Mrs Professor Green

Today, I have been faced with the time old question that has plagued society for centuries- do you want the good news or the bad news first? Unfortunately, in print it’s difficult to please both parties, but I’ve gone with my instinct and punted for bad. It’s only up from here…

Ladies, it’s official- Professor Green is off the market. That’s right, the ever charming Hackney born rapper has hopped off the stage and landed on one knee, supplementing Millie Mackintosh’s ever stylish and over flowing wardrobe with the ultimate accessory. If you’re prone to jealousy, I suggest you look away now...

There is light at the end of the tunnel, I assure you! Here it is- just think how gorgeous Millie’s dress is going to be? Cheered you up? Yeah, me too. So with wedding bells chiming in the distance, and my imagination running away with itself once more, I pondered, what would I wear to the bash? It’s time to look for that perfect wedding (guest) dress, and I think I’ve found the answer right here at South West Ten.

The general rule of thumb as a wedding guest is to avoid white, full length lace numbers, so taking this on board, I present to you option number one. This vibrant, fitted midi dress cinches in any waist and exudes effortless feminine sophistication. The royal purple will spice up any reception, and the fabric is machine washable- ideal after close encounters with drunken uncles and their dangerously full champagne flutes.

http://www.southwestten.com/clothing/dresses/Purple-Dress

Alternately, this nude bodycon beauty with cut-out arms oozes luxury whatever the occasion. Reminiscent of the infamous Herve Leger bandage dresses, this fitted number offers designer chic at an affordable price. Need I say more?

http://www.southwestten.com/clothing/dresses/Nude-Bandage-Dress
http://www.southwestten.com/clothing/dresses/Stretch-V-Neck-Sleeveless-Pencil-Dress

Not every skin tone can master nude (myself included), but my final pick of the day happens to come in cobalt, black, red and navy, which pretty much has every palette covered. With flattering pleats over the stomach and an elegant V-neckline, nothing says understated glamour more.

So there you have it, three sensational picks that scream wedding attire. Besides, what better way to cure serious jealousy than to go shopping? After all, it’s a well known fact that a statement dress is the new prozac.

Oh and if you’re reading this Millie, I am more than welcome to be maid of honour. Just thought I’d put it out there…

Get one of your five a day with this season’s hottest colour…

Ladies, we’re talking citrus.

As we joyously wave goodbye to the dull, drab tones of our winter skies and wardrobes, we see a new colour on the horizon. It’s the dawn of the season of citrus. This effervescent colour has blazed its way into esteemed designer’s collections worldwide, ranging from Alexander McQueen to Stella McCartney, cropping up in a series of smouldering statement pieces. To help you grate a bit of extra zest into your wardrobes this season, we at South West Ten are on hand.

Let’s be honest, we can never bank on bright skies regardless of the season in merry old England, so it’s time we took on the task of bringing a bit of a glow back to Spring. Go citrus from head to toe in a magnificent maxi, sure to brighten up any room. South West Ten’s coral beauty with a subtle side slit is sure to make a statement whatever the occasion. The effortless embellishments along the neckline bring a bit of bling to this fun, joyous colour. Alternately, perhaps a fitted body-con number? Chic, charming, coral- let your wardrobe pack a little punch this spring with the season’s juiciest trend.

Alexander McQueen far left, Stella McCartney second right.

www.southwestten.com/clothing/dresses

Move over red carpet, this award season the stars were bringing a bit of orange to the table. Be it Beyonce’s bold, effortlessly chic midi dress, Elizabeth Banks’ gorgeous flowing maxi or Jessica Alba’s magnificent, coral fishtail number, celebrities are taking to the trend in mass. I have a bigger crush on that dress than I do Jessica Alba, which is saying something…

So if there’s anyone out there who is as incapable as me of tanning, at least we’ll have a bit of a glow this season. Besides, you know you can’t go wrong with a bit of orange this season when it’s guaranteed to match the nation’s number one accessory over the next couple of months. (That's a jug of Pimms of course.)

SAY HELLO TO VATICAN FASHION

This week we said goodbye to Pope Benedict XVI, and waved hello to Pope Francis- not only the first Latin American chap to take up the position, but the first Francis (you’d think they could’ve been kinder with the name…) Becoming the 266^th man to take up the office, this 76 year old proved one is never too old to start a trend, because as we ushered in the new head of the Catholic church, we saw his style trickle it’s way down into many a collection for Spring/Summer 2013. The designer world has gone crazy for papal splendour- we’re talking a passion for Vatican fashion.

Dolce and Gabbana have stayed true to their Italian heritage and have created pieces of absolute art work that emanate Catholic majesty- these pieces in themselves deserve reverence. Rich colours of golds and rubies are combined with jewelled embellishments that radiate grandeur and luxury. The pieces themselves are tapestry- esque and wouldn’t look out of place hanging on the walls of the Vatican. Embroidered patterns, encrusted gems and opulent fabrics come together to create a climax of absolute sumptuousness. This season, I’m worshipping at the alter of Dolce and Gabanna. Shame my debit card seems to disagree.

