Fashion Week And A Fabulous Wedding!

Well I know Summer is over but this weather, gorgeous! Having to really layer it up with the warm days and chilly nights!

Had an epic week away working last week, so much driving.... My assistant and I were stuck on the M25 in solid stand still traffic for four hours! Got the tunes on so wasn't that bad in the end. New obsession - 'Go' by Grimes. A little dub step funk! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIi57zhDl78

Back at the Frock Shack now wishing I could have made it to London Fashion Week but hey, work work!

Got the utter pleasure of seeing two very wonderful friends get married last weekend. Hollie looked utterly stunning in a lace vintage gown, with subtle country flowers and huge balloons scattered everywhere. The weather was perfect and the sun shone brightly and warm as she walked down the aisle looking so happy and absolutely beautiful; what a love filled and fun day with family and friends. Boy did we dance!? Thank you,  Mr. and Mrs. Newton-Wilkes. Love you.

I chose to wear flat ballet pumps and large trousers with a beautiful vest that flowed above the tucked-in-ness! Kept warm by flowing bubbly and my trusted tweed riding jacket; it was a perfect weekend for all I think. Just got to also tell you about the groom's amazing pies! Yup, totally yum with a large range of delicious combinations! http://timmyspies.com/

Got our first video for You Tube ready this week too. Gosh was that nerve racking?! Let's hope they get better, but just a new thing we want to try out. Will be great to get your feedback and see us giving all the new trendy styling tips and our up coming events live! In person! Don't judge, it's been a while since being in front of the camera! Coming soon!

Have another wedding with very dear friends this weekend in Cornwall so I shall bring you all the gossip on what everyone wore and how it went! Styled my sister yesterday in this lovely yellow floral dress. The mustard vintage jacket is right on trend for Autumn. It can be yours! Beautiful! Somi Sun Silk Frock

But....fashion now?! With Fashion Week in full swing, here are a few sneak secrets of what to expect on the high street this Fall......

Gowns draped in embellished sequins and mermaid tails with satin sailor-esque tailoring. Lots of 1960s and 70s florals- think masses of pumping bright oranges, yellows and pinks. Jasper Conran brought the catwalk some low key, less formal t-shirt dresses with paint stroke prints and lighter fabrics.

Topshop showed a daring 'Strictly Come Dancing' vibe with over-zealous detail and add-ons galore.

Henry Holland brought back the chic flares with lots of flower power......rummage through our Ma's loft methinks?!

Marcazza flaunted flowers again with feathers on their A/W collection and of course, our amazing Vivienne Westwood did Scotland proud and brought out tartan, tartan, check, check, tartan with badges following her political views.

Right, back to getting your winter frocks ready! Happy Swishing ladies, stay beautiful and happy!

Quote for the week- 'Perhaps wisdom is simply a matter of waiting, and healing a question of time. And anything good you've ever been given is yours forever.' Rachel N. Remen

Warmest Swishes,
B xxxx

Your Autumn/Winter Wardrobe Revamp Explained!

Right, so we all have that 'leaving Summer, hello chilly nights ahead Autumn' feeling, so what can we do to perk us up? Well, with the changing seasons and weather, we'll firstly need to get our wardrobes freshened up; free from the maxi dresses and bikinis, back to the warming scarves, trusted leather boots and cashmere sweaters. It seems like such a task but it really is so therapeutic and once you've tackled it in my easy to follow steps, you'll feel refreshed and like you've just had a day on Oxford Street buying lots of new clothes...without spending any money!

Where to begin?

1. Make a cup of tea!

2. Pop on a funky playlist.

3. Turn the phone off.....

4. Pop on some slouchy sweat pants and an old jumper to be comfy. Hair back, we are good to go.

5. Clear a space on the bed so that you can lay your clothes out and see what you have.

6. I like to do drawer by drawer, then do the rail but choose whatever you feel like tackling first.

7. Put all selected clothes on the bed/ floor and pick one item at a time and if you wear it often, love it, you'll know instantly. Three second rule. If you can't decide within those three seconds it most definitely means you don't need it. (Now remember, we aren't throwing things away or swapping them out at this stage, we are merely choosing our Autumn/ Winter wardrobe). Ask yourself if it will suit your daily needs - work, play, gym etc. Say yes to long sleeved cami tops, cashmere, anything wool, jeans, long trousers, shirts, cardigans, knee high boots, Uggs, heeled leather and suede boots etc. It's going to get colder so pick items that keep you warm yet stylish. The rest is easy.

