My September Wishlist 2016

Aloha, peaches! So, if you know me you know that I am a total autumnal gal. I absolutely love it! Last year I did a whole post dedicated to why I love Autumn which you can view here<. It is to date one of my most favourite blog posts because it just sums up this season for me. Nothing beats wrapping up all cozy walking over fallen crunchy leaves whilst sipping a hazelnut hot chocolate or pumpkin spice latte. If that doesn't give you warm fuzzy feelings then I don't know what will! With the new season comes new releases (and some older pieces!) from your favourite brands. Bring on the jewel-tones, faux fur and coats! My fave! Here is a list of all the things I am lusting after this month...

Dusty Jacket

Bright & Beautiful via Collectif

£54

I actually have the matching lace up skirt to this so naturally I need the complete set, amiright?

The Secret Sadie 3 in 1 Bag by Glamour Bunny Review

Aloha! As a mumma to a young baby I find that I never get a chance to carry a nice handbag myself because I usually just chuck everything in the baby changing bag. So, when a beautiful pink Glamour Bunny box arrived on my door step with one of their amazing 3 in 1 handbags I was over the moon to get some new sassy anti-mum arm-candy. Now, I know what you're thinking - woah woah woah, did she say 3 IN 1 HANDBAG!? Yes, indeed I did. It is basically witchcraft (and some very amazing savvy design work).

Glamour Bunny is one of my favourite brands. It a UK based vintage-inspired clothing & accessory company. They make the ultimate bombshell dresses with genius design and shapes to flatter any body type. The quality is just superb and customer service is amazing which is something that is really important to me.

OOTD: Safari Sass (ft. Hell Bunny)

 
Aloha lovelies! We have been having some absolutely gorgeous weather here in the UK recently so I have been trawling my wardrobe for all of my crop tops and shorts to make the most of this boiling hot (by UK standards!) sunshine! If you have been following me on social media for a while you will know that I am a massive fan of matching two pieces. I just think they are so versatile and can be mixed up and changed whenever you want something a little different. When Hell Bunny first released their SS16 collection I was so impressed by the variety of new unique prints. The one that stood out to me the most was definitely the Safari print. I had never seen anything like it before which can be a rarity in the reproduction market. It is the perfect balance between novelty and chic. The print feels a lot more authentic than a lot of other 'different' prints I have seen before as they have kept the colour scheme pretty neutral and almost 'understated' which I love.

Turbans & Trousers (ft. Voodoo Vixen)

 

Aloha, honeys! I hope you're all doing well and enjoying the sunshine (if you're getting any!)! Today's post is about stepping out of my comfort zone... I have mentioned in previous posts that I feel my legs are my best feature so naturally the thought of wearing anything baggy that covers them sends shudders down my spine! I have always opted for a tight fitted leg as I just feel that's what suited my figure best however I do love the look of palazzo extreme-wide-leg trousers. I just feel they give off SUCH chic vibes and are just the epitome of class. I decided to break free from my usual-skinny-leg-chains and tried something that I usually run away from when I fell in love with the Nicola trousers from Voodoo Vixen (Use code ATOMIC20 for 20% off!). I loved how floaty they looked and the print was the perfect balance to make them look a little more interesting.

When they arrived I was NOT disappointed - they are even better in real life. As a mumma to a 7 month old, comfort is key and the Nicola trousers have an ELASTICATED WAIST. My prayers have been answered! A stretchy waist that is less OAP and more sassy s-ass-ee (I was tryna rhyme, cut me some slack :'D). They are really flattering because of the waist feature too as they nip you in the perfect amount and the flowing material on the leg hangs beautifully.

Summertime with Emily & Fin (Isobel Dress Review)

Aloha, lovelies! I finally think we are *almost* in summer here in England! Although looking outside now it is rather grey and miserable! Typical! However, we have had the odd beautiful warm day recently. As soon as the sun comes out all I want to do is put on my shades, pop on a perfect summer frock and go for a picnic! So that's what I did...

Emily & Fin are a London-based brand that have now spread onto the international market. They create timeless dresses in beautifully unique prints. There is a shape to suit everyone. I chose the Isobel dress to feature here on my blog as I just fell head over heels for the scooped back. It is incredibly flattering and feminine and it has POCKETS! A must for every practical gal!

The Casual Pinup: How To Dress Retro Everyday!