The next designer heavy weight who seems to have been stealing tips from inside the Vatican’s fashion department is Valentino. The fresh, cream embroidered designs combine papal chic with runway elegance. The structured flow of the garment creates a feel of true majesty, worthy of Francis himself. 

 Never missing a fashion beat, South West Ten can serve you up Vatican glamour as good as the rest of them. Our topical item of the week- this coral, intricately embroidered beauty. The hand sewn embellishments add a couture-esque feel to the garment, oozing splendour. Watch out Dolce.

www.southwestten.com/clothing/dresses/Coral-Bodycon-Dress

So Francis, here’s a warm welcome from the fashion world and us at South West Ten. We wish you all the best for the future, and thank you whole heartedly for instigating the revival of renaissance glamour in our wardrobes. Besides, there's nothing holier than Valentino.

P.S before he became Pope, his name was Jorge Mario Bergoglio- could’ve fooled me he wasn’t an Italian fashion designer…

Aaaah the luck o' the Irish...

If you’re struggling this coming Sunday to find a reason to truly celebrate St Patrick’s Day and the wonderful Irish, take a moment and remember, it’s where Colin Pharrell was born and bred. Reason enough for me. So this weekend we all should pay homage to our lively neighbours, and if drinking a fair few pints of Guinness doesn't happen to tickle your fancy, we offer you a solution. Deck yourself out in our Irish inspired wardrobe, full of glorious greens and tremendous turquoises. Whatever decision you choose to make, it’s an excuse to drink or shop, what more could you ask of a Sunday afternoon?

To me, Ireland means green. Be it the glorious rich plains of their countryside, the elusive four leafed clover, or a tiny little leprechaun, the country radiates an emerald glow, so this week, your wardrobe should too. Ranging from delicate pastel shades of mint to vibrant turquoises, here’s South West Ten’s take on the festivities.

Sure to make any onlooker green with envy is this turquoise beauty. Embellished by hand with a subtle side slit, this maxi dress exudes glamour. This season, the back is back in so to speak, so the slightly cowled back detail is bang on trend. If they’re doing it at the Oscars, we can’t be too far off…

http://www.southwestten.com/holiday-shop/dresses/Turquoise-Maxi-Dress

Looking for a subtle splash of green? Why not chuck one of our statement turquoise python clutches into the mix? They can be worn with nearly any outfit to spice up a day or evening look. Recycling accessories? How very green of you… Or perhaps this Missoni style top will tickle your taste buds. Light, fresh and effortless, this top emanates Spring.

www.southwestten.com/Clothing/Green-Missoni-Style-Top

So there you have it. I wish you a wonderful St Patrick’s Day, whether you choose to spend it down the local or at home with friends and family. Besides, one can never be too overdressed- turquoise maxi dress anyone?

(Oh, and in case this failed to get you in the Irish spirit, here’s a bit of free luck. 10% off til Saturday. You are so welcome. )

SEX, THE CITY AND ME.

On the 22^nd February 2004, women everywhere were left with a gaping whole in their hearts/television schedules. Sex and the City had gracefully departed our screens, taking with it our weekly dose of fabulous men, and even more fabulous fashion, but not without leaving a serious imprint on our souls, wardrobes and overdrafts. This post pays homage to the multiple hours I’ve spent in a jealous reverie following these four women’s lust for life, love and labels. If anyone’s to blame for my incurable spending problem, it’s them. (I don’t regret a penny.)

Trying to pick 9 outfits out of 92 episodes and 2 glorious films worth of quite frankly genius fashion is like trying to trying to choose between Brad Pitt, Leonardo Dicaprio and Tom Hardy- excruciating. I want them all. Having immersed myself in the depths of their wardrobes, I have come up with some of the best mini, midi and maxi dresses to try and cater for all our individual styles. Up first, we have these gorgeous, high necked, fitted dresses, cut off mid thigh. Be it a bold pink dress with a statement, contrasting belt and pearls, or a chic, body-con grey number with effortless tan accessories, this woman knows fashion. Steal her style at South West Ten, in this coral, embellished beauty with intricate, subtle patterning. Carrie couldn’t have chosen better herself. 

http://www.southwestten.com/clothing/dresses/Coral-Bodycon-Dress

The midi dress marches to the foreground next, a staple item in every woman’s wardrobe. Funnily enough, Carrie had enough to clothe the majority of Manhattan. Ranging from vibrant colours and bold shapes and patterns to chic, classic fits, the midi dress accentuates every curve, oozing feminine sophistication. South West Ten offer this classic pencil dress that could do no wrong.

http://www.southwestten.com/clothing/dresses/Stretch-V-Neck-Sleeveless-Pencil-Dress