8. Any Summer outfits, just select and fold neatly and flat pack to protect and keep fresh and clean. Pop into the loft or under the bed in containers...boom. You're ready for the new season and your Summer wardrobe is ready for the next. Once you have done this, it makes it so much quicker and simpler when you swap next time round. And if you go on a holiday somewhere warm in our colder months, you'll have the perfect template in place to find what you need to pack without messing up your current 'live' wardrobe!

9. I find it best and most practical to put under tops and t-shirts in one drawer, next drawer is sweaters, bigger bulky tops in the next drawer, then any other trousers that don't need hanging up (I have an obscene amount of tracksuit bottoms so they have a drawer all to themselves!) into the bottom drawer. Keep knickers in one drawer, socks separately then hang your bras up or cup them into each other to keep shape. I like to pop fresh lavender wrapped up into my drawers to keep everything smelling fresh and clean and the moths away! Rose petals are also a nice alternative but remember to change frequently to avoid a stale smell. I change mine around every 4 weeks.

10. Any dresses, coats, shirts or smart trousers hang up neatly on wooden or felt hangers and colour coordinate on the rail or in the wardrobe. You can do this just by shade or if you prefer arrange all trousers, all shirts, all skirts, all coats so they are all together. It just depends on how fussy you want to be, but choose a system that works best for you. You should be able to look at your clothes with excitement and then have a fun, easy, stress free time picking what to wear. If it's all in a nice order you can work with, know where things are, you'll have a better, more enjoyable and let's face it, quicker time dressing for work and play!

11. Lay out boots, shoes and heels in an orderly fashion paired together. Shoes I wear all the time I usually have at the side of the front door on a rack. However if it's shoes you maybe only wear once a month, for example your 'take me home' Jimmy Choos, pop into a shoe box to protect and neatly store away. Pop some fresh mint leaves or another herby smell you like into a cotton pouch and place into the box or bag you've stored the shoes away in. This will keep them smelling lovely and fresh for the next event you wear them!

12. And you are done! See that wasn't so painful was it? Finish tea, relax!!!

Hearts and Selfies!

So what is hot this week ladies? 

Well the weather seems to have been lovely the last few days! Got my flip flops on and my embroidered summer jacket out for my beach walks even! Always searching for the hearts.....

Super cool designers are pulling out all the stops and opting for an 'origami' style this Easter. Crafting skirts that ripple with razor-sharp pleats played out in sporty cottons for the day and shimmering metallics by night. Team with flats or heels and add a cutesy knit jumper for a dazzling look.

Spent all your wages on Easter eggs and bunny ears? Fear not, the 'shoulder robe' look is so now, and so free. Any of your cardigans, jackets, over coats etc must be worn on the shoulders with the arms hanging down beside you. Effortlessly cool - think, 'just been out with my man and he popped his jacket over me' inspired look!

Got something to say? It seems you can 'wear your thoughts on you sleeve' is the way forward this season. Bright colourful logos and expressions are donning the high street tees and jumpers right now. Bursting with street flavour and sportswear styling, subtly whisper your thoughts to the world without saying a word!

Say it with embellishments and jewels galore this season. Everything from sport luxe to denim is seeing shiny and sparkly additions to the pieces. Razzle in crazy over-the-top beads, fringing and glitter and your outfit is sorted from work to play without changing! More is more, said it before!

And if you like a bit more of an edgy and rough look, go grunge and reboot the 1990s! Boob tubes, dragging-on-the-floor denim, skirts over trousers, kimono cutting, scarf dresses and leather-laced sandals are all part of this subversive trend. 'Nail the Nineties' redux look by wearing patchwork denim, leather mules, slip dresses and oversized power suits. Electric and moody, bring out the side worn cap, checkered shirt around your waist, bare midriff and braces. I'm opting for Victorian lace dresses with military jackets and my trusted ballet pumps, but go big and super retro and add Doc Martin boots to finish the style off.

