Prada Sunglasses Giveaway!..
TO celebrate all that is glorious about the sunshine I thought it would be a great idea to giveaway some Prada sunglasses! These Prada Dixie Hot Rod Car Deluxe Club Master Sunglasses in yellow are the perfect combination of hot rod and fashion – my favourite! These were seen all over the Prada catwalk in 2012 and the iconic shape is a classic piece to keep forever.
To enter all you have to do is follow @HelensWardrobe on Twitter, follow this blog by signing up via email in the right side bar, follow Helen’s Wardrobe on Facebook and share the #giveaway message(s) I publish on Twitter and Facebook. Easy!
If you are a regular Helen’s Wardrobe reader and you already follow me on Twitter, Facebook AND subscribe to my blog then all you have to do to enter is share the #giveaway message(s) I publish. The winner will be chosen at random on June 1st 2014, please make sure you read the terms and conditions at the bottom of this post.
Right you fabulous fashion forward fillies, you know you want this amazing prize, so get entering! Best of luck ♥
Terms and conditions with further information on the prize:
The sunglasses in this competition are 100% authentic Prada. The prize consists of 1 x Prada Dixie Hot Rod Car Deluxe Club Master Sunglasses in yellow, a Prada hard sunglasses case, Prada box, card of authenticity and Prada cleaning cloth for the lenses. This competition is a private giveaway hosted by Helen’s Wardrobe, and not connected to Prada themselves. The sunglasses RRP is approx £348, but prices may vary. The winner will be chosen at random and all decisions are final. Only entrants who have followed the above criteria will qualify. Each entry will only be counted once. This competition will close at 1pm on June 1st 2014 any entries after this time will not be counted. The winner will be notified via Twitter and Facebook and the prize will be delivered to the winner once an address has been emailed to Helen S Stanley. The prize will be delivered within 3 working days of receiving the address by Royal Mail Signed For.
Birthday Celebrations, What to Wear?..
I have been celebrating my birthday for a week, because it only happens once a year and why not stretch it out? We were only popping into Sloppy’s with some friends so I didn’t want to be too overdressed, but I still wanted to look like “me”, rock n roll and all that awesomeness. Luckily I’d picked up some gorgeous kaftans from TKMaxx the previous week and went for one of those with some jeans, heels, a clutch and lots of jewellery. Then armed with my Instax Mini 90 and a bucket load of beers we celebrated. Here’s how it all turned out…
Kaftan style embellished top £16.99 by Simply Rhona at TKMaxx, coral & pink shoes past season from Kurt Geiger, aqua clutch bag was £145 now £115 from LOS, (I wore these with turned up skinny jeans from Levis), anchor necklace £53.95 by Muru at Lulu Winter worn with a past season Dior necklace, vintage crystal pendant, vintage gold bracelet & handmade friendship bracelets.
Featuring my second epic birthday cake by Jessica Speller and my very talented and wonderful friends Alex, Jorj, Jessica, Adam, Leigh and my hero Stephen.
Prices correct at time of publication.
The Craft Review…
THIS week I’ve been looking at The Craft DIY Hair & Beauty book by Lou Teasdale. I was quite excited to read this because I often have to do hair and make-up on last-minute photo shoots if I can’t get a make-up artist and I’m mostly winging it on these occasions. The book is beautifully produced with lovely matt pages and the presentation is aesthetically eye-catching, but to be honest I found the content very young. I imagine this book is aimed at teenagers and it’s something I would have probably used as a make-up and hair bible when I was around 14. The styling is extremely ’90s, which is great, and the vibrant use of colour throughout is refreshing, I love colour and try to work it into my own looks most days. I didn’t really learn anything new, but as I said I think this is probably because it’s not aimed at me! I did find some of the references such as “…cool people who live in East London” being “the first on the scene with neon/lumo/vunge green/pink hair…” absolutely infuriating. Hipsters in Shoreditch definitely were not the first to do this, punks were doing it in the 1970′s, synthetic hair dye was actually invented in 1907 and the Egyptians were dying their hair with henna way back in 3400 BC. Aside from giving hipsters way too much credit my overall thoughts on The Craft are positive, it’s not quite rock n roll enough for me but I would recommend it to a trendy teeny bopper anytime ♥
Here are my own hair and beauty antics from this week, I had lots of fun with my Instax Mini 90 in the process too!..
Pink hair Schwartzkopf Live Colour XXL Ultra Brights in shocking pink (I tell you how to achieve a pastel shade below), liquid eyeliner from Rimmel, red lipstick from Chanel, nail polish in Grit Fix Kensington from Beauty UK, toe nail varnish in Oh Boy You’re So Fine from Rimmel.
Schwartzkopf Live Colour XXL Ultra Brights in shocking pink was my hair colour of choice this week, after using purple punk previously, I wanted to create a more pastel shade in my hair. So I mixed 1 x part shocking pink to 4 x parts conditioner and added it to my pre-lightened hair (which I have done professionally by my colourist) and left it on for five minutes. After that I rinsed it all off, dried it and styled it. Bosh! Five minutes was all it took to create a fantastic subtle pink colour. Because this hair dye is so bright I know have lots left to refresh my hair when I need it.
Please make-sure you read the labels on hair colour and seek advice from your hair colourist before attempting a big change.
Photography by Helen S Stanley.
Birthday Style…
As it’s my birthday this week (yay!) I decided to create some extra personal style shots with lots of colour, texture and rock n roll styling. I had some really great pieces just screaming out to be styled together and this is what I came up with, a mixture of glitz and glam with personality and a unique look. Happy birthday to me!..
Skeleton hand oversized vest top was £15 now £9 from L.O.S., graduated sequin maxi skirt made by me, Elvis style sunnies from Brighton market, white leather Converse £55 from Schuh, bracelets from Loulebelle.
Embroidered oriental style bomber £100 by Le Temps des Cerises from Sojeans, peach t-shirt £20 from L.O.S., skinny jeans with zip ankle from £80 by Levis, leather folded clutch in mint was £145 now £115, white leather Converse £55 from Schuh, skull necklace (previous season) by Anna Lou of London, bracelets from Loulebelle..
All prices correct at time of publication. Styling & photography by Helen S Stanley.
Neon Mood Board…
I love a bit of neon, done properly of course. So here’s my take on neon in the form of one of my mood boards ♥
Camden Town
Natural Beauty…
I’m a big fan of Beauty UK, I love their colour selection and the price points are so reasonable. This week I’ve been using natural coloured nail varnishes and a natural eye shadow palette. Natural shades are perfect paired with really bright attire especially neon hues, I love Grit Fix Posh Polish in Banksy which is a perfect shade of grey and great to pair with a bright coral top or jacket. Grit Fix Posh Polish in Kensington and Gel Fix Posh Polish in Café Cosmos would both work really well with a good tan and a cheeky flash of neon pink. Grit Fix Posh Polish in Fabric is equally as gorgeous, I’d wear this along with a bright aqua bikini – ideal for lounging around the pool. The Posh Palette in Masquerade is ideal for day to night make-up, using the really natural tones for a subtle day time finish and moving onto the darker selection for the evening, just the ticket for creating a smoky eye. So overall this pretty little hoard is a winner, I can’t get enough of the Grit Fix texture and the colours are yummy. All in all a fabulous result ♥
Photography by Helen S Stanley.
