Autumnal Greens & Golds

It's been a little while since I've managed to join in with the monthly challenge over at Operation Tackle That Beadstash, but this month's beautiful combination of autumnal greens and golds made me determined to make something; anything. So I had a little rummage through my stash. I came up with lots and lots of greens and almost no gold.

What I did find though was a few bobby pins, some gold wire and a little package of mixed green beads leftover from other projects. I then spent a happy half hour weaving and winding. I love making a little something out of (almost) nothing.

The Summer Of Slouch

Summertime and the living is easy. Yes, indeed. So, forget smarts this season and spend your hard earned pennies on some casual, slouchiness instead. Slouch is good.

Slouchy Summer by OPCreative featuring TopShop

Denim Vest - Valleygirl, £28; Faded Floral Ruch Skirt - Topshop, £17; Camisole - Debenhams, £9/Pack Of Two; Strappy Stiletto Sandals - $15DollarStore.com, £10; Denim Slouch Bag - Dorothy Perkins, £20; Ruffled Flower Chain - TopShop, £10

With a subtle nod to this season's floral trends and a touch of double-denim, this outfit is evocative of dewy mornings, picnic lunches and star spangled nights.

And all for less than £100. Nice!

Come As You Are {Fashion Forward}

In the six months or so since the wonderful Katherine and I started Fashion Forward, we've had a blast discussing everything from little black dresses to white wedding dresses and pretty pastels to gleek chic. We've also enjoyed the posts put together by our fabulously fashionable regulars Cindy, Courtney, Krystle, Mel, Mae, Emily, Ana, Erika and Gem and, have discovered that they have become our friends.

And, importantly, we've discovered that following fashion trends isn't the same as finding your style or keeping it simple.

So, as Fashion Forward comes to an end, I wanted to leave you not with a 'fashionable' outfit, but with an outfit that is just 'me' - a classic black wrap dress, a colourful trench coat, a statement necklace, a beautiful bag and lustworthy shoes. This is me as I am. (Or at least as I would choose to be if I could afford those Louboutin shoes!)

This Is Me. As I Am. by OPCreative featuring (very expensive) Christian Louboutin Shoes.
Items in this set: Splendid Jersey Wrap Dress, £94; Pale Blue Military Mac, £49; Christian Louboutin Pigalle 120 Patent Pumps, £380; Fiorelli Levine Large Shopper Handbag £49 and Round Facet Stone Necklace, £18

If you're playing along this week, please leave a link so I can stop by and ooh and ahh one last time and so that I can draw one name at random for a little fashionable giveaway.

Make A Spring Scarf From Tights. Seriously. {Waste Not Wednesday}

Last autumn I came across a pile of old tights stuffed into my fabric drawer just waiting for inspiration to strike. Determined to make use of them, I created A Necklace Made From Recycled Tights Which Vaguely Resembles A Necklush. Rolls off the tongue, doesn't it?

After an autumn and winter full of tight wearing, I now have another pile of tights full of holes and ladders and thought that Waste Not Wednesday would be a good time to share my (re)construction methods - and, of course, you'll benefit from a few improvements.

You'll Need:

Tights - Use at least two pairs of tights for a lightweight scarf and add more for extra bulk.
Scissors - Pinking shears work particularly well, but any household scissors will work perfectly well.
Needle & Thread or Sewing Machine.
Sewing or Safety Pins.

1. Cut off the legs of your tights, just below the gusset - isn't that the most horrible word in the English language? Then cut off the toes (or on footless tights, remove the the bottom seam.) Keep these sections for use later on.

2. By cutting into the edges, open each leg of the tights out to form a rough rectangle. Now cut each section into strips at least 1cm wide - if you're using tights with a thin denier, increase the width of your strips. And don't worry if the width varies a little or your pieces aren't straight - that will all be hidden later.

3. When you've finished cutting your strips, take each individual strip and pull gently on both ends. You'll notice that it stretches and also that it curls in on itself - this is the great part where all of the jagged edges and slight variations in thickness disappear!

4. Take each individual section and tie a double knot in the ends to form a loop. Trim the ends close to the knot for a neat finish and gather the cords with the knotted ends together.

5. Take the upper part of one pair of tights and cut out a large rectangle. Wrap this around the area of knotted ends and pin in place.