Aloha, lovelies! Today's post is going to be one that I feel very passionately towards! I LOOOOVE casual dressing... I actually prefer it to wearing a dress. I would much rather wear jeans and a top over a dress & petticoat. Thing is... I am a women of comfort. I just love to relax and not worry about what I am wearing - whether my bra strap is showing, or itchy petticoats or my dress is tucked into my knickers. Some may call it lazy... I call it 'practical'. I've always preferred 'everyday' clothing but especially so since become a Mamma. I'm not gunna try and carry my baby, car seat, nappy change bag and shopping at the same time whilst wearing a big ol' flouncy dress. Obviously, I do sometimes like to pop on a frock and I have particular dresses that are perfect for casual wear so here is my post to help you with dress practically whilst also keeping your retro vibes!

My Current Wishlist - April 2016

Aloha, lovelies! I have found myself lusting after a few higher priced items recently so thought it was overdue I posted my current wish list! Perhaps one day if I win the lotto, I can reference this post and buy EVERYTHING!

 

Tara Starlet 

The Loveheart Coat

£135 

OOTD: Sweet like chocolate... ft. Vendula London

Aloha, honeys! Even before I got into the whole retro thing... I was a sucker for anything kitsch so when Vendula London contacted me to see if I would like to feature one of their bags on my blog I was delighted. I had admittedly never heard of the brand before but I had definitely seen their iconic bags in various independent shops and because they are so recognizable it was easy to tell they were  by Vendula London. Upon browsing their site, my heart instantly longed for one of their infamous 'Grab Bags'. They are bags that look like various buildings from a pub to a sushi bar to a tea room to a florist to a perfumers - there is really something for everyone. I chose the Chocolatiers bag because... well, you know... chocolate. Also the fact that it is a gorgeous pink which is my favourite colour. Now what's not to love about a bag that combines my two favourite things?! 

When it came to styling this bag, I *instantly* knew what to pair it with. Hmmm... What could go with a pink bag that also goes with the chocolate theme... My Pinup Girl Clothing Harlequin Jenny Skirt in Chocolate Brown and Red (with lots of pink too!) of course! I decided to finish this kick-ass outfit off with a pink cropped fluffy jumper that I got a couple of years ago from good ol' Primark. I love this outfit and think the gorgeous bag ties everything together beautifully. I also kept with my as-always 60's vibes with a half-up-half-down beehive and my awesome Luxulite pink hoops.

The bag itself is superb quality. I was actually pleasantly surprised as sometimes more kitsch themed clothes/bags can be slightly lesser quality than say a plain black leather bag. It came packaged in a logo'ed dust bag which again was a really nice touch. As well as the standard short handles, it also comes with an additional long shoulder strap with is essential for me as I always prefer a longer strap so I can be hands free.

The Chocolatiers Grab Bag is surprisingly roomy and practical which is something I always look for. I can't be using those teeny-weeny-can-only-fit-lipstick-in clutch bags. The more crap I can fit in it the better :'D, especially as I'm a mum now (excuse for more crap!).

Outfit Details

Earrings - Luxulite

Fluffy jumper - Primark

Jenny Skirt - Pinup Girl Clothing (sold out)

Chocolatiers Grab Bag - Vendula London

 

 The little white hanging sign on the bag is actually 3d... It swings on the chains! Amaze!

 The longer shoulder strap

Thanks for reading my post and do give Vendula London a peek as they have some seriously gorgeous bags & purses. They would make the perfect gift, especially for Mothers Day!

All my love,

Retro Review & OOTD: Dressed To Kill Clothing

Aloha, plums! Today's post will be a review and styling post featuring Dressed To Kill Clothing. They are an amazing USA-based retro-inspired clothing brand that I am just head over heels for. Their latest Fall line is to die for - literally everything is on my wish list.  I was lucky enough to be sent their Flamingo Skirt and their Vamp T-shirt. Instead of doing a normal review post, I wanted to show you I styled my pieces, especially seeing as I am also pregnant!
Dressed To Kill shipping is a $12 flat rate for domestic shipping within the USA and they do offer international shipping at an extra cost of $12 ($24 in total) which is very reasonable.

If you're interested I also have a new tutorial for the poodle hairstyle that is featured in both of these outfit photo's. Click here to check it out! I'd love for you to go over and leave me a comment there :)

Dungarees & Diners ft. Erstwilder (22 Weeks Pregnant!)

Aloha, darlings! I am 22 weeks pregnant and I'm having a GIRL! Woooo! Today's post is an outfit of the day featuring two awesome things - my maternity dungarees by Topshop and my Erstwilder Diner Brooch. Though you can't really tell from the pictures, the weather had been absolutely pants all day but that didn't stop us from taking a few quick snaps and testing out our fancy new camera. The on-off rain meant that a full on turban hair scarf was the only hair option, but I didn't really mind as I kinda dig the fuss-free weather-proof super-speedy 'do. 

