Leather Love // Haul

LOOK HOW BEAUTIFUL MY NEW BOOTS ARE!

My, oh my... I think I'm in love. Technically I'm not allowed to wear them yet, them being a Christmas prezzie from my Mother dearest, but that doesn't mean I haven't done a few cheeky outfit posts featuring the babies!

I initially had my sights set on this similar pair from Urban Outfitters, but at £100 they're a little steep in my eyes. When I found this pair though, from ARK at £39.99, I fell in love. I even prefer them to the Urban Outfitters pair!

So now I'm just waiting on Christmas day so I can grace the streets with these beautiful soles. 

They're sold out online and this was the last pair in the Manchester store. I feel like one hell of a lucky lady! But you can find similar styles here and here.

Ria xo

Boohoo // Wishlist

The leaves are bare and the beginnings of icy fingers can be seen creeping up the window panes in the early morning mist. Until now I've managed to adapt my fave summer outfit's for the chill with tee's underneath, tights and fluffy socks. But alas, no more. It's about time I do some seasonal shopping! 

Here's my top picks from boohoo.com.

Kia Oversized Fleece Lined Waterfall Jacket // Shelley Tartan PU Check Peplum // Lily Rose Printed Skater Skirt // Kelly Metallic Strappy Maxi Dress // Lulu Monochrome Turn Back Sleeve Dress // Sarah Velvet High Waist Disco Pants // Fiona Spot Oversized Blouse // Hannah Chelsea Ankle Boot // Serena Metallic Long Sleeved Swing Dress // Katie Crop Fluffy Jumper // Elizabeth Rose Print Midi Dress // Anya Suede Insert Lace Up Ankle Boot // Clarissa Double Collar Shirt // Rose Magenta Tartan Mini Skirt

Okay, okay... So it's not the cosiest collection I've seen, but most of the dresses have long sleeves, and the mini skirts can be layered up with thick tights and wooly sweaters! The velvet disco pants are adorable, and the silver dress is just divine, and perfect for Nick's graduation ceremony coming up in December! Plus it will look gorgeous under a fluffy black sweater with leather boots. 

Ria xo

Urban Outfitters // Wishlist

Tartan Cardigan // Atlas Face Watch //  Blue Denim Mom Jeans // Striped Tee // Floral Sweater // Spinner Chain // Black Lace Up Boots // Yellow Houndstooth Trousers // Bee Print Dress // Leather Detail Chain // Black Denim Mom Jeans // Kaleidoscope Effect Dress

Introducing... Miss October!

Here's a little something new for you guys... A brand new monthly feature in which I interview my fave blogger from the month gone by. And where exactly has this month gone?! Between Uni, job hunting and fixing up the new flat it seems like all the spare time I once had has been eaten up by menial tasks, yawnn! I did manage to get on the blower however, and have this chat so I can help you lovely lot learn a little more about the gorgeous Amy from, Hello Amy.

Hey Girl! So your in Cardiff right? The land of Torchwood and Charlotte Church - How's your month been?

I've been in bed most this month with the worst cold and cough ever, watching back to back How I Met Your Mother to cheer me up, so I've been a little MIA on the blogging front! 

Your preaching to the choir there, seriously, I've barely had a spare hour to myself! Anyway, tell me a little about Wales, what's your favourite store in Cardiff?

It'd have to be Topshop - sorry to be generic here - but I love the place! Not only because I used to work there (laughs), but it is the first high street brand to be a part of London Fashion Week. They stock all the key trends without the hefty designer price tags. I have a fur gilet from them and at the moment its my absolute favourite piece. I am obsessed with winter!

Definitely! Layering up, chowing down on hot pots and Christmas, you can't beat it. 

Ah Christmas! I love, love Christmas. I can remember being a kid, we always used to spend it with every single member of the family, all crammed in to my nan and gramp's house, scoffing our faces and singing on the karaoke machine! 

(laughs) Brilliant! Its coming around again soon, anything special you've got your eye on?

