Tag Archives: london blogger

How To Style A Denim Jacket Now That Spring Has Finally Arrived

DENIM ON DENIM

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This post contains a gifted item (sunglasses chain) and affiliate links. This does not affect you in any way and all thoughts and opinions remain my own.

Photos by Alise Jane

Now that spring has finally arrived, we can start thinking about the perfect spring and summer outfits! As you start to move into your warm-weather wardrobe, a must have is a cropped denim jacket. It doesn’t matter if you prefer yours to be a classic blue denim or a distressed embellished, a denim jacket is the perfect spring companion! Here is how I’m wearing a denim jacket this season…

I love the idea of creating denim on denim outfit, especially with different shades. I paired my Topshop cropped denim jacket with a denim white mini skirt. I love the idea of stripes especially when the weather gets warmer and my Claudie Pierlot sleevless striped top was the perfect piece for this look. I wanted my outfit to look more chic than casual so I added in my Dior saddlebag and my Dior kitten heels for an ultra-luxe look!

I wanted my accessories to be luxurious but still fun. My evil eye sunglasses chain is the perfect way to stay hands-free this summer while still looking fashionable. I also added in my baker boy hat; still a very cool piece to rock! I would love to know how you are styling your favourite denim pieces this summer! If you haven’t gotten your hands on some ultra cool items though, I’ve linked to some of my favourites below including a newer version of the cropped jacket I’m wearing here!

STYLE TIP: Cropped jackets are perfect if you are petite! They won’t overpower your figure.

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Maje Leather Jacket (similar here)

Maje Pleated White Maxi Skirt

Isabel Marant Cowboy Boots

Gas Earrings (similar here)

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25 Things You Didn’t Know About Me

MY 25TH BIRTHDAY

This post contains affiliate links but this does not affect your experience in any way. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.

Photos by @alisejane_photo

Over this weekend (more specifically on the 7th of April, feel free to mark your calendar :P) I turned 25. I was so happy to be able to celebrate this moment with my family and friends and I gave you guys a front row view to the whole weekend on my Instagram Stories as well (It’s in a highlight now so you can see the whole thing unfold, just click here). I was planning on writing a post on how to create the perfect birthday outfit but then I stopped and thought to myself, that isn’t as fun and it supposed to be my birthday. Instead, I want to share with you guys 25 things you didn’t know about me to celebrate my 25th birthday. Here we go:

1. I’m one of those people who LOVES their birthday. I still get excited about it and stay up till midnight and I still wake up with that extra special feeling in my stomach. Just can’t help it!

2. Regardless of loving my birthday, I’m actually an introvert. I can be quite shy when it comes to large group events and that’s why I find large networking events to be difficult but I’m working on getting better at that.

3. I’m a total goof. I dance around and make strange noises around the house and the more you spend time with me, the more you notice it. This occurs even when I’m alone.

4. I love to cook and bake. My first attempt at baking was a massive fail (red velvet cupcakes…ouch) but I vowed to get better and now I’d say I’m actually pretty good. I focus on cooking and baking healthy things but every now and then something indulgent will pop out of my oven.

5. I’m a perfectionist. I get very agitated when things aren’t just right and I usually try to strive to be the best at everything I do. It’s taken me a long time to see that sometimes there is a balance and you don’t have to be the best at everything.

6. I am a board game fiend. I LOVE to have a games night and my favourite games are Taboo, Snatch, Scrabble and Codenames. Yes, I can be very competitive but you’ll probably win if you’re on my team.

7. I used to very athletic in school. I was on my school’s football team and played varsity for all my high school years. There was one year when I didn’t make the travel team in the 8th grade and I still remember that horrible feeling. I also trained in a dance company and almost decided to dedicate my life to dance. I obviously didn’t and I don’t ever regret it.

8. I struggle with my weight sometimes. I fluctuate with it up and down but since my days in dance, I have always been very critical of my body. I’m working on showing myself more self-love and care.

9. I think my two favourite foods in the world are dim sum and pasta. My soul dim sum is probably a Xiao Ling Bao or a custard bun. I’ll let you decide.

10. I love Buzzfeed quizzes and I tend to take the results very seriously. It provides great entertainment for everyone around me.

11. I hate avocado. I have said it and admitted it. I have always found it really gross but somehow I like guac… not sure how that works but it does.

12. I love mystery novels and Agatha Christie ones are my favourite. Growing up I would read Nancy Drew like it was going out of style. I still watch Hercule Poirot on TV.

