top. My top is large bow from Louise Amstrup is part of her SS07 collection (there's a story to this top so more on that in a later post) and the coat is by Katarzyna Szczotarska, who unfortunately doesn't seem to be designing anymore. It must be from her AW06 collection. If you read Elle or the ever candid jewellery designer Wendy Brandes' blog, you'll know that bows are definitely here for at least another couple of seasons.

Unfortunately my top and coat have sold out long ago but if you need a quick bow fix Kirribilla have some irresistibly cute dresses coming in the next month featuring bows. I've got my eye on this one. Perfect for your work holiday party, no? I'll pair it with my super sexy brown snake skin shoes and a gold clutch from Ignes.

The black panel skirt is from Louise Amstrup (stunning skirt with a zip right up the back and zipper lined pockets). I did have my Camilla Staerk ankle boots on again, but then I decided the gold buckles clashed with the silver top and skirt zippers to I change to a lovely pair of vintage kitten heels that I stole from my mother's wardrobe. Thanks mum!

Introducing my style

2008-10-22T12:31:00.000-07:00

It just dawned on me that I might have one of the best jobs in the world. As the founder of Brittique.com I get to spend lots of money on clothes each season - all for customers of course - and take from the virtual shelves whatever I like - well, I do have to support my designers and try out the clothes don't I?!?

Each day I step out dressed head to toe in some of the best designer clothing and it would be just wrong not to share when I have a particularly good outfit going on. Introducing my style.

Today from Brittique I'm wearing shrug jacket and skirt by Hussein Chalayan, vest by Camilla Staerk, shoes by Camilla Staerk. The belt is by Mardelle de Caille, a lovely designer who sells at The Young Designers Markets held on Mulberry Street, NYC every weekend. The fabulous redesigned vintage necklace is by Shay from The Ongoing Project. Shay's jewellery is fabulous and you'll be hearing more about her in the future. Watch this space...

The Russians fashionistas were years ahead

2008-10-16T01:58:00.000-07:00

I visited a friend in Russia in 2001. His father had the foresight to start importing luxury produces into the country long before the current consumptive environment became apparent. As a result my friend is rather affluent and showed us the high life of Moscow and St. Petersburg. To this day the restaurants we visited were the most opulent I have experienced and around $50 a head bought you an incredible three course dinner, with wine and vodka. My favorite restaurant featured a giant glass fishbowl with a full working farm, animals, farmers, farmer's wife knitting, and all. Each evening we would be chauffeured in our black benz to a non-descript warehouse surrounded by dozens of matching black benzes and groups of drivers surrounded by clouds of cigarette smoke. After passing through metal detectors and numerous body guards, we were lead into these amazing restaurants and bars filled with beautiful monied people (mainly old men with nearly illegal looking young girls).

These barely-out-of-school girls with their long legs, heavy makeup, sleek finish, and doll like faces were very stylishly dressed. I didn't merit a second glance with my slept in, don't own a brush style and easy-to-travel wardrobe. There was one noticeable trend - all girls were wearing mini skirts with ankle boots, generally topped by a giant fur coat. Back in 2001 the bootie hadn't hit the west yet, it looked really odd to have your ankle enclosed and your leg bare. My man and I kept commenting about how strange it looked. It just didn't quite look right. Fast forward 7 years and it's right on trend hot.

Bionda Castana's Kika and Tillie ankle boots are two of the best interpretations of this trend. Judging by the press they've gathered I'm not the only one who thinks that. A couple pairs left...

A song and dance for Evie Belle

2008-10-15T17:15:00.000-07:00

I know I know, I'm a bit like a London bus with my blog posts. You wait forever for one and then 3 come at once. Forgive me, like everyone it seems, I've been busy.

Confession: I didn't know who Katherine Darcy Jenkins and Darcy Bussel were when I saw these pictures. Call me uncultured but just keeping track of all the fashion designers is a fulltime job. A google search revealed that the stunning blonde is Katherine Jenkins, award winning mezzo-soprano and, with the list of awards she's received, I really should have heard of her. The beautiful brunette (with incredible legs!) is a now retired ballerina.

Katherine and Darcy appear in this photo shoot for Evie Belle, now available at Brittique.com. Evie Belle has a sexy secretary and yet vampy vibe. Kind of a secretary by day dominatrix by night type thing. The designer Sairah Hick's background with top tailoring specialists such as Burberry and Acquascutum is evident in the cut. The styles are universally flattering for sizes right through to 14. If you are a size 14 and think that designer clothing doesn't cater for you, try Evie Belle.