I am also seeing lots of jungle prints and flowers on all-in-one jump suits right now. Soft floaty fabrics and vest tops attached to flared trousers and the skinny ankle version are a must have for your holiday. Easy to wear and great from day to night, pair a denim jacket with gladiator sandals or your trusted black suit coat with killer heels. This funky number is super hot from Next.

#DaretoBare the naked no make-up look last week. Have you? Such a great cause but can I just point out, no make-up means no make-up. I know every woman is beautiful, not arguing that...however some pics, actually quite a lot, the women are definitely wearing some! Completely defeats the reason of the cause but still, it has raised so much money and awareness, I will shut up now.

Here's a 'selfie' me and my big sister took on Mothering Sunday. We are wearing make-up! Hope you enjoyed a sun filled and fun loving day too!

Organising a few swishing events soon ladies so watch this space for your invite. Lots of funky discounts too so keep reading! And like us on Facebook this week and you'll be put into our 'free swap' draw. Blag yourself a fabulous frock just at the click of a button!

This blog is dedicated to my very great girl Amanda from LA. Visiting her man but with room for me, love you babes, see you soon.

 Brunch

Night out...who could tell the difference ha?!!

Be back soon,
Warmest Swishes as always,
B
London Frock Exchange

Hearts and Selfies!

So what is hot this week ladies? 

Well the weather seems to have been lovely the last few days! Got my flip flops on and my embroidered summer jacket out for my beach walks even! Always searching for the hearts.....

Super cool designers are pulling out all the stops and opting for an 'origami' style this Easter. Crafting skirts that ripple with razor-sharp pleats played out in sporty cottons for the day and shimmering metallics by night. Team with flats or heels and add a cutesy knit jumper for a dazzling look.

Spent all your wages on Easter eggs and bunny ears? Fear not, the 'shoulder robe' look is so now, and so free. Any of your cardigans, jackets, over coats etc must be worn on the shoulders with the arms hanging down beside you. Effortlessly cool - think, 'just been out with my man and he popped his jacket over me' inspired look!

Got something to say? It seems you can 'wear your thoughts on you sleeve' is the way forward this season. Bright colourful logos and expressions are donning the high street tees and jumpers right now. Bursting with street flavour and sportswear styling, subtly whisper your thoughts to the world without saying a word!

Say it with embellishments and jewels galore this season. Everything from sport luxe to denim is seeing shiny and sparkly additions to the pieces. Razzle in crazy over-the-top beads, fringing and glitter and your outfit is sorted from work to play without changing! More is more, said it before!

And if you like a bit more of an edgy and rough look, go grunge and reboot the 1990s! Boob tubes, dragging-on-the-floor denim, skirts over trousers, kimono cutting, scarf dresses and leather-laced sandals are all part of this subversive trend. 'Nail the Nineties' redux look by wearing patchwork denim, leather mules, slip dresses and oversized power suits. Electric and moody, bring out the side worn cap, checkered shirt around your waist, bare midriff and braces. I'm opting for Victorian lace dresses with military jackets and my trusted ballet pumps, but go big and super retro and add Doc Martin boots to finish the style off.

I am also seeing lots of jungle prints and flowers on all-in-one jump suits right now. Soft floaty fabrics and vest tops attached to flared trousers and the skinny ankle version are a must have for your holiday. Easy to wear and great from day to night, pair a denim jacket with gladiator sandals or your trusted black suit coat with killer heels. This funky number is super hot from Next.

#DaretoBare the naked no make-up look last week. Have you? Such a great cause but can I just point out, no make-up means no make-up. I know every woman is beautiful, not arguing that...however some pics, actually quite a lot, the women are definitely wearing some! Completely defeats the reason of the cause but still, it has raised so much money and awareness, I will shut up now.

Here's a 'selfie' me and my big sister took on Mothering Sunday. We are wearing make-up! Hope you enjoyed a sun filled and fun loving day too!

Organising a few swishing events soon ladies so watch this space for your invite. Lots of funky discounts too so keep reading! And like us on Facebook this week and you'll be put into our 'free swap' draw. Blag yourself a fabulous frock just at the click of a button!

This blog is dedicated to my very great girl Amanda from LA. Visiting her man but with room for me, love you babes, see you soon.

 Brunch

Night out...who could tell the difference ha?!!

