Black
Black is clearly where it's at and I can firmly report that it's the only colour I want to be wearing.
Maybe it's the fact that I've finally returned home after a month of traveling in warmer climates, but I'm being forced to reconcile with the gods of Autumn. Yesterday I wore closed-toed shoes for the first time in months and, as a result, I shed a single solitary tear.
I want to wear black leather in abundance. I want to wear it draped and tied into bows. I want it to swoosh around my feet as I walk. I'm dreaming about black in all it's variations. I want to wear it on it's own and maybe, just maybe, paired with cream.
That's it! Of course, for Halloween I will dress as an Oreo.
Jelly Fish
Clearly I'm fighting the arrival of autumn.
It has been raining non-stop today and it's freezing cold outside. But, I just got back from California where it was absolutely boiling and tomorrow I'm headed off to the south of France for a long weekend. By keeping myself in warm climates I'm warding off the arrival of knitwear and closed toed shoes.
Maybe this is why I've been so drawn to jelly fish lately?
It's a strange thing to be fascinated by but I realized recently that one of my Pinterest boards had become completed inundated by the transparent little monsters. I love the variation in their colour from creamy white to icy blue and bright fluorescents. They look like little aliens floating through space. It's hard to imagine they can grow larger than the size of a person. How cool and creepy would it be to swim next to one? For now, I think I'll just admire them from afar.
// FLUFFY SWEATERS & MICHAEL KORS //
Ah, I am one of those people that dreads the transition into autumn. There is nothing I love more than bare skin and the feeling of sunshine. But I'm using my street style photos from London Fashion Week to urge me into that snuggly winter feeling.
This photo, in particular, is one that I keep coming back to. It's a look I'd like to replicate right down to the bracelet that has been (purposely?) placed on top of the knit. I love the light fluffy jumper with its faded blue colour and ribbed detailing. The nude clutch with nails that match and layers of gold jewelry are perfection.
Yes, I'm willing to admit it: if I had this outfit in my wardrobe I would welcome in the chillier temperatures that are descending.
Pink & Black
Lately I've been gravitating towards all black outfits. Maybe it's the gradual transition out of summer? Anyway, I threw in a bit of contrast with this nude pink leather jacket and a leopard print clutch. This is my version of transitional dressing.
Whenever I'm in the south of France one of my favourite places to go is Saint Paul de Vence. It's a tiny medieval town nestled on the top of a hill. It's filled with tons of art galleries and a selection of little restaurants. Each time we visit, we have lunch at an outdoor terrace and try to celebrity spot from the tourists walking by.
Lately I've been gravitating towards all black outfits. Maybe it's the gradual transition out of summer? Anyway, I threw in a bit of contrast with this nude pink leather jacket and a leopard print clutch. This is my version of transitional dressing.
Wearing: Charlie May jacket, Zara t-shirt and skirt, Next shoes and Lilifi bag.
// CHANEL //
While we're on the topic of Chanel let's delve into the wonder that was the Spring 2014 show.
Uncle Karl taught us a few key things about next season. First, don't leave the house unless you've got at least two bags on. You can opt for a backpack (attach multiple carabiners and ropes) paired with a mini cross-body for your phone. Or, grab two little quilted numbers firmly by your hand for a multicoloured look. Wrap a barely-there belt around the outside of your jacket. Continue to show off your midriff (start on the crunches now) and layer on lots of chunky plastic bangles. Wear a pair of ribbed socks with your heels. Rock a slew of rainbow colours in one look. Pair your lace with your tweed. And, most importantly, tie your jumper around your waist back-to-front - a literal twist on the iconic '90s look.
SANDRA HAGELSTAM
When I spotted Sandra at London Fashion Week I was instantly drawn to her classic black and white outfit.
Only, there was something fresh and unexpected about it. Maybe it's the fluffy jumper or her houndstooth skirt. More likely than that though, it's her drool worthy draw-droppingly perfect tiny Chanel boy bag that pushes her outfit over into the realms of perfection.