6. Join the sides of the rectangle together using a needle and thread or sewing machine, forming a tube around your gathered ends.

Tip - So that you won't sew through the cords, pull the wrap away from the knotted cords as you sew. This will also make the wrap a little tighter and will hide the knotted ends well.

7. Trim away any surplus material from the wrap. Then hide the stitching by simply turning the tube inside out - it's stretchy so it's super easy.

Make variations on this simple design by adding beads to the strips of fabric before you loop them, by plaiting the strips together before forming the scarf or by using a variety of colours. (And, if you'd like to see an example being worn, head over to I Speak Melsh to see my friend Mel wearing a version I made for her Christmas present!)

Keep the remainder of your tights (the tops and toes) for a future tutorial and don't forget to 'Waste Not, Want Not' by using up all the little scrappy ends to stuff your pincushions!

Casually Classic {Fashion Forward}

I've been so busy this last week the time I usually spend flicking through fashion magazines and sipping champagne (!) has instead been spent catching up the latest episode of Desperate Housewives and some well deserved sleep. So, this week's Fashion Forward is short - but still sweet!

I've been looking for the perfect spring/summer top to wear casually with jeans and a cute jacket - something I can wear for a lunch date with my mum; something I could wear shopping with my sisters; or something I could wear to the movies with some friends. It needs to be simple, but stylish and casual but classy. Eventually, I found it in the form of this beautiful Handmade Teal Twig Cowl from Recession. Isn't it glorious?

Since I don't wear them all that often, a fantastic pair of earrings will always make me feel special - and these Blue Rain Earrings from Fleur Fatale are just the thing to finish off a casually classic outfit. Now, I just need to start filling up my diary.

And, before you leave, a little news. Katherine and I have decided to bring Fashion Forward to an end. Much as we've enjoyed these last few months of shoes, shopping and solidarity, we'd like to spend our blogging hours creating some tutorials, crafty projects (and in Katherine's case, the odd vlog!)

We're hoping you'll join us for one last Fashion Forward next week when I'll be hosting a little giveaway. Oh and the dress code for our farewell party? Come as you are x

Edited: We realise just how much time it takes everyone to put together their posts and we're very grateful to everyone who's joined us. We will, of course, be staying in touch.

Edited (Even Later): And.....I forgot the Mr. Linky. Duh! This is what happens to me when I have no sleep!

Folksy Charm {Fashion Forward}

I honestly don't understand my sudden fascination with all things 'folk art'. I know that woodland motifs really became quite popular during the last year and, although I caught onto that trend pretty quickly, it's taken my tastes quite a while to catch up.

Folksy Charm by OPCreative on Polyvore.com

Items in this set:
1. John Lewis Amy Duvet Covers, £25 available from JohnLewis.com; 2. Gold Deer and Bird Silhouette Necklace, £9.90 available from PlasticLand; 3. Folk Art Flower Design Poster, £7 available from Zazzle; 4. Folk Art Birds Stencil, £11 available from The Artful Stencil; and 5. Little Modern Birds Pillow, £40 available from Nimli

I'm going to blame the fact that I've spent a lot of time reading the Martha Stewart website this week - maybe there's some subliminal advertising going on - but it probably has more to do with the beautiful sets of home tours featured.

That's probably why most of my choices for this week are for the home, though I did manage to squeeze in the most adorable necklace.

If you're playing along with Fashion Forward this week, leave your link below so that I can come and check out what you're oogling this week. You know I love a good oogle.

Fit For Fashion {Fashion Forward}

Regular readers of Fashion Forward might remember that I recently discussed how the thought of a stunning new outfit has been keeping me motivated in my quest for health and fitness. There's nothing quite like the promise of a slinky new dress - and the body to fit in it - to keep you're training programme on track.

Over the past month or so I've been walking every day, increasing either the speed, distance or duration of my walks, in an effort to feel fitter and healthier. I'll be honest, the inches are not exactly dropping off me, but I know that will come later - when I start running. Later on today!

So, instead of reading fashion and interior design magazines or scouring the internet for the latest indie designers, I must confess that I have instead spent the week reading Runner's World and, as a result, my choice of footwear this week is a little different. Sorry!