Be back soon,
Warmest Swishes as always,
B
London Frock Exchange

Stumbling Upon Something Special

So last week I went on a glorious road trip around the whole of Wales and it was beautiful! Lots of stumbling across endless moors and rolling hills sandwiched between towering cliffs. Rocking up in small seaside towns where you could leave your car open, and everyone you walked past gave you a hello which often lead to a full blown ten minute conversation- or perhaps that's just me encouraging that!

There is something about the sunshine that really lifts us British folk, even when it is still as chilly in the air as January, we like to get our shorts out! Always the same, every time the weather gets nice...cider in the early afternoon, men forgetting their tops, less frowns, more relaxing air.

Driving from the South, after the motorways where I hit stunning countryside lanes and countless radio station swaps, singing at the top of my lungs and thinking deeply about life and general plans for the next few months, I have had time to sit back now at a cosy little Inn and fill you in on some gossip for your style and just some fun B-things too.

I have to tell you about this one spot I found, even though I want to keep it a secret! Portmerion. And a secret spot it really is. Driving and getting lost can sometimes be the most terrifying panicky experience but this getting lost turned out to be the most relaxing, inspirational and exciting thing. It was a warming treat after sitting for hours. I took a wrong turn and following signs which I thought were just to the next town, I found myself at the edge of a vast and intoxicating mini Disney World- without the rides and screaming over-excited kids and our favourite characters waving back! Asking the security guard at the gates, gold metal with mermaids crafted at the sides, she let me in. I wandered in this maze of secret gardens and quiet pathways littered with blossom trees and spring flowers. This palace of small joining castles sat on the side of a vast estuary, the staff calling it a folly.

It opened in 1926 by Clough Williams-Ellis. It was his idea of creating a village of peacefulness and tranquillity, a sheltered outlook over the sea with its airy position. He made every building a curve so that it was light and enveloping, a discovery of beauty on every turn. And oh my goodness. On such a peaceful sunny day, just looking out at the view made my breathing new in a way. As if the great calmness of the place was brought into you and had taken my worries or any subconscious things in my head away into the ocean ahead. Each part of every building has something re-used in its construction. From old boat masts to the mermaids at the gates, the recycled stories are endless. "Enjoyed by a celebrated clientele such as George Bernard Shaw, Noel Coward and Sir Kenneth Clark." This is such a little gem but I fear may be forgot. Somewhere where I shall definitely be visiting again and staying for longer. There's a beautiful hotel and spa with little crafty shops scattered about in caves and behind secret archways and rickety doors. Such a glorious treat.

And so I carried on......waving reluctantly goodbye to my palace of dreams. I would have loved to stay there that night however.....

I had already picked a quirky little pub with rooms situated in the middle of flipping nowhere and on a night that was just a white misty sea of deep duvet like fog! I left an afternoon of bliss, driving on curvy one car lanes and glorious fields draped in warm fresh sunshine with one farm miles from the next surrounded by little white lambs into that eeriness! 'Take me back to my palace,' I moaned!

When I first parked up I was slightly scared I was going to be the only one there and possibly attacked by a roaming sheep but these paranoid sillies were promptly quashed when I was met by a lovely lady with a mug of tea. Guided to my modest yet modern and clean bright room I closed the door to be greeted with a lovely jacuzzi bath. Thank you trip advisor!

Right enough of that, wouldn't want you to get jealous now.......

Onto my tips to the top this month.......

Layer it Luxe

Following on from last time's 'power at the office' and 'leaning in' fashion - the three piece suit, no longer reserved for wedding dates or school proms, has been transformed from masculine to ladylike. With a waistcoat not in sight, the high waisted pencil skirt has been its replacement. If you want my favourite look right now and take it to the office, layer a skirt over your trousers. I am obsessed with my floaty long jumpers and long flowy vests and tunics over either my trusted tight-at-the-ankle-but-still-baggy tracky bums or tight cropped jeans. I team a thin soft knit or ribbed effect jumper over that which only comes to just below your bust line and voila, you have a layered luxe look, lush! 