Jeans & Sweatshirt, Comfy Style…
Here in the UK the weather is changeable to say the least, no matter where you are or what the weather is, it’s nice to have a jeans and sweatshirt day once in a while and it’s even better to do this in style. I’ve been playing dress up with my favourite faux fur coat, Elvis sunnies, Vegas necklace and teamed it simply with jeans, a sweatshirt and trainers. Easy, comfy, me.
‘CC Fake’ Boyfriend Fit Sweater £36 from Rings & Tings, slight curve skinny jeans from £80 by Levis Curve ID, Converse Allstar Low in white leather £54.99 from Office, faux fur shaggy coat (previous season) by Kate Moss for TopShop, Elvis style sunnies from a street market in Brighton, Las Vegas necklace £25 by Plastic Bat, silver skull ring £160 from The Great Frog, flower & pom-pom headdress made by me.
All prices correct at time of publication.
Photography & styling Helen S Stanley.
Fancy Some Customisation? Have a Look at New Publication Adorn…
Graduates of the London College of Fashion and Central Saint Martins Kit Lee and Shini Parks have collectively created a fantastic publication called Adorn. A book filled with 25 do-it-yourself customisation projects inspired by various designers and street styles from around the world. Using inexpensive materials and a few essential tools, Adorn is made-up of easy-to-follow, step-by-step sections varying in difficulty levels to help you customise, embroider and decorate your tired garments.
I was looking forward to reviewing this book, I have always customised my own clothes and accessories and after many years of styling it’s become second nature. The photography is clean and the overall design of the publication is lovely, making Adorn the ideal present for someone interested in fashion. I re-created one of the projects quickly just to show how easy it is to follow, the photos and step-by-guides make it extremely simple to adopt these ideas and use them on your own garments.
Many of the projects in this book do require quite a lot of embellishing, which is great, but it would have been nice to see some customising techniques which don’t require you to go out and buy lots of extra bits and pieces in order to create them. For example the spinal t-shirt below: this is created by using a cutting technique and a tiny bit of sewing on a t-shirt, it’s super quick and very effective. I used this on a recent shoot for an upcoming feature in Silk & Sins, styled with some ripped jeans and Converse for an alternative, casual wedding outfit.
So overall I was impressed with the aesthetics of Adorn, it is a delightful book. Personally I feel it’s probably a little bit novice for me, I’ve been styling for many years so I know lots of tricks and customisation techniques, but it would be perfect for a beginner, someone wanting to sew a lot of embellishments on their clothes (well the clue is in the title)! Highly recommended.
All photography by Helen S Stanley.
Pastel Beauties…
Pastels really are the hues of the moment with brands and designers exploring pastels throughout apparel, footwear and accessories. It’s also a good idea to consider pastel make-up too and Beauty UK have a superb variety. I have sensitive skin and that considered I have never had any problems with Beauty UK products. The Baked Box in Halo is really subtle and adds a nice sheen, for a little more impact Blush & Brush in Dawn Glow is on the ball for achieving killer cheek bones. I love the Grit FX posh polish in Fabric it makes me want to eat candy floss! Both lipsticks have a great scent and good coverage, I tried Son of a Peach, Chelsea and previously Cupcake. The Eye Shadow Palette in Pastels has some nice shades, they blend and the more fun colours are good for shoots. The cute as a button Posh Pouts in Would I Lilac to You and How Nude are both are perfect for a subtle kiss of colour on the go: chuck ‘em in your handbag…
All products from Beauty UK, prices start at £2.99.
Photography Helen S Stanley.
Pink Style…
I’ve never really been one for the colour pink, but it’s come along way in the fashion world and there’s loads of variety available at the moment. I like combining different shades and tones of pink to create something interesting and true to my usual aesthetic. I believe a trend needs to work with your existing style, if not leave it alone: that said the pink trend is versatile and can work for most. This time I’ve combined my baby pink hair with hot pink cropped trousers, coral and pink heels, multi-coloured accessories and a crisp white top, chuck in some animal print sunnies and there you have it, pink perfection. Don’t be afraid to clash pinks, but lean towards sophisticated with the styling or else you could end up looking a bit scary. As always I have styled high street with vintage and designer, I think I’ll be styling some more pink soon because I love it! 
My Outfit: White mesh & viscose top £25 by Vero Moda at Sojeans, hot pink cropped trousers £9.99 from Loulebelle, pink & coral shoes from Kurt Geiger (past season), woven clutch bag £5 from Primark, animal print catseye sunglasses £145 by Stella McCartney at Avenue 32 (sold out but nude colour available), multicoloured long necklace £15 from Loulebelle, silver arrow bracelet is vintage, silver ‘pirate’ necklace £27.90 from My Name Necklace, silver skull ring £160 from The Great Frog.
All prices correct at time of publication. Photography & styling Helen S Stanley.
A Vintage Affair…
“A Vintage Affair brings a taste of the London vintage scene to Herts & Essex! Our fairs offer a great selection of vintage clothing, accessories, furniture & home-ware all in one place. A great shopping experience which beats the high street – each fair offers hand-picked and affordable vintage from great stall holders plus and music and makeovers. Visit our fairs in locations all over Herts & Essex…” A Vintage Affair.
I went to a fantastic vintage fair this weekend in Hertford at the Hertford Theatre. ‘A Vintage Affair’ was full of vintage and kitsch gorgeousness, there was so much to look at. Refreshingly there was a great amount of vintage rather than just 2nd hand masquerading as vintage, and the handmade jewellery, accessories and clothing added something different. The next event is at Braintree Museum on Saturday 12th April 10.30 – 4pm. £1 entry, free for children & NUS card holders, find out more at A Vintage Affair and follow them on Twitter for news and updates. My favourite stalls were the handmade jewellery and accessories from Trouble Cat designed by Lisa Mair, I loved the embellished sunnies, and Hooha & Whatsit who had the most amazing coloured glass and home ware. Take a look for yourselves…
Photography by Helen S Stanley.
Chips for Tea, Style for Me…
I’m sure most of you will have seen the McCain ‘Chips for Tea’ advert on at the moment, and you’ve probably also noticed the CHIPS jumper in the ad. Well, you can now buy the CHIPS jumper from Primark for a mere £12 AND it’s made in Britain – which we like. Plus, the label also doubles up as a 50p money-off voucher for McCain Home Chips, to use during your next shop, result. I don’t mind telling you that I love potatoes, in any form, and therefore wear my CHIPS jumper with pride (whilst finding my next potato fix), thanks McCain! So to celebrate this awesomeness I thought I’d have a little dressing-up time and here’s how I styled my CHIPS jumper…
How I Wore It: Well it clashes with my hair doesn’t it? So I thought I’d add a bit more pink & a bit more maroon – if it’s going to clash it may as well clash properly: CHIPS Jumper £12 from Primark, denim cut-off shorts by Tommy Hilfiger (cut off by me a very long time ago), cherry red Dr Martens £100 from you guessed it, Dr Martens, silver bracelets are vintage, silver skull ring £160 from The Great Frog, pink lipstick £3.49 in Cupcake from Beauty UK.
How You Could Wear it: I styled my CHIPS jumper pretty simply, but you could obviously get a bit more frisky with your styling: Scarf from Zara (previous season), pink aviators £135 by Ray Ban, jumper & shorts as before, white studded skinny belt from H&M previous season, studded shoes from Kurt Geiger previous season, silver bracelets all vintage, quilted leather bag £207.95 by Maison Scotch at Scotch & Soda.
All prices correct at time of publication.
