A Billy Basic Bonus

Veering away today from A/W trends, I'd just like to let you know about a basic that I discovered that has been on my wishlist for ages - the longline ribbed vest (with proper straps if that makes sense? As opposed to spaghetti numbers).  I'm a huge fan of the By Malene Birger ones but 

a) I find them slightly thick to layer
b) they didn't have a great selection of colours last season and have none in stock seemingly for A/W
c) they were about £45 each
d) they're 100 % cotton and do lose their shape over time (which for the price, frankly I'd prefer them to last longer)

So I was over the moon to find the following vests at Miss Selfridge.  My one gripe is that they're 100% cotton and personally I find jersey holds its shape better if there is an element of elastane, lycra or viscose in it.  As I'm not sure how they'll last I've just bought the two following colours to begin with.

Am really hoping that they do keep their shape and wash well - if not I'll take them back.  Have no qualms about returning things regardless of how reasonable they are, nothing irritates me more than a garment that is a one wear wonder. 

I have high hopes though as if they're ok, then they're a great way to update your wardrobe by introducing some key seasonal colours.  Personally I've got my eye on either the wine or burgundy ones






 Am really looking forward to making use of my existing A/W wardrobe but injecting a new lease of life by adding in another colour.  I will admit, at the beginning of the season (so only a couple of weeks ago - I have never claimed to not be hideously fickle) to being a bit meh about wine/maroon/prune/burgundy - take your pick of dark red synonyms. 

But seeing as I have a base of black, beige, blush, grey, winter white and khaki (bit of navy in there as well), I think that wine will fit in perfectly.  I plan on getting some more of the long sleeve linen tops from Zara and layering these underneath.  A fabulously cheap way to drag last years wardrobe kicking and screaming into A/W 12.

Will report back on washing stamina....... (where it could all go tits up......)

Also have another sneaky purchase to report which I've already worn and expect to see again shortly!  Charcoal & lime swing top from Cos which just happens to be a perfect match for my lime & snakeskin Zara heels.  Will also be wearing it next week as well as I have one of my best friend's birthday night out.  So easy to wear and I think very flattering.  Perfect Autumn top! 



I'm actually dying of cold so apologies for a short (but hopefully sweet) blog today.  I'm currently researching my beloved wedge trainers - to Ash or not to Ash, that is the question.... Which I'm planning on answering tomorrow.  Watch this space. 

A quick round up of what I've been sporting this week 


Blush jersey tee - H&M
Black blazer with suede elbow patches - Taylor Stephens
Silk print scarf - Zara
Black Faridah hobo bag - Marc by Marc Jacobs
Black velvet slipper shoes - Primark (seriously impressed with these) 
Black sunglasses - Dior



Blush ribbed longline vest - Miss Selfridge (see above!)
Neutral linen rectangle jumper - The White Company 
Cream straight legged jeans - Zara
Blush & fuchsia Camel scarf - Virginia Johnson
Vanilla Roxanne - Mulberry
Tan leather cuff - Mulberry
Leaf earrings with white beads - Etsy
Clay Thelma wedges - Ash



Charcoal and lime swing top - Cos
Distressed skinny jeans - Zara
Lime & snakeskin heels - Zara

Off to persuade myself that red wine is a medicinal drink and hunt down the perfect wedge trainer.  Hope you're all well.  Oh and thank you so so so much for all the comments that you make.  I absolutely love to read them and appreciate you taking the time.  All feedback is always very well received.  Thanks again and please do keep them coming. xxx