For us ladies who might not want the tightness on our waists, this is a perfect style as you still create a wonderful figure without pulling everything in, squidge! The over sized dress, skirt or tunic will flow swimmingly at the knee, leaving your middle free and comfortable whilst the short jumper will pull you in under the breast line creating an inward illusion. The shortness of the jumper will also hang just straight from your cleavage making it appear that you have bigger boobies! Win win! Dress the look down with trackies or your trusted leggings or boyfriend jeans and flip flops or ballet pumps, even your cutesy converse trainers or glam up and go out by simply swapping out the under trouser with a tight jean, leather look cropped pant or even go crazy and 'get those pins out' that we talked about! Finish the relaxed yet elegant look off into the night fun with your trusted stilettos. Done and done.

Fresh- Fab Fringe Appeal

Fringing is having a love affair with fashion right now. From Junya to Gucci and all the way to the high street, jewellery with loads of strings, threads, chains all pieced together is making it one of the trendiest and riskiest looks, let alone a bit annoying and dangerous at times. I borrowed my sisters necklace, tie dyed white to blue to black v shaped thread fringe necklace and note to soup eaters....tuck into your top before you slurp! Also any washing hands or looking closely in the mirror over the basin with drips....wet jewellery, not cool.

Really? Rucksack Revenge! 

And now for something I personally can't and won't get my head around...well for you London commuters and bike riders, and school children or young students, I shall make the exception, however the rucksack is back! And seems to be increasing in popularity. I am a girls' girl and I will always have my trusted leather handbags as my carrier and on my bent arm or dangled across my back but to sit on both shoulders? Hell no! Comfy yes, practical sure, I ain't arguing but for fashion. Please!!!! 

Keep it for camping, hiking, outside 'trying to do what your boyfriend wants as a fun excursion' activity but not for the high street or going out! Gone is it being the mainstay of the gum chewing gabbling teens waiting for...quite frankly 'life to stop being so eeeeurrrg' and the school bus, it's a big thing right now. (Grrrr!) Will you be getting your sporty, smarter, dare I say it, even chic reinterpretation of the rucksack any time soon? Check out some 'merely acceptable ones' at Whistles, Jerome Dreyfuss and Aldo.

Something For The Shoe

For high we have a mule with a practical strap in season. Team with ankle socks and be outrageously cool this Spring.

For low, the sling back is back with a micro-heel perfect for the runaround mum or busy office hopper and sales rep. Team with cropped slim trousers, ankle flashing jeans or puff skater skirts.

Medium is our Spring staple seeing block heels with a cute thin ankle strap and peep toe. Wear with your floaty dresses, skirts and rolled up trousers for a relaxed, effortlessly yet comfy and cool look.

And shop of the week to pop in to...

Wallis. I thought I would never say that but their limited edition accessory range out now is delightful for this season. Bold, electric shades mixed with softer pastel pops of colour are a hit with their satchel style and over sized shopper bags and ankle middy heels with bold buckles and animal print designs. Hot and sassy meets safe and sophisticated but with an on trend and 'be looked at' edge.

So my beauties, until next time enjoy the lovely weather, get to the beach and try find some love rocks....I found this set in the concrete and these other ones on my wave watching and sand beneath my feet strolling.

Warm( at last not rain)-est swishes,
B xxx
London Frock Exchange

Perfect Pins

Hot Off the Press and Runway!

I know I know, considering my past life, I should be talking about all the wonderful frocks worn at this years Oscars right? Blah, well there were, as always some stunners but us ladies in the real world being yummy mummies and trying our god damn best to get everything done don't usually have an Oscar-esque party to wear those designer gowns to, get drunk and tell each other how beautiful and fabulous we are Rah Rah Lah. So instead I thought I would give you some wonderful new trends for this upcoming Spring so at least we can ourselves feel and look glamorous whilst the A-listers have people doing it for them! I know its getting pretty chilly again but let's try and bring some sunshine into our daily outfits instead!

I read a great article the other day about how we are dressing for the office. Gone are the days of a boring grey suit with a white shirt. Power dressing or 'leaning in' fashion is all the rage right now and the talk of the town for SS14. Muiccia Prada calls it the 'be seen, be heard' approach to dressing. Nothing to do with baring those pins or flashing some cleavage to get noticed in the work place but about turning people on to your capabilities.

Fashion today is seeing a slow but constant move away from minimalism- not to blow my own trumpet but you know I have always popped on more with my outfits, be it doubling up on a necklace or a whole arm of bracelets, than less! Women nowadays don't want to blend in to mediocrity. We are being more creative, more colourful, more exotic and daring- our clothes are making us visible and feel good.

