The Velvet Plum

Sunday, 23 May 2010

Cat and Mouse

Do remember when Marc Jacobs revealed his mouse ballet flats to the world? We instantly fell in love and asked ourself 'Is there really anything cuter than having a small pair of ears, a button nose and even a tail detail on your feet?' In my opinon, no! However, Jacobs has himself some competition, from the famous highstreet store Topshop. Could cats on your feet be better than having mice on them?

Marc Jacobs

Topshop

£25

£22

There's two designs - cute kitty or charming girl face - both worthy of wearing this summer. Quirky but not too outrageous!

I'm going to have to get myself a pair, that's if I can get my hands on a pair, last time I looked they were sold out! Hmm, cat or face?

XXX

hello sunshine.

I love this photo. I'm not sure who the photographer is, I stumbled across it on one of my many google search sessions, which I know we all do at some point. It has a gothic feel which is beautifully juxtaposed with an element of romance and it reminds me of those happy days.

Just thought i'd share that with you.

I'm sat in my garden embracing the sun, trying to tackle my English homework, which most likely won't get completed till late tonight. It's glorious, so I might take Audrey (my bicycle) out for a little ride and see the worlds - well Warrington, but i've got to start somewhere. And I think I may just carry on blogging!

XXX

Changing

We all know that change is good! Change allows us to grow, develop, become better etc. The fashion industry for example is constantly changing and it will never stop. Considering this, I thought that it'd be best to change the name of my beloved blog for several reasons. 'Pretty Girls Make Graves' wasn't getting anywhere, the name was too fussy, however it remains to be one my favourite songs. Don't ask me why I chose the name 'The Velvet Plum', I guess because it's one of my favourite eyeshadow shades and it also represents two of my favourite things (it's obvious) - plums and velvet. With the new name comes a new title picture and a few additions to the page such as 'Designers' and 'Magazines' I am a slave to. I hope you like the change as much as I do.

I mentioned that my blog wasn't getting anywhere, I mean i'm not asking to become as big as Jak and Jil or Tavi, but a few more followers would be nice. I was thinking of trying a bit of street style photography, I myself am a keen follower of street style blogs, I just find personal style fascinating. Catwalk trends are dead it seems! Hopefully this new supplement will prove a success. I'll keep you updated on how it's going because i've nothing to show as of yet.

Enjoy life my friends.

XXX

Wednesday, 19 May 2010

Must Have Accessory

There's no doubting it, a classic bicycle is one of this seasons must haves! From the window displays of Topshop to the cobbled streets of Copenhagen (http://copenhagenstreetstyle.dk/ride-my-bike/) everyone seems to be getting on their bike. This is great news for the environment and the state of people's health. I am all for less cars on the road and more bikes.

Agynes Deyn and Mary-Kate Olsen - proud bike owners:

We all witnessed that Chanel creation that Karl Lagerfeld created for his S/S 08 collection. An edgier take on a vintage classic, detailed with a quilted leather seat and saddle bag. Priced at only $13,595 i'm sure we'll all be rushing out to by one in time for the summer sun...well anyone who doesn't care for budgets will be!

You'll face certain restrictions on your bike and I don't think anyone wants to be caught revieling all, if you know what I mean ladies. Avoid short skirts, tight jeans, and heels are a definate faux pas! You can't go wrong with a pair of high top Chucks or a pair of chic sandals like our models (above) have sported. Here's what i'd reccommend being seen in when you go on your bike ride:

1 £35

2 £35

3 £15

4 £3

5 £22

6 £30

7 £18

I took my new bike out for a spin last night, but I've not mastered the art of riding on main roads yet.

(I don't look as cute as Mary-Kate did on hers)

I think the wicker basket is my favourite feature of the bike - it's so adorable and adds a vintage touch. The problem with most baskets is that they are screwed on, but mine came with a nifty gadget that allows me to take my basket on/off when ever I want. This saves you the panic of not knowing what to do with your valuables whenever you ride to the shop.

I think Pee-wee Herman would be proud of my shiny red bike:

I love Pee-wee! He loves his bike so much, and we should all take a leaf out his book.

Happy riding my friends (and don't forget your locks)

XXX

Summer Sandals

I know this is a little late, but I thought i'd revisit some of this summers hottest shoe styles seeing as though the sun hasn't graced us much this year - but believe me, the days are going to brighten up.

I have a strange feeling that people will be putting off summer holiday shopping with the fear that they won't be travelling abroad thanks to that pesky volcano's anticts. Don't be my friends, my favourite part of summer is updating my wardrobe. Splash that cash you've been saving for a holiday on a pair of sexy sandals and try taking a trip closer to home (much better for the environment). I'm not here to suggest alternative places to stay in the UK, but I will reveal to you my pick of the best sandals around, both designer and high street.

1 F-Troupe £80

2 Proenza Schouler £465

3 See by Chloe £213

4 Miu Miu £315

5 Christian Louboutin £1095

6 Topshop £12

7 Asos £35

8 Toms at Office £35

XXX

Deadly Dresses

The reason i'm posting at this unusual time (unusual because i'm either still in bed or at college at this time) is because I didn't make it to college this morning, due to my little sister who decided that she'd get a shower at stupid o'clock, so I was running behind schedule and I ended up missing the bus. So i'm sat at home watching friends whilst working out what to say to my English teacher when I next see him. THE END.

On a happier note, I have decided to do something productive and educational on Thursday. I'm going to take myself, a camera, a pen, a pad, and most importantly a smile to the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool to see the 'Dare to Wear: Glass Dresses' exhibition by Diana Dias-Leão. I'll report back once i've been.

Below is a small selection of work that will be on show at the gallery:

The exhibition runs till September 2011 so there's plenty of time to witness these wonderful creations.

XXX

Wednesday, 12 May 2010

Prada Shoes Fall 2010

Shoes! Shoes! Shoes! I can't get enough of them, never have, never will. My pick for this week are Prada's A/W 2010 collection. It's all about the heeled loafer this winter:

XXX

Saturday, 8 May 2010

Colour my life...

The past two days have been rather gloomy for me, a lot of things have changed, not all of them are for the good. I need cheering up! I need retail therapy!

I was watching Le fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain aka Amélie (one of my all time favourite films) recently and I noticed something that I hadn't before although this was probably my fifth time watching the film, it was Amélie Poulain's (played by Audrey Tautou - much love) shoes. At the bottom of her skinny, delicate legs sat these frumpy, garish DMs. I feel in love with this clash and fell in love with these:

1461 3 eye shoe: £60

50th year anniversary vintage shoe: £100

Just like Amélie, I want a pair of cherry red 1461 Doc Martens. I'd pair them with luxe ankle socks (think Burberry Prorsum's Spring/Summer collection) and a calf-length skirt that that uber french chic look. And i'm sure my feet will appreciate some tender love and care, these shoes are orthopedic. I know! I never thought i'd see the day when I was dressing my feet in orthopedic shoes.

-If you haven't seen this film, I cannot recommend it enough-