One for me too please.
LIGHT PINK
I don't know how you feel but I'm tired of hearing about pink.
If one more person mentions a pink coat I swear I'm going to punch them in the face. It wasn't until after I had left the flat this morning that I looked down and realized I was wearing that god-awful shade that everyone won't stop talking about. Oops. I guess I've subconsciously fallen for the trend.
For some reason I'm drawn to derelict backgrounds for photos. I love the mishmash of blues on these shabby doors. The paint is peeling and grey dirty is creeping in. Never mind, I much prefer that to the pristine.
I'm currently hanging out in the south of France soaking in the fleeting summer. Refusing to wear jeans or put on socks, the hot weather is a welcome break for the icy weather that was creeping in back home. Casual basics is my look du jour and I'm especially loving this new jumper I snatched up from River Island when I was in London. It's slightly asymmetric with exposed seams and super long arms - perfect for helping me transition to autumn.
Wearing: River Island jumper, H&M shorts, Next shoes, Rayban sunglasses.
// DRIES VAN NOTEN //
Forget about pretty pastel florals for spring 2014 because Dries Van Noten has singlehandedly turned the popular print on its head. His version are dark and moody, set against a grey or black background they are rich and opulent in nature. These look much more inviting to me than any ditsy Liberty print ever has.
Van Noten's collection was a mishmash of cultures. There were Asian inspired prints next to rich embroidered tapestries that looked as though they came straight from a Middle Eastern cavern. Rich shiny gold was paired with plain calico and linen. It was as if a peasant child had accidentally stumbled upon the trunk of a rich traveling sheik and was playing dress up.
I loved that plain white t-shirts and marl grey sweatshirts were included in the otherwise rich collection. Favourite pieces include the black silk bomber covered in large dark tulips and the sleeveless top with shells lining the neck.
A blonde Karlie Kloss
Karlie Kloss has always ranked high in my books. She has nailed the wholesome all-American girl thing. She looks down-to-earth and, lets be honest, the girl is achingly beautiful. I've always thought she was a bit square though. She doesn't pack much of an edge.
That was until I saw this editorial from Interview's October issue. Karlie looks fierce. The choppy bleached blonde hair has totally transformed her. She looks edgy and cool. Her dark eyebrows are giving Cara a run for her money. I love the slightly disheveled styling and that she's goofing around with kids in a skate park.
The best bit though is undoubtedly the athletic socks with slip on sandals. An early nod to Prada S/S 14?
// ISABEL MARANT x H&M //
Of course it was bound to happen eventually, part of the Isabel Marant x H&M look book has leaked online. This has been one of the most highly anticipated brand collaborations to date, given that Ms Marant has created such an enviable and sought after aesthetic.
My two favourite looks from the collection are pictured below. I love the boxy little embellished jacket paired with an easy white t-shirt. To me this look, when worn with ultra skinny cropped jeans, embodies the Marant girl down to a T. I've got equal amounts of love for the mannish double breasted grey coat - sharp tailoring at it's finest, I'd say.
One notable thing about the collection: there are no hidden wedge sneakers to speak of. Fair enough though, seeing as just about every shoe company around has already done a knock-off version.
// KATASTROPHIC //
Melissa Jenkins is based in Austin, Texas. She founded her Etsy shop, Katastrophic, back in 2009 selling cute organic underwear. While those have been hugely successful she has recently chosen to change direction with the launch of her Red Deer line.
This four piece hand-made collection features two dresses, a top and a double breasted glow-in-the-dark coat. The pieces are moody and dreamy. Utilitarian in nature, they are designed to last for more than just one season. Melissa has a clear vision for her brand. She takes issue with the sad reality of consumerism and exploitation that are so rife in the west and hopes to establish her brand as something sustainable and eco-friendly.