I do have my eye on a Mulberry at the moment so we shall see! This is going to sound really bad but everything 'splurgy' I own have been gifts, you know, Christmas, birthdays or graduation. I was quite young when I got into fashion. For Christmases I wouldn't want toys or gadgets. it'd always be money for clothes!

So I'm guessing you were one of those little girls who played dress up in Mummy's clothes?

No not at all actually! (Laughs) I grew up with an older brother and we were always quite close so I was a massive tomboy, running about in my Adidas popper joggers...

God bless the 90's ey! (Laughing).

That's not even the worst of it! I went through this gothic stage at one point, I used to wear stripy knee high socks with trainers covered in multicoloured stars. There's no photo evidence thank god!

That's one hell of a shame, and I always thought you were super trendy, Amy! I think we've probably all been there though, so if you've not always been this trendy lady you are today, what's the earliest memory you can think of where fashion was your main focus?

God... I can remember getting money for my birthday one year off all my family and them taking me on a shopping trip to Cardiff to spend it all. I was so excited that I couldn't sleep the night before and in the car journey there they were all making fun of me! I spent it all within a matter of minutes! (Laughs) I used to think I was the bees knees walking around in my Diesel jeans and Hooch tops. I bought a Playboy top that day...

So I'd say you've deffo honed it in a little! How do you think your style has progressed since beginning Hello Amy?

Well I'm quite a shy person but I always used to wear what I wanted. I think blogging has helped me become more confident in what I wear. I mean, I love to watch the Fashion Week shows and read blogs to check up on 'what's in', and yeah if I see a pair of leather trousers on the catwalk I'll just have to have them, I love leather! But I prefer to focus on what I want to wear and what I think looks good on me.

Totally, there's no sense in wearing styles or colours which don't suit you, I agree with that 100%! Lets talk London Fashion Week, what were your favourite looks?

I saw a photo on someone's blog, I don't remember which  but she was wearing these leather slouch, formal looking joggers with a cute cream, cable knit, fluffy jumper and a fedora. I don't think she had much make up on, bar red lips. So simple but she looked amazing. I loved the femininity of Zeynep Tosun's collection too, all flowy, neutral tones, amazing. And Alexander Wang. He's my all time favourite. I love all the boyish and oversized shapes, mixed with feminine pieces, I want everything from the AW13 collection. 

If only! What do you think about the stick thin models, do you agree that to be stylish you have to be slim?

Hell no! I have a friend who is a size sixteen and she is the most stylish person I know! The fashion industry is so diverse I don't think we can stereotype. If five people put on the same jeans and the same top every one of them could make that outfit completely their own. Style is individual - you can make it suit whatever body shape you are, I love that about the industry.

I adore your confidence! You strike me as being so lovely and down to earth. Do you have a major style idol in your life?

Yeah, Yasmin, she's a DJ, singer, songwriter slash all round amazing woman! I am obsessed with this girl. Her style is amazing and she can rock anything, she is just so confident and amazingly beautiful... slight hint of jealousy! I bought a ticket for T4 on the Beach two years ago just to see her. So worth it. 

She has a gorgeous voice too right!? Okay, give me five people through history you'd love to meet?

Erm... Kanye West, Tom Hanks, Sarah Jessica Parker... but only as Carrie Bradshaw, Lauryn Hill and William Shakespeare. 

Kanye West and Shapespeare, (laughs) that'd be an interesting pair! Paint me a picture, what would you do?

We'd have a nice sit down meal and a chat. We'd all have some pasta, honestly I'm obsessed. It's my all time favourite food. I wouldn't be cooking though, I can not cook at all. My boyfriend doesn't even trust me cooking toast...

Get Tom in the kitchen! I reckon he knows his way round a lasagne. I'm not sure Shakespeare would make it but I'm sure he'd be there in spirit!

(laughs) Maybe you could fill his spot?

Yes! We should totally do that sometime! I'll get to arranging it, Carries always up for luncheons! It's been so lovely speaking to you Amy, glad your feeling better - time to get back to blogging! I can't wait for our dinner date, thanks for taking the time for this chat, Bye! 

Bank Bags!