Win The Gift Book and a £100 Brittique voucher with Now

2008-10-15T14:37:00.000-07:00

It's competiton time! We have teamed up with Now magazine to give you the chance to win £100 to spend on Brittique.com plus a copy of The Gift Book by Patricia Davidson from the siteguide.com, the definitive guide to the very best fashion, beauty, lifestyle and gift shopping stores online.

Beautifully designed, the book is bursting with interesting anecdotes and has themed sections including Valentines Day, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and house warmings, with gift ideas to suit every possible type of person.

Featured within the ‘Fashion Victim’ chapter, Patricia details online boutique Brittique.com which unites established fashion designers with the UK’s most exciting new labels, all in the comfort of a chic, easy to use online boutique.

Enter here. Good luck!

Happy Birthday Brittique!

2008-10-14T19:10:00.001-07:00

I can't believe another year has past since I first "opened shop" on Brittique.com. It's certainly been an exciting journey. To celebrate we're giving all subscribers to our newsletter 30% off the entire range - including the new arrivals. Just subscribe and we'll send you the discount code.

Thanks again to all our customers for you support of Brittique.com!

Nicole
Founder

London Fashion Weekend tickets up for grabs

2008-09-11T17:29:00.000-07:00

The retail extravaganza that is London Fashion Weekend is soon upon us. Running from 24-28 September and with a new sponsor, Elle Magazine, it should be the best one yet. Brittique will be there again with some crazy discounts on our beautiful clothing, shoes and accessories.

I've got 2 tickets for Thursday or Friday valued at £20 up for grabs. To enter just leave a comment here and I'll select a winner at random on Sunday evening 14 September. If you win we'll also give you and your friend an additional 10% off our sale prices at the Brittique stand.

From Winehouse to wedding

2008-09-10T13:14:00.000-07:00

A couple of funny titles came to mind as I write this blog playing on the Wino angle. But like Sister Wolf, I do admire Amy Winehouse for her unique sound in a world awash with pop and R&B and genuinely hope that she can pull herself out of the mess.

So why am I talking about Amy Winehouse? You may recall that this is the dress, or one of them, that she wore for her private concert in Russia. Of course in true Amy style it was an itsy bitsy mini and a super small size. Here's another take on the stunning Kirribilla Hilo dress - the cover of Cosmo bride. The floral print of the dress does make you want to pack the SPF and head to St Lucia. Unfortunately we sold out of this dress as soon as they hit the site. We do have it in perhaps the more wearable colours of black and coffee.

Futuretense by Louise Amstrup

2008-09-10T12:43:00.000-07:00

Louise Amstrup also had a short film as part of SHOWsudio's Futuretense series of video essays along with Peter Jensen a couple of weeks earlier. SHOWstudio launched Futuretense as a global platform for new designers to showcase the future of fashion. The Q&A offers an insight into the imagination of each designer.

As I said in last week's Grazia, Louise's clothes are all about flattering a woman. I know so many designers say that but then try on the clothes and the waist is too big and the hips and thighs are too tight. That's not cut for a woman. Most of us have curves and more designers need to understand that. Louise Amstrup does and not only are her clothes cut perfectly but they finish is incredible too. As I'm writing this I'm wearing my favorite from her SS08 collection, the striped cotton dress. It has sold out now but it's also available in a brilliant blue silk.

If you try just one new designer this season take a look at Louise Amstrup. Her pieces are seasonless classics that you'll wear for years to come.

Save 15% off the new Autumn/Winter 08 collection

2008-08-26T19:11:00.000-07:00

This season is special. This is the season that was carefully selected by no other than super stylist blogger Susie Bubble. It was really fun to work with her last season and we know that you're going to love her special touch on this collection. We look forward to your feedback.

As a special treat we're giving you a discount of 15% off all preorders that are paid for by the end of August. I've already picked out Cosy, Kika and the tie dye smock dress. That's just for starters though...

Futuretense by Peter Jensen

2008-08-22T17:08:00.000-07:00

Wunderbuzz brought this little gem to my attention. I am always in awe of imaginative, creative people. It's what attracted me to the business. The creativity of designers is not confined just to the sketch book and fabric. Often the way they market themselves is just brilliant too.