I already have a pair of functional Asics. They are, in my opinion, the dream running shoe. They're light, soft and unbelieveably comfortable - but they are made solely for road running and my true love is cross country running. There is something very freeing about lacing up a pair of trail shoes; heading out of the door and across the fields or along the coastline with only nature as a companion.

So, as a little incentive, when I'm able to run five miles continually, I'll be buying a pair of these beauties - Asics Gel Trail Attacks, and heading for the hill. Just saying. In case anyone fancies joining me!

If you're playing along this week, please add your link below. I'm fairly certain everyone will be dying to get away from my training plans and would love to see pretty dresses and fantastic shoes as standard!

Motivation {Fashion Forward}

After spotting several comments on last week's Fashion Forward from ladies who felt they would need a month long detox, a personal trainer or liposuction before they would be confident enough to wear a cut-out dress in public, I thought that maybe I should confess that I feel much the same way - I couldn't wear it, even though I think it's fabulous!

Maybe, I should also confess that many of the outfits I feature are aspirational - not just because I choose some astronomically expensive pieces - but also because one day I hope to be able to walk into a store and buy myself an outfit just like the ones I put together each week, without fearing the image that will look back at me from the mirror?

Maybe I should also confess that for me, creating these outfits each week keeps me motivated?

English Rose by OPCreative featuring TopShop

Items in this set: Chiffon High Neck Dress, £50, Topshop; Shoes, £175, ShopSavannahs.com; Patience Clutch, £19, calypso-celle.com; Pink Large Rose Earrings, £10, debenhams.com; and My Pink Rose Ring, £6.49, shopruche.com

Let's just say that I am not quite as slender as I once was - and I was by no means waifish. I was a gym bunny - you could not keep me away - and I was gearing myself up to enter a half marathon. A couple of injuries later and I found it very difficult to start exercising again. I couldn't do quite as much as I was used to, so I felt like a failure and stopped trying altogether. Not the right attitude to have at all!

Now I miss being fit and healthy, but knowing myself only too well, I am trying very hard not to start off too quickly or expect too much from myself in terms of results. So, I'm going slowly. Very slowly. For the past month I've been walking every day, increasing my distance or my speed and, at the end of the month, I will start to introduce some running. Well. Okay. Jogging.

Whilst my focus is mainly on becoming more fit and healthy, a drop in dress size would definitely be welcome. So, my motivation is simple. I have a wardrobe full of beautiful clothes (and some tragic ones, but let's focus on the beautiful) which I cannot fit into. As an extra incentive, The Steve has promised to buy me a new dress when I reach my goal weight/size - and I'm currently looking fondly at an image of this beauty of a dress from Topshop every time I feel my enthusiasm waiver.

Funny what keeps you plodding along, isn't it?

For more fashion inspiration then please head on over to see Katherine at Paper Pocket and check out the posts from the other Fashion Forward ladies.

Rock On! {Fashion Forward}

In what is perhaps a little bit of a backlash against the season's trends of soft, shimmering colours and vintage inspired outfits, I've been noticing a resurgance of rocker chic. The strong autumn/winter trends of studs, chains and zips have now been joined by denim, buckles and a more edgy take on the bodycon dress.

If you've been oogling Herve Lerger's Spring 2010 Collection (and if you haven't please do, oogling is so under-rated) then you might be interested to know that this version from Goddiva is only £35. Around £2000 cheaper. Oh, and did I mention it comes in four colours? Rock on!

Rock My World by OPCreative featuring Dorothy Perkins Boots

Items in this set: The Cut Out Dress, £35; Black Skater Boots, £55; Schwarze Clutch, £40; Article Lot De bracelets Perles Et Breloques (Bracelet) £2 and Stormy 5 Color Metallic Eye Shadow, £2.50

And when was the last time you found boots this amazing in Dorothy Perkins?

If you're looking for more fashion inspiration then please head on over to see Katherine at Paper Pocket and check out the posts from the other fabulous Fashion Forward ladies. And, don't forget, you're more than welcome to join us in posting your fashionable finds - just check out the guidelines.

A Light Exists In Spring {Fashion Forward}

A light exists in spring,
Not present on the year,
At any other period.
When March is scarcely here,
A color stands abroad ,
On solitary hills,
That science cannot overtake,
But human nature feels.

From A Light Exists In Spring by Emily Dickinson.

