Snowed In!

I am starting to think that a white Christmas is vastly overated. I am not literally snowed in (I could get to the shops if I wanted, unusually though I'm not bothered about shopping at the moment) but it is starting to feel that way.
I have been planning my Christmas night out for ages and have got my outfit all sorted but it is seeming less and less likely that I will be able to go.

I have chosen to go for a retro 40's /50's look with a pencil skirt and the sequin and mesh corset top that I got for a Euro a tiny church jumble sale when I was on holiday in Tenerife (that now seems like a distant memory). I even managed to get my seamed tights which were on sale at Oasis delivered in time on a next day delivery. A shopping trip to Boots in the week (I haven't done one of these in ages) resulted in red nail polish to match my red lipstick, 24 hour eyeliner (mine usually disappears with about half an hour), hair spray, hair clips, hairspray and some false eye lashes.

I am planning an elaborate hair do which I have never done before but have been doing some research on the internet and found some great tutorials. I also really wanted the chance to wear the red fascinator that I bought after spotting on a stall at Vintage at Goodwood and I think will add a fun festive touch to the outfit - it is actually a swallow shape but Mr Style Eyes keeps telling me it looks like a reindeers antler.

This is quite a daring look for me as I have worn outfits with some retro element/ inspiration to them before but have never tried such a glamorous retro look before. It will be more retro inspired then authentic retro as I am not sure that I have the ability to pay that much attention detail. I figured well it is Christmas, so why not?

For snow I am just staying inside and keeping warm in my cosy Blue Inc cardigan and festive red socks. I will keep you posted on whether I manage to make it on my night out and don't bottle out of wearing my planned outfit. 

Do you have any festive nights out planned? will you be adapting your plans or outfits because of the weather?

With warmest wishes

Ceri X

How To Add Some Retro Glamour To Your Life

Lately I am feeling more and more inspired by retro glamour or fifties pin up styles. I particularly loved some of the outfits that I saw at Vintage at Goodwood and as irritating as she is, I can't help admiring Katie Perry's retro inspired look and outfits. I love the drama, the fun and the femininity of this look.

I am not sure that it can work as an everyday look for me at the moment, although I might try it out for some special occasions, but I love the idea of incorporating a bit of retro glamour into my every day style. Here are a few ideas on how you can do this.
Hair - I would love to try a proper retro hair do but for everyday just putting it half up and adding a flower works really well. For evenings out and special occasions mini hats and fascinators make a great addition. Check out Chloe Mostyn on Eco Emporia for some great hair accessories made from vintage fake flower arrangements. For some really fun fascinators for a party which include mini grand pianos, ice creams with wafers and trays of champagne glasses try the Fantasia collection by The Libertarian.

Make up - Make up is fairly easy. Just your usual foundation some liquid eyeliner over the top lid and some bright red lipstick give an easy retro glamour look that will look great even when you are wearing jeans. If you want more detailed information on how to do retro hair and make up, I would definitely recommend visiting Retro Chick's blog and You Tube Chanel

Clothes - a fifties style dress, circle skirt or pencil skirt are all easy ways to get a bit of retro glamour. As fifties style is so on trend at the moment it should be easy to find these clothes but why not try to find the real thing by checking out vintage shops. The Urban Renewal label at Urban Outfitters and Tara Starlet (pictured above) also have some great fifties style dresses, skirts and playsuits made from recycled fabrics.

Accessories - fun and kitsch accessories are all a great way to add retro glamour to your outfits. Think cherries, ice creams and union jack designs. There are plenty of these accessories on Etsy. Nautical inspired accessories also look great.