last of the summer weather

Delightful weather we are having this last week in September.  I simply can't get my head around how hot it is.  Yesterday I was sweltering in a pair of long trousers and had to resort to shorts.  Today I've pulled out a summer dress from storage as already I have packed away my summer clothes and summer jewellery.  Good thing my sun glasses are still handy in my handbag.  

The only downside to such great weather is always the increased traffic on the roads as obviously everyone wants to share in this glorious sunshine. So suddenly I have to allow an additional 10 minutes to be on time for the school runs as cafes, restaurants and pubs are overrun with customers soaking up the last of the summer weather.  But a small price to pay none the less. 

I however can't help but pop into a few shops to see what last minutes summer bargains I can snatch while lapping up the sunshine.  While I'm out, I'll be sure to pop into my local Debenhams and try on this pussy bow dress. But then again if I order it online I can simply collect it instore free of charge, and even try it on right there and then.  It will certainly save me the hassel of trying to find it myself in store.  

Layering up the summer day dress

There are just some days when you feel like wearing a summer dress despite the weather outside.  Since it is still chilly for spring, I am going to have to layer up my day dress to keep warm.  Light weight long sleeve jerseys worn under your dress usually does the trick and a pair of jeans under your summer dress is always practical and creates that tunic dress look. 

 I am in need of some day dresses including a maxi dress which no wardrobe should be without.  I do have one white summer dress which I absolutely adore but I was saying yesterday that while I have turquoise jewellery, I do not have much turquoise clothes. So I'm going to make an effort to include turquoise dresses in my short list or at least some dresses with a splash of turquoise and some ethnic prints.   Oh by  the way, Debenhams is having a whooping 25% off right now plus free delivery so I will be taking advantage of this offer.  I've had a good look at their range of day dresses, so many gorgeous dresses to choose from but looking for a splash of turquoise really helped narrow down my choices.  Finally here's my short list.

This brown embellished day dress just screams "garden party here I come!!!!".  I am simply drawn to the turquoise floral print in this dress from John Rocha's collection.

When I'm looking for casual elegance then this blue printed day dress is just what I need.  It looks absolutely comfortable the way it drapes over the hips into a flare.

Well what can I say about this maxi dress.  Great combination of prints, lovely vivid colours and sexy style.... certainly ticks all my boxes. 

I know this strappy dress is no where near turquoise but I do love the colours lime green and brown and the african inspired print ....  very ethnic indeed.

And last but in no way least is this aqua lily print dress.  I have to say I do love them all so how do I choose?  Would love to hear which is your favorite.  When I have decided on a dress or dresses then I can sort of summer leather sandals to complete the look.

Graphic dress meets minimalist look

When you think of graphic dresses you usually imagine bold designs, retro prints and vintage dresses from the 1970’s. Here are some graphic dresses from Calvin Klein’s spring summer 2010 collection which are simple, minimalist and chic. These dresses remind me of the art of Batik which involves the use of wax and a dyeing process followed by the removal of the wax to reveal stunning designs and colours.

The organic shapes and light-reflecting neutrals are simply appealing and classic and are gorgeous summer dresses perfect for those summer barbecues and that exotic summer caribbean holiday. Complete the minimal look with Munique's handmade leather sandals.

Summer Dress

One of our readers was inquiring about this summer dress we blogged about on July 20, 2009. This Grandad-style neckline dress, made from Ramie is available from La redoute. It was on sale so let's hope they have more in stock. Follow this link to the dress Summer dress

Summer holiday wardrobe

If like me a summer holiday means beach and white sands then make sure you have your summer holiday wardrobe ready to go. Some of you may have booked your summer holiday way in advance while others are still waiting to see what the english weather is doing before deciding whether to book a French or Spanish beach holiday. Either way it makes sense to have your summer holiday wardrobe ready to avoid the hassel of last minute shopping as panic buying usually results in many ill advised purchases that you usually regret once your holiday is over.

There are perfectly heavenly get aways right here in England like Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire (pictured above) if you want to avoid the popular and crowded english beach holiday destinations like Blackpool, Devon and Cornwall. There is absolutely lots to do and see in South Wales with many heavenly beaches to choose from.

Or maybe a poolside holiday may be just what you need to bring out your glamourous side. But while the jury is out and you are still exploring your options why not get that summer holiday wardrobe ready.

On beach holidays keep it casual and loose with this grandad style neckline summer dress with mother of pearl buttons and drawstring around the hips. This summer dress is made of ramie which is a natural fibre similar to linen and most importantly will keep you cool in broiling temperatures.


I especially like this multi-coloured shirt dress in printed cotton. The colours shout summer fun and this summer dress is sure to flatter your best points and cover up any problem areas. Softly fitted at the top with bust darts and smocked detail at the back. The flared hem with panels front and back below the waist give fullness to the skirt. Ties to knot at the front like a belt or at the back for a more fitted look.

This shift dress in 100% linen is 100% natural and again will keep you cool! Rounded drawstring neckline with keyhole detail at the front. A pretty softly flared style, softly fitted at the top with darts at the bust and back.

Choosing that all important swimwear depends on your shape and what you feel comfortable and confident wearing. There is no use selecting a swimsuit that leaves you self conscious and constantly tugging to keep it in place. So the choice is yours. This chocolate and turquoise Bikini Set is simply breathtaking. Go for colours and shapes that are flattering to your skin tone and shape.


If poolside glamour is what you are after then this stunningly stylish Halterneck mini spot swimsuit is absolutely flattering.


Remember to pack that all important and fashionable kaftan to really strut your stuff at the poolside. This holiday kaftan in animal print calmly reflects the aquamarine colour of the poolside or beachside. Or keep it cool and refreshingly simple yet sexy with this Crochet Detail Kaftan

Summer sandals

For that all important summer sandal to get your feet noticed in this metallic bronze handmade thong sandal with leather strapped beaded like decoration on toe post. These comfortable and sexy sandals are available in metallic bronze leather as shown here or gold.