5/26/2016

Wildflowers - Daisy Painted Swing Dress from Collectif

I've always been a huge sucker for daisies, so when I saw this pretty gingham print coming out as part of Collectif's SS16 collection, I knew that at some point I'd end up twirling around in it. My lovely mother in law recently gave me some money to buy some clothes with the provision that it had to be frivolous, so I finally had the perfect excuse to make the purchase as I honestly cannot remember the last time I brought something, just because.

The dress is an absolute dream and is one of the new wave of dresses by Collectif to go up to a UK size 24. It features a halterneck style with a darling daisy applique to the bust and skirt, with the swing skirt fully flared and petticoat ready. It's a zip free pull on style with an elasticated back panel to ensure it accommodates busts of all sizes.



Despite the wealth of fabric, the dress doesn't feel heavy when worn which makes it the perfect gsrment for a lazy summer day. It also comes with a white belt which sits on the waist, and I cannot wait for the weather to warm up so that I can pretty much live in this dress.

Until next time,

Diana x ❤ x
(All photos (c) Diana Thompson / Fashion Loves Photos unless otherwise stated. Please do not reproduce without written permission.)

5/24/2016

Blue Is The Colour

I know, I know, it's an actual real life blog post! It's been a little quiet over here for the last week, but I've spent the last seven days back to back shooting so am slowly catching up on admin, sleep and organising a huge backlog of content! As ever you can find all the behind the scenes gossip on my Instagram, so if you're not already following me, feel free to tap the button!

On the blog today is something which I picked up from JD Williams a few weeks ago, and have just been waiting for the warmer weather to come back again so I could wear it. This navy coloured spot covered shirt dress (£29) is the holy grail of buttoned up dresses for anyone with a larger bust as the slightly stretchy fabric has both give and a generous cut on top.

The dress is a kitschtastic take on the utility trend, with the polka dots giving a 40s aesthetic to the tea dress shape. Made from a light, floaty material, it's perfect to flit away lazy summer days in, but also one which have leggings and oversized knits added to it to wear through the cooler months too.

On this occasion I teamed it with some simple sole diva ballet flats (£10) from Simply Be, and a cute red London bus necklace (£35) from Tatty Devine. Now all I need is some sunshine and a picnic to go to!

Until next time,

Diana x ❤ x
(All photos (c) Diana Thompson / Fashion Loves Photos unless otherwise stated. Please do not reproduce without written permission.)

5/15/2016

Sole Sisters - Summer Shoes For Comfy Feet

I feel like I'm completely obsessed with shoes at the moment. The change in weather means that I've had to put my wear-with-every-outfit ankle boots to one side, and suddenly I'm forced to actually think about what goes on my feet. As a photographer who spends much of her day standing up, I need to wear something comfortable. But my vintage loving sensibilities also want something pretty, whilst my practical side wants something to allow for expansion and swelling in the heat. Not too much to ask to find in a shoe, right?

I came across the Daniel Footwear website which plays host to a huge range of designer footwear, and have fallen head over heels with several pairs made by one of my favourite designers, Vivienne Westwood. The trio are all ballet flats which although similar in shape, manage to remain incredibly different in design.

The first which caught my eye were the Scribble Pewter Orb Ballet Flats (£98), which feature a really interesting criss-cross doodle design. Available in black, gold or pewter, their solid colour makes them easy to wear and match with the contents of your wardrobe, whilst the abstract design makes them eye catching. As with all VW designs, the statement orb adorns the toe and also features a padded tartan foot-bed for comfort. 

The Melissa Ultragirl Pink Flower Orb Ballet Flats (£105) are an utter delight, right from the classic peep toe style, to the signature sweet scented Melissa Melflex plastic. Decorated with a print of magenta and cyan flowers set against a green leaf and pink graphic backdrop, these are the sort of shoes which will go with classic blue jeans or add colour to your favourite LBD. A pink orb finishes off the design, with a hidden micro-heel giving a tiny amount of height. The shoe also features support from it's foot bed padding, so are perfect for dancing the night away, at a wedding or anywhere else.

If you want to introduce a bit of sparkle into your outfit, look no further than the Space Love Gold Glitter Orb Ballet Flats (£98). These babies manage to merge both classic and contemporary styles, and offer a chic and stylish nod to even the most ordinary of outfits. With a comfy floral print padded foot-bed, the design is finished with the signature orb sat atop a rounded toe.

All three pairs are available up to a UK 8, and you can view the rest of the collection here.

Until next time,

5/12/2016

I've Got Those Happy Feet

The sunshine and warm weather brings a rethink of our footwear. Gone are the rain ready ankle boots and cosy fleecy boots in favour of open toes, pretty straps and holiday ready styles! With summer fun on the brain, here are a few of my favourite styles which are perfect for staycations, beachy walks or simply for dancing the night away in.

First up we have these stunning Ghillie Lace Up Sandals from F&F (£15). Available up to a UK size 8 in both tan or black, the ghillie lace up design are perfect for a feeling of laid back cool. The sandals feature a mix of faux leather and a snake print effect, with a trend led gold tone trim around the sole.

My next choice are these beautiful yet classic Jenna Heeled Peep Toe Sandals from Jones Bootmaker (£69). Available up to UK size 8, this modern take on a 70s style is the very definition of a killer heel! Available in a choice of black and grey, the crossover front offers a touch of sophistication and makes this an adaptable choice for most styles and occasions,

My final pick is the festival ready Sole Diva Fringe Sandal from Simply Be (£35). Designed to be as comfy as they are cool, they are a fantastic alternative to the usual open-toe shoe. With two gold side buckles and the layered fringing detail to the front, whether paired with denim or dresses, they'll keep you looking cool when you're feeling hot.

