Bathing Beauty

Shopping for swimwear is never an easy task - so I've been sure to make an early start this year. Well, it's not really an early start when I head off to Abu Dhabi on holiday in March, but swimsuits are steadily making a reappearance in the stores. Like the first blooms of spring, swimwear on the shelves is a sure promise of what lies ahead - lots of summer sunshine.

Now, I can't be alone in wanting a swimsuit that you can actually swim in, can I? I don't want cut-out sides, a plunging neckline or fussy embellishments - just a simple, slimming black one-piece.

Whilst there might not be lots of choice around, it was relatively easy finding one. I've got this black M&S swimsuit with neon pink double strap detail (pictured left) - perfect and just £15!

Whilst I wanted something as a plain as possible I do love the retro styling of these patterned bathing suits...

Swimsuits
Bikinis

Bah Humbug!

Not everything's black and white in this life but it's clear to see we'll all be going mad for monochrome this season. You just can't get chicer than the classic combo of black and white. Sounds boring? Bah humbug! I think the plethora of Op Art inspired prints - including striped, polka dot and checkerboard designs - might just change your mind.

For me it's all about the stripes and have been quick off the mark to snap up a bargain blouse from H&M (pictured left, £12.99).

Just for you, here are some more must-have humbug stripes to make your mouth water...

Day Dresses
Heels

Nicola Roberts at LFW

London Fashion Week is in full swing and my favourite look from the FROW so far has to be this combo from none other than Nicola Roberts...

The Girls Aloud singer turned fashionista rocked up at the House of Holland show wearing a pink Stella McCartney jacquard blazer - which could have come across a bit Lady Penelope had she not toughened it up a bit with ripped Current/Elliott star jeans and toe-capped Alexander McQueen heels.

I love it!

Year of the Snake

Today marks the start of the Chinese New Year - and 2013 is the year of the snake. The stars must be aligned or something because snakeprint has slithered its way into style in perfect timing to celebrate! It's no secret that I utterly and completely hate snakes, but that said I am quite partial to a chic pair of snakeprint pumps - explain that one?!

Here's a selection of some of the best snakeprint stuff around...

Flats

Becks In His Kecks!

Needless to say this made my day! Yes, it's the ad directed by Guy Richie to celebrate the launch of David Beckham's latest bodywear range. Gotta be his best work yet, what do you say?

 

Tartan Bargain

Whilst we're on the topic of tartan I'm going to throw open my wardrobe doors to share an amazing sale buy with you. I first saw this H! By Henry Holland tartan dress with faux leather sleeves at the Debenhams A/W press show and I've had my beady eyes on it ever since. I don't know why I didn't snap this one up as soon as it came in store (probably something to do with a total lack of wardrobe space) but after finding it in the sale reduced from £49 - £15 I'm glad I held off. It was the last one left on the rails and in my size - how perfect is that?! Just goes to show, good things come to those who wait.