Peter Jensen has done a couple of these short films as a subtle way of showcasing his collections. I found this one brilliant but cringey at the same time - the same feeling I get when I watch The Office. You're begging people not to say something but they do.

This young laddie was just so precious. When his heart was broken by his teen lover he spray painted hearts all the way to her school. He was arrested and spent 6 hours in a cell. I want to give him a big hug.

The British accents are just brilliant too and I can't wait to get back to the Ol' Blighty next month for my fix.

Stella's autumn wishlist

2008-08-11T13:27:00.000-07:00

Once again the Kika by Bionda Castana is on the wishlist of fashionistas. This time Stella magazine's fashion director's picked this stunning gladiator style shoe for their autumn wishlist. Lucky you if you're a size 7 because that's all we have left.

We've been nominated for the Grazia O2 X award!

2008-08-06T06:24:00.000-07:00

When I started getting emails on Tuesday from friends saying they'd seen me in Grazia I was very surprised. I knew that our lovely PR Liz had been working on some press, but I didn't really know what it was. What a fantastic surprise! Each year I read the nominations for the award with admiration for these hard working women. And now I can't quite believe that Brittique is now there.

Thank you to all our loyal customers for all your support over the past 1.5 years. Setting up a business in the competitive world of fashion has been tough, but the feedback I receive from customers makes it worthwhile.

Amy Winehouse wears Brittique

2008-07-30T04:06:00.000-07:00

In June Amy Winehouse rocked at a private party for the gala opening of an art gallery run by Daria Zhukova, the girlfriend of Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich. For the performance she wore the Hilo dress by Kirribilla - and shortened it quite a bit! Such incredible talent. It's just a shame she can't straighted out her personal life before she implodes.

Knickerbocker glory

2008-07-25T08:02:00.000-07:00

Those who commute home might have seen this fashion spread in The London Paper last night. The fashion editor talks about how flattering and bloomin' lovely hareem pants are. And I couldn't agree more. They really are flattering. Previously you would only see these on dreadlocked alternate types with their rasta accessories but they have been peeping into catwalk shows for the past couple of seasons. Now it looks as if they're ready to go mainstream. Perhaps you should try? H Chalayan offers a great option for hareem pant virgins because they aren't so low in the crotch. They're also 25% off at Brittique.com.

Autumn's new hall of fame

2008-07-22T03:35:00.000-07:00

Grazia's fashion team selected their top picks for the new season. Charlie Miller, Executive Fashion Director, selected the Kiki gladiators from Bionda Castana. These are just the most scrumptious shoes I've seen all season and I'm so excited to have a few pairs left on Brittique.com. If you're size isn't there just email me and we can add you to the waiting list.

Net a bargain

2008-07-21T06:34:00.000-07:00

Our sale starts today with at least 25% off the spring/summer 08 collections. We have some of the old season stock at up to 90% off. So big bargains to be had. You magazine featured just two of the bargains you can bag. The Camilla Staerk sundress which was £285 now £143 and the Louise Amstrup drape skirt which is now marked down to £165 from £330. And we still offer free returns.

Electronic brights

2008-07-18T07:21:00.001-07:00

It's quite rare to see people wearing bright colours. Generally when you look up and down a street in London and New York it's a sea of muted black, white and beige even in summer. The Europeans do brights better. Especially the Spaniards and Germans. They're not afraid to wear bright colour and pattern. Perhaps that's why Barcelona is one of my favorite shopping cities?

Both the Daily Mail and London Lite picked Kirribilla's stunning Lilikoi dress for their Electric Brights feature. Kirribilla make cute, fun and flirty dresses that aim to make you feel like the prettiest girl in the room. I'm particularly excited about their Fall/Winter 08 collection, especially the Maeve dress. How cute is that big bow?

My prize handbag

2008-07-16T05:44:00.000-07:00

I arrived back to my office after lunch last week to find an email from the marketing team at Max Azria congratulating me on winning a handbag. Yesterday my new Mahogany Jillian Convertible arrived and it is beautiful. The leather is so supple and soft and the fold over style is exactly what I've had my eye on. It's a bit smaller than I normally go for, but a great size to throw over your shoulder and out the door with the necessities.