I actually had a completely different Fashion Forward post planned, but I woke up this morning to rays of sunshine and full of the joys of spring. I always feel such relief when the sun starts to shine, the birds start to sing and colour reappears in the world.

So, after a quick stroll around the park, I thought I'd show you an outfit I conjured up during the deepest, darkest days of winter when I was craving some spring sunshine. Florals are always a guaranteed trend during the spring/summer season and this year is no different, but the variation in choice is enormous.

A Light Exists In Spring by OPCreative featuring Bottega Veneta Bags

There are the traditional floral prints - big and bold or small and dainty - along with more graphic interpretations and photographic prints. Floral accents are also a major component of the trend this year, with fabric flowers featuring heavily on necklines, hemlines and in accessories. I'm loving it in all it's blooming gorgeousness!

But, if floral isn't your thing, you can still bring a little bit of spring into your wardrobe by incorporating lighter and brighter colours into your outfits and swapping your winter coats for light trenches or long cardigans - both key trends this spring. Then head out for a walk in the sunshine and take a deep breath full of new life.

For more fashion fashion inspiration, head on over to Paper Pocket where Katherine & Co. will be showing off their own wardobe workouts. And, don't forget, you too can join in Fashion Forward - the more the merrier!

Vintage Inspired {Fashion Forward}

Fashion Forwarders could do worse than raid Grannie's wardrobe because vintage inspired fashion - and jewellery - is a really key trend for the spring and summer. It's classy, it's feminine and I love it!

Pair up a pretty vintage blouse with a classic pencil skirt and peep toe boots or combine a vintage jacket with a simple white t-shirt, skinny jeans and some brown leather boots. You'll look vintage, but you won't look as though you're heading to the retirement home early.

Pretty Vintage by OPCreative featuring 1928 Jewelry
Items in this set: Blouse of Spirits-Mod Retro Indie Clothing & Vintage Clothes, £27; Lace Mini Skirt, £30; Melina Heels, £245; Pink Champagne Ornate Chandelier Pendant Necklace, £22 and ASOS Cute Plastic Bow Brooch, £2

The items I've chosen this week are inspired by the ShopRuche Look Book. It's full of pretty (and affordable) vintage inspired pieces, independently designed jewellery and ... they're having a sale!

If you're looking for the linky, head on over to Paper Pocket, where the lovely Katherine is hosting Fashion Forward for February.

Rompers? Really? {Fashion Forward}

When I was younger, I had a very, um, eclectic taste in fashion. Want a mental image? Do you recall the TV Series Blossom? Yeah. Exactly. I once hit up every gent that I knew for their unwanted ties so that I could make a skirt out of them. (Just like in the video.) It flared. Okay? I liked it!

But, there were lines I never crossed and, so it is with some slight chagrin that I bring you this week's Fashion Forward trend. Rompers.

It seems that rompers, jumpsuits, the all-in-one - whatever you want to call them - are evolving for 2010 and, judging by the range sported at some of the season's catwalk shows, anything goes. Some are as teeny-tiny as hotpants, whilst others are skimming the floor seventies style over the top of your platform wedges.

Personally, I've never been a fan of clothes that may require a combined force of talcing and shoe-horning. Nor have I ever been a fan of clothes that may require more than a slight pull up or down in order to pee. I mean, just imagine the trauma after a few too many beers!

Soft Shimmer (41/50) by OPCreative featuring Elizabeth and James Dresses. Items in this set: Elizabeth and James Suzette Silk/Jersey Playsuit; Grey Leather Bag; Alexis Bittar Skinny Tapered Bangle; and Monsoon Accessorize Sunglasses.

But, it seems that there are some truly sophisticated alternatives to the stereotypical, sleazy leather all-in-one - the fabrics are softer, the lines are cleaner and the colours are bang on trend. It's all I can do to suppress the urge to at least try one on and see if it's a look that might suit me. I just don't know if I'm brave enough.

Anyway, I'm keen to hear what my fellow Fashion Forwarders think about this particular trend. What do you think? Would you? I mean. Rompers? Really?