Photography & styling by Helen S Stanley.
Cheltenham Festival Fashion Do’s and Don’ts…
The fashion police must be watching carefully…
Fashion shows don’t always showcase the best trends. During the 2009 Mercedes Benz Fashion Week and Milan fashion Week, Spanish fashion designer Agatha Ruiz de la Prada released the “Traffic Cone”, a dress that made the model wearing it look like a bell (or a traffic cone). Fashion blunders also happen where royalty and celebrities come together to celebrate high fashion and horse racing: no more so than at the Cheltenham Festival. Want to know what made the fashion police go crazy during the previous event? Here are some of the fashion blunders you should definitely avoid if you are attending the races:
1. Weird wide-brimmed hats
Wide-brimmed hats are probably a staple during the Cheltenham Festival, with prominent people such as Duchess Catherine attending the event to witness one of the biggest racing events in the world. Naturally, wide-brimmed hats are designed to be lightweight to avoid messing with a person’s hairstyle. However, some women like the ones pictured below, decided to take the whole headpiece to the next level and add some decorative, erm, doughnuts. It may protect her from the harsh rays of the sun, but not from the laughter of fashion enthusiasts.
2. Corsets
You may see a lot of Victorian fashion pieces worn by ladies during the festival, which is logical granted that the Cheltenham Festival started during the time of Queen Victoria. Silk gowns, tea gowns, and bonnets are pretty much acceptable depending on the person in question. However, one big no-no during the course of the event is corsets. When you think about it, April is a windy season as we move towards the middle of spring. With that in mind it is enough to make you prepare adequately and make sure warmth is your primary concern. Furthermore, corsets are only apt for people who have good figures.
3. Creepy Horse Mask
Of course, the Grand National as well as the Betfair-sponsored Cheltenham Festival are prestigious horse races. However, this does not give you the right to wear Archie McPhee’s Creepy Horse Mask during the event, although some “dandy” gentleman already chose this as his remit during last year’s Grand National. Aside from taking away the “gentle” in the world gentleman, it is also ridiculous.
Now this is how one should dress for such an occasion…
Show Individuality Through Colour & Style: Peter Pan collar dress £35.99 & pink messenger bag £39.99 both from Zara, beige fedora hat £22 from River Island, vintage sunglasses $413 from Vintage Sunglasses, neon matt-leather orange sandals £625 by Jimmy Choo, gold-plated & cotton cuff £295 by Aurélie Bidermann, crystal skull bangle £170 by Alexander McQueen (all three from Net-A-Porter).
Prices correct at time of publication, styling by Helen S Stanley.
Sports Luxe Meets Rock Chic…
Sports Luxe is a reoccurring trend, a trend I love, but some of us rock gals might be wondering how to apply this trend without sacrificing our signature look. Sports Luxe continues to broaden aesthetically with designers adding more detail this season, from sequins and bling to luxurious fabrics: this makes it easier to adapt the Sports Luxe trend to one’s own style. There’s no need to go all out with joggers, a bomber jacket, football shirt and platform trainers, we are not hipsters and we are not crazed sports fans. So, with this in mind it’s a good idea to show some restraint and select one or two sporty elements, combining them with existing pieces in your wardrobe. We want to achieve a nod to this reoccurring trend, not epitomise a reoccurring nightmare. Understand? So here’s how I styled Sports Luxe with a hint of rock n’ roll along with some ideas for your own wardrobes…
Outfit One: Adidas Firebird track top (customise your own) from $85 at Adidas, “Sorry for Partying” relaxed vest top $30 from Red Lace District, skinny jeans from £80 at Levis Curve ID, spike metallic shoes (past season) Kurt Geiger, Marc by Marc Jacobs neon neoprene clutch bag (previous season) similar available from Liberty, round sunglasses £3 from Primark, black wig £23.99 from Wonderland Wigs.
Outfit Two: Leather biker jacket (past season) from TopShop Boutique, “Paid to Play” cropped relaxed tank top $28 from Red Lace District, tapered black knitted jogging bottoms £225 by Markus Lupfer at Selfridges, neon spike necklace (past season) from New Look, shoes & bag as before, black wig £23.99 from Wonderland Wigs.
Sports Luxe Meets Rock Chic: Studded Swarovski crystal & leather skull cuff £245 by Alexander McQueen, black Wayfarers £120 by Ray Ban, coral snood £10.48 by Tomie Harlene, cropped mesh top £90 by DKNY, jersey track pants £175 by Lot78, large pink leather pouch £39 from & other stories, patent-leather & neoprene trainers £145 by Marc by Marc Jacobs, neon blue watch £80 by Diesel from The British Watch Company, leather biker jacket £595 by OAK.
All prices correct at time of publication.
Photography & Styling by Helen S Stanley.
One Dress, Two Styles…
I have this gorgeous dress from Whistle & Wolf, colourful ditsy print with a graduated hem and contrasting lining. It’s beauuutfiul! The great thing about this dress is I can style it to suit me, with heels, with boots, grunge, rock… This dress is perfect and I can’t wait for that lovely sun to come out so I can wear it…
Look One: Ditsy print dress from Whistle & Wolf £45, white studded skinny belt was £8 now £2 from ASOS, floppy brim hat from Matalan (previous season), patent leather shoes from Kurt Geiger (previous season).
Look Two: Ditsy print dress from Whistle & Wolf £45, checked shirt was £12 now £8 from Matalan, Love/hate slouch grey beanie £8 from Molly Loves Pirates, quilted biker boots from Matalan (previous season), pink aviators £117 from Ray Ban, necklaces & bracelets hand made.
All prices correct at time of publication.
Photography by Helen S Stanley.
London Fashion Week AW14…
This time LFW was a bit of a whirlwind as I only had time to attend one day, but boy did I make that one day count! Way too much fun was had with gin and tonic Meringues at the Savoy, cheeky snaps with my baby pink Instax Mini 8 around Somerset House and of course we saw some amazing shows. I will be writing a full feature for Silk & Sins, but for now here is my personal account of the biggest and best occasion in the fashion calendar shared with my dear friends Jessica from Silk & Sins and Zybartas from March & Fight. Another amazing time, another amazing London Fashion Week…
Myself & Jess at Somerset House, colourful treats by Meringue Girls, shoes by Cleo B, Instax snap of Zybartas Ciurlys, dusky hues from the Yifang Wan show. 
Stunning silhouettes by Edeline Lee, ring by Anfray & Anfray.
Shoe clip and shoes by Cleo B, moi in an Instax snap, pink pink pink neon by Meringue Girls, me with my lovely Mini 8 and one of the Meringue Girls moorish mouthfuls.
Striking designs by Min Wu, me, Zybartas and Jess. I’m wearing a dress by Wondaland, leather biker jacket from TopShop Boutique, bag by BCBG Max Azria, biker boots, skull ring and necklace from The Great Frog, pirate necklace from My Name Necklace, 
Glorious colourful skulls by Shebee, designers show with Wolf & Badger at The Savoy, me with my trusty Instax.
All photography by Helen S Stanley. Photos with myself in, taken by Jessica Speller & Zybartas Ciurlys.
