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Sunday, September 30, 2012

Firstly I wanted to start by apologising for the lack of posts of late. I was indisposed for the majority of the weekend due to my best friends hen party which we staged in Paris. Between delusions that we were members of a rock band and having a food fight in a highly reputable hotel which resulted in a hefty repairs bill and lunching on Avenue Montaigne watching herds of super models and fashion followers I had little time to blog.

I have something delicious to make up for it; a close friend of mine Noor Breish has agreed to answer some questions on her style. I have long admired Noor's unique, classic but eclectic sense of style which is effortless and completely natural to her. She also possesses a job at Luisa Via Roma in Florence which can't hurt her wardrobe.

Here are her thoughts.

Jumpsuit - H&M (mentioned below)
Necklace - Van Cleef & Arpels
Panama hat - Her fathers wardrobe

How would you describe your style?
I don’t think I have one particular style. I love waking up and dressing for the day and then again for the evening. Sometimes I even change for lunch. It really depends on what I have planned. If I’m with the family, I opt for the classy look, If I’m at work I’m a lot more style/trend focused which I love especially because I work for a fashion company. If I’m going for a bike ride with my father, I transform into a biker chick and so on. I guess I like to dress for the occasion so you never know with me. I must say though, my father looks pretty cool on the bike. He should be a style icon on his own!

What do you love about Florentine street style?
The Florentines have a different style to what I’ve seen before. It’s my parents generation that are mostly glammed up. The younger generations have an artisian/renaissance twist adapted to the modern trends of today. The town is quite historic, very provincial and has a lot of aristocratic attributes to it which you definitely see in the look of a stylish Florentine. 

Dress - Nicole Farhi

Who are your favourite designers?
My favorite designers of the moment are Cobra Society, Christian Siriano, Isabel Marant and Ulyana Sergeenko. For jewellery it’s LeiVanKash and MyNaIsLa without a doubt!

What are your holy grail beauty products?
Liz Earle! The entire cleansing process. I won't go a day or night without it!

Who or what influences your style?
I love flicking through album pictures of my mother when she was younger. I’ve even created a mood board once and used it as inspiration for something I was working on at work. She has a great fashion sense and usually plays a big role for many of my fashion decisions. I also love the style of Camilla Belle, Diane Kruger, Kate Bosworth and more recently my style obsession of the moment has become Kasia Smutniak.

5 pieces in your wardrobe that you can't live without
My grey Chanel Ankle boots I bought last winter, a vintage coin changed necklace I found in Portobello market that I wear almost all the time, my ivory H&M jumpsuit from 3 years ago, a grey scallop trimmed mink I also found in Portobello road which does the job perfectly in keeping me warm in winter, and actually another H&M garment- my pistachio green oversized dress.

Dress - Zara
Boots - Chanel (see answer above)
Clutch - Chanel
Necklace - vintage from Rome
Ring - Roberto Cavalli

Where are your favourite travel destinations?
Bari , Bellagio, Leptus Magna in Libya and Sao Paolo. I still have so many destinations I want to experience! I think traveling is one of the best ways to learn about something, be it culture, food, music, art and so on. 

What are your key must-haves?
Anick Goutal’s Violet perfume in the winter and Jasmine in the summer. Those are my favourite scents and also my favourite flowers. My Christian Louboutin nude patent peeptoe pumps as they just go with everything and a French manicure on my hands with red on my feet. 


Dress - DVF

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Wednesday, September 26, 2012


Recently my blog has become an homage to all things Isabel Marant. As much as I try I just can't help it. Her casual pieces are perfect in every way; simple but with a dash of eclecticism and appropriate for every occasion. Here is a silk bomber, that slipped through my fingers when it arrived at Net-a-Porter on Monday morning, perfectly accessorised.
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This Peter Pilotto dress is one of my favourites of the season (Bambi's eyebrows also deserve an honorable mention).

Kaleidoscopic cool.

