IS IT DISHONEST IF I DISCLOSE IT?

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I'm back again with something that is probably not a popular opinion, it that a concern of mine? Nah.

In 2016, I posted about why I think it's okay to wear/own replica designer wear, and whilst I expected a few people to kick off on me, no one really seemed interested. (A blessing in disguise or sort of disappointing?)

This time round I want to highlight the stigma surrounding publishing an outfit post compiled out of clothing that still have their price tags attached. No, I don't mean 'uh oh someone forgot to remove the label and I can still see it!!!111', I'm talking about buying clothes to feature before returning them back to their rightful store.

Don't get me wrong, I totally understand people turning their noses up at the idea (or at least to some extent), even if just for the fact it's a bit unhygienic. However, some people argue that bloggers are simply faking what they own and it's dishonest.

Here's the thing; if you're a blogger who likes to show off what they own then it's best to not buy simply to feature - that's pretty much a given, right?

But, if you're someone like me who wants to show off style more than possessions then I think it's perfectly fine. My dream job is to be a stylist, of what description I've still not decided, but fashion often doesn't come cheap and I still want to show off my styling potential.

Just recently I was advised in a lecture to buy clothing just for a photoshoot and then return it. By an industry stylist. Yeah.

So, I've decided this is the way I'm to go about it if I can't afford something I really what to show y'all. I fully promise to disclose this in my posts if/when I have only purchased for a post. (With that being said, I do own everything in the above outfit)

Pinafore - Primark (Similar)  //  Blouse - Alex Chung x Marks & Spencer  //  Jacket - Forever 21  //   Hat - H&M (Similar)  //  Shoes - Vans  //  Earrings - Primark

Maybe it's time to move forward and stop being afraid of people having a negative opinion of us for doing what we want :)

I'd love to know your thoughts on this so please let me know in the comments or via Twitter.

S xo

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Photography: Lynne Ball (my mama)

FASHION PET PEEVES

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This week I've been feeling way more confident in the style arena for the first time in about 18 months and I've been making the most of it by snapping some pictures before uni, in changing rooms (I'll be forever in your debt H&M) and on my days off. Let's hope this feeling continues!

So, this little piece is brought to you by the bee that's been in my bonnet for the past year or so. As usual, this has been sat in my drafts half finished, for quite some time just begging to be finished. Here goes.

You shouldn’t wear colour combo X, Y & Z

I'm sure the majority of us have grown up being told what colours compliment each other and what colours should stay firmly away from another. What a tragedy.

To be honest, I've always thought this way and envied those who managed to dress to contradict these 'rules', but it's only recently that I realised in this day and age it really doesn't matter. Not that it ever really did.

Right now I can't not get enough of Pink & Red, the combination that has repulsed me for as long as I can remember. And why? If executed cleverly then this can look absolutely incredible and so fun that you'll question why you ever thought otherwise.

You want to wear all the colours of the rainbow in your outfit? Bloody hell love, go ahead and do it. Do NOT tell yourself that anything is a no-go.

Describe your style in 3 words

If there is one question I probably hate more than (virtually) anything, it's this. No, nope and nu'uh. Don't go there and insult me.

Just because half of the time I dress pretty basic (I'm convinced uni has zapped every ounce of energy I have ever possessed), it doesn't mean I'll tell you my style is 'simple, casual & comfortable' because that's so godawful.

I dress for however I'm feeling on that particular day. Wearing the same jeans for four days running? Sure, if I want to. Sporting a candy striped shirt to go for a coffee? Sounds marvy. Choosing Vans for a night out? Wise move.

I refuse to condense my style into a mere few words, simply because I can't, and I don't see why this is such an industry-popular question?

I don't seek out clothing that fits a particular style or category, I pick them because I genuinely like them and I want to wear them.

That's the whole point of fashion, especially your own style.

If the question were to ever arise though, I'd eye roll and say 'My Personal Style'. Or, 'Don't pigeonhole me'. I think they seem to fit the bill.

Do NOT tell yourself that anything is a no-go.

The runway being the pinnacle of fashion

I'm gonna be perfectly honest with you and tell you that I haven't got a clue what's going on on the catwalk half of the time and I'm often sat staring at my laptop screen like "What on earth is going on here?". We all know that's where the designs for all clothes started out (or the majority of them) and we can't disregard them altogether, but I really don't feel inspired by runway shows like I do with street style. 

As a fashion student, it's difficult to say I don't understand a collection or a certain show when the majority of my peers are raving about it and nodding enthusiastically when my lecturer talks about one but I can't tell myself I love it if I don't. One of my fave brands is Gucci, I don't know how or why it happened but suddenly I love them and that's that. Does it mean I understand Alessandro Michele's vision or influences? Absolutely not, I think he's completely barmy with half of his designs but it doesn't make me love the brand any less. 