If you're playing along today, leave your link, visit the other Fashion Forwarders and be thankful that next Monday Katherine will be hosting on her blog, Paper Pocket, and there probably won't be a romper in sight! x

Pretty Pastels {Fashion Forward}

Fashion Forward folks should make the most of their winter wardrobes, because spring is in the air and there is about to be a shift away from the strong, jewel colours normally associated with Christmas and New Year to a softer, more feminine look.

Heavily influenced by the trend for vintage clothing, we will soon be awash with pale (but interesting) shades of pink, lilac, mint, lemon and soft grey. The highstreet is about to get pretty.

Keep it simple, by combining no more than two colours together for a suitably subtle look and use black sparingly - lest you look like a liquorice allsort! Or maybe team those pretty pastels with a neutral like beige, khaki or tan, eh?

Blush by OPCreative on Polyvore.com

Items in this set: Temperley London Cobra Silk Dress, £440; Corduroy 3/4 Jacket, £21; Champagne Leather Shoes, £162; L'est Rose Satin Bow Clutch, £66; and Natural Bangle Set, £25

In theory, this trend is absolutely perfect for me. I love sophisticated glamour (when I can get it) and I am head over heels in love with vintage styling. So, what's the problem? Well, in reality these colours just don't suit me. I'm dark haired but pale skinned. Put a pretty, pale pink dress on me and I look as though I've been made-up as an extra for True Blood. Most unfortunate.

So, I'll be sticking to a slightly darker palette - though I might still treat myself to a little candy coloured retail therapy. The rest of you may want to head on down to New Look who have this trend completely covered and have some nice altervatives to that lovely, but rather expensive, Temperley Dress.

Oh, and before I head off, please check out the Official Polyvore Blog. They featured my Rachel set from last week's Fashion Forward in their weekly blog round-up. Yay!

You know what to do, right?

Gleek Chic {Fashion Forward}

Yeah. I know that Glee isn't really any big whoop to some of you (lucky people) who are resident in the United States and have already seen it, but Glee hits our UK screens this evening and I'm sorry, but I just couldn't help myself. Besides, Glee is bound to become a trending topic at the water cooler and we may look at Argyle Print differently in the morning. And, I need something to fill the space left by Ugly Betty and True Blood, okay?

So, what better way to celebrate the beginning of a new obssesion than creating myself a little bit of Gleek Chic?

So, first up - Rachel. How I love her perfect, preppy style. I totally wish I had her wardrobe - though I am fairly certain that my sixteen year old self would call it 'stuffy' and would have sneered at the blouses!

Next, something a little different - Tina. Tina rocks. Her style is actually far more in tune with what I probably would have worn when I was at highschool. A little bit grungey, trying to show my individuality. (Hey...um...how genius are those music themed nails?)

And, how could I possibly finish a Glee related Fashion Forward without a little Emma? Well, actually, I will. You see, this wee Glee obsession started a couple of months back (way before I'd even seen the programme) when the lovely Cindy posted a link to this article on dressing like Emma Pilsbury. She was dressed entirely in mustard and I knew, I just knew, I was going to become a total Gleek.

If you're playing along with Fashion Forward this week, please leave your details in the Mr Linky below so we can come and share your fashion passions.

Finding Your Style, Finding Yourself {Fashion Forward}

It occured to me last week, that even when we had only just started Fashion Forward, I never really explained why I wanted to start a meme that was focused on fashion - not even when I first, tentatively, mentioned the idea to my wonderful co-host Katherine.

In my mid-twenties, I was a happy and healthy person, full of energy and enthusiasm for life - and, more importantly, full of confidence. I had a job that I liked, I was fit and healthy and, despite a few hang-ups (we all have them) I was happy with myself and my body.

A few years, and an unfortunate series of events, later found me working in a job that I didn't like, with no energy left for life (let alone exercise) and I had gained enough weight that I felt both unattractive and unhealthy. I had lost my self confidence and, perhaps more importantly, my sense of self.

I left my job and thought things would improve, but in reality I spent my days feeling sorry for myself, slobbing around the house in jogging pants and over-sized t-shirts and I felt disgusting. Then, one day, when I was meeting an old friend, I had to make a bit more of an effort. I took the time to have a nice bath, blow-dry my hair, do my make up and pick out an nice outfit. I looked okay, not wonderful granted, but I felt so much better about myself - so much more me - and I was reminded of the link between looking good and feeling good.