How I won this prize or even entered it I have no idea. I probably signed up for a competition on the website while lusting over some dress. I have spoken before about my love for this brand. The focus is on a muted colour palette with draped styles and soft fabrics. The dresses hang beautifully and the styles are very flattering. The ladies in their West Broadway, NYC store are so lovely that they entertain my little man while I shop - such a bonus!

Max Azria is a collaboration between Max and Lubov Azria and debuted on the New York Fashion Week catwalk in February 2006. The only stockist in Europe is in Paris but that seems to be their diffusion brand BCBGMAXAZARIA. So next time you're state side squeeze the West Broadway boutique in on your itinerary.

Sale on now! 30 off the entire range

2008-07-14T07:10:00.000-07:00

Subscribe to the newsletter for 30% off.

Bionda Castana best new designer by Vogue Italia

2008-07-11T07:42:00.000-07:00

Bionda Castana cofounder Natalia with Vogue Italia editor Franca Sozzani

Congratulations to Bionda Castana for winning the accessories award for the best new talent at the Vogue Italia "Who is On Next?" 2008. This award helped put Nicholas Kirkwood on the map after being awarded last year's prize.

We just received these sensational gladiator sandals from Bionda Castana. We only have really limited stock but email us to go on the wait list.

Casual style in the Guardian magazine

2008-07-10T16:16:00.000-07:00

How lovely is this shoot from last weekend's Guardian magazine? Maybe lovely isn't the right word; inspired, natural, uncontrived? I just love the bare feet. I wonder if that was intentional or if they just didn't call in enough shoes for the shoot? Regardless, I think it's fresh.

Featured in the shoot is the H Chalayan printed tank top and Louise Amstrup scarf. The scarf sold out in minutes and we have a wait list in the off chance that we can get more.

I won the Peckham Rye scarf!

2008-07-09T07:12:00.000-07:00

Remember this lovely scarf that Fashion156.com had up for grabs? I won the ebay auction. The 100% pure silk scarf arrived yesterday and I was not disappointed. The guys from Peckham Rye have done a beautiful job with the hand painting.

Love love love it. The best part is that the proceeds from the auction go to Acorn to Oak Children's Trust.

Source: Fashion156.com

Rihanna wears Emma Cook

2008-07-01T11:14:00.000-07:00

Image from Batchplease.com

American signer Rihanna was spotted grocery shopping wearing the Emma Cook jumpsuit (Brittique.com, £245). This is one of my top 5 pieces from the entire SS08 collection available on Brittique and I personally have it. Not only is it comfortable but I think it looks good. It would look better with some casual flip flops though rather than towering heels. But some women can't walk in flats anymore! The perfect cure for that, pregnancy as I discovered.

Wedding frocks

2008-06-27T07:56:00.000-07:00

In years gone by I loved to collect my mail each day and would feel anxious if I missed a day. But now it's just bills, bills and junk mail. So my mail sits in the mailbox until it spews out and the postman can't stick anymore through the slot.

So what a lovely surprise it was to receive a wedding invitation for a late August wedding in Hampshire, UK. Another friend who is tying the knot in November said she's not inviting anyone except close family because most people groan when they have to attend a wedding. But I do love weddings, not the ceremony admittedly, but seeing who else has been invited, eating, drinking, dancing then staying at a cheap hotel nearby. Most of all I love to dress up.

Nowadays we have so few reasons to dress up, well speaking for myself of course. I don't go to great cocktail parties or gala events so a wedding is the only opportunity I have to really go all out. So the first thing that crossed my mind when I saw the invite was "what will I wear?". The invite says Morning Suit optional. That's fine for the boys, but what about us girls? What does it mean?

I think the chocolate dress by Kirribilla should be suitable. I'd wear it with my pointy snakeskin stilettos and a big, bold, gold bangle and perhaps my hair up.

What about this Basso & Brooke frock? Perhaps it's a little to "cocktail"? I have loved it since the day I saw it and really need a good excuse to wear it.

Another option is this Tata Naka dress. It might be a good choice considering how unpredictable a British summer wedding can be.

Nothing to say

2008-06-23T14:08:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a long time but, simply, I've had nothing to say. Perhaps it's the constant juggling of an active infant with business and my life that has drained me of all inspiration? Perhaps it's the constant haze of sleep depravation (no, he's not sleeping though). I'm certainly not complaining, life has been great I've just had nothing worthwhile to add.