I've never been such a huge fan of Bank but just recently I am loving their range! The clothing isn't always 'me' but their shoes and handbags are awesome. I picked up these little beauties as a loan day treat for myself...

I dig the backpack best. The textured outside is so diffrent from anything else I've seen recently, it's such an awesome look! I can't wait to get all my books packet and set off for Uni on Monday!

Nerds are cool.

Ria <3

July Haul

My first haul post!

1 - Black Shirt with Gold Buttons, Vintage // 2 - Brown Suede High Waisted Shorts, Vintage // 3 - Blue Floral Bralet, Topshop // 4 - Burgundy and Black Checked Shirt, H&M // 5 - Sheer Floral Body, Topshop // 6 - Tartan Mini Skirt, Vintage // 7 - Bird Print Sheer Blouse, Ebay // 8 - Floral Playsuit, Boohoo.com // 9 - Black Shift Dress with Leopard Print Collar, Boohoo.com // 10 - Cream Brogues with Pink Ribbon Lace, Clarks // 11- Gold Regency Watch Ring, Vintage // 12- JuJu Jelly Sandals, Topshop // 13- Gold Pierre Cardin Watch, Vintage // 14 - Disney Princess Rucksack, Afflecks Palace // 15 - Gold and Opal Cocktail Ring, Missguided.co.uk // 16 - Chunky Heel Suedette Cut-out Boots, Boohoo.com // 17 - Gothic Style Gold Cross Chain with Black Stone, Missguided.co.uk // 18 - Black Leather Buckle Shoes, New Look.

Not Pictured:
Black Bowler Hat, H&M // Grey Chiffon Dress, H&M // Card print Tights, Missguided.co.uk // Floral Suspended Tights, Boohoo.com // Sock Tights, Boohoo.com // White Satchel Bag, ASDA

Ria <3

10 Summer Buys you'll want to Keep Hold of!

It comes to that time of the year again when we all must review our wardrobes. The sun goes into hiding and out of that stacker box in the spare room spring the jumpers, cardigans and wooly tights that I doubt any of you missed. If your a 'normal' person and tend not to develop romantic attachments to items of clothing you may have a clear out, although this is pretty unheard of in our house... but if you can bring yourself to, here's my list of what not to whizz.

1 Creepers.

These little beauties have been a staple in the fashion victims wardrobe for the past few years now, and they're set to stick about. When I first saw them their terrifyingly mannish look made me want to hold my cutesy brogues and ballet flats close! Y'know, just in case they somehow got infected by the ugly... but compared to this seasons 'in' footwear, creepers are the supermodels of the crop. Chunky flats are big for Autumn, the uglier the better apparently!

2 Chiffon Sun Dresses.

Now chiffon and cold are not two things in particular support of one another. I get that you all want to wrap up under layers and layers of wooly goodness but hear me out... It's all about mixing mediums for AW13 which means chiffon dresses can work in the winter! Try layering them under a baggy jumper belted at the waist under a chunky knit cardi, or even over a long sleeved shirt with tights. 

3 Mini Skirts!

I promise you I'm not here promoting pneumonia (although I cannot be held responsible if you do catch it... sorry!) 
Mini skirts featured highly on the AW13 catwalks, the shorter the better it seemed. Though the new, below the knee length wins points for warmth, try wearing your mini's with sheer tights and knee length socks. You can always whack on a fur coat if the shivers wont budge!

4 Pastel Shades.

Pastel shades are for summer, right? Not any more! What better way to keep the winter blues away than brightening up your wardrobe? And the best way to do that is head to toe in pink... no, seriously. This time pink is the new black.
Make sure you stay clear of pastel floral prints.... they're just a hint too summery. You don't want to evoke a nostalgic depression in everyone within a five mile radius, after all. For floral prints pick up some jewel shades instead.

5 Tennis Whites!

Style gives a nod to the classics this season and what better way to do that than dressed in white? It might be a bit 90's boyband for you (westlife... eurgh), but it's camouflage qualities are top notch... just kidding! It may take a brave woman to tackle this trend but if you've got the guts, amen to you sista!
Don't quite know how to work it? Try pairing with black. It's the coolest colour combo known to man and monochrome isn't going anywhere just yet.

