Italian Glamour At The V&A

Dress from The Pretty Dress Company, sunglasses from Deadly Is The Female, wedges from New Look, vintage handbag

Ciao bella!

So here’s my take on mid-century Mediterranean chic. I wore this outfit to the Italian Fashion exhibition at the V&A but I do wear it a lot, even when I’m not attending Italian themed events. It’s become a go-to because it’s so flattering, especially when I’ve had gelato for breakfast, pizza for brunch and feelings of shame and self-loathing for the rest of the day.

If you’re as obsessed with clothes as I am, get yourself down to the V&A pronto. The exhibition immerses you in the glamorous history of Italian fashion. Gaze in awe at the diva-esque cuts and get high on the fumes of metallic embroidery. There’s everything from World War II day suits and Italy’s influence on Hollywood costumes to next season’s Dolce & Gabbana.

Folie A Deux

I recently went to the launch of a gorgeous new vintage inspired collection called Folie A Deux. As well as oohing and ahing at all the beautiful dresses, the evening’s entertainment included a ballet solo, a fashion fairytale recital and some very snazzy cupcakes. After the soiree Katie and Halimah, the two fabulous women behind the label, sent me a selection of pieces to review. Here are my thoughts and my pouts.

The Squeeze

Every dress in this range tells a story and the story for this one is, “Hubba hubba.” The thick fabric gives the perfect balance of stretch and support so that everything goes in an out exactly where you want it to. I don’t usually wear dresses with buttons down the front because they have a tendency to burst open at embarrassing moments, like when I’m asking someone to stop staring at my breasts. But the nautical buttons on this baby are just for show. It actually fastens with a cunningly concealed zip at the back, eliminating the threat of the accidental flash. This is a size Medium and it fits like a very sexy glove.

Gwen

In contrast to the sculpted Squeeze is this looser, more laidback tea dress. I added the belt because I’m very attached to my waist but you could totally go beltless for a grungier look. This frock makes me feel like a saucy 1940s farmer’s wife with a glint in my eye and an udder in my hand. I love the tiny pearl buttons that go all the way up the neckline. In this one I sized up to a Large to accommodate my heaving bosom.

Mirror Mirror

Every detail of this classic shirtdress is strategically designed to be as flattering as possible. The buttons are another stylish hoax so there’s no unsightly gaping, the seams are perfectly aligned to echo and enhance the hourglass silhouette and the dark green tartan is wonderfully forgiving. I really appreciate the thought for the wearer that’s been put into this dress. Perfect for a heady dose of daytime glamour.

For more bewitching dresses visit www.folieadeuxlondon.com

The Collectif Dolores Doll Dress In Pink Hibiscus

Dress from Collectif, vintage handbag, wedges from Amazon, hair flower from Violets In May, bangles and earrings from Bow & Crossbones

Yesterday was the hottest day of the year in London so I decided to dress like I was attending a Hawaiian vintage wedding. It was great! I felt so happy all day! I totally recommend picking a weather appropriate party theme for your everyday outfit and letting it uplift your spirits.

For the wedding I was going to in my head I wore my Dolores swing dress from Collectif. I’m already addicted to their wiggles but their swing style was a new fashion adventure. I love how the longer length gives a more authentic vintage look. The full skirt makes me feel very ladylike and quite bridesmaidy.

I’m wearing a 10 even though my bikini diet this year has been heavy on ice cream. Definitely size down in this style for a pin up look that flatters your figure and a size label that flatters your ego.

To complete the tiki theme I accessorised with my bamboo bangles, plumeria earrings and my favourite fuschia hair orchid. No-one I know got married, but it was a beautiful day.

For my complete guide to Hawaiian vintage dresses, click here.