The Style Diary: Sharna-Mae Brown

Aloha, peaches! My latest blog series is going to be something I've wanted to do for a while and I've decided to call it 'The Style Diary'. I see so many babes with such awesome unique styles that I just want to share with everyone because I think they're inspiring. I've rounded up several of my favourite honey's to ask them my burning questions so we can get an insight into their fashion stories! I personally have quite a diverse style - some days I am loving Mexican style, some days I love a bit of 60's and some days I am just straight up pin-up so I think it's great to show how people can have a mutual love of one thing (mid-century & vintage) but still be completely different in how they style themselves! My first Babe of the series is ultra-gorgeous Sharna-Mae Brown...

Hello there! 

My name is Sharna-Mae and I'm nineteen years old. I live in lovely little Lincoln in Lincolnshire with my family and boyfriend. I have been brought up with the rockabilly scene because of my Dad being in the band 'The Hicksville Bombers' and now I am pursuing a singing career in a new young band with my boyfriend James, little brother Scott and friend Danny.  

Not So Plain Baby Jane: Ava Pants

Aloha, lovelies! I hope you're all well. Today's post is a cross between an outfit post, a photo set and a recommendation/review. Swing trousers are something I've struggled with in the past as I just felt like they didn't flatter me at all or hit me in the right places as I have a long torso. But when I discovered Not So Plain Baby Jane a while back and saw her gorgeous Ava pants I instantly fell in love. With a more 40's feel and a heavy weight material - I knew that these would be different to other wide-legged trousers I've worn before.

Accessory Week: Betsy Hatter

Aloha, peaches! Today I have a post for you that I have been DYING to do for so long but just couldn't get the pictures right for it and what better time than Accessory Week!? The moment I found out I was lucky to have the opportunity to be working with the amazing Betsy Hatter I knew exactly the shoot I wanted to do and it involved a sunset. Betsy Hatter is an extremely talented Milliner based in Norwich, Norfolk who specializes in hats inspired by the 1940's and 1950's as well as making bespoke creations.

The 'Elspeth' Hat

I first saw the 'Elspeth' hat on the beautiful Fleur McGerr and literally fell in love. I love the versatility of the hat... It can be worn with an up do (a la moi) or a down style (a la my gorgeous friend Alice, who just styled/reviewed the very same hat! Click here to see how she rocked it!). There are so many different ways you could style the Elspeth hat whether you wanted to take a 40's route or add some roses for a more senorita Mexican vibe or add some hibiscus flowers for a tiki feel. The possibilities are endless!

Accessory Week: Viva La Lux

Aloha, honey's! The second post in my Accessory Week series is featuring gorgeous jewelry brand Viva La Lux. They are a vintage reproduction Lucite & Bakelite website based in Scotland run by a lovely lady called Bonnie. The first thing I noticed about Viva La Lux were the prices - they are so affordable. They have a stunning range of brooches, necklaces and earrings in a wide variety of colours and styles. Viva La Lux also offer a custom service so you really can get the perfect pair of earrings to match your dress! The earrings are available in studs and clip ons which is a massive bonus for gals like me with super sensitive ears. Everything is handmade by Bonnie and the quality is beautiful. They also ship internationally.
Next on my wish list from Viva La Lux is their Tiki Kitsch Celluloid necklace. Look at how stunning it is!! They literally have an accessory to for every outfit <3

Accessory Week!: Dots n' Bows(+Discount Code)

Aloha, lovelies! How are you all doing? I'm pretty good apart from the nausea and exhaustion! I am currently 14 weeks pregnant as of 6th July. I can't believe how quickly the time has flown. I've been thinking about doing some pregnancy-related posts but I'm not sure what kind of thing people would be interested in seeing, so please let me know if you have any ideas! Anyway, back to today's post... As you will have noticed by the title I am running a new series called Accessory Week where I will be reviewing a whole host of beautiful jewelry and accessory companies for you. One of my New Years Resolutions was to really up my game in accessory (I'm sorry I am going to say that word so many times this week!!) department and it's safe to say that I have quite the collection now! I definitely need to do a Brooch Collection post. 

My first brand of the week is one of my favourites - Dots N Bows. A Swedish handmade bag company. I was lucky enough to be offered the chance to design my own bag by the wonderful Zanna who is the woman behind this amazing company. When I first discovered Dots n' Bows, I instantly fell in love with their glitter vinyl and the beautiful selection of colours they had. They sell cosmetic bags, hand bags, wristlets, weekend bags, key-rings, purses and also take custom orders for everything as well as selling ready made beauties. Zanna recently created an awesome baby changing bag and you know that is of course next on my wish list :-D!
A custom made bag similar to mine would cost around £110 and if you use the discount code 'amberrose' you can get some money off! They also ship worldwide.