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Monday, September 24, 2012




Burberry's recent show gave my heart pangs. The Barbie pink metallics used in their classic trench coats could end up looking like castoffs from Molly Ringwald's closet in Pretty in Pink however they look clean, chic and dare I say it elegant. Burberry have pulled this off through keeping the lines classic and the models skin and hair as plan as possible (with a quick slick of red lipstick).

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Sunday, September 23, 2012


I may not remember being so little but I'm fairly certain this is how I learnt the alphabet.


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Believe it or not, this isn't a photo shoot. Frighteningly enough people are actually capable of looking this good during the day.

This beautiful, simple and elegant outfit is courtesy of Isabel Marant (except the divine Mango coat which I'm not frantically searching for). This is a winning look for fall.

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Saturday, September 22, 2012


Looking for a perfect outfit to wear on a mid-week date or a trip to the cinema with your latest flavour of the month? 

Look to Ashley Olsen for inspiration with her cognac coloured YSL Tribute sandals, fitted black trousers, layered knitwear and a colourful scarf knotted around her neck. 

Keep makeup minimal and be sure to have clean hair that isn't too overdone.

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Looking for an LBD? I think this Balmain number could just be what the doctor ordered but remember to keep it firmly on your back when you're asked if you want to check your coat. Flashing is not chic.



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Friday, September 21, 2012


Girls, help a brother out. To buy or not to buy? Do I need these Isabel Marant Milwaukee boots in my life?
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Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Even in sweltering desert heat, I can't wait to get back to London so I can call my pals at my local Missoni and get warm and toasty in this divine cardigan. Catch it while you can.

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Noor Breish is one of my closest and most stylish friends. She also happens to work at Italian powerhouse Luisa Via Roma. Noor has a way of mixing vintage, high street and designer pieces like a pro. We have spent many a happy Saturday scouring Portobello Market for treasures (she was responsible for finding one of my favourite and much loved vintage fur coats). 

These are Noor's two top picks from Luisa Via Roma to see you into the cooler months ahead.

1. Antik Batik - Large Canada Embroidered Suede Clutch

Pair this with jeans and a t-shirt or use it to give your LBD a little extra character. At around £200 it's a sure thing.

Find it here.


2. Cobra Society - Suede Kilim High Boots

These boots will certainly keep you walking. Over jeans or leggings they will compensate for the blackest and simplest winter wear.

Find them here.


For those who want a little more style advice and inspiration from Noor, watch out for her style secrets in a post coming soon.

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Tuesday, September 18, 2012







Yesterday during a typical Monday peruse around the shops I finally decided to give in to buying a $100 t-shirt from Zoe Karssen. Other than my vintage and well loved t-shirts I'm generally not a fan of prints or slogans across my chest (take note Wildfox). These were simple enough to grab my attention, plus the cut and soft fabric was a bonus.

I'm planning on stocking up on a few more from Boutique 1 while I'm still in Dubai but for my London pals you can find yours at Donna Ida.

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California Soul.

Oh how I miss it.

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Monday, September 17, 2012


There's no where I'd rather have my morning coffee.

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What a sight for sore eyes. Shoulder length ruffled brown hair, skinny jeans, oversized boyfriend shirts and sensible heels.

Even casual can be cutting edge.

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This Proenza Schouler dress is one of my favourites this season. It made me wonder why I ignored my grandmother when she tried to teach me origami during one of our annual family ski trips.
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Saturday, September 15, 2012


I'm currently in 40 degree heat trying my hardest to prevent my face from melting and my hair from turning into a hot mess (I do believe that I've been defeated). All I want to wear are tan shift dresses with a matching Celine box bag. I'm really into that dress-the-same-colour-as-your-tan-and-hair look.
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Balenciaga have done the impossible. They have made the geeky kid in your class obsessed with the latest Star Wars game a fashion icon. Their latest offering which takes inspiration from people we all used to roll our eyes at really does show that a little tweaking can make absolutely everything fabulous (Crocs are the exception to the rule).