Often I read Sister Wolf, Susie Bubble and Liberty London Girl and wonder where they find the inspiration to come up with so much new material. (LLG has resigned from blogsphere for the time being with her excessive workload.)

So what have I been doing? I won't bore you with talk of mother's groups, playdates and baby news. Fashion-wise I have been VERY busy. All the new SS08 stock for Brittique.com has arrived and is, mostly, up on the site. I'm still working through the new arrivals from Hussein Chalayan and Peter Jensen, but they'll be up soon too. My fav dress from these collections is the Hussein Chalayan yellow zip dress in the pic above. This is perfect for strolling around the parks of New York City on a steamy hot day.

Also filling out my wardrobe are a number of Marni dresses sourced on ebay. I've developed quite a habit and constantly scan the auctions for genuine and cheap dresses. Her flouncy, blousey style suit me and feel so right.

So when I'm not buying Marni dresses on ebay I'm buying Marni-esque vintage items on ebay. The above cotton jacket/shirt is a recent purchase. I need a great bubble style skirt and some large beads and I'm set!

Having just started the blogging process again I'm feeling inspired. So more from me again soon. Happy SW??

Elle magazine loves our blog!

2008-05-07T13:29:00.000-07:00

Brittique and our blog just featured in the latest Elle UK. They said you should visit our blog for tip-offs on designers and collaborations. I really need to lift my game and blog more often if we get that sort of publicity. I feel bad that I've been AWOL for so long. No more, I promise. I've got so much to write about. Thanks Elle!

Back to it after a long break

2008-04-27T15:15:00.000-07:00

Well it's kind of been a break. I have been working away in the background as and when my new little man allows me. Behind the scenes here at Brittique we were kept busy by London Fashion Week, London Fashion Weekend and now the arrival of all the new spring/summer 08 collections. Here we are out and about at the Tribeca Film Festival that's running this week. I'm wearing a fabulous vintage dress bought from ebay.

During London Fashion Week Susie Bubble did an incredible job of selecting some real treats for AW08. I can't wait to show you some previews in the coming weeks. She was able to pin point exactly what the core Brittique customers love and I know her selections will be snapped up come September when they arrive online.

Here in New York the weather has been perfect - 25C days with a slight cool breeze. It means that I'm having to think about my own summer wardrobe. I am one of those people who pack away the winter woollies and plan what I'll be wearing. I then take pictures of my key outfits and stick them on the back of my wardrobe door. It helps me keep organised - something of particular importance now that I have even less time.

With my baby came a change in body shape. I've had to kiss goodbye my small waist (hopefully this is temporary) and embrace a more flowing style of dressing. Thankfully my personal shopping from Brittique hasn't been too hard. I'm just lusting after everything from Emma Cook. These drop waisted, striped denim pinafores will be perfect for this tween season over a little tee and then without as it gets warmer. The cotton voile blouse is stunning too and will hide the last of the baby blub.

We have had new arrivals from Louise Amstrup, Gil Carvalho, Aei:Kei and Peter Jensen. Now to find some time to get them all up on the site!

Fashion star of the future

2008-03-20T03:19:00.000-07:00

Brittique.com and Fashion156.com were overwhelmed with the high quality of applicants for our Fashion Star of the Future competition. Help us select the winner and have your say here.

Monochrome Majesty

2008-03-19T08:34:00.001-07:00

The stunning Fiocco Di Neve dress by Kirribilla was featured in Northern Woman magazine this month. While I'm a huge fan of colour, it always amazes me to see how stunning and effective simple black and white can look. And so easy to accessorise.

Cooperative Designs makes a darkly comic debut

2008-03-19T08:18:00.000-07:00

Our newest designers from Cooperative Designs are featured by Vogue.com today. Cooperative Designs makes a darkly comic debut Vogue.com. I was so excited when I saw their new season collection with the Aztec inspired knits and it seems I'm not the only one. A certain model of the moment has preordered one of the more wacky pieces. I wonder who that could be??? I'm sure we'll see pictures of her wearing it in the coming months.

Quirky knits from Cooperative Designs

2008-03-11T09:33:00.000-07:00

As soon as I saw Cooperative Designs in fashion156.com I just wanted to stock them on Brittique.com. This month the design duo have been featured in both Grazia and Amour Magazine. Each garment is handmade and as a knitter myself I can appreciate the work that goes into each stitch. Already I can't wait to stock the AW08 collection that features a range of knitted sweater dresses with Aztec inspired designs. It's truly original!