Basically what I'm trying to highlight is that you don't have to understand designs, decisions or everything in the fashion industry to enjoy it. If you love it, you love it, it's as simple as that.

  Blouse  - H&M (Old)  //  Jeans - Topshop (Similar / Similar/ Similar / Similar)  //  Shoes - Next (Similar)

I'm curious to know if anyone is with me on these points and what your fashion pet peeves are, so let me know in the comments below or on Twitter!

S xo

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HOW TO TELL YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER WHAT YOU REALLY WANT

Hello 2016 and Happy New Year to you lovelies. Is it too late in the month to still say that? - we've already been here 4 weeks.

This year my biggest blog focus is to pump out some good old fashion posts that actually feature me in them! It's been a rarity over the past 2 years - did you know this baby turned 2 years old in December?! - but I'm ready to share some styling with you and possibly inspire others. Who knows?

We all aren't so lucky to have our own personal photographer ready to help us out as and when we need them, in fact most of us rely on mum/sister/best friend/tripod/neighbour/stranger/astronaut to take pictures for us - and they are most definitely amateurs. But that doesn't mean they can't take some cracking photographs if given more credit, and guidance.

Here are some tips I've compiled for your 'photographer', you and definitely my mum.

Tip 1 - Take some images yourself. Obviously you can't take outfit selfies from the distance they would, you're not Stretch Armstrong. Ask a friend if you can photograph them in certain poses to see how easy or difficult it is to actually capture the image you want. It may not be as simple as you expect it to be.

Tip 2 - Use your knowledge. Once you're satisfied with what you've learnt from that experience, you'll probably have images you can share in a blog post for starters, and also you'll have some knowledge that you can pass on to your right hand man. Win/win? I think so.

Tip 3 - Pinterest. Over the past couple of months I've started a Pinterest board full of styling images that have clearly been shot for blogs. Make your own. You don't necessarily have to be fond of the image as a whole but you may like the blogger/models post, outfit ensemble, location, placement etc and that's great, use all of the visual content to create what you really want for your own blog. Make use of that description box below the image, type in why you like the shot for later reference, trust me, you'll probably forget.

I like to pin images that show close ups, whether it be of hands showing jewellery, portraits of a handbag or details, as they are more challenging photography aspects for such a creation.

You can view my board here.

Tip 4 - Explain your pins/inspiration. Tell your helper what you like about the images, why you want to have a similar shot and how you propose to help them achieve it. It's brilliant to show them images because they can understand your visions, but some explanation can help them understand the shot so much more.

Tip 5 - Pick the location. I can't tell you how many times I've said to my mum 'Can you take some outfit pictures for me this weekend?' to which she'll reply 'Of course, where do you want to go?' then I'm stumped, I have no clue - and guess what? - we don't end up doing it. Be prepared, your super awesome companion is doing you a favour so don't waste their time.

Tip 6 - Don't expect perfection. Take a look back at the earlier posts of your favourite bloggers. They all look a bit awkward, the pictures aren't crisp enough, the editing isn't right, the angle is all wrong. We all have to start somewhere, so to begin with the images may not be what you necessarily want, but you'll learn what works best each time you shoot and so will your photographer. Be prepared to share some slightly-off photography. No one will judge!

Tip 7 - Have fun. We can all get so bogged down with our blogs, and making everything look just right can be the last straw to making you tear your hair out, amiright? Don't take everything so seriously, especially when you're on a shoot. Be natural. The natural shots always look the most fun and relatable to your audience. Let them see the side you don't normally show!

I'm no expert, obviously, but these are just some tips I've thought may help those who are really wanting to share this type of photography on their blogs. However, I hope this has inspired some of you honeybee's and you have the help and confidence to help you on your merry blogging way.

It's time for me to put my own advice to the test, wish me luck.

S xo
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TRENDSETTER TUESDAY: JAIME KING

One thing that saddens me about the past is that Jamie King didn't feature in mine until around 2012 when I first saw her as the sweet, exquisitely dressed - borderline psychotic - doctors daughter in the televisions show, Hart of Dixie. The moment I saw her I was in fashion heaven.

I think her character, Lemonade Breeland, is one of the best dressed characters on TV with her ultra femininity shining through in sixties style skirts, floral, lace and spotted blouses and every shade of the pastel colour chart.

Jaime King, however, is a completely different story. First bursting onto the scene in 1993, aged 14, she took the modelling world by storm appearing in Vogue, Mademoiselle and Harper's Bazaar before moving to acting in 1998 where she has appeared in numerous films and television series, as well as various music videos.