Get your inner geek on at www.balenciaga.com
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Wednesday, September 12, 2012


As beautiful as Thylane Blondeau is, I find it appalling that an 11 year old girl is being taken into the fashion world with open arms. Last year she shocked many doing a spread in Vogue laden with blood red lips and smoky eyes. Call me old fashioned but in economically developed countries (and hopefully one day in developing countries) we are lucky enough that children can have a childhood, especially those that grow up privileged. This beautiful young girl is being thrown into an adult world and is being robbed of an adolescence. Her parents are both successful in their own right and have no needs to do this to their children. Much like Kris Jenner, I think women or parents that exploit their young children are deplorable. This world is hard enough so those lucky enough to experience a childhood should be able to enjoy it while they can. Thylane will no doubt be a very successful model but why couldn't she start at the old age of 16?



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I bet you never thought that an abalone shell would be your nail inspiration for autumn.

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Monday, September 10, 2012


Why can't I ever get red lips to look this good?

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Aren't these Fendi spat boots just the best thing you've ever seen? They take my obsession with the early 20th century to another level and won't make me look like I've raided the wardrobe for a dress rehearsal of The Nutcracker. Hopefully come Christmas, Clara, the Nutcracker and I will be prancing around a Christmas tree with a bunch of oversized mice....in our Fendi boots.

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Sunday, September 9, 2012


Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to my first (and most definitely not the last) Olympia Le Tan embroidered book clutch. These Charlotte's Web clutches were made especially for Fashion Night Out in collaboration with Charlotte Olympia. Only 16 (yes SIXTEEN) were made and I luckily got my hands on number 7 (quite fitting since I'm born on the 7th and 7 is ALWAYS my lucky roulette number). My plan to skip cocktail parties and free manicures paid off when I arrived shortly after opening to snag one of these handmade pieces of heaven. Look for this in a many outfit posts coming soon. 

I always knew my childhood favourites would stick with me wherever I went - just not quite so literally.

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Details from blogger Jane Aldrige's (from Sea of Shoes)beautiful apartment. It's a mecca of flea market finds and antique store treasures, not an Ikea piece in sight.

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Obsessed is an understatement. I adore Dolce & Gabbana's etherial makeup from their AW12 show. The oversized earrings prevent you from looking like one of Holbein's muses but whoever said the Tudors weren't chic?

Get your hands on this beautiful dress here

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Friday, September 7, 2012



After a long absence in my closet I'm proud to say I've finally bitten the bullet and bought myself another pair of Vans. My drug of choice are these:

Hopefully after a few outings to the local skate park to practice my kick flip (I haven't read up on my Tony Hawk skate terms) my shoes will look well loved and like this (just how a pair of sneakers should look, maybe with the exception of Chanel):

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Next time you're making your daily pilgrimage to Starbucks remember this picture of Ashley Olsen and just think that nothing goes better with a soy sugar-free chai latte than orange knitted fur, a Birkin bag and Balenciaga boots which should belong in your closet.

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Wednesday, September 5, 2012


Nicole Richie perfectly demonstrates how Alaia should be worn. Simplicity is key, showcase the cut and the classic pieces rather than swamping yourself in a head to toe look (take note Kris Jenner). There is nothing chic about nailing your credit card and looking like Azzedine Alaia threw up on you, everyone will know you've only just figured out who he is and how special his designs are.


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Tuesday, September 4, 2012


I can't seem to get enough of Isabel Marant sneakers. Top of my list were these white Betty shoes (you're next Benny). A step up from my school years wearing Green Flash these are a little chicer, a little more slouchy and will most definitely be attached to my feet for the winter. There are still a couple pairs left over at Net-a-Porter so get there fast before I buy a pair for every member of my family (please don't take that serious mom/cousins/grandmother).

There are no more excuses for Uggs.

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As a Londoner, summer isn't something that is a given. Our pasty skin rarely sees the light and waking up to grey skies are the norm. That being said we do get to enjoy knitwear and lots of it. 

