Ode to Olenhaus

Oh hot pink a/w 2009 boots from Olenhaus…how I did not realise that I needed you in my life until now. Your so pink, and shiny and edgy and so very vegan, yet so wearable. Your a vintage pair of shoes in the making…a siren of the street, an eco statement of the highest level, ’super- powered’ boots.  And your not available…(yet!).

La Luminata Partners With Ethical Fashion Forum

La Luminata is proud to announce that it has become a partner of the Ethical Fashion Forum, the number one hub for ethical fashion news, advice and help. With great informative events taking place across the UK and a new ethical fashion network, I hope to be as involved as possible in supporting their valuable work and being a part in the Ethical Fashion Forum’s future.

Heels That Take You Places

Check out these achingly gorgeous ‘Patch’ Terra Plana shoes, which I have been actually wearing and not falling over in / taking off because they hurt.

I can normally constantly be seen in flat shoes because I find the practicalities of wearing heels, 1. limiting, 2. painful, 3. embarrasing (has anyone seen me walk in heels? Oh dear).

But even I cannot fault the leg lengthening, posture improving and flattering quality of a good pair of heels, and now (fingers crossed) it seems that even me and the countless other clumsy-limbed humans amongst us can wear these extremely comfy, sturdy, heeled! shoes. Made using eco memory foam, vegetable tanned leathers and recycled rice rubber with secret grips on the base (I kid you not) I can finally walk in heels without looking ridiculous.

Natasha Bailie & Amy Phipps Launch New Clothing Line

Congratulations to Natasha Bailie & Amy Phipps who have succesfully launched their first collection of vintage reproduction dresses made from vintage and reclaimed material. La Luminata got up close and personal with the new clothing range and can conclude that the shape and fit is authentic to the 40’s and 50’s era in gorgeous and wearable soft colours of blue, yellow, pink and green. The quality and attention to detail, plus the fact that you can order your very own made to measure dress makes this a one-of-a-kind treat, for any girl looking for something a bit special. I predict the Phipps, Bailie collaboration growing much further…

Style With Substance

Kate Taleyour is my latest favourite discovery combining ethical values with luxe style.  The collection is produced entirely in the UK, maintaining a low carbon footprint and incorporates fair-trade cottons and silk from India and Nepal as well as organic silk organza.

Sneak Peak…La Luminata Collaborates With Photographer Sean Collymore

Here’s a glimpse into my most recent collaborational project with photographer, Sean Collymore, featuring wares from Ophelia Fancy, Hetty Rose, Rachel Darbourne and Natasha Bailie. The day itself could not have been more perfect, not to mention our gorgeous model Dom who was a total star…dreamy.

England In The Summertime

I love Natasha Bailie’s vintage clothing line so much that much that I decided to model a little 50’s number with photographer Jofoto on a location shoot. The great thing about Natasha’s dresses is that they really are such good quality, which is often hard to find with vintage clothing. Once you have one of these items, it really will last you for life, read her latest interview here.

The Hidden Wardrobe Opens It’s Doors

The Hidden Wardrobe is opening its first shop in Leeds prestigious Corn Exchange on Saturday 27th June. Stocking Independent Designers, Limited Edition Collections and One-Off Pieces from up and coming British design talent, its set to be the mecca for something original and fashion forward.

Ticking All The Right Boxes

Handmade in the UK, Minna is fast turning into one of my favourite new fashion brands. Although the pieces are quite pricey, the style of the clothing is so delicate and unique that it couldn’t possibly date. Buy one of these and you have have a friend for life. Just perfect for hot summer days and days and sandals right now, then teamed with black come winter-time.

Vogue Features ‘Ageless Style’

Well hurrah for Vogue magazine, who have defied my beliefs and expectations to feature an absolutely gorgeous 48 year old Julianne Moore on their July front cover and in a spread entitiled ‘Ageless Style’. Now, if that doesn’t show that attitudes are shifting within fashion, then I don’t know what does. (Rather stylish) hats off to Vogue!