She's become and icon in many ways, overcoming a terrible addition in her teens (we all salute you Jaime), becoming a successful actress and being one heck of a style icon.

King's eventwear is absolutely incredible, she's so beautiful and dresses to compliment every positive aspect of her figure and height, looking elegant and like a true movie star. With that being said, her street style does not falter in the slightest, looking chic in a denim dress and knee length boots, don't we all aspire to look that cool?

Let's be honest, I aspire to be as cool as her now and 15 years down the line after a kid or two, just like Ms King.

Take a look at her style in pictures over on the Pinterest board below.

SB xo

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MONOCHROME KNITS

There's no denying that I'm easily excited, however I was super excited when I found some outfit pictures I hadn't posted! These were taken from my post-birthday/Black Friday-Saturday shopping in a cheeky M&S changing room, because let's make it classy.

The moment I saw this Topshop monochrome sleeveless knit tunic, I was in love. There's no two ways about it. whilst I was dubious about spending £36 on it (although totally worth it), I snatched it up when I found in the sale for £20!

How beautiful is this bag? It's a gorgeous replica of the Chanel Boy bag and something that I love to wear as often as I can.

How cute is this Soap & Glory snap of mum and I?

Here's to many more outfit posts to hopefully come this year!

SB xo

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TRENDSETTER TUESDAY: YANIN NAMASONTHI

Yanin Namasonthi, also known by idressmyselff and Pretty Sickly, has been one of my favourite bloggers/Instagram users for almost as long as I have been active in both areas. I think I had a mini fangirl moment when the lady herself followed me on Tumblr. Did I seriously just admit that?

Her style is so refreshing from the girly girly/high fashion style of so many current bloggers, she's edgy, exciting and has some incredible tattoos that make me itch to be under the needle again.

Whilst Yanin has a very distinctive style, her outfits often surprise and leave you wondering which trend she can reinvent and how to style the most coveted item of the moment. Bomber jacket anyone?

It's become apparent that she has a love affair with long line coats, oversized handbags and absolutely all things black. I'm pretty sure that makes us a fashion match made in heaven.

I feel that nothing looks out of place on this girl, she wears distressed jeans and monochrome Adidas trainers just as well as a girly geometric print two-piece and nude heels or a floral print jumpsuit.

The more I see of this incredible 21-year old, the more I feel inspired and in awe at how brilliant she is for more than just her quirky sense of style.

Follow Sam's board Yanin Namasonthi on Pinterest.

SB xo

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TRENDSETTER TUESDAY: OLIVIA PURVIS

As you are all probably more than aware by now, my favourite things are fashion, blogging, baking and Instagram and I have longed to find another human who then all of the above as much as I. As soon as I clapped eyes on Liv's Instagram, I knew I'd found my match, the girl who brought my dreams to life.

If you're not familiar with Liv's name then maybe her blog, What Olivia Did, is more recognisable to you.

Clad in breton stripes, Charlotte Olympia kitty pumps and oversized hats, there's little to no reason not to be hopelessly in love with the adorable blogger. 

There's no denying that Olivia was born in the completely wrong era, I can almost hear the sixties calling for her and trying to claim her as their own, but lucky for us, we get to experience her old (and new) style in the 21st century.

She brings true femininity to life whilst not being afraid to explore different avenues of fashion, and that's what makes every young fash-blogger heavily swoon as they scroll through her blog and Instagram alike.

Don't wait anymore time on my ramblings, and heavy Team Liv love, take a look at her impeccable style for yourself.

Follow Sam Ball's board Liv Purvis on Pinterest.

My current dream? Definitely exploring London with this divine beauty and taking note of some of her ultimate photography tips, she's too ruddy brilliant!

Follow Liv:  Bloglovin  |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  Pinterest

SB xo

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MOST COVETED: CHLOÉ DREW BAG

It's no secret that the Chloé Drew bag has been fashion's most coveted bag of 2015 (and beyond for those lucky souls who snatched the chance last year) and if I'm going to be honest, I've still not stopped crying and swooning over it ever since I laid my peepers on it. (Maybe honesty isn't my strongest trait but I'm still swooning)

All it takes is a trip to Sara or Jules' blog and I'm sent back into an endless spiralling pit of scroll-pin-scroll-pin-scroll-pin on every picture of Chloé's finest bag. Ever.

But whilst I believe in 'if you love it, save up and buy it' even I can't part with over £1K for a bag when university is at the top of the priorities list. Although pawing at the window of Chloé in Chelsea and refraining from touching the Drew in Selfridges was not helping my resistence one iota.

Alas, it seems the world and his wife (children, dog and fish too) have designed their own Chloé Drew dupe to calm our erratic hearts and how can we possibly resist when they're cheap as chips? (A really expensive portion anyway) I definitely left the NEXT sale beaming and clutching a cute black one.