13. Speaking of reading, I also love Harry Potter. I have a very strange obsession with everything to do with the magical universe and my first celebrity crush was Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter. I also LOVE Princess Diaries.

14. My first concert was INXS. I didn’t particularly like the band but my friends and I were just excited about attending a concert for the first time.

15. I’m quite forgetful. I have to set lots of reminders but sometimes I leave things in random places around the house and I just can’t remember where.

16. I write everything down and have an obsession with notebooks and stationary. Any excuse for a notebook is fine by me.

17. The first time I ever went into the ocean was on my trip to Bali… in 2014…Yes you read that right. I actually had a fear of water growing up but not anymore.

18. My teeth may look great but I’ve had 5 root canals and countless cavities. I don’t have enamel on my teeth so they had to put veneers in.

19. The other reason I probably had so many cavities is because I have a massive sweet tooth but one day I just decided to take out refined sugar from my diet. That was.. tough.

20. I went through a phase in my life where I would eat cupcakes for breakfast every Friday. Red velvet cupcakes…not healthy at all.

21. My drink of choice is either wine, whisky or a vodka soda.

22. I am beyond loyal to my friends. It takes a lot for me to get upset and someone must have had to really rub me the wrong way to make me angry.

23. I love candles. I am a massive homebody and love to fill my space with beautiful smells. My favourites are Baies and Tube Rose from Diptyque and Wood Sage & Sea Salt from Jo Malone.

24. I can’t watch TV shows and movies without knowing the ending. If the ending is on wikipedia I’ve read it. It actually makes me enjoy it more.

25. My favourite flowers are Peonies, Babys Breath, Tulips, Roses (NOT red) and daisies.

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Ba&Sh Floral Dress

Gianvito Rossi Heels

Flower Crown

How To Make Your Office Outfit More Chic

OFFICE CHIC

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This post contains affiliate links but this does not affect you in any way!

Photos by Alise Jane

When you wake up and it’s freezing cold, it can be a bit of a task to decide what to wear to work. Although I may not have a dress code for what I do, a lot of my dearest friends face the same struggle; what do I wear into the office today? I’ve come up with a stylish office outfit that I hope you’re going to love; No more confusion about what to wear to work in the winter!

When you think of work you don’t necessarily think of trends but you’ll be surprised about how easily you can work some of your favourite winter fashion trends into your look. Plaid, houndstooth and tartan are all winter classics and all look incredibly chic. Ditch the black skinny jeans or plain black trousers and instead opt for a patterned pair. I picked up these dark blue tartan trousers from the Sandro sale. I love that the pattern is subtle.

I paired this with a grey turtleneck from Sandro as well (another great sale purchase!). This turtleneck is a total classic piece but what makes the whole look more interesting is the neck detailing. I love classics with a twist! I would also pair these trousers with a plain white ribbed turtleneck and a blazer. Finally, I added in a pair of white boots; a simple yet effective way to make your outfit stand out!

In terms of accessories, I’m wearing vintage Givenchy earrings that I found in a store in Amsterdam and my favourite Louis Vuitton bag. I get a lot of questions about this bag and how much it can fit. Let’s just say I can pretty much fit my life in it! I also added in my new Chanel sunglasses. I’m obsessed with the retro vibes!

If you live in a warmer country but want to recreate this look, I would still opt for patterned pants like these and instead pair it with a white t-shirt or with a white blouse; a white shirt with oversized sleeves would look fabulous! If your office is a bit more casual you can even throw in a pair of white trainers!

Would you wear this to the office?

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Sandro Grey Turtleneck

Sandro Tartan Trousers (similar here)

Office White Boots

Louis Vuitton Pochette Metis Bag

Chanel Sunglasses

Vintage Givenchy Earrings

No more confusion about what to wear to work in the winter!

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Sandro Grey Turtleneck

Sandro Tartan Trousers (similar here)

Office White Boots

Louis Vuitton Pochette Metis Bag

Chanel Sunglasses

Vintage Givenchy Earrings

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3 Tricks for Taking Better Instagram Photos

INSTA READY

Instagram; everyone’s favourite social media platform. As everyone from your mom to your friend’s cat makes their way onto Instagram and IGTV, standing out can seem harder than ever. If there’s anything I’ve learnt about the Instagram algorithm, it’s that it favours good content above all else. So, how do you take your Instagram level to the next level with better Instagram photos? Today I’m sharing three tips to think about every time you open your camera app to capture that perfect insta-worthy moment.