At Prada, colourful fur patchwork coats and frocks peppered with couture beading and arty prints donned the catwalk. Dior saw models dangling in jagged crystal necklaces and pencil skirts and dresses printed with slogans such as 'Ultraviolet'. Think boisterous, blasting into the office ready to get your idea heard, your new venture put out there. Let me tell you, if I can do it, anyone can!!!

If I am working hard in the Frock Shack, do I really need to get all dressed up- I'm not meeting with anyone, I am just with the frocks and at my desk...this is the wrong approach to your working environment. Yes a day working from home every now and again, slob out, endless tea drink however even popping on a vibrant splash of lippy or zazzing up your trusted white shirt with a funky tie or a blinged up ridiculously over sized necklace, it will empower you; make you feel sexy and popular and cool on the outside, getting all that confidence flowing and energy that you can do anything and achieve more from within. Get bright, be bold, get powerful...get it done!

My must haves this month....

Wrap up warm with a blanket shawl. Over sized yet elegant, drape one over your shoulders or fling around your neck and keep fashionista hot as seen by Christopher Bailey for Burberry. In several versions- hooded cape, the statement shawl and 'the pulled off the sofa' blanket, grab the thickest throw you can find- hobo hugs at the ready!

Straight from all lovely and cosy, it's also time to get shorty! Yup, the short is back with us- do we thank Pharell Williams for this me thinks? With lots of different styles we have the surf shorts- as seen on the Jonathan Saunders catwalk- team with a funky bomber jacket and booty Nike sneakers. Then we have the 'skort'- wear it as you would a flirty mini with a luxe long sleeved tee or cute thin wool jumper. 

 

You know how I adore the loose fitting, drapesy and over sized look....well I am so happy that the culotte is back! They are brilliantly practical for the skirt refusenik! Off-duty with a jumper or totally hot on the tiles with a shirt and blazer, they are fun, different and daring. Really comfy too if you're having one of those 'want to be in my trackies' days but have to leave the house!

This bell jar skirt oozes old school charm and a kind of vintage sex appeal. Anything with big side pockets gets me excited! Tuck in a fine knit sweater and killer heels and drape yourself in chunky jewels for a fit-and-flare look. Divine.

One skirt with another flare is the 'pepcil'. A new take on the classic pencil skirt, get those pins out understatedly at the office and be your powerful 'leaning in' self with one of these babies. Its design is pencil meets a peplum hem, coining spring's must have. It's pencil shape at the top then finished off with a frilled bottom. Catching our eyes at the Antonio Marras and Balmain SS14 catwalks and now being brought to us on the high street by Asos and Skopes at House of Frasier, nab your cult skirt now!

 `

With all these looks in mind, don't forget to prepare your pins. I am a big fan of L'Oreal's Sublime Self-tanning Fresh Feel Gel. It doesn't smell anything like biscuits and leaves me with silky smooth legs and a light brown tan. Perfect practice to get our bodies all lush and beautiful for Spring and Summer!

Warmest Swishes ladies,

B xxx

London Frock Exchange

New Year, New Wardrobe...New You!

Happy New Year dearest Swishers! Well I think last year, wow it feels weird saying that, has been the best year of my life...so far! (Touch wood!) So much has changed me and happened, where do I begin?

I won't harp on about myself too much...we all know the blogs that are having a love affair with themselves don't we?! But I did want to share with you how amazing 2013 has been for me, Sarah and of course London Frock Exchange.

After moving back from Los Angeles, having quite a rough time of it, the start of the year was very blurry. What shall I do? Where shall I move my fashion career? Help! All that, 'golly-I-am-turning-30-soon-and-my-life-has-been-flipped-and-I'm-a-bit-lost,' sort of tizz wozz.

Then...then...London Frock Exchange! I remember meeting my dear Sarah for a lovely lunch and chin wag, my best friend and sister really, at a pub just off the M3. She mentioned re-launching the fabulous dress swap service and immediately sparks flew and I was excited about my life again.

Oh, oh how hard we worked! It was the most fantastic journey of my life. Because Sarah has babies...one of them being my beautiful god-daughter, I would travel up every week for a night or two and we would work 'til the wee hours, sipping on endless cups of minty tea and eating choccies. The giggling, the sweat and tears not to mention the emotional ride. Looking back it has given me so much strength and happiness. I am truly blessed to be a part of this wonderful company and cannot wait to show you all the fabulous treats, changes and add-ons that we will be launching this year and beyond.