I've compiled a little dupe segment below so you can shop your fave style without having to search for it yourself (most places sold out straight away so I haven't got many left to share, sorry!). I can be generous when I want, right?

Accessorize (1 | 2 | 3)  //  Florence Leather Collection (1)  //  Forever New (1 | 2)

If you're looking for some inspiration on how to style this bag check below. Further images can be found on my Chloé Drew Pinterest board. Yes, every feature now tends to have it's own board, neat huh? It's called being cohesive.

Have you found any brilliant dupes you can share? Do you adore this bag as much as I do or do you think it's too hyped up? Please leave your comments below, I'd love to hear from you.

SB xo
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50 SHADES OF GREY: FASHION

The hype around the Sam Taylor-Johnson directed, fan fiction writer written 50 Shades of Grey film has been phenomenal, but it hasn't had me rushing out to the cinema and I shan't be doing so anytime soon. The thought of seeing 2 actors who apparently had no chemistry participating in severe sexual acts has me more uncomfortable than the thought of watching it with my mum. I feel strongly about correct casting in any cinematic endeavours.

Instead, I was more excited about 50 shades of grey clothing. And no, I don't mean 'Yes Way, Mr Grey' slogan shirts. I genuinely saw that in River Island.

At first thought, grey sounds unbearably bleak and when the sky is coloured with it, you're right. But different shades of grey can actually be quite exciting, especially when brands and designers create just the right piece. It's always exceptional when you think white is included. 

(NB. Not all items are still available, a fair portion are no longer sold)

Quite often I forget the resemblance between silver and grey, yet that coat dress is just the perfect mix of both and gives a sheen to the shade. Those Dune loafers are a tease, I'm definitely on the hunt for a slightly cheaper pair as I know they'll be perfect for the summer.

The longline blazer above has slightly blue tones, another colour that I tend to overlook as a family link to grey. Chiara Ferragni's silver glittered flats are a perfect way to incorporate grey into your outfit in a fun and quirky way. Those H&M dungarees are also new in and are only £14.99.

If you're feeling those brightly coloured Nike running shoes are getting old, then these mid grey ones are a perfect alternative to colour or plain black. I've noticed a lot of white has crept into these sets but can you really blame me? I adore grey knit sweaters, I own a pale one and I wear so often as it's so versatile.

A grey fedora is something I'm really lacking. After owning a black one and a camel one,  I feel grey is definitely my next step. A button down white skirt is perfect fir summer, I definitely need a replacement one fir my too-big DKNY one. The checkered skirt shown here is absolutely wonderful, it showcases a few different shades which makes it much more versatile. Just pick out each colour and you're matched!

White heeled, peep toe mules. Gasp!

The 'Je Parle Francais' tee opened my eyes to navy and grey, and boy do they look great together! Marl grey is also such a trend at the moment, I love the sleeveless roll neck above. Can someone please buy me these suede Burberry boots?

So it isn't a bright colour but it looks fantastic with colour pops such as orange, lime green, bright pink etc.

I'd love to see how style grey. Tweet me pictures or send me links of your outfits.

SB xo
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TRENDSETTER TUESDAY: ALEXA CHUNG

It's become pretty apparent over the years that Alexa Chung is the biggest style icon of our generation. 

She's been quoted in various magazines, books, shows and other media platforms as a key icon for her stylings, looks and the way in which she pieces items together. There's simply no telling what we'll see her in next.

With the launch of her Alexa Chung x AG collaboration taking place less than 3 weeks ago, it seemed more than fitting to showcase some fashion images from her extensive repertoire.

To be quite honest, I've looked up to Alexa since I was a pre-teen, first obsessing over her when she co-hosted Popworld with the divine Alex Zane, it would appear that as I aged, she'd still be a role model and an idol. I've even spent he last 9 years wanting to change my name to Alexa. I'm not even embarrassed to admit that.

She pushes boundaries without being too overt or over the top, she's exciting and fresh and can work pretty much any look she tries. No many can have this said about them.

Not only is she one of the most talked about girls in the fashion industry, she's also a presenter, model, writer and described as a phenomenon by US Vogue Editor Anna Wintour. 

Her footwear is always intriguing too, one moment she'll be in her high-top Chucks, the next she'll be sporting lace up heels and nothing ever looks out of place. 

Plus, any girl who has a Mulberry bag named after her, well she must be pretty influential. And incredible.

I also dream about her AG collaboration denim button up skirt nightly.

She's a fashion gem, a woman that makes me proud to be British and incredible in everything she does.

We all salute you Ms Chung.

What do you think of my new TT header style?

SB xo

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