LondonEdge, Edgy Style…
Established in 2000, LondonEdge is the original and best International trade show for men’s and women’s alternative clothing, footwear, street wear and accessories. Of course I had to visit LondonEdge and check this out for myself, I was accompanied by my cousin Allie and dear friend Jessica and collectively we reported the best of what we saw for magazine Silk & Sins, for which I am editor. Obviously I couldn’t go without featuring some of the alternative marvels on Helen’s Wardrobe too. So armed with my new pink Instax Mini 8 I snapped away, Jess fell in love with the steam punk stands and Allie quality tested the liquor shots at the coffin bar. There will be a full report on Silk & Sins but here’s a personal look at LondonEdge for now…
I wore (as always) a combination of vintage, high street & designer: Leopard shift dress by Wondaland, biker boots from Matalan, leather biker jacket from TopShop Boutique, bag by Maison Scotch at Scotch & Soda, neon orange organiser by FiloFax, chunky silver bracelet is vintage, Hand of Fatima bracelet from Cruciani, silver skull ring and skull pendant from The Great Frog, pirate name necklace from My Name Necklace.
Featured: Jessica Speller, Allison Boyd, Iron Fist, Kill Star & Manic Panic, much more to follow from these and loads of other great brands in the full Silk & Sins review on LondonEdge published next week… ♥
Valentine’s Day Gift Guide…
I don’t do Valentine’s Day, it’s not really me, but for all those Romeos looking for gift inspiration I have created a Helen’s Wardrobe Valentine’s Day gift guide. Collecting together lots of trinkets and treasures from jewels to liberating lingerie, there will be something here you’ll love. So get browsing before you run out of time and Happy Valentine’s Day for those of you who buy into all that soppy stuff…
Valentine’s Day gifts for the kitsch kittens, ♥ Pink Collection ♥ Spike necklace £18 by Mikey, faux pearl necklace £12.99 & faux pearl bracelet £8.99, flower ring £7.99, pink resin ring £9.99, set of bangles £6.99, vintage bunny £2, vintage pooch £1.50, shells £2 each, vintage pink leaf dish £3, vintage glass vase £4 all available from Loulebelle. ♥ Orange Collection ♥ Greetings card (in background) £2.99, vintage child figurine £8, flower purse (just seen) £2, vintage yellow glass dish £8, vintage yellow glass candlestick (one of a pair) £8, statement earrings £4.99, bronze jewel studs £1.99, rose metal & diamante ring £7.99, pearl & diamante ring £14.99, rose metal flower bracelet with diamantes £14.99, pink friendship bracelet £5.99, cross bracelets £4.50 each all from Loulebelle, red hand of Fatima bracelet £10 by Cruciani.
Valentine’s Day gifts for the rock star’s wife, ♥ Green Collection ♥ Clover friendship bracelet £10 from Cruciani, ombre thread and bead friendship bracelet £5.99, canary yellow jewel bracelet £3.99 & vintage blue glass jewellery dish £2 all three from Loulebelle, peacock green soft bra £23 & matching panties £18 both from Playful Promises, ♥ Black Collection ♥ Clock £13.99, cross necklace £9.99, crystal bracelet £12.99, black bead bracelet £8.99, silver bead bracelet £6.99, statement jewel sun ring £7.99, diamante clutch bag £15 all from Loulebelle.
All prices correct at time of publication. Photography & styling Helen S Stanley.
Kaleidoscope Guise…
Enthralled by photographic panther print, pink, checks, leather, skulls and rock n roll I give you my newest outfit. A fondness for a combination of grunge, glitter, pirates and a very slight suggestion of femininity equals mordant glamour and styling the Helen’s Wardrobe way. Take a look through my kaleidoscope guise and be influenced, inspired or whatever… 
Leather biker jacket previous season from TopShop Boutique, photographic panther print dress £50 by Dead Lovers at Sojeans, purple checked shirt £12 from Matalan, biker boots previous season also from Matalan, glitter disco clutch last season £8 on sale from Accessorize, round sunglasses £3, Primark, silver skull ring £160 from The Great Frog.
All prices correct at time of publication.
Photography, styling & illustration by Helen S Stanley.
The Grunge Aesthetic
“Grunge (sometimes referred to as the Seattle sound) is a subgenre of alternative rock that emerged during the mid 1980s in the American state of Washington, particularly in the Seattle area. Inspired by hardcore punk, heavy metal, and alternative rock, grunge is generally characterized by heavily distorted electric guitars, contrasting song dynamics, “growling” vocals and apathetic or angst-filled lyrics. The grunge aesthetic is stripped-down compared with other forms of rock music, and many grunge musicians were noted for their unkempt appearances and rejection of theatrics.”
Always a fan of grunge, it reappears pretty much every season and I love it. It’s a favourite division to my style especially when I really can’t be arsed and it’s cold, the multiple layers of mismatched pieces work really well in a “thrown on” moment. So here are a few items I really like and I think they work pretty well as part of the modern grunge aesthetic….
Daisy print dress £14.99 from New Look, plaid shirt (tied around waist) £30 by TopShop, tartan backpack £99.95 by Barbour, ivory boots £105 by Dr Martens, denim jacket £268 by Paige, sunglasses vintage, cameo necklace £65 from Marc by Marc Jacobs.
Daisy dress with t-shirt £14.99 from New Look, leather biker jacket £1370 by Rick Owens, lace-up boots £225 by Fruit, smiley face bag £31 by Nasty Gal, round sunglasses £165 by Wildfox, friendship bracelet $45 from Max & Chloe.
All prices correct at time of publication.
January on Helen’s Wardrobe…
Well it’s been a soggy month but that doesn’t mean we’ve been short of colour on my blog. From pink hair, to colourful popcorn, a pink camera, bright blue leopard print and vibrant bracelets it’s not been dull around here this January. Now this historically depressing month has come to an end I thought I would celebrate being a step closer to Spring with a look at January through some photos, so here we have it, January on Helen’s Wardrobe…
Molly & I became part of the #topcorntribe Yum!
Silk & Sins was launched with editing, styling and photography courtesy of moi ♥
A lot of love for Helen’s Wardrobe from Metcalfe’s Skinny Topcorn, Wondaland, Catseye London, Cruciani, Dead Lovers, Ingenue London, Beauty UK & Instax. Giftastic!..
My hair turned pink ♥
New ink courtesy of Vagabond Tattoo Studio on Hackney Road, including a great interview for Silk & Sins…
Bring on February!
Alice in Wondaland…
Down the rabbit hole we go, dressed in leopard print, adorned in silver and clutching some darling little chihuahuas. A dream? No it’s Helen’s Wardrobe of course…
Leopard print mini dress was £94 now £65.80 from Wondaland. Photographic chihuahua print wash bag used as a clutch £15 from Catseye London. Black patent leather shoes (past season) from Kurt Geiger. Silver skull ring £160 from The Great Frog. Black crystal wrap around bracelet £7 from Loulebelle. Red Hand of Fatima bracelet £10 from Cruciani. Silver iD bracelet, silver chain and silver arrow bracelet all vintage. E-cigarette by NJOY.
Photography & styling Helen S Stanley.
Pink, It Was Love at First Sight…
Another gorgeous mood board smothered in many shades of pink and the inspiration for my next Silk & Sins shoot. My hair is pink at the moment and I love mixing it up with skulls and pastel shades to create a truly tasty look. Pink can be feminine, fun and flattering and if Aerosmith love it then that’s good enough for me. Be inspired and infuse some pink into your day…
I heart Clutch Bags…
I love clutch bags and I believe a clutch bag can transform an outfit from dull to decorous in an instant. Especially if you have chosen quite a reserved look, adding a fun colourful clutch can give an otherwise serious look a refreshing edge. There’s no real need to only opt for high-end either, I like to choose designs for their aesthetic first, not just their name. I’ve selected a few from my own collection, some designer, some high street to illustrate the allure of the clutch bag…
Neon Neoprene Clutch from Marc by Marc Jacobs (previous season). Take Me To The Beach Clutch from Primark. Woven Clutch from Primark. Nude Skull Zip Clutch from Loulebelle. Glitter Disco Clutch from Accessorize. Horizon Clutch from Dorothy Perkins (previous season). Chihuahua Bag from Catseye London. Union Jack Clutch from Aspinal London (previous season).