I will, as always, take you on my journey of how we are doing it all and what with Sarah's third baby coming any minute, so excited, I cannot wait to tell you all about that too!

I gained a family, a wonderful man and a fantastic business last year and 2014...well, it can only get better - touch wood. Stay positive and, although it's January, and everyone is harping on about how 'We should really take a good hard look at ourselves'...So annoying(!)...Just remember that you are beautiful and as long as we work hard and be kind, listen and love, the rest falls into place. There are rocks that get thrown at us, I'm not saying everything is rosy all the time, not at all, that's for princesses and fairies, but they are only thrown at us to guide us and push us in a different direction, because we are actually probably going in the wrong one! Crikey that was deep, forgive me!

Right, after all that reflection, how about I give you a fun new task for January? We probably still have all our stocking pressies and gifts shoved in a Christmas bag that Auntie Sue put all the pressies in, tucked in a corner in the living room right? And our shoes are a bit all over the place as we couldn't decide which ones to wear to the New Year's party? Clothes still needing washing from before the office do...just haven't gotten round to it...am I right? 

So take a weekend to sort this... and soon! It seems too much but it really won't take that long. Turn the radio up, make some tea and empty the washing, file your shoes and hang up those clothes like they were last year (re-read my wardrobe guide ladies!). Be calm, take it slow. It will make you feel like you have really started this year with a clean, fresh approach. A bang! 

Do things that you've never done this year. Plan a wild trip or call someone you haven't spoken to in a while. Wear something you are scared of! It will bring out a new shiny and confident you! There'll also be some frocks you don't want, naturally, so send them in and we'll get you some beautiful new frocks for the Spring and Summer!

CHECK OUT OUR NEW IN WHISTLES FLOWY FLYING DOVE FROCK!

I'll be back soon lovely ladies!

Warmest 2014 Swishes,

B xx

bethany@londonfrockexchange.com

London Frock Exchange

For Daddy, Sarah and My Charlie. Thank you for bringing my joy back. I love you x

Trips, Treats and Tra-La-La's!

How will you celebrate with friends and family at this special time? When I lived in LA I'd hold an 'Ugly Sweater' party every year and organise fun games to play. It's such a festive investment - buy one either cheap and cheerful off the high street, or really splurge on one worth a bit more so you can bring it out every year! I found these gems:

Santa Claus Classic - think Coca-Cola, holidays are comin' Father Christmas! £270 by Markus Lupfer.

French Connection Robin Jumper - sequined and sassy, a steal at £69.

J-Crew Embellished Llama - Intarsia Wooly only £100.

Back with sleigh-bells on is the wonderful Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair. They've returned with Christmas flare at the Old Spitalfield's Market. Featuring fabulous fashion delights as well as accessories, homeware, menswear, textiles, collectables, winter warmers, stocking fillers and an electric seasonal vibe. Popping up at various hot spots on certain weekends - check out the website for more details of different locations and dates. Free entry too!

If you are ever on the Isle of Wight, you must visit this amazingly scrummy place- Well Bread Artisan Bakery and Cafe. 53-54 Cowes High Street. Walking in for just a quick latte and some fashion mag flicking, I stumbled upon this free spirited kitchen. It was such an inspiration because it was very old school - two large long tables sandwiched between beautiful vintage church pews. The yummy huge fat cakes, buns and treats laid temptingly out all around. A 'help yourself' cafe, I made my steaming drink (hug in a mug!) and soaked up the delicious aromas and friendly family feel atmosphere. Huge blocks of butter on the table with inviting bowls of lush home-made jam.  Yum! A secret island find well worth a visit!

Wants And Wishes

Loving Tiffany & Co's new Atlas Jewellery Collection. It has the blend of new and classic, which oozes style and class.

Coat watch - obsessed with the Rebecca Taylor Wool Coat. A luxe winter jacket, shaped in a cocoon keeping it casual and loose but stylish. It has an oversized shearling collar with a neutral beige/ brown body. To finish with a sexy side, the arms are leather, padded stitching to create a quilted effect. Wear with a leather micro mini shirt, little cowboy booties and a cosy knit jumper. Add a Christmassy edge and keep the festive cheer merry and light with silly bauble earrings and dashing through the snow, Rudolph red lippy!  Tra-la-fa-dee-dah!!!