Isabel Marant Etoile has produced some of the cosiest knitwear in town. I just received a package from Luisa via Roma with the Wyoming sweater (bottom image) and have to say am now rather annoyed with this late flurry of sunshine and warmth we are currently experiencing. Until the weather inevitably starts to chill I just have to admire it from a distance.

Get yours here

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Monday, September 3, 2012

SLSStyle wants to support stylish friends and individuals alike. This is why each week I will conduct and interview with my most fashion savvy friends and people I meet.

This will give us an opportunity to appreciate others unique and individual sense of style, listen in on secrets and get the low-down on wear to pick up some of their fabulous finds.

My first interviewee is Alexandra DeClaris who is fast becoming a renowned handbag designer using only the most exotic skins available.

Her designs are available to purchase on her website
www.alexandra-declaris.com


How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as classic and casual. I try to subtly incorporate the trends I admire for the season with my outfits because it keeps my look evolving and adds some character. I am a firm believer in investing in pieces you love, and I only follow trends that I find are interesting and I expect to see years later even if they do dissolve for the meantime. I think fashion is merely a cycle, trends are always re-hatching from past decades of the industry and I think many designers look back in time for inspiration. 

What do you love about NY street style?
NY street style is so fabulous. Anything goes in New York with fashion, and although you may not particularly relate with someone else’s avant-garde style you admire that person for actually putting it out there and generally you will see it on the runways by next season. People in NY are free to experiment with fashion and it is seen as more innovative and original rather than distasteful. 



Who are your favourite designers?
Such a loaded question! My favorite designers right now are Helmut Lang, Stella McCartney, Marni, Bottega Veneta, and Roland Mouret. Helmut Lang is my go to for the essential pieces in my closet. He does the best jackets, blazers, leather leggings, and sweaters so my day-to-day outfits are generally from his collections. I am loving all the corset Bottega Veneta pieces and I think they have effectively revamped their appeal to younger generations. Stella McCartney and Roland Mouret are pieces I adore because they have a way of integrating traditional elegance with form-fitting symmetry. I am not a pattern person but Marni always does it so right and funky. So when I go in to Marni I indulge in the loose patterned tops to pair with jeans that gives some flair to my casual day-to-day look. 

What are your holy grail beauty products?
I cannot live without my Clarisonic skin brush, Gel de la Mer moisturizer and Eve Lom eye cream. I also love By Terry eye concealer and Murad’s pomegranate lip gloss for every day.



Who or what influences your style?
I usually look through magazines when I want to see what’s new. However, nothing influences my style unless it is actually something I like and looks good on me. If I see someone wearing something I like on the street, I will usually ask where they got it or go on a mission to find it.  

5 pieces in your wardrobe you couldn't live without
My Helmut Lang leather skinnies, my black rabbit fur Joseph coat, my Fendi biker boots, vintage Levi Cut offs and J brand jeans. 

What are your favourite travel destinations?
My favorite places are the places that make you feel relaxed but have the element of the uknown. I love the Caribbean and the Bahamas because the islands are quiet, beautiful, and next to deserted. Greece is also one of my favourite places because I am Greek and I love the fresh food and history. I also love Africa because every place in Africa is so unique. I am going to Uganda next summer for the gorillas! 



What is your favourite bag in your handbag collection?
I love all of the bags equally but it just depends what kind of mood I am in. I love all the bright stingray box clutches for spring and summer. The envelopes are perfect for a more casual night out or something easy to walk around with during the day. My usual every day bag is one the python hobos because it is so lightweight and I am usually running around all day. When I am travelling or shopping and I want a more chic look I use one of the totes. 

Where are your favourite places to shop?
My favourite places to shop are Intermix, Opening Ceremony, Bergdorf Goodman, and Reformation in NYC as well as Brandy Melville for simple tees. In London, Zara is a weekly trip and Heidi Klein for all of my bathing suits and holiday wear. 

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