Photography, Helen S Stanley.
Hooters, Tulle, Pink Hair & Bubbles…
The humble t-shirt, a staple item in most wardrobes, but how do you style it with something other than jeans and make it suit your own personality? Well, in a former life this t-shirt was a souvenir from a visit to Hooters in Florida, since then I’ve cut off the sleeves and given it a revamp with lots of tulle, pink hair, leopard print catseye sunnies, a skull clutch and biker boots. Throw in a few bubbles to cheer up a cold January day and there you have it, my way of updating an old t-shirt, in style obviously. Hooray for Hooters!..
T-shirt $19.95 (similar) from Hooters, tulle skirt £10 from Japan, skull clutch £20 from Loulebelle, biker boots £40 from Matalan, silver skull ring £160 The Great Frog, leopard print catseye sunnies £141.81 by Stella McCartney from ShopBop.
Photography & styling Helen S Stanley.
A Pirate’s Life For Me…
Regular readers of Helen’s Wardrobe will know I love all things pirate, I am also the Queen of mood boards and so a collaboration of the two had to be devised. Mood boards are a great way to illustrate a notion through aesthetics, whether it’s for fashion, interiors or maybe the theme for a party. So here’s my latest masterpiece, an inspiring collection of visuals relating to my love of pirates…
London Edge, Are You Going?
“Established in 2000, LondonEdge is the original and best International trade show for men’s and women’s alternative clothing, footwear, street wear and accessories. Firmly left of centre, LondonEdge brings retailers 100’s of established punk, rock, street, gothic, burlesque, retro, vintage creative and commercial collections alongside a constant supply of the very best, brand new exhibitors from every corner of this planet of ours. Reliably effective for both retailers and exhibitors, this trade show provides the ideal balance of order-writing and entertainment.” London Edge.
I’ll be there reporting for Helen’s Wardrobe and Silk & Sins Magazine, London Edge runs from 2-4th February 2014, National Hall, Olympia, London, hope to see you there…
Pictures courtesy of London Edge.
January Needs Some Colour…
It might still be the depths of winter but in my head it’s Summer, it’s always Summer, I’m pretty sure I should have been a Southern Californian beach baby. Any how, seeing as that is not the case what can I do about it? Ditch the dull and get stuck into some bright prints that’s what. First of all my hair certainly helps brighten things up, then there’s this gorgeous little number from Ingenue London. With its high slash neckline and knot twist detail on the waist, length, soft jersey texture and bright mix of zebra and leopard print you can’t help but feel more Summery and jubilant wearing it. I’ve styled it very “me” with my skull ring, biker jacket, and pirate necklace but it could easily look very 1940′s with the right hair and make-up. I love dresses like this, it’s comfortable and can literally be chucked on to achieve a neoteric, vibrant look. So get on it people, brighten up your look to brighten up your outlook…
Animal Print Jersey Dress £89, Ingenue London. Black Leather Biker Jacket, (past season) TopShop Boutique. Black Leather Croc Mary Janes (past season) Kurt Geiger. Pink Aviators £135, Ray Ban. Silver Skull Ring £160, The Great Frog. Silver Pirate Necklace £27.90, My Name Necklace. Molly the Chorkie, Stylists Own. Hair XXL Live Colour (on a pre-lightened base). Nail Varnish £2.99 in Cappuccino by Barry M. I use Batiste Dry Shampoo XXL Volume at £3.99 from Superdrug in my hair to give it texture, also I don’t brush it.
All prices correct at time of publication. Styling & photography, Helen S Stanley. Please note I do not force my little dog to appear in photos, she literally wanders in and sits down, today she wanted to make an appearance.
Disney Fashion, Stylishly…
A long time fan of all things Disney I have noticed quite an increase in Disney street style. From Marc Jacobs to Gucci, high street to vintage, Disney has been given a style make-over. Whether it’s official Disney or Mickey inspired prints there’s quite an array of statement pieces out there to inject into your wardrobe and give a playful boost to your look. I suggest styling just one Disney item into your existing look so you don’t turn into some kind of hipster. If you’re going to adopt a trend, stay true to your own style and if it doesn’t work leave it alone, there will be others! I’ve selected some great pieces that I just love as well as a few items of my own so enjoy some Disney magic…
Minnie Mouse Earrings, Stylists Own. Skull Ring $49 from Disney Couture. Take Me To Neverland T-Shirt $24.90 from Delias. Minnie Mouse Shoes £73 Walt Disney + Melissa from Nonnon. Alice Curiouser & Curiouser Earrings $39 from Disney Couture. Minnie Mouse Leopard Print Ears Headband £5.77 from eBay. Mickey CC Sweatshirt $55 from Glamzelle.
WAIT! I’m not done yet… Check out these fabulous Minnie Mouse headphones, what better way to indulge in the Disney trend than wearing these beauties? Luckily for you I’m giving away these Minnie Mouse headphones to one lucky reader. To enter this giveaway* just RT my #giveaway messages and follow @HelensWardrobe on Twitter, if you already follow me then just RT the messages to enter, simple! So what are you waiting for? Get tweeting…
*The winner will be selected at random from all the entrants and notified via Twitter. All decisions are final. The prize will be posted to the winner upon receipt of their address via Royal Mail Signed For Delivery. Any Twitter RTs or follows after the competition has been declared closed will not be counted. This giveaway is open from 05/01/2014 until 1pm 25/01/2014.
There’s Nothing In The World I Wouldn’t Do For My Friends…
There’s nothing in the world I wouldn’t do for my friends, they make me laugh and they’re always there for me and I’m lucky enough to have two of my best friends living just five minutes away. I have successfully convinced Jessica to drive for five hours to find an abandoned theme park where she fell over and cut her arse after getting chased by security, I’ve dragged Adam to an abandoned asylum and made him model for me, I’ve stuck flowers in their hair and set fire to smoke bombs under their feet in the middle of the woods, I’ve made them run around in the searing Summer heat with bubble machines and flares and I’ve made them dress up as pirates, all in the name of fashion! Adam and Jessica are the best friends I could ever wish for, friends who help me out no matter what I ask them to do, and they do it with the most amazing enthusiasm. My creativity knows no bounds and they both do anything they can to be part of this aesthetic lunacy, because of this we’ve had the most amazing experiences together and there really is nothing in the world I wouldn’t do for them.
One of the things I would love to do for any one of my friends is help them to stop smoking, and being the dawn of a brand new year now is a great time to start helping them out. Do you have a friend that smokes? Let them know that you care by telling them about NJOY’s electronic cigarette free* sample program (*Just pay £1 for postage). Enjoy some of my visual “friend memories” and check out this great advert by NJOY, it could inspire you to help out one of your friends AND why not enter the NJOY holiday voucher competition?! You could win a dream vacation for you and a friend, what a great way to show them you care!