Miss Modest (16/50) by OPCreative

Items in this set: Ted Baker Silk Mix Big Bow Dress; Marni Suede Platforms with Bow and Jewel Detail; Marni Fabric Frame Clutch; Raso - Kiss-Lock Evening Clutch - Francesco Biasia; Alexis Bittar 'Silver Dust' Skinny Tapered Bangle.

But, somedays, it felt like so much effort and I realised that I needed a reason to start taking more of an interest again - in clothes, in make up, in myself - and the idea for Fashion Forward was born. When I approached Katherine with the idea of co-hosting, I honestly thought she might laugh at the idea of me being fashionable (let's face it, she's so cool!) and she has my undying gratitude for being so supportive of the idea. Since then, I have developed an unparalleled love of Brian Atwood shoes and an unhealthy obsession with creating sets in Polyvore. I have re-discovered my love of fashion and my sense of style. And I have made some wonderful friends!

So, as Fashion Forward moves into 2010, I just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone who has participated and everyone who takes the time to visit each week. We may not have taken the world by storm with our little meme, but you have helped me to start changing my life for the better and I am very, very grateful.

If you're playing along this week, please pop a link in the box below so that everyone can come by and 'oooh and ahhh' and, if you're a Fashion Forward newbie, you can find the guidelines over on Katherine's lovely blog.

It Seems I'm Miranda {Fashion Forward}

Now, I must admit that I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do for this week's Fashion Forward post. I wasn't sure whether to pretend that I had plans for New Year's Eve and put together a glamourous, swanky little outfit or whether I should just admit that I far prefer to stay in with a good book and my hot water bottle. (My life it just full of excitement, I tell you!)

However, you've been saved from pictures of me in my worn out PJs by The Steve, who mentioned that there was a new Sex & The City film coming out in 2010. His actual words were, "I saw the trailer for Sex & The City 2 earlier and it made me want to yank on one of my testicles so hard I could strangle myself with it." - I knew then that I'd have to put together a little 'tribute'. Just for The Steve!

Funny what inspires me, isn't it?

Items in this set: Donna Karan Infinity Dress; Christian Louboutin Pigalle 120 Patent Pumps; Roger Vivier Black Verni Bag; Gregg Ruth Diamond Necklace; Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge For Lips & Cheeks

I was never a huge fan of the show (I liked it, but I never lived for it, you know?) but I was always a huge fan of the fashion. I took the What's My Sex & The City Style quiz, to determine what style I would suit me best and I came out with ... Miranda. I can't argue - I'd kill for her structured suits, tailored dresses and pulled together look. Whose wardrobe would you raid, given half the chance?

Pop on over to see Katherine and Co to see what's inspired everyone else's Fashion Forward this week.

Too Much Choice? {Fashion Forward}

Last night, I sat down to write today's Fashion Forward post and I suddenly found that I was unable to decide what to write about. Would it be sequins, studs or skinny jeans? Would I write about my current love for soft pinks and warm greys? Or would I choose to tell you about my, rather unhealthy, obsession for creating sets in Polyvore?

Faced with seemingly unlimited choice I couldn't make a decision. This morning, I realised that this is exactly how many of us feel when we go shopping for clothes. So, in the run up to the holiday sales - and the complete lack of judgement we all experience when faced with a half price coat that we've wanted for ages, but just happens to be a size too small - I thought I'd share some of my favourite fashion guides (and this super stylish set I found whilst wasting time, um... I mean researching ideas, on Polyvore.)

Charming Lady by Kristen-Funny

If you haven't seen Sally McGraw's blog, Already Pretty, then please head on over there immediately for the the most sensible advice on finding your own style I've ever read. When you love yourself, and the body you have, you'll find that your clothes will bring you enjoyment as well as confidence. (I'm still working on this!)

For advice on putting together a classic, capsule wardrobe full of elegant clothes, you can't beat a bit of advice from Auntie Gok. Gok Wan's website is full to bursting with advice, trends and competitions - and there's a really handy Style Consultation which will help you choose the right clothes for you and your body type.

There's also Academichic - a style blog full of the most amazing outfits that, get this, actually work in the real world. There's a fastastic Fashion 101 section, full of advice on fashion basics like combining colours, playing with patterns and working on your own style.