The summer collection is available on Brittique.com now.

Simply Fabulous!

2008-03-11T07:45:00.001-07:00

We teamed up with Fabulous Magazine from News of the World to give their readers and exclusive 75% off these Gil Carvalho shoes. We were overwhelmed with the response and sold out within minutes - and late on a Sunday night. As a consulation prize we are giving readers another special gift so check out Fabulous for details.

A Staerk Summer

2008-03-10T09:24:00.000-07:00

The summer collection from Camilla Staerk has arrived at Brittique.com. Vogue loves the summery dresses and voluminous coats - inspired by old-world Japan, origami folds and vintage kimono prints. Leather contrasting with silk and classic black has been softened by a palette of teal, peach and gold, embracing the designer's signature juxtaposition of hard and soft.

Louise Amstrup - new kid on the block

2008-02-22T08:10:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite designers Louise Amstrup debuted on the catwalk this season with On/Off. The collection was darker than those previously but still the lovely cut and quality was evident. While hard to see from this clip, the finishing on Louise's garments is amazing - seams are piped and the lining is the most beautiful silk. It really has to be tried on to appreciated.

See the show here.

Vogue are also fans.

Grazia mad about Kirribilla

2008-02-21T05:00:00.000-08:00

Grazia featured the Kirribilla Pele dress in the latest issue. While Grazia got a few things wrong (Kirribilla designers are American not Australian and the dress is not the Elizabetta but the Pele) one thing they did get right is that Kirribilla is a hot new label. Their dress only collections are cute and feminine made from easy care fabrics and finished to the highest of quality.

Why there's been no LFW commentary from me

2008-02-21T04:44:00.001-08:00

Just in time for London Fashion Week I received a beautiful delivery, a baby boy, Ralf. While he does sleep a lot now I'm still completely out of touch with what actually happened at LFW. Luckily Susie Bubble has been buying for Brittique and reporting back on the directions of the season. It's looking like a good one!

Susie Bubble buys for Brittique

2008-02-10T16:46:00.000-08:00

I’m thrilled to announce that Brittique has a very special guest buyer for the autumn/winter 08 season. The ever stylish and quirky Susie Bubble from the infamous blog Style Bubble will be adding yet another feather (on season of course) to her already crowded hat and injecting her style and take on the season’s collections. Susie will be attending the shows on our behalf and selecting the best of the season’s collections for Brittique.

Keep up to date with Susie’s musings on the AW08 collections and her insight into the trends and the designers to watch on her blog.

The new issue of Fashion156.com

2008-02-08T07:08:00.000-08:00

Pictures from Fashion156.com

Fashion156.com never fails to make me gasp with amazement everytime a new issue is published - every 156 hours no less! Guy and his team have done an incredible job promoting the best new British designers in the latest issue. Here we can see a sneak preview of the new AW08 collection from Hannah Marshall, Louise Amstrup and Gil Carvalho.

One of my favorite outfits of the season by Louise Amstrup was also featured on the hot list. This 40s inspired blouse really is hot!

Louise Amstrup picture by Mads Perch.

Sheerluxe.com: my latest blog on the inital AW08 trends

2008-02-07T02:52:00.000-08:00

Here you can read my take on the initial trends coming out of New York Fashion Week: http://www.sheerluxe.com/blog/heads-up-on-autumn--winter-trend.htm

Meet the red sole man

2008-02-06T07:16:00.000-08:00

I alway check out shoes of a well dressed woman. To me a shoe completes the outfit and often makes it work. I've been known to create a full outfit around a pair of shoes, and from customer queries, I know you do too. So what do you think when you see the flash of red on the sole of a shoe? Are you immediately envious? Do you think victim? Celebrity follower? Personally, I prefer to let the style be more conspicuous and leave people wondering where I got my fabulous treads.

At the Saks sale in July I tried on a lovely pair of white pumps by Christian Louboutin. They were agony to walk in, even with my well adjusted feet. While I adore fashion, I don't believe that beauty means suffering so I left them on the shelf and will stick with sexy sandals from Gil Carvalho, Jenne O and Camilla Staerk.

But those of you in New York who are fans can meet the man behind the instantly recognisable red sole at Saks on 7 February between 4-7pm on the brand new shoe floor. Personally I couldn't brave the crowds, but if you're into that, it should be quite an event!