I would love to hear if you use any of these tips already and how they’ve helped you, or if you have any other questions about Instagram! Leave me a comment below!

Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram here!

I also did a special story on all the apps I use for my Instagram stories to take them to the next level. You can read all about that here.

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Ciao Bella 💋 I currently have an obsession with this skirt that I can’t stop wearing! What are you obsessed with right now? 💫

A post shared by The Silk Sneaker (@thesilksneaker) on Aug 20, 2018 at 10:18am PDT

TURN ON YOUR GRID

When taking a photo in the camera app (or any camera app for that matter), the key to taking a good Instagram photo, and a good photo, in general, is to use the rule of thirds. To put it simply, the camera app will have a grid function which shows you a 3×3 grid on your screen. The key to a good photo is to have the point of interest be in any of the intersections in that grid. That is where your eye naturally draws to first.

I also like to sometimes put myself in the centre of the image, as long as my background allows for that. For example, in this photo here, I was standing on a corner. The pavement on either side was moving inwards to meet in the middle, so your eye is naturally drawn to this point.

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Hey September, I see you 🍂 Enjoying the last bit of summer this weekend before fall really sets in! 💕 • • • • #fashion #ootd #outfitoftheday #styleblog #chanel #chanelbag #styleblogger #styleinspiration #outfitinspo #lookoftheday #hairsandstyles #wearitloveit #lookoftheday #outfitinspiration #instastyle #citizenfemme #instafashion #whatiwore #londonfashion #personalstyle #currentlywearing #fblogger #whatiwore #realoutfitgram #lotd #fashiondiaries #outfitgoals #wiw #wiwt

A post shared by The Silk Sneaker (@thesilksneaker) on Sep 1, 2018 at 3:13am PDT

TRY FOR NATURAL LIGHTING

Natural lighting is always best for taking better Instagram photos. It’s always more appealing to the eye and the balance in the photo will turn out better than you having to go through and fix it later. As you get better with natural light, you’ll notice that when there is too much light the photo can be too harsh, and if there is too little light, there isn’t enough depth. It’s about finding the source of light and trying to face it the best you can.

For example, in this image here, I found a window in a department store and I loved the way the light was coming in. By perching on the window and looking out, the natural light lit my face and created this image.

As you get more confident with lighting, you can also start to experiment with shadows and creating interesting imagery around that.

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My shiniest friday favourites ✨ I’ve been so into hoops recently, what about you guys? • • #jewelry #jewellery #earringaddict #earrings #MVEveryday #isharya #earringsoftheday #cartierlovebracelet #chloegirls #hoopearrings #fashion #styleinspo #instastyle #fashionblogger #fblogger #flatlaystyle #beautiful #wiw #wiwt #flatlay #love #darling #onthetable #pursuepretty #personalstyle #momentslikethese #flatlaylove #morningslikethese #fromwhereistand

A post shared by The Silk Sneaker (@thesilksneaker) on Aug 31, 2018 at 1:06am PDT

DON’T BE AFRAID OF COLOURS

It’s always nice to have a pop of colour or a dominant colour in an image, no matter how monochrome heavy it may be. Having that pop of colour in your Instagram photo adds another layer of interest and depth and can also help you when you are thinking about how to put your Instagram feed together.

For example, in this image here, my colours are mainly black and white with gold but I added in that extra touch with the orange earrings and orange bracelet. That small change and detail really made the difference to this photo and gave it a new point of interest.

(Also note the use of symmetry in this photo, my grid was super helpful! But flat lays are a whole new story, would you want me to do a post about them?)

How do you get the perfect insta shot? Share with me in the comments below!

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The Luxury Edit: The Designer Items Worth Investing In This Month…

Building Your Dream Wardrobe Takes Time, So Start With One Of These…

When you’re trying to build the wardrobe of your dreams, but there’s so much option and choice out there, it can be hard to figure out where to invest your money. Just like you, I love a good high street find, but I also know that investing in a piece that is classic and good quality, is going to last me far longer than anything I find on the high street. Don’t get me wrong; I’m not saying you should abandon your weekly Zara browse. If you’re looking to really build the dream collection of clothes though, you need to invest in the right pieces. When the choices are endless, it can be hard to figure out what’s classic and what’s not but with my latest series I’ll be sharing the five best luxury pieces out there each month that are worth your consideration and investment. Trust me when I say this, you will not regret a single one of these purchases!