Cheers 2013, Roll on 2014!…
2013 has been a great year for Helen’s Wardrobe, I was shortlisted at the Cosmo Blog Awards and received a special mention from the editor, I’ve driven across the country to shoot in an abandoned theme park, got chased by security, exercised extreme stealth and courage to shoot at an abandoned mental asylum, attended many press events, reported on LC:M, LFW and Formula 1, styled hundreds of outfits and gone a out of my way to give my readers originality and substance, all in the name of fashion blogging! There is of course only so far one can go with a blog and whilst I will continue working on Helen’s Wardrobe I will also be launching a magazine alongside my dear friend and creative wonder Jessica Speller. We will be co-editors and creative directors of Silk & Sins, a new online fashion and lifestyle magazine that pulls no punches and takes no prisoners. So cheers to 2013 and roll on 2014, this will be year of pushing yet more creative boundaries, I hope you’re ready readers…
All archive imagery from previous Helen’s Wardrobe posts.
In love With The Oriental Trend…
The oriental trend has been around for a few seasons now and shows no sign of going anywhere, there are many ways of interpreting this trend to suit your own style and therefore I thought it was time to inject a touch of Helen’s Wardrobe into the oriental look. By taking a beautiful wide leg jump suit from In Love With Fashion adding some oversized flowers to my hair, some Mary Jane heels, chunky silver along with vintage gold and a bit of inventive make-up I have created a unique look to suit my existing style. If a jumpsuit isn’t quite your thing, try a kimono jacket or an oriental print dress. I love this look and can’t wait to wear it out…
Oriental Print Jumpsuit was £40 now £20 from In Love With Fashion, Mary Jane Heels from Kurt Geiger (previous season), Bracelets Vintage, Swallow Necklace £165 & Skull Ring £160 from The Great Frog. Irregular Semi-Precious Ring was £12 now £6 from Celliana. Flowers, Stylists Own.
All prices correct at time of publication. Styling & Photography, Helen S Stanley.
Blog Giveaway…
THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED: To celebrate the New Year and thank my wonderful Helen’s Wardrobe followers I am holding another giveaway starting today! This prize consists of a faux fur head warmer, a long statement necklace and statement earrings from Loulebelle, Peony Eau de Toilette by Nougat, a selection of teas from Kusmi Tea and a Beauty UK Posh Pout lip colour in How Nude pictured below. To enter simply follow @HelensWardrobe on Twitter and RT my #giveaway tweets, for those who already follow Helen’s Wardrobe on Twitter you can also enter, simply RT the giveaway tweets. This giveaway is open from Thursday 26th December ’13 to Thursday 2nd January ’14* so get tweeting! Best of luck x
*The winner will be selected at random from all the entrants and notified via Twitter. All decisions are final. The prize will be posted to the winner upon receipt of their address via Royal Mail Signed For Delivery. Any Twitter RTs or follows after the competition has been declared closed will not be counted.
Jumpsuit Joy from Day to Night…
Tis the season to party and many of you will be attending office soirees so I thought a style post on this particular subject would help a little. Many, in fact most people struggle with evening wear and if you’re going to a work “do” straight from the office, this poses even more of a fashion dilemma. Well, I do of course have a stylish solution, a jumpsuit, in particular a jumpsuit from In Love With Fashion. As you will see I have styled the LOVE black split leg jumpsuit for day and night, so you can wear your evening outfit to the office and with a few little tweaks be ready to party with minimal fuss…
DAY: I styled my LOVE black split leg jumpsuit from In Love With Fashion with black Kurt Geiger heels, black tights, a River Island blouse with silk neck tie, an Aspinal handbag, a floppy hat from Matalan and rings from The Great Frog. I wore Chanel Rouge Coco lipstick in 05 Mademoiselle for the perfect polished day look.
Night: I styled my LOVE black split leg jumpsuit from In Love With Fashion with lots of vintage pearls, a clutch bag from Aspinal, spike heels from Kurt Geiger, skull & swallow necklaces from The Great Frog, rings from The Great Frog and Minnie Mouse ears are optional from Disney. I topped off my nighttime outfit by stripping off my tights and getting out the pins then splashing on some Chanel Rouge Allure lipstick in 14 Passion. Perfect! It really is that easy, day to night in a few easy steps. 
Photography Stephen Turner, styling Helen S Stanley.
Fashion Bloggers Secret Santa
Working for myself is great, I love it but one thing I miss is Secret Santa, luckily for me and a group of other lovely bloggers Matalan arranged a fashion blogger Secret Santa! We had a limit of £30 to spend on a pre-selected blogger and then Matalan kindly wrapped up the gifts and delivered them for us. It was great fun to look through another blog, find out what the author liked from their posts and photos and then decide what to get them, what a fabulous idea, thanks Matalan! So being very impatient, and obviously wanting to blog about my Secret Santa as soon as it was delivered, I opened it up. From my blog design I obviously love purple so these goodies where a wonderful surprise (excluding the skull, that’s mine, thought I needed a prop to keep the look thoroughly “Helen’s Wardrobe”). I really hope the blogger who I chose for likes my selection too, all in all this was a really fabulous idea and I was delighted to have been involved. I must check out the other #MatalanSecretSanta posts too, can’t wait…
All products excluding the skull are available from Matalan.
Photography Helen S Stanley.
Keeping Winter Stylish…
It’s certainly getting cold, windy and dull here in the UK but that doesn’t mean our wardrobes have to get all frumpy just so we can stay warm and comfortable. A favourite for AW is the faithful chunky cardigan, this does however need to be balanced with a slimmer silhouette to stop the whole look becoming unflattering. A black cardi is a safe bet, I happened upon a lovely black number with embellished shoulders, it’s comfortable, keeps me warm and is great to style with lots of different pieces. I’ve taken it upon myself to show you an example of the benefits of said chunky cardigan and how I made it my own, this particular look has a nineties touch mixed with a bit of rock n roll, just the way I like it. Hopefully this will give you a few ideas and give an inspirational example of how to remain true to your style this Winter…
Black Embellished Cardigan £65, So Jeans. Spinal Tap T-Shirt, Customised Vintage Piece. Black & White Striped Trousers £13, Ebay. Quilted Biker Boots £20, Matalan. Faux Fur Hat £12, Next. Snake & Skull Ring, The Great Frog. Chunky Silver Chain Bracelets, Vintage.
Photography & styling Helen S Stanley.
Christmas Blog Giveaway!
THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED. To celebrate Christmas and thank my wonderful Helen’s Wardrobe followers I am holding two giveaways, the first of which starts today! This prize consists of a SS’14 Matalan black leather look handbag, a Next statement metal necklace, a Tiki portable USB microphone, a 50 ml bottle of Vita Liberata organic tanning mouse and a customised black embellished beanie, pictured below. To enter simply follow @HelensWardrobe on Twitter and RT my #giveaway tweets, for those who already follow Helen’s Wardrobe on Twitter you can also enter, simply RT the giveaway tweets. This giveaway is open from Monday 9th December to Sunday 15th December* so get tweeting! Best of luck x
*The winner will be selected at random from all the entrants and notified via Twitter. All decisions are final. The prize will be posted to the winner upon receipt of their address via Royal Mail Signed For Delivery. I can not ensure this will be received before Christmas.
Clandestine Fashion Photography…
Initially published with TYD I wanted to share this amazing shoot with my readers. The original article and photography sees Helen’s Wardrobe delve further into the realms of beautiful abandon…
CLANDESTINE FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY.