Finally, every woman knows it is a cardinal sin to not have a vibrant maxi dress hanging in their wardrobe. Maxi dresses elongate our petite Carrie, making her look long, lean and eternally stylish. Neon and bright colours are huge trends this coming season, so jump on board the fashion brigade and kit yourself out with this striking, high necked cobalt blue maxi dress at South West Ten. Long live the maxi.

http://www.southwestten.com/clothing/dresses/Cobatl-Blue-Maxi-Dress

So my motto for the day is, when in doubt, just think- what would Carrie Bradshaw do? Or wear, as is often the case. As she so aptly puts it, ‘the best any of us can do is not quit, play the hand we’ve been given, and accessorize what we’ve got.’ For a helping hand on the last part, you know where to head: www.southwestten.com

MILLIE MAY BE FOUND IN CHELSEA, BUT HER WARDROBE CAN BE FOUND IN SOUTH WEST TEN

SPOTTED: Millie Mackintosh on the Daily Mail Online pacing the streets of London, her outfit effortlessly chic, stylish and suspiciously familiar? That's right, the stunning, statement fox fur-lined scarf draped around her neck- you want it? We have it, right here at South West Ten.

Always on trend, together Millie and South West Ten can give you the low down of what’s hot for Spring 2013, and where better to start than with this staple scarf? This pure cashmere number radiates luxury, adding a feel of effortless sophistication to any outfit.  Endlessly versatile, it can be worn as a light wrap or a loosely draped scarf- perfect for any seasonal weather. Here’s hoping for a spike in Fahrenheit, but regardless, this scarf will serve you well whatever Mother Nature throws at us this season.

http://www.southwestten.com/clothing/fur/Dark-Taupe-Fox-Fur-Shawl

£275

                                                                                                                                                   

Another huge, up and coming trend this Spring is neon, guaranteed to brighten up any day regardless if the weather fails us. No surprise that Millie’s already tapped into this craze, and guess who she’s turned to for a helping hand? Why, South West Ten of course. Here Millie can be seen rocking this fuchsia python zip clutch, the pop of colour stealing the show.

http://www.southwestten.com/Accessories/Bags/Fuchsia-Python-Zip-Clutch

Guess what’s snaked it’s way into designers collections, ranging from Matthew Williamson to GUCCI? Snakeskin is on point from here on out, and our stylish, python clutches can be found online as well as in Millie's closet. These bags combine two hot trends, bringing python and bright colours into the mix to create the ultimate fashion statement accessory.

http://www.southwestten.com/Accessories/Bags

Trend three on the table- WHITE WHITE WHITE. This colour provides a fresh palette that oozes spring, leaving each and every one of us with the opportunity to have fun with bright accessories and colours. White denim jeans are the perfect staple item to incorporate this trend into your every day wardrobe. Alternately, this gorgeous white silk shirt exudes sophistication- light, fresh and chic.

http://www.southwestten.com/clothing/shirts-blouses/White-Silk-Shirt - £165

http://www.southwestten.com/clothing/trousers/Stretch-denim-jeans---white - £110

So there you have it. Want to emulate the chic Chelsea styling's of this fashion icon, and keep on trend this season? Well, you’ve come to the right place. She has it all, the gorgeous Professor Green on one arm, our vibrant clutch under the other- get fifty percent of the way there at southwestten.com

Mother’s Day- because she’s worth it.

 Another year, another Mother’s day, another desperate flurry to find that perfect present for the woman that thinks you’re perfect regardless. After all, there is only one perfect child in the world, and every mother has it. This year, we at South West Ten are trying to make your lives a little bit easier, and your mum’s a whole lot happier, by offering up some perfect presents that are totally befitting of these fabulous women. Be done with the cliché flowers and chocolates with a shelf life that won’t last the month! Why not get something that’ll last for years? It’s time to give something back to these eternal givers.

If my mum’s anything to go by, this superior breed of female can often be found endlessly rooting around in the abyss that is the inside of their huge, everyday handbag. One bag for all occasions equals a whole lot of clutter. Solution? Add one of our striking, statement clutches into the mix. Leave the suitcases at home ladies, these bags are ideal for any special occasion and will force them to think of the bare essentials, (if your mum brings plasters to a restaurant “just in case”, you’re not alone.) With a huge range of colours, these clutches will brighten up any wardrobe, or any night out. Regardless, as if any woman needs an excuse for another fabulous bag…

www.southwestten.com/Accessories/bags

Every mother I know has the determined nature to put everyone else in front of themselves, shelving all their wishes and worries and constantly aiding our every need. Superwoman should watch her back. It’s time to put them first and make them feel special, and nothing does the job better than this luxurious, cream fur fox shawl. Effortlessly chic and stylish, wrap your mum up in nothing but the best. 

www.southwestten.com/clothing/fur

So to every mum out there this coming Sunday, on behalf of children everywhere, we say a colossal thank you for the years of worry and enslavement we’ve had you under; we couldn’t have survived without you. As Tina Turner so aptly surmised, you’re simply the best. And to mine, this post is dedicated to you. After all, you’re probably my most frequent reader…