Until next time,

5/10/2016

Make Me Up Before You Go Go - Make Up Bag Favourite from Lord & Berry


I've been a huge fan of cosmetics brand Lord & Berry ever since I first discovered their amazing matte lip crayons in a Glossybox delivery. Packed full of pigment, the high colour pay off stayed putt all day and became a firm favourite in my make-up bag.

I almost hugged the postman when he delivered a series of samples for me to test out, and could barely wait to tear into the envelope! Inside was a selection of lipsticks, crayons, a liner and an eyeliner pen and after snapping them in my studio, it was time to attack them with my face, but not before swatching!

5/09/2016

Living The Highlight - Maybelline Master Contour By Facestudio

Sometimes a product falls into your lap which completely floors you! Enter Maybelline Master Contour By Facestudio, a simple contour and highlight chubby stick which allows you to be defined and dewy with a few simple swipes.

It's a stick of two halves - one darker side to contour, and a lovely champaign coloured highlighter on the other to illuminate. The contour is sheer, buildable and blends with ease, with both sides feeling moisturising and perfect for a natural looking sculpt.

It May Be Winter Outside (But in My Heart It’s Spring) - AW16 from Studio Eight

It always feels a little odd to be looking at sequin laden party dresses in sunshine fulled high temperatures, but AW16 from Studio Eight certainly managed to get me in the mood for festive fun.

Available up to a UK size 26, the sister brand of Phase Eight has made a name for themselves offering stylist options made from premium fabrics. With a selection of stunning ropework, laser cut outs, print and sparkle, the drop for the later part of the year will have you feeling great whether searching for casual wear, work wear or something to dance the night away in. As ever the range covers painted florals, contemporary patterns and hand stitched embellishments for the perfect finish, and it is those tiny touches which make the items feel like proper wardrobe investments.


It was so difficult to choose my favourite pieces, as so much of it was exquisite. I loved the 1920s feel of much of the collection with flapper ready fringing and art deco sequin patterns running throughout. The floor length silver dress also gets a mention as it was such a knock out number for the festive season, and I loved the versatility of their sequin blazer - perfect for throwing over a dress, or simply styled with a pair of skinny jeans.

Watch the video and let me know your favorite pieces in the comments!

Until next time,

(All photos (c) Diana Thompson / Fashion Loves Photos unless otherwise stated. Please do not reproduce without written permission.)

5/03/2016

Let The Sunshine In - Summer Accessories For Your Holiday Suitcase

With the first of two May bank holidays out of the way, the sunshine has arrived and dreams of summer holidays are starting to feel that little bit more real. But clothes aside, what are the other essentials to cram into your getaway suitcase?

Whether you're escaping for a city break or seaside stroll, shoes are a pretty important thing to think about as there is nothing quicker to spoil your fun than sore, swollen, blister covered feet! Online shoe brand Brantano have you covered, with a huge range of sandals and flats perfect for all sorts of holiday adventures.

Clarks Hayla Pier Flat Sandals (£47).
Caravelle Lofters Ballerina Shoes (£30).
A pair of pretty sandals will take you from day to night with the right outfit, with this timeless, classic style from Clarks designed very much with comfort in mind. They feature a moulded footbed and elevated outsole, and even have an adjustable riptape fastening for fuss free functionality. The ballerina pumps are great for slipping on and off when you want to feel the sand between your toes, with a laser cut pattern allowing your shoes to aerate. They're also perfect to throw in your bag if you want to take off your heels after a night of dancing, with the pretty diamante finish continuing to add to the glitz.

Contrast Trim Floppy Hat (£20) from JD Willians.
A floppy brimmed sun hat which channels the glamour of Audrey Hepburn is another holiday must, and I am absolutely in love with this monochrome beauty from JD Williams. I am a huge fan of straw hats, as my vintage inspired hair styles often make it difficult to sit a hat on top correctly, where straw is incredibly easy to pin in place by running a few hair grips stealthily between the woven layers. Even if it does fit properly, I find that pins are great at protecting your hat from being swept away by the wind too! Perfect for a bit of poolside glamour.

Tortoiseshell Effect Sunglasses from George (£4).
Sunglasses are the holiday item which get lost, broken and misplaced the most, but at just £4, you needn't worry with these pretty mock tortoiseshell sunglasses from George. Great for protection against sun glare and hangovers, these stylist frames evoke a little vintage vixen into whatever outfit you pair them with.

F&F Crochet Kaftan (£16).
If you're looking for a pretty poolside cover-up, then look no further than this beautiful crochet kaftan from F&F. It's a stunning item to throw over your swimwear when wanting to give your skin a break from the sun, but would also work as a long line tunic if you wanted to get more value out of your suitcase space.

2in1 Laser Cut Tote Bag from George (£16).
My last pick is this pretty laser cut bag from George which is great for throwing all of your holiday essentials in whilst you're off exploring. Even better, it comes complete with a second smaller make-up bag where you can stock your sun lotion and face essentials without them getting lost amongst everything else. I am a huge fan of large bags, and this one comes complete with inner pockets and a magnetic popper fastener.

What are your holiday essentials? Don't forget to tell me in the comments!

Until next time,

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