Once again I find myself in the middle of nowhere surrounded by forgotten architecture and crumbling memories and once again I have set myself the challenging task of shooting a no budget project in furtive circumstances. But before I explain further let me start from the beginning, to clarify the reason for the situation I find myself in.
The idea of nature reclaiming a once bustling place has always had a personal allure, there is a long list of abandoned places I wish to explore and capture through photography and this artistic obsession recently merged with my love for fashion and styling to form an altogether different beast. Fuelled by this aforementioned passion and a general dislike for the vain repetition of generic fashion blogs, I decided to wage a visual battle against said vanity projects and introduce something with a bit more aesthetic bite and a lot more substance. Clandestine fashion photography to be precise.
To satisfy the need for unorthodox surroundings combined with a total lack of budget has resulted in last-minute ventures across the country to accomplish this notion and to date previous locations for my own blog shoots have included an abandoned theme park, derelict lido and a stately home. To make our ventures a little more challenging there are rules to be followed, unspoken urban exploration rules. Because the idea of “urbex” is nothing new, I’ve just added fashion into the equation, we all agree in unspoken terms to certain criteria. Nothing must be broken to gain access to a location, no criminal damage must take place and leave each location as you found it for other explorers to enjoy. As my own rule I do not share precise locations or how I accessed them, I work hard to research my projects and it’s up to others to do the same.
Illustrating the opinion that fashion is temporary and combining this with the backdrop of an altogether bigger idea of evanescence lands me back where I started, surrounded by woodland and buildings consigned to oblivion. So here I am, with a small team of equally motivated helpers, we clamber, crawl and stumble to discover outre scenery in which to parade my chosen outfits. Working against the threat of being discovered at any time the photos take on a certain natural charm, we have no time for additional lighting or reflectors, what you see is what you get. I have to capture as many shots as possible before being asked to leave otherwise the whole day and prior preparation is wasted. So not only do we have to be collectively organised and on the ball we have to be spirited and steadfast to the project.
The result of all this is something different, almost poetic, a dreamlike scene of dereliction explored to reveal the beauty in abandon. As nature reclaims the former public buildings our imaginative minds experience the reverie of this other-worldly location, after this everything else seems so ordinary. So this is it, clandestine photography is not only a way of challenging the unimaginative, it has also become an artistic sweet tooth, I wonder where I will end up next? For now let us capture the vision through haunting retrospect and inspire with style, as I give to you my latest example of clandestine photography…
Georgina’s Outfit: Black Jacket, Musto. Black Skinny Jeans, Levi’s Curve ID. Boots, Read or Dead. Leather Gloves, AllSaints.
Adam’s Outfit: Black Jacket, Musto. Black Skinny Jeans, Levi’s. Biker Boots, Vintage. Rings, Model’s Own.
Photography, Styling and Concept, Helen S Stanley. Creative Associate, Jessica Speller. Models, Georgina Goodman and Adam Speller. With special thanks to Musto.
Matalan SS’14, a Press Event Full of Surprises…
After deciding to launch a fashion and lifestyle magazine, Silk & Sins, in January of next year, Jessica and myself figured we really should attend some of these press events we keep getting invited too. Which is tricky when we literally have no spare time, however our collective decision to attend the Matalan SS’14 press event proved to be a good one. With ideas for shoots, features and articles swirling around in our heads this event helped to clarify some plans, one of which being Matalan will no doubt be featuring in Silk & Sins. When styling shoots and features I like to mix high street, vintage and designer together to establish an inspiring aesthetic balance, as well as this I also look at the product first and the origin of the design second. The combination of these preferences ensue style and creativity come first, resulting in an astute visual exposition. So, all this waffling does have a point, we were extremely surprised and impressed by the men’s and women’s products that Matalan have to offer for SS’14. With complementary colour palettes, strong classic silhouettes and charismatic prints the collections lit up the space and really inspired some great ideas for shoots. We were spoiled for choice. Whatever your preconceptions for Matalan may or may not be, I urge you to open up to brands like this, not only do they have on trend collections at very affordable prices, it’s a great way to update your existing wardrobes with key pieces. So keep your eyes open for Matalan SS’14, you’ll be very pleasantly surprised…
All photography by Helen S Stanley, featuring Jessica Speller.
Save The Children’s Christmas Jumper Day
Save the Children has taken its annual Christmas Jumper Day to a new fashion high with the support of the British Fashion Council to create bespoke designer jumpers to be auctioned – with a difference – in aid of Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day on Friday 13th December. Fourteen designers have each customised a jumper to go on display at the Village at Westfield London in a stunning installation designed by artist Stuart Semple. The unique Christmas jumpers have been designed and hand-knitted by fashion brand Wool and the Gang and their British Gang of knitters here in the UK before being customised by each designer.
The jumpers will go on display at Westfield London and festive fans will be able to bid for the jumpers from 28 November – 28 December 2013 by simply paying £1.50 and texting the name of the designer and their minimum bid to 78484. This is an auction with a twist because the lowest unique bid that only one person makes wins. For more information visit www.christmasjumperday.org/designerchristmasjumpers Here is a selection of the designs on offer…
Jumper 1, Alexander McQueen. Jumper 2, Paul Smith. Jumper 3, Burberry. Jumper 4, Wool and the Gang. Jumper 5, Vivienne Westwood. Jumper 6, Mary Katrantzou. Jumper 7, David Koma. Jumper 8, Giles Deacon.
These Christmas jumpers support Save the Children’s 2013 Christmas Jumper Day campaign.
All photographs and information courtesy of Save The Children.
Be The Flame, Not The Moth…
Casanova said, “Be the flame, not the moth” and this inspired us to pull on our boots, explore the horizon and find beauty in an old abandoned church. Disciplined styling sees photographic moth prints combined with black and silver tones for a uniformity amongst the wilderness. Loving fashion but not taking it all too seriously is the key, so we enjoy a liberal sprinkling of high street, designer and vintage for two strong looks for both men and women. Autumn trends never looked so good, go forth and revel, there’s still so much to see…
Leigh’s Outfit: Moth Print Leggings £30, Abandon Ship Apparel. Cherry Red Dr. Martens £100, Dr. Martens. Silver Clutch Bag £19.99 & Cross Pendant £9.99, Loulebelle. Silver Skull Ring from £160, The Great Frog. Black Beanie £4, Sheer Black Shirt £12, Matalan (gold details removed by stylist).
Dan (Jack)’s Outfit: Black Oxford Shirt £45, Abandon Ship Apparel. Moth Print Sweat Pants £45, Abandon Ship Apparel. Silver Cashmere Chanel Scarf (Previous Season), Similar Available at Chanel. Black Dr. Martens, Vintage. Tom Ford Glasses, Stylists Own. Watch & Bracelet, Models Own.
All prices correct at time of publication.
Photography & Styling, Helen S Stanley. Creative Assistance & Location, Jessica Speller & Adam Speller. Models, Leigh Rees Reynolds & Dan (Jack) Atkins.
Special thank you to Abandon Ship Apparel.
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Bloggers Gift Guide…
As promised I’m working on lots of lovely gift guides for all my wonderful readers and as some of you are also fashion bloggers I thought this would be an area of interest. So today I have chosen the perfect selection for a fashion bloggers gift guide, perfect for work rest and play in style. So get your wish lists at the ready because you’re going to want all of these gorgeous things!..
