Topshop Noir

Lets all take a moment to enjoy the calmness of the colour (well, shade technically) that is black. It's the perfect foil to more out there elements like sequins, leather and lace. It magically lifts everything - giving a chic and serious air. I particularly love the nostalgic masculinity and "finished" quality of a good black hat.

Clockwise: Fedora Down Brim hat, Stud Shoulder sweat, Lace Leather Bodycon Dress, Premium Pintuck teddy, Bowler hat, Zip Back Sequin Bodycon dress.

Source: Topshop

23/07/09: Net-A-Porter

There's something comforting, especially in winter, about rugging up in classic black, grey and white - pretty foolproof, yet still eye catching and stylish. I think it works best with a textured piece or two - particularly the luxury (and warmth!) of velvet.

Clockwise: Marni Suede peep-toe platforms, Stella McCartney Velvet Petal Cropped Jacket, Burberry Argyle-print snood, Stella McCartney Wool-blend panther intarsia dress, Tory Burch Leather Studded bowling bag, Marc Jacobs Asymmetric Velvet Dress,

Source: Net-A-Porter

Black & White

So I only just realised that (one of) the 21st I'm going to tomorrow night is black and white themed. This so should not throw me - I mean who can mess up a black and white outfit? I wear them a lot in summer - loose black tanks white white skinnies or cutoffs, simple, casual - and a bit tomboy. But being winter I pile on a million pieces of clothing when I go out - and I find if I limit them to black and white I end up thinking I look like a waiter/tuxedo/penguin/backstreetboy. 

Another prob - have zero black or white dresses that are appropriate for someone's 21st (too short, tight or casual) and I just feel way to rude wearing pants. Will have to have an intense wardrobe raid. Old faithful Karen Walker white lace top good def be a go! It's a lifesaver - and so so pretty, which always helps.

Featuring: Alexander Wang, Balmain, Daria Werbowy, YSL,

Scans: Russh September 08 "Jerry", Pop Fall/Winter 08 "Nun Head", Vogue Australia May 09 "And God Created A Woman"

Featuring: Balmain, Karen Walker, Alexander Wang, Erin Wasson, Daria Werbowy

Scans: French Vogue April 08 "Simplement Couture" & Russh May 08  "La Verite"

Featuring: Balmain, Alexander Wang, Erin Wasson

Scans: Russh November 07 "You Look Hot"

Sources: Style.Com, SRC783, Karen Walker, Model Couture,

11/06/09: Net-A-Porter

There's something about black and studs that is timelessly sexy and strong. Love a tight asymmetric dress with leather and strong boots - makes it less overt. I also love hard metal against black, adds an edge to what is otherwise quite a sombre, serious palette. I'm also thinking studded boots could most definitely be a DIY project this holidays (which starts at mid day today!! Excite!)

Clockwise Outer: Alexander Wang Leather Motorcycle vest, Herve Leger Vivien cutout bandage dress, Pierre Hardy Fur and nappa boot, Proenza Schouler Studded biker boot, Tory Burch Studded clutch, Alexander Wang Cutout jersey dress & Satin jersey one-shoulder dress, Timex80 Digital gold tone watch,

Clockwise Inner: Spanx Black lace high waisted thong, Alexander Wang Fitted Corset dress, Oscar De La Renta Boucle motorcycle jacket, Lanvin Happu Partage fold-over handbag.

Sources: Style.com, Net-A-Porter