sun, style and sangria

Is there anything more beautiful than a bank holiday Monday? The shackles of early starts, of 9 to 5s, of alcohol-free (ish) Sundays are cast aside for eight Mondays a year, and boy should we cherish them. But then there comes Tuesday. Our state of mourning was just postponed, and our four day weekend has come to a blunt, bitter end. Well ladies and gents, here's a little ray of sunshine to make that transition a little less painful. Summer hovers just around the corner,we can almost taste the sangria... But until then, let's indulge in a little escapism. Think delectable dishes, think exquisite fashion, think David Gandy's white speedos. Let's think Summer.

Having spent the last two days in a state of chocolate-induced coma, the thought of any food outside of the Easter Egg food group comes as a welcome lifeline. Nothing goes better with Mediterranean sunshine than a lavish display of authentic, delicious food. Add Scarlett Johansson into the mix and you're onto a winner. The pulse of films such as Vicky Christina Barcelona and The Talented Mr Ripley beat around the vibrant, rustic dining culture, with endless lunches, dinners, (and the obligatory second lunches and dinners...)at the heart of this carefree holiday culture- though you've got a tough job of convincing anyone that Miss Johansson's eaten more than an olive. And there's no denying the joys of the liquid diet. Endless cocktails, no judgement, nothing better...   

Okay, so it's rare you'll find a Daniel Craig in little blue trunks strolling down the sandy beaches of the Canary Islands- but a girl can dream. Bond emerging from the crystal clear Atlantic onto the beaches of the Bahamas could ignite a passion in anyone for holiday (or passion full stop)... Or if George Michael is more up your street, Wham's Club Tropicana sets the bar for lively, holiday fun. I mean drinks are free, who's complaining? 

Rustic cuisine, unlimited cocktails, ripped men on tranquil beaches, oh the delights of Summer. But really, is there anything more exciting than holiday fashion? Vibrant prints, bold colours, there is no better opportunity to make a stylish splash, and an essential summer staple comes in the form of kaftans . From poolside to beachside, layer over your favourite swimming costume to liven up any look. Pair with sandals and sunglasses for day time chic, or layer over skinny jeans and team with a pair of wedges to make that all important transition between day and night. 

If you fancy spicing up your summer style, inject your wardrobe with a bit of South West Ten. Be it our cobalt blue and white print beauty, or our vibrant coral tunic, make a statement this coming season with our bright colour combos and stylish embellishments. Summer might be a few months away yet, but get a slice of it now at www.southwestten.com. Until then, we here at SWT wish you a merry bank holiday, and we hope our summer reverie lasts you through tomorrow. A bit of fashion and Daniel Craig can soothe any wound. 

http://www.southwestten.com/Spring-Summer-2014/Holiday

A flare for fashion

When we think of Grease, we think of leather jackets, tight trousers and John Travolta. And once we've begrudgingly withdrawn ourselves from that reverie, Sandy comes to mind, complete with mega perm, red platforms and skintight trousers (where leg and pleather first became bosom friends). But on the sidelines of our memory lives the other Sandy, with her tiny waist and billowing full skirts, cast into the shadows by her seductive sister. Well, it's about time we gave her a little recognition. For decades upon decades, the fit and flare dress has floated down the runways and hung in the wardrobes of every fashion icon we have ever heralded. As timeless as Clooney himself, here we celebrate the dress that's never gone out of style- here's to the unsung Sandy.

From Grace Kelly to Jackie O, this immortal dress can be seen gracing the stars of more than 60 years ago, firmly stitching itself into fashion history. Bardot's monochrome checked number oozes effortless Parisian chic,whilst Audrey's strapless beauty cinches in her waist (let's pretend it needed to be cinched) and creates the ultimate feminine silhouette. If the princesses, first ladies and Marilyn Monroe's of the world are wearing it, you know you're onto a winner.

Fast forward to the 21st century- we've said goodbye (and good riddance) to the mullet, fingerless gloves and flares, but this staple piece has moved through the years gracefully (take note Madonna) and come out the other side as chic as ever, radiating eternal and effortless style. With a kaleidoscopic range of colours and vibrant prints available, this timeless shape can cater to all tastes, occasions and complexions. Be it Lupita's exquisite and elegant Lanvin beauty, or SJP's dynamic mix of floral prints fused with studs and leather, this shape offers endless possibilities. Who said an old dog couldn't learn new tricks? 

dresses available at www.southwestten.com

If you're looking to add this staple silhouette to your wardrobe (let's face it, when are we ever not looking to add to our wardrobes?), why not try these classic and classy skater dresses on for size? Coming in nude or white, they form the ultimate stylish core for any outfit, easily transferable between night and day. Try loafers or wedges with an over-sized handbag for day time chic, or throw a chunky necklace and vibrant clutch into the mix to take the outfit up a gear- you'll never have to wear the same look twice. 

So Sandy, we hope we've fought your case convincingly. Besides, you can never go wrong with a classic. Oh, wait...

sorry John, I still love you.