Melissa is the model in the photos below - how piercing are her bleached blonde eyebrows and pale skin?
The Officer's Jacket is at the top of my autumn wish-list. The contrasting navy shoulders and arms offset the printed body perfectly. This is such a unique take on the classic peacoat.
// WELCOME TO VERSION 3.0 //
So, here it is: the new and improved Style Crusader. I hope you like it. It's designed to be a bit more dynamic than the last site with content clearly divided into eight key categories. You'll find new topics like inspiration and details plus old favourites like street style and travel. If you're looking for something from an old post you can find it in the legacy category or search for it.
I hope you like the changes! Any thoughts? Just let me know.
// MARIE MYRHOJ JENSEN //
This morning, I spotted Marie around Somerset House. I absolutely love her outfit – the simple little printed dress, the leather jacket draped over her shoulders, the socks with her masculine shoes. I adore her bright red lips and her fair skin is making me detest my tan. Most of all though, her look won me over because of the cheeky little way she’s got her hat twisted to the side. It should be a bit cliche but somehow she totally pulls it off.
// TIED UP HAIR //
This London Fashion Week I’ve really been drawn to the small details in people’s looks, both on and off the catwalk. This girl’s hair is so interesting. I love the blunt fringe that wraps all the way over to her ears and the way it has been cut so short at the back. It’s almost graphic. Also, her little bun on top and the long ponytail at the back is genius. While her structured white top is incredible it really was her hair that drew me to her – it makes such a strong statement.
// NOLITAN //
I took a taxi from JFK to Manhattan, all the while fearing for my life, and landed in the lobby of the über cool Nolitan Hotel. After checking in, I was asked if I’d like a glass of champagne – to which I replied, ‘YESSSS.’ So there I was: squeezed onto the balcony of my hotel room overlooking a busy street, sipping on champagne and taking in the deafening (but glorious) sound of New York City traffic.
Perfection.
I crawled onto the bed after exploring the wonders of the balcony and discovered that the sheets were the most indescribably soft things my skin had ever encountered. Honestly, they were amazing. I think the fibers were laced with cotton candy. That night we ventured around the corner to a little restaurant called Bread, as recommended by the hotel staff. It was delicious. Granted, my husband’s eggplant parmigiana was way better than the meatballs I had… but still, it was well worth the visit.
The next morning we were feeling ambitious and full of life so decided to head down the street to 24 Hour Fitness where we engaged in a little early morning workout. On the way back, we stopped by The Butcher’s Daughter for a little detoxifying juice. Much to my shock the little baby set me back $10 but, I’ve got to say, it was the best juice of my life.
Afterwards we headed out in search of food. I was craving eggs royale and after much wandering we finally stumbled into Cafe Select. It wasn’t until we had already been seated that we noticed the bircher muesli on the menu and the Zurich themed posters on the wall… how, on earth, had we managed to come all the way from Switzerland and wind up in a Swiss themed restaurant on our first morning in New York? Oh well. The food was good and we enjoyed hissing over the hilarious exaggerated accents of the people at the table next to us. Post-breakfast we borrowed some bikes from the hotel (yes, they lend out bikes – so good) and we headed towards the Brooklyn Bridge. Through Chinatown we went and I promise I only screeched from fear of death once. It was an incredibly long and sweaty endeavour but the ride was, without a doubt, my favourite part of the entire trip to the city. If you’re ever in town, man-up and ride a bike around. Just beware of impending traffic. There is obviously a lot of it.
We spent the rest of the afternoon wandering around Little Italy. I’ve only been to New York a handful of times but I’ve got to say this was my favourite area of the city I’ve ever stayed in. There are loads of awesome shops and restaurants to explore. The best part is that it doesn’t feel too touristy at all and amazingly it isn’t that crowded. Also, if you happen to be in the area and need a sugar rush you can always pop into the Little Cupcake Bakeshop on Prince Street for some yummy treats…