Take your time with them, and if you need a second opinion just comment below with your question or send me a DM on my Instagram! You’d be surprised how many girls message me every day asking me for which bag I think they should get next, or whether the pair of shoes they are eyeing are worth it. I make it a point to respond to all my messages, no matter how long it takes me. Especially because I know how prized these purchases can be!

THE CLASSIC
HEELS TO LOVE FOREVER.

If you happened to catch my latest post (where I share a little look inside my shoe closet!) you’ll know that Gianvito Rossi make some of the most comfiest high heels out there. If you’re going to invest into the perfect pair of black heels, look no further than these.

Why?

These shoes are classic. This style never goes out of fashion and it comes back season after season.

They are comfortable. The support around the ankle is perfect for long nights.

They are amazing quality. You can’t get better than these.

Get Them Here

SAINT LAURENT PRINTED T SHIRT

So, you want a designer t shirt. Everyone has the Gucci one, but if you remember, I actually shared a t shirt that is a much better investment than that one.

Taking a page from that book, here’s another beautiful Saint Laurent T-Shirt that is the perfect way to have a piece of the trend, without it being too trend driven. This is a piece that will:

Last you for more than one season.

You’ll love it for a lot longer.

It’s minimal and chic so it’s easy to match and worth your money!

Get It Here

LE SPECS + ADAM SELMAN SUNGLASSES

Under £100

Another cult favourite that is very much here to stay; the cat eye sunglasses are a classic shape that are flattering as well. So why do you need these?

They are good quality so will last you much longer than any high street pair.

The shape is flattering and you will be able to style it for season after season.

They are so. incredibly. chic. I have never received as many compliments as I have when I wear my pair!

Get It Here

VALENTINO ROCKSTUD SANDALS

So, you thought the perfect summer sandal was a seasonal affair? You were wrong. I bought my valentino stud sandals with the block heel about four years ago and I still wear them almost everyday come summer.

The flat version is an even better investment. Here’s why:

They are versatile. They are perfect for the beach, the city, and any holiday you might take.

They are easy to match with almost any outfit from jeans and a t shirt to a summer dress. Even a bikini!

They are classic and timeless. These are never going out of style.

Get Them Here

CULT GAIA
HOOP EARRINGS

Under £100

Cult Gaia make so much more than the famous straw bag you see everywhere. They also make the most fabulous jewellery.

A pair of hoops is such a must have for any girls collection but these are so unique. I bought a green pair and I find that I am constantly reaching for them.

An easy way to make any outfit look more luxe, stylish and add the perfect burst of colour. If you buy only one thing from this edit, I would make it this!

Get Them Here

Do you have a favourite from this selection?

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Why I Think This Designer T Shirt Is A Better Investment Than The Gucci T Shirt

The Battle of The Luxury T-Shirt; Gucci vs…

In the past few years, we’ve seen a rise of luxury houses churn out cult designer t shirts. We’ve seen it with Dior (Think, “We Should All Be Feminists” the first runway look of Maria Grazia Chiuri to come down the runway), Chanel (from their Cuba collection) and of course, the ever famous Gucci t shirt. Not only does Gucci have one cult t shirt, they have two! This season they came out with another one that everyone is racing to get their hands on. That being said, I am not racing for that second one (yes, I admit I have the first one which I styled ages ago in this post here.. how things have changed!) because I think that there is another designer t shirt that is a much better investment than the Gucci t shirt (gasp! the shock and horror!); The Saint Laurent Logo T Shirt.

When investing in a designer t shirt you need to consider more than whether the piece is trendy at the moment. The ones that are worth the investment, are the ones that stand the test of time for you personally. The Saint Laurent Logo T-Shirt, which has as much of a cult following as the Gucci one, is a piece that you will be able to style today, tomorrow and for years after that. While it dabbles in logomania with the original YSL logo from their first store in Paris in the centre, the logo’s size makes this t-shirt so much more wearable, subtle and chic. I also love the acid wash effect, an immediate cool girl factor.

This is a super cool luxury investment that is subtle enough for you to style and keep in your wardrobe for more than just a season or trend cycle. I think that is one of the most important factors when it comes to purchasing luxury goods.