Camilla Staerk's GenArt sponsorship

2008-02-05T07:27:00.000-08:00

It's great when Europeans crack the New York fashion scene. Danish born, London trained designer Camilla Staerk seems to have done just that. This season she was awarded the Gen Art sponsorship. Past sponsorship recipiants include Zac Posen, Twinkle by Wenlan and, one of my favorite designers, Phillip Lim.

While Camilla remains the inspiration behind the London based brand Camilla Staerk, she has left her namesake brand and relaunched under Staerk.

I was not impressed with the SS08 collection but I'm looking forward to the AW08 collection showing in New York on 8 February with Camilla's return to the black pallette she is so comfortable with for a Bride of the Black Moon inspired collection. Camilla herself wore a vintage black lace wedding dress that looked so her.

Brittique & Aveda evening of pampering

2008-02-04T06:26:00.000-08:00

Thank you to those who attended the Brittique.com and Aveda evening of beauty and fashion on 30 January in London. The event was a huge success with over 200 women being pampered with massages, manicures, hair styling, shopping as well as wonderful drinks from our sponsors Tapio and James White.

Sign up here to be the first to know about the next event.

All pictures courtesy of Eventphotosport Picture Agency.

Joan Rivers plastic surgery send up

2008-01-25T05:10:00.001-08:00

When I moved to London from Australia, I was captivated by the commercials, especially cinema advertising. They were so clever and the humour so witty. Now that I have just days to go before having a baby, I'm spending a bit of time on the sofa with my feet up knitting and "listening" to the TV. The ads here are terrible! They really are geared towards the lowest intelligence level, and that must be low. So corny.

WendyB said that she loves the Geico ads, but apart from the British accent in some of them they really grate on me. However, this one of Joan Rivers is hilarious! What a good sport to make fun of herself like this.

I tried to find some pre-op pictures of her but it seems she's always had that stretched out look. At least she acknowledges it and is comfortable enough to have a laugh. Love you Joan!

LFW - the venue for "second" lines?

2008-01-23T07:10:00.000-08:00

Vogue announced that Preen will now show their second line as well as their main line this season. The main line will be shown in New York for the second season while the second line will be shown in Cophenhagen. Preen's designer's Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi said that the view is to bring the showing of the second line to London Fashion Week eventually.

Now I am a huge fan of Preen and love their second line, but I agree with LibertyLondonGirl, why should LFW only be for second lines? LLG pointed out that last season was Marc for Marc Jacobs, before that Stella's line for Adidas and now Vivienne Westwood's. With London arguably the most fashion forward of the fashion capitals and the breeding ground for many of the current top international designers, why should it be diluted with second lines?

Backstage with Peter Jensen

2008-01-16T14:30:00.000-08:00

We're just a couple of weeks away from the chaos that is London Fashion Week. This behind the scene look at a Peter Jensen show pretty much summarises the backstage feel at all shows. Stress levels run high and designers are under a huge amount of pressure. Meanwhile the buyers and press are waiting, waiting, waiting...

Peter Jensen's preppy and yet quirky designers are so effortless to wear. For spring/summer I'm especially in love with his scribble denim jeans dress. Preorders are now open so you don't miss out on your favorite pieces.

A life of perfect imbalance

2008-01-16T12:52:00.000-08:00

Women are very hard on themselves always reaching for an unattainable level of perfection that doesn't, sadly, exist. I think it's time we reflect on how much we're actually achieving rather than not achieving. Read more of my musings in my guest blog at Sheerluxe.com.

Marie Claire's buy of the day

2008-01-09T05:22:00.001-08:00

Some things are best not left to the significant other in your life. With Valentine's Day only 4 weeks away it's time to drop serious hints about what you want. Marie Claire picked out this Vinnie Day heart necklace from Brittique.com as their top pick. I like this necklace because while it's hearts, it's not too fussy or girlie. Also available in sterling silver if that's more your thing. I believe there are only a couple left at this discounted price...

Inspired by a stylist

2008-01-06T07:46:00.000-08:00

Source: Lucky Magazine

When I saw this picture I just wanted her look - the whole lot from the sharp platinum bob to the drapey dress and over the knee boots. She should look good because it is the celebrity stylist Britt Bardot, the one who doesn't take credit for Brittany Spears' look.