6 Leather.

(Or pleather... don't worry, I won't tell!)
Leather was BIG for SS13 which meant a lot of sweaty bums for the fashionistas, but alas! Now comes a new era. One where the cold winds blow and the summer sun no longer shines. Typically this is something to be sad about but look on the bright side, your bums will sweat no more!
This seasons rebellious take on fashion means all things leather have earned their spot on your shelves, the more the better! Try pairing with plaid and studs for a truly grungy look.

7 The Blazer.

Casual but smart, strong yet feminine. The blazer over the past few years has secured itself as a staple piece in every girls wardrobe and this season it's set to be even bigger than ever. Fashion has a more masculine face this Autumn with boxy cuts and strong two piece sets.
Try teaming yours with tailored trousers for an on trend look, or go one step further and pick up a tweed blazer. Seriously cool.

8 Circle Skirts

This type of full skirt is flattering for all body types and is a definite favourite of mine! High waisted and hip skimming, the loose fit hides a multitude of sins which is just perfect for those extra pounds we'll all no doubt pick up at Christmas!
Summer was all about the mini version and whilst above the knee styles will still work for you, they don't offer the same cosy comfort as the new seasons knee length styles. Think Greece Lightening and poodle skirts! It's all about romance with this cut, the bigger the better!

9 Leopard Print

Leopard print is another big trend for AW13 so don't hide away those feisty garments just yet! Black is the traditional matchy shade but why not mix things up and throw in some pale pink or mint shades? Be brave!
Snake print is set to be HUGE next season too, only don't mix the two prints... unless you want to channel a badly dressed Cruella De Vil!

10 Gothic

Summers gothic glam has gone on overload for the colder season. Keep hold of all those grungy goodies and make sure those smoky eyes are at the ready for this look. To freshen things up why not try and add a little romance into the punky, sultry pie?
Pink is the go to colour this coming season. Why not try a girly goth look instead of going in hard? Be careful not to wind up looking like an early Avril Lavigne though, I love the girl but boy did she need a stylist! Victorian esque jewellery will vamp things up nicely.

Ria <3

I feel like I'm in Hogwarts.

I completely broke my camera! Or my little sister did... but she's so cute you just can't get angry at her. So now I'm cameraless and with nobody to blame. Boooo! If you like this look I'd love you a million if you could head over to lookbook.nu and hype it up... you lovely, lovely folks!

Bodysuit - Topshop // Skater skirt - Made by yours truly! // Net socks - DIY // Jelly sandals - JuJu @ Topshop // Vintage pearl earrings - Nana's jewellery box! // Pink cameo pendant - Accessorize // Vintage watch - Pierre Cardin, Nana's jewellery box! // Flower ring - Primark // Black leather tote - French Connection // Lip tint - Collection 2000 colour pout in 'Pucker'.

Firstly I'm gonna say a big, loud THANK YOU, to my wonderful Granny Pauline who so kindly lets me raid her jewellery box and wardrobe regularly for old school goodies. A gem of a woman that one!

I'v been down south all this week visiting my boyfriends Dad and the weather has been gorgeous, you might be able to tell from them dodgy tan lines! The picture was taken in Chichester Cathedral and the smudgy mess on my hand is a temporary souvenir from my trip up Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth which was pretty cool tbh, you can see way out over the sea and there's a load of old navy buildings and canons dotted around, interesting stuff!

I absolutely love this body suit. It's a bit of a stretch over my boobs which is really saying something but I reckon with a little dedication I can find the right bra for it. The jewel colours are so rich against the pale purpley grey which is something I love... I can't wait for autumn to come along so I can team it with my black high waist skinnies! Summer seriously isn't my season.

I am also addicted to my jelly shoes at the minute, they are so comfortable! I usually hate wearing sandals 'cause I'm wierd and hate toes but these cover up in all the right places. Plus I find it real funny that you wind up with condensation in the toe... easily amused. But more to the point, silver pretty much goes with anything and I'v gotten so much wear out of them already. My favourite summer buy!

Ria <3