Website - http://dotsandbows.se

Instagram - @dots_n_bows

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/dotsandbows

Retro Reviews: Bonsai Kitten Clothing

Aloha, honey's! I can't believe Our (The British Belles) Pinup Picnic In The Park is in less than a week! I am super excited but also pretty nervous to meet all of you babes. I was lucky enough to be contacted by Rhea from Bonsai Kitten regarding me reviewing one of their gorgeous best-selling tops and of course after seeing them I said yes. I chose the 'Classic Tiger Pussybow Top' which is actually in the sale right now so grab it while it's still there! I love animal print and one of my favourites is Tiger print. Admittedly, this style of top is something completely new to me and I wouldn't usually go for something with puffed sleeves or a neck tie, but I love the casual feminine shape and feel it has to it whilst still being quite sassy and sexy.

Bonsai Kitten are a retro inspired clothing company based in Australia. They describe themselves as 'Created for comfort and goodtimes, Bonsai Kitten is heavily influenced by the iconic and timeless style of 40's and 50's pin-up girls, and is dedicated to the celebration of the feminine form in all its many shapes and sizes.' One of the first things I noticed when I opened my parcel was that the label had an interesting story on where and how Bonsai Kitten produce their clothing so I asked Rhea more about it. Rhea informed me that Bonsai Kitten is all ethically handmade in Bali, Indonesia in collaboration with Adopta Co-op widows from the Bali bombing. All Bonsai Kitten purchases help these hardworking ladies grow their business and support their families. The brand was originally started as an underwear label which has branched into clothing to enjoyable success. I think that truly makes Bonsai Kitten something special and worth shopping with. They are a brand that gives back.
The second thing I noticed was the softness of the material. It feels heavenly which makes it even more of a dream to wear. 

Mini Post: Affordable Espadrille Wedges

Aloha, pretties! I have a super quick mini post which will feature some of my favourite espadrille wedges on the high-street right now! Espadrilles are the perfect summer shoe and I just love the raffia wedge!

I just love these ones from Tesco! I love the fact that they have an ankle strap and come in three colours!

Tesco

£12

OOTD: Purple Harlequin

Aloha, sweet peas! I hope you're enjoying the UK sun we have had over the last few days! I certainly have.  Today's outfit post has to be one of my favourites! Sometimes, I like to create an outfit around one piece of clothing and this time it was one of my beloved Pinup Girl Clothing Harlequin Jenny Skirts in Purple. These skirts have revolutionized my wardrobe! Initially, when I first got them I thought they wouldn't get much wear as I thought they'd be really hard to style, but boy was I wrong! They match with so much because the colour palette of the pattern features a lot of shades and tones.

I love this outfit because it is so so simple, but I still felt sassy as hell! And I just adore how the purple contrasts with my copper hair. Also, my first outfit post featuring the most amazing-incredible-beautiful-fancy-drop-dead-gorgeous bag I have ever laid eyes on that is the bag I designed myself and was made by the amazing Dots N' Bows. It just so happened to go perfectly with my outift ;)

Hawaiian Dreamin' With Blue Velvet Vintage

Aloha, beauties! Aloha being the very appropriate greeting today as I have a review/feature of a gorgeous new dress by Blue Velvet Vintage. I was lucky enough to be contacted and asked if I would like to choose a dress from either the Classic Dame Pinup House Brand: fabulous and flattering ‘50s inspired frocks made in the USA with fine fabrics and distinct designs including polka dots, floral prints and more or the Blue Velvet Vintage Flapper Dresses: gorgeous reproductions of roaring ‘20s designs, meticulously hand decorated with beads, sequins and flirty fringe. I obviously jumped at the opportunity and naturally leaned more towards the Classic Dame line as I love pinup style!

OOTD: Colonel(ess) Mustard + FIRST GIVEAWAY!

Aloha, peaches! I have a super casual outfit post for you today (which seems to be a reoccurring theme these days for me!) but I really liked this one, so I thought I'd share it :-) I just loved the simplicity of it, but I still felt sassy as ever! I know not every pinup is a jeans and t-shirt kind of doll but I am totally one for ease and comfort however I never compromise on the sass ;-D

I know you're probably sick of the sight of my Lady K Loves Hug Me Baby Jeans but I just can't resist wearing them on every day off I have! I guess I just can't be bothered with the faff of stockings :') I need some seamed tights for ease - any recommendations?!

This whole outfit was a kind of 'happy accident' as I originally just chucked on a jersey top and my jeans and was ready, then I remembered I had my Bow And Crossbones earrings that matched perfectly, then I decided to sass it up with a silk neck scarf and then felt like my top was too plain so added a brooch and then my outfit was complete!

STAY TUNED TIL' THE END OF THE POST TO FIND OUT HOW TO ENTER MY FIRST EVER GIVEAWAY! <3 <3