It got me thinking about over the knee boots and where I could get a pair. First stop ebay and I found these FAB animal print boots. I know it's controvesial, but I adore animal print. How lovley would these look with a drapey black jersey dress such as this one from Basso & Brooke? Something really understated. Pity they're about 1.5 sizes too small for me.

I am seriously considering the platinum bob though...

The answer for big bums

2008-01-06T07:14:00.000-08:00

Source: Daily Mail. Singer Mica Paris, with and without slimming trousers

I've been singing the praises of Maria Grachvogel's slimming cut of trousers for a while now. Cut without sides seams they create a beautiful slimming silhouette and take away the bulkiness that generally comes with seams. Even with front pockets, there is no bulkiness where you don't want it. These trousers are really long so perfect for long legged ladies. Because they don't have cuffs, they're easy to have taken up.

Brittique stocks the perfect pants in a classic black or perfect tweed option and are heavily reduced to £99 from £350. We also stock Maria Grachvogel skirts which are made with the same principle - no side seams. This means the skirts sit close to the body and don't add extra width where it matters. Take a look at the plum a-line skirt and navy button up pencil skirt.

Sex and the City Movie Official Trailer

2008-01-04T08:22:00.001-08:00

When I moved to New York in June 07 I think I was the only female in my age group who had not seen a single episode of SATC.

But when I moved here I bought the full box set and between working (I promise!) I watched the whole thing.

While I thought that some of the outfits were a little iffy, I did like most of Carrie's and many of Samantha's, but in a Dallas kind of way. It did actually spark my interest in vintage and I went out and bought a few overpriced vintage dresses which I love so much.

It seems that the movie has already inspired some trends, the most notable the over the knee socks that I seem to see everywhere in Manhattan now. Nothing like a bit of inspiration.

With the movie due in cinemas in May, now is the time to book your flight and hotel to New York for a pilgramage to the home of Sex And The City.

Ugly Shoes - are you guilty?

2007-12-30T08:58:00.000-08:00

Source: New York Magazine

While catching up on the ever growing pile of The New York Magazine and New Yorker waiting patiently by my bed, I saw this very clever history of ugly shoes. So how many of these are you guilty of - or still guilty of?

*Clearly* I'm far too young for the Klompen Dansko and Earth Shoes, but my misdemeanor start at the Doc Martens - or the pretend ones I had. While going through my goth/hippy stage at about age 14 I longed for the real deal to match with my op-shop (charity shop for the non-Aussies) ground brushing shirts and ripped woolen jumpers. But the price tag exceeded my part-time casual McDonald's pay cheque. However, I have to disagree with the ugly tag here. I actually think they can look really nice. If I had some I'd like to wear them with a Peter Jensen white shirt dress, thick grey woollen, ribbed tights and the Tata-Naka chunky cardigan.

Another shoe I disagree with is Birkenstocks. How wonderful are they? I know my German in-laws cringe when I wear them but they are the most comfortable and practical shoe. They look nicer than a thong/flip flops and now come in so many different styles, even with crystals and designed by a certain supermodel if that's your thing.

Uggs I completely agree. They are UGLY! As an Aussie I really can't get it. I did own a pair while at boarding school because they were the best thing to walk from the dorm to the cafeteria of a cold morning. Then I also have a pair that I wore while travelling and snowboarding around Canada a couple of years ago. Perfect to wear in the car and quickly slip off into my snowboard boots.

As for Crocs, HIDEOUS! I don't care what you say. Only kiddies under 8 look cute in them after that they're just horrible. And seeing grown men wear them with shorts is too much. I also hear that they get rather smelly rather quickly...

I'm surprised Converse boots are not listed. While I love and live in mine, when you think about it, they're a very long narrow canvas shoe where the white gets really dirty and when worn with skinny jeans make people look like they're walking around with two canoes strapped to their feet. Attractive. But somehow they do work. Just to be safe though I only wear them with wider leg jeans.

Brittique in Stella Magazine

2007-12-30T07:55:00.000-08:00

Stella Magazine featured the stunning purple silk Louise Amstrup dress on 23 December. The dress is absolutely beeeeautiful with it's asymmetrical collar and skirt detailing. As I've said before, Louise Amstrup's clothing really needs to be tried on to be believed. Unlike many designers, Louise designs for the real woman with clothes to fit real life waists and hips.