Twinkle Toes - cosy up by the fire with Ugg's glam new slipper range. Fun, bright colours, warm wooly and wonderful.

Stocking stuffers - for little ones, Little-Pip's have these cutesy bow hair clips. 50% off too -7 for a snip at £12.50! 

Have a peak at Handpicked Collection. An award winning gift shop, they specialise in a unique variety of well-priced, stylish and high quality pressies. I got my Daddy a great stocking filler this year -  a Corkcicle! Just pop in the freezer and then when having a picnic or even a dinner party, put it in the bottle and it acts as a cork whilst keeping the wine chilled! No more to-ing and fro-ing to the fridge and back! 

Sales From Santa

65% off Fenn Wright Manson - chic modern feel fashion for the sophisticated trendy woman. Check out our stunning collection from the designer in stock!

65% off Scott & Scott and London Cashmere, 70% off CK, Original Penguin and Fiona Paxton Contemporary jewellery!

Shearling Boutique also have a sneaky snowy sale with up to 60% off of their collection of luxury winter coats.

Layer up with sexy underwear too! Figleaves are pushing the seductive boundaries this season with French courtesan lingerie, robes and pyjamas.

Writing my Christmas List

Now it wouldn't be Christmas now would it without a few of my favourite things. So here's a few of my list of goodies and ideas to have a cracking Christmas. For above all, it's about family, friends, sharing, giving, celebrating and loving!

• A silly must have onesy- Primark have the whole zoo it seems this year!
• My trusted glitter and sparkle make-up and red red lipstick!
• 'Can't walk in them but they're AMAZING' new Carvella heels!

• Ugly sweater party! Get those invites out now!
• Christmas carols and cheesey tunes!
• Classic Christmas telly!
• Nuts, nuts, satsumas and a chocolate orange!
• Getting all excited about picking up my best gal from the airport! LA girlfriend here for a truly British Webb family Christmas, woop!

• Orange and clove making with Christmassy ribbon to hang above the AGA, delish!
• And of course-lots of mulled wine, laughing and loving!

Christmas 'Bethlehem' Swishes,

HO HO HO!

bethany@londonfrockexchange.com

London Frock Exchange

Wish and Tell - A Glittery Christmas Spell

With your inbox piling full with invitations galore, the party season is picking up so get your favourite Christmas frock now! Check out these gems of ours! Festive, fun and frocking fabulous! 

Reiss Red Rah-Rah Ruffle Frock

Lace 1920s Style Cocktail Frock

Biba Fever Cocktail Frock

After what feels like months and months away, I am finally back in my beloved Frock Shack after all the wonderful shows and fairs with Rhodes To Heaven. Golly how I've missed my dresses! Lots of 'new in' frocks to pop up soon so watch this space! Nab your Christmas party frock in time to rock this December!

Keep sparkly and twinkling with bold electric embellishments and add a hint of glitter in your eye make-up for that total knock out shine! You'll be the star at the top of the tree this year!

Now, I think I might have had a bit of a gift giddiness come over me recently! What with being at all the shows with lots of lovely things to see and buy, the coffee runs turned into me scooping up all my Christmas pressies! I, of course did buy a few naughty treats for myself! One being this beautiful skirt! I mentioned the brand in my last blog but check this bad boy out! I wanted to do a moody dark and dramatic look here! Not sure if I pulled it off this time, but oh well! Got my cheeky hair extensions in for this shoot! 

Moloh Silk Skirt- From £600

 It's bold, graceful, cut to wear in lots of different exotic ways and outrageously unique and exquisite! Team with a classic white shirt tucked in or an off-the-shoulder knit jumper for elegance at its best! This is definitely my Christmas day outfit!

Last year I wore a Topshop classic, which seems to be back on the shelves this year - tight, dark green, long sleeved pencil dress worn with simple pointed black court shoes or booties and black tights. The stretch fabric glistens in the light with a touch of gold sparkle. Not a dress to eat all the mince pies in though!

More Christmassy thoughts from me soon...

Warmest Festive Swishes,
B
London Frock Exchange
bethany@londonfrockexchange.com