The Fashion of Art: My Top January Steals…
30
Dec
Like most people, I’m not a huge fan of the January sales. Everyone is a mess, shops are so busy, and I think the chaotic atmosphere even puts me off buying the most beautiful of outfits.
In short, it ruins the exhilarating experience of shopping.
As a result, I’m sale-searching online from the comfort of my own sofa, accompanied by an unlimited amount of coffee and a tin of Roses – a lavish ceremony for once, instead of pushing my way down Regent Street. So, after my very productive day of scouring the internet leaving me blurry eyed and hungry for the items I long to possess, here’s my pick of the bunch:
I am elated that this luscious gown by Danish fashion house Malene Birger is in the sale on net-a-porter.com; I’ve been lusting after it for months. With the strong shoulders and endless layers of silk-chiffon, this sophisticated yet alluring maxi dress would be the light at the end of a loooong tunnel after a horrific 2010, and it’s affordable too. Now £142.50 down from £285. I’ll sleep on it for a few days, the old pockets are feeling pretty sparse after Christmas…
Another N-A-P find is this stunning Alexander McQueen peony-print gown. I know, it’s another ‘long dress’, but come on…it’s a work of art, I couldn’t leave it out. With 30% off, it’s still £1326.50, but for a floral piece by the late McQueen, it’s surely well worth it. The pattern is transferable for both summer and winter. Team with a statement cuff for a dramatic evening effect.If you’re looking for the perfect skirt for next season then your search is over, no arguments. This sugary pink piece from Alice by Temperley is toughened up with gold studs. The bow-detail makes it bang of trend for next season: girly, dainty and neat with a studded-edge. £115.50, and it’s selling extremely quickly!
I’m still getting to terms with Jack Wills’ spin-off brand Aubin & Wills (is there really any difference?), but I came across this leather satchel that has successfully managed to keep my curiosity about the brand at bay, and have me logging on to check my current bank balance. This bag is the perfect work-to-weekend combination, beautifully crafted in dark tan with buckle detail and a front pocket. Wear it on one shoulder, carry it from the smaller handle, or drape it across the body: use if for a laptop case, take it to work, or fill it with all the usual rubbish that accumulates in your favourite handbag. The possibilities are never ending, and it’s now £222, down from £370.
Everyone needs a stripy Breton top, and here’s one in the sale at Levis for a respectable £28.
Lulu Guinness has a great sale on at the moment, I particularly like this Eye Shadow Print Scarf in Lulu’s favourite shades. In hues of purple, pink, lilac and red, it’s a real gaze-turner. Wear it around your neck or tie onto one of her amazing bags, also on sale.
Scarf: Now £38.50
I love Christmas, and I LOVE Christmas jumpers. This one from Paul Smith for £105 is adorable. The long tapered sleeves and olive green base give it a slouchy, casual look; and the print just makes me want to snuggle up with a hot drink and watch movies all afternoon. Very, very cute.
That’s my run down for today, so make the most of the online sales and avoid the turmoil of literal high street shopping. One rule still applies though: get there fast