I styled my new favourite t shirt with a Topshop white denim skirt. I always have a certain amount of key basics that I stock up on from the high street. I think Topshop has an amazing denim selection and I always have at least two denim skirts from them in my wardrobe. I love the mix of light colours for summer; so fresh! The look was complete with some statement Dior slides and these adorable & Other Stories sunglasses. Talk about a high low mix!

What do you think? Who wins between the Gucci and Saint Laurent T Shirt battle? Comment below!

Saint Laurent Logo T Shirt

Topshop White Denim Skirt

Dior Slides

& Other Stories Sunglasses (similar)

Images taken by Michaela Efford

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Saint Laurent Logo T Shirt

Topshop White Denim Skirt

Dior Slides

& Other Stories Sunglasses

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Monday Update #51

Happy

I hope you all a wonderful weekend enjoying the sunshine! This heatwave was much needed and its the perfect time to start stocking up on your favourite summer dresses, basket bags and sandals! Is your wardrobe ready? If not, don’t worry because I have highlighted some super cute essentials below that everyone needs right now! Do you have a favourite summer piece? Share with me in the comments, I’d love to hear!

Excited that my @chrisellelim x @justoneanswer jumpsuit finally arrived in time for the sunshine! ⭐️STYLE TIP: Who said you can’t mix stripes and florals? Check out my shoes 💋 • • • #fashion #chrisellexjoa #justoneanswer #jumpsuit #stripes #stripejumpsuit #dior #diorshoes #rayban #ootd #fashion #outfitoftheday #ootdwatch #daretowear #fashionblogger #wearitloveit #ootdlovers #ootdfashion #thesilksneaker #streetchic #casualchic #summeroutfit #outfittoday #ukblogger #wiw #wiwt #whatiwore #whatiworetoday

A post shared by The Silk Sneaker (@thesilksneaker) on Apr 22, 2018 at 5:45am PDT

When the sun comes out and so does your hair ☀️ What’s your favourite hair product right now? • • • #hairgoals #hairinspiration #hairinspo #hairsandstyles #chrisellexjoa #gisou #prettylittleiiinspo #fashion #beauty #fashionblogger #fblogger #tumblr #tumblrgirls #potd #botd #fashioninspo #fancy #beautyaddict

A post shared by The Silk Sneaker (@thesilksneaker) on Apr 21, 2018 at 7:35am PDT

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Inspiration for the Week

Feeling inspired by… [Image via Pinterest]

Favourite New In Pieces

Fashion News You May Have Missed…

How To Wear Your Plaid Skirt In the Spring

Friday Favourites #11

The #1 Reason You Need This Piece In Your Spring Wardrobe…

What do you have planned this week?

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Monday Update #37

Happy

Can you believe that this Monday marks the middle of January 2018 already? How insane is that? I feel like 2018 is already flying by but I’m hoping that this year is full of more positive vibes than the last! Don’t you agree? This is an exciting week where I hope to be shooting lots of fun new content for you guys for the coming months. I have been loving all your feedback about what you want to see more of and that is what keeps me inspired and excited on Monday mornings! You guys of course! Scroll down to see this weeks Monday Update and dose of inspiration!

This Past Week

In case you missed it I shared some really fun stories last week!

I always believe that your outfit doesn’t need to be expensive to look expensive. I’ve shared the key tricks to making your outfit look like a million bucks right here.

I also got a bit personal last week sharing with you all the three ways I’ve learned to deal with failure both in a professional and personal sense. You can read all about that here and share your story too.

Last but not least, I have the cutest guide to the best sweaters to keep you cozy and stylish from now till spring! Get them here.

If you want to be a part of the chicest group around, join the TSS crew today for exclusive access to the best kept secrets in all things style and more…Just click here.

I’ve got new shoes, can it be spring yet? 🌈 • • • #fashion #shoefie #dior #diorcruise #houseofdior #colourful #andfinallyinspo #personalstyle #currentlywearing #fblogger #whatiwore #streetstyleluxe #realoutfitgram #lotd #fashiondiaries #outfitgoals

A post shared by The Silk Sneaker (@thesilksneaker) on Jan 13, 2018 at 9:14am PST

Colour clash 💋 • • • #fashion #ootd #colourpop #beautiful #love #dior #houseofdior #aboutalook #personalstyle #currentlywearing #fblogger #whatiwore #streetstyleluxe #realoutfitgram #lotd #fashiondiaries #outfitgoals

A post shared by The Silk Sneaker (@thesilksneaker) on Jan 8, 2018 at 9:19am PST