After all that, if you still find yourself trying to make a tough decision during the sales, just remember this essential piece of advice from my mum - "If you wouldn't buy it at it's full price, don't buy it just because it's on sale."

If you want to play along today, please pop on over to see Katherine and leave us a link to your post!

Flouncy Femininity {Fashion Forward}

There's a new trend emerging as a strong contender for my favourite look of Spring/Summer 2010 - ruffles. That's right, I said ruffles. (See Chloe, D&G and Valentino.)

I must admit, I haven't always been a fan of the flouncy femininity of ruffles. Especially when you consider that, for most women, ruffles can be seriously hard to wear without appearing to be as well rounded as your taste in music!

The key to wearing ruffles is to combine the softness of the ruffle with the structure of something tailored - lean jeans, a boyfriend blazer, an edgy pair of boots - and to find a piece that works well with your body shape

And if you're not sure what will work well with your body shape? There's always this beautiful bag.

Alice + Olivia Cheryl Silk Drawstring Blouse, $210; Nordstrom Satin Ruffle Clutch, $88.

If you want to play along pop on over to see Katherine and leave your link love there so everyone can stop by and take a peek!

Bright Here, Bright Now {Fashion Forward}

Although I'm hankering after one particular little black dress, I'm also thinking about the need to inject a little bit of cheer into my dreary winter wardrobe.

It's quite common, at this time of year, for the high street to fill up with jewel tones and metallics, but what about livening things up a little with a pure pop of colour to make you stand out in the crowd?

Couture Bow Sheen Dress, £18; Raisins Bali Bliss Swim Cover Up, £26; Alice Yellow Bow Evening Dress, £65, Bubble Tulip Dress, £60; Sheen Bubble Pleat Dress, £9; Cutwork Shift Dress, £45; Green Strapless Dress, £35;

These dresses are all flattering, require very little in the way of accessories and, more importantly, can be bagged for as little as £9. So you need less time to get ready to go out and you'll have more money to party with! Hurrah!

Fashion Forward is with Katherine this week. If you want to play along (or would just like to have a bit of a nose at the trends taking everyone else's fancy this week) pop on over and say hello.

Edited: I'm assuming Katherine is having trouble with internet connection, so I'm going to link everyone up here for today. We'll sort something out for next week and point everyone in the right direction. Sorry folks! :)

And what's with the big, red crosses? Obviously going to be one of those days!

Re-fashioned {Fashion Forward}

I must admit that, under normal circumstances, when I create my 'collections' for Fashion Forward each week, I enjoy the element of being able to pick anything that I like - regardless of whether or not I could afford it in real life. A girl has to dream. Because, in the immortal words of Captain Sensible, "If you don't have a dream, how you gonna have a dream come true?"

Yet there is only so much dreaming, hoping and wishing a girl can do, right? Robbing banks (or little, old ladies) is not an option and since there was some talk amongst ourselves last week of selling organs in order to afford a little luxury, I thought I had best come up with a plan before things got ugly.

So, although I've still put together a super cute outfit for myself (one which I totally wish I had the legs for) and it's just as aspirationally expensive as usual, each of the items I've chosen can be made or re-fashioned using the tutorials I've listed below. You'll probably have all of the items you need to make these pieces lying around in your wardrobe.

Solid Pleated Tunic - Charlotte Russe, £14. Refashion, Single Pleat Tunic From Men's T-Shirt. Ruby & Ed Cashmere Legwarmers - Asos, £26. Refashion, Sweater Skirt & Legwarmers From Old Sweater. Ridge Wool Mini Skirt - Browns Fashion, £215. Refashion, Sweater Skirt & Legwarmers From Old Sweater. Suede & Elastic Sandal - Browns Fashion, £490. Refashion, DIY: Elastic Banded Pumps.

And the £332, Lanvin Pearl & Ribbon Necklace? I'll be showing you how to make one of those in a tutorial tomorrow. You'll probably have everything you need to make it lying around in your crafty stash. If you don't, I guarantee you'll be able to make it for less than the cost of a Starbucks. So, please, do come back tomorrow!

But before you head off, it's December very, very soon (!) and that means that Katherine will be hosting Fashion Forward next week. In the meantime, have fun looking at everyone else's collections while you wonder if you'd be able to replicate them with some gaffer tape and an old cardboard box.