Night: Carvela Open Toe Shoe Boots, £112.50. Olympus Pen E-P5 Camera, £999. Whistles Jacquard Leopard Print Skater Skirt, £135. Whistles Pink Evening Bag, £75. Pink Cord & Gold Vermeil Astley Clarke Friendship Bracelet, £65. Collection by John Lewis Statement Jewelled Earrings, £12. Jean Paul Gaultier Classic Eau de Toilette, £44.10 – £60.74.
Day: Apple MacBook Pro with Retina Display, £1,499.00. Purple WeSC Headphones, £29.95. UGG Boots, £225. Allegra London Cashmere Dip Dye Scarf, £99. Nails Inc. Gift Set, £14.40.
…and relax: Slipper Boots, £25. Vagabond Faux Fur Hot Water Bottle, £28. Green and Co. Country Lavender Scented Candle, £14. Large Gingerbread Man, £5. Fat Face Bobble Bed Socks, £16.
All products from John Lewis, prices correct at time of publication.
Pom Pom Love…
With Christmas coming up we really don’t need any excuse to add glitz and glamour to our wardrobes and when this particular glamour comes in the form of pink fur poms poms who can possibly say no? Whether you want to style up some of your existing footwear or treat someone you love for Christmas, make sure you check out Cleo B for beautiful designer footwear and fun accessories. As part of their collection they offer amazing shoe clips to add to your paws and these pink fur pom poms are my favourite. They work on so many different styles of shoes and are perfect to channel a little nod to the AW’13 pink trend. So to show you lovely lot here’s my version of pom pom love… 
Cleo B fur pom poms range in price from £30 – £60.
Christmas Gift Guides…
It’s started, in fact it seems to have started in mid October. Yes I’m talking about Christmas preparation. I always create gift guides with a difference for those who like something stylish and unusual and this year is no different. In fact I’m going to create more this time. So here’s the first one, a little taster of what’s to come. Enjoy getting excited and inspired about Christmas…
Etched Glass Jar £10, Matalan. Silver Leather Dog Lead £130, Ware of The Dog. Elaphe & Leather Gloves £295, Burberry. Metallic Leather Cosmetic Case £265, Alexander McQueen at Harvey Nichols. Rockstud Sunglasses £396, Valentino. Ceramic Vintage Dolls Head £15, Rockett St George. Skull Friendship Bracelet £140, Links of London at Beaverbrooks. Skull Print Scarf £165, Alexander McQueen. Carved Skull by Josh Harker £160, Rockett St George. Antique Book Paper Print £9.95, Rockett St George.
All Prices correct at time of publication.
Selfie Style…
As you will have seen from all the generic fashion blogs out there people love to take pictures of themselves, and when taken on mobiles we’re calling them “selfies”. Generally if I’m featured on my own blog it’s because I either can’t afford a model, or the location in which I’m shooting isn’t appropriate to take a model, (those who have seen my shoot Where The Wild Things Are and my article for TYD on Clandestine Fashion Photography will understand this). So it’s not my favourite thing to do because Helen’s Wardrobe is a fashion blog, not a personal style blog, the difference being I write about fashion for the most part and not so much about myself. There is also a notable absence of weird soft porn, pouting faces and dip-dyed hair. So because this week I’m without a model I have created a series of selfies with style, as always photographed and styled by myself. Enjoy my selfies and why not send Helen’s Wardrobe some of your own?…
Coated Black Skinny Jeans, £95 G-Star at Sojeans. Customised Harley Davidson Tee, Vintage from the Laines in Brighton. Fur Stole, Vintage from eBay. Boots, (previous season) River Island. Skull Ring £160, The Great Frog. Skull Necklace, Anna Lou of London (courtesy of the Cosmo Blog Awards goodie bag!), Long Skull & Crossbones Pendant, £80 The Great Frog (Charms, Vintage & Chain, Camden Market). Skull Bracelet, £7.95 Loulebelle. Tweed Flower crown and Polaroid, stylists own.
All prices correct at time of publication.
Styling, concept & photography Helen S Stanley.
Sojeans Private Sale!
Just a quick heads up that Sojeans are having a private sale with up to 70% off and it’s my duty to share this opportunity for amazing deals with Helen’s Wardrobe readers. So sign up and have a gander at their great products, you’ve got until 4th November 2013, so get shopping!…
Please note that this sale is for SoJeans customers only, please log in or create an account to participate.
Aw’13 Trend Breakdown, Check Mate…
A big trend for AW’13 is the check, it was all over the catwalk and many designers featured the check in one form or another. This has quickly filtered down to the high street and many gorgeous outfits can be had by you stylish lot. The best way to explore and translate trends is by highlighting an outfit with a key item reflecting your trend of choice, for example a scarf, a bag, shoes or piece of apparel. By all means wear everything at once but it’s best to dress tastefully with a nod to AW’13 trends rather than get over excited. So here are three outfit ideas to get you inspired by checks, combining flattering silhouettes, classic pieces and texture, as always I have teamed high street with designer and vintage, enjoy…
Outfit One, Rock Star’s Wife: Black Alpaca Blend Knit £540, Rick Owens at Net-a-Porter. Leather Mini Skirt £1’660, Saint Laurent at Net-a-Porter. Leather Knee Length Boots were £160 now £140, Jones Bootmaker. Black Faux-Fur Cossak Hat £35, Dune at House of Fraser. Tartan Shopper Bag £22.99, Pull&Bear at ASOS. Cocktail Ring £234, Mawi.
Outfit Two, Day at Spitalfields: Black Trench Coat £79.99, Zara. Team Jacobs T-Shirt £70, LPD New York at Net-a-Porter. Tiger Check Kilt £355, McQ Alexander McQueen at Harrods. Skull Clutch €79.95, Religion at We Like Fashion. Black Leather Ankle Boots were £99 now £89, Jones Bootmaker. Coral Snood £16, TopShop. Textured Leather Cuff was £35 now £18, ASOS.
Outfit Three, Ganstar’s Paradise: Black Wide Leg Trousers £331, Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti at Style Bop. White Blouse £29.99, Mango. Black Cape £195, Coast. Snake Print Loafers were £79.99 now £35, Jones Bootmaker. Red Wide Brim Fedora £375, Eugenia Kim at Net-a-Porter. Vintage Black Sunglasses were £5 now £3.75, Rokit. Checked Wool Blend Scarf £436.74, Saint Laurent at Farfetch. Black Python Print Clutch Bag £35, Motel Rocks. 
All prices correct at time of publication.
Shrt Clothing…
Old Fashioned Style with a Personalised Twist…
I was very kindly sent a personalised necklace from My Name Necklace, however, I didn’t want my name, I wanted ‘Pirate’, which I got. I love my pirate necklace, it’s my new favourite and I’ve been wearing it with pretty much everything. Today I styled it in a land girl meets skinny jeans and vintage Gucci look, with added pirate. The great thing about personalised jewellery is that you can style it however you want, adding a unique element to your wardrobe. So here’s my take on a name necklace, surrounded by some old fashioned loveliness and my very own Helen’s Wardrobe style…
Sterling Silver “Carrie” Style Name Necklace was £32 now £27.90, My Name Necklace. Head Scarf & Gucci Bag, Vintage. Striped Top £15.99, Zara. Skinny Jeans £80, Levis Curve ID. Boots £250, Timberland Boot Co (previous season). Skull Ring £160, The Great Frog.
All prices correct at time of publication. Styling Helen S Stanley, photography Stephen Turner.
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