Check mate

Just how good is M&S this season? Since their AW13 press event I have been crazy excited about this truly British brand making a come back. This season they are the place to go for simple basics, cashmere knits and the season updates. I adore this mohair check boxy knit with leather look trim.  The best thing... It's machine washable for constant wear. I'm pairing mine with a Leather mini skirt and lace up ankle boots. Perfect.

Knit £35 at M&S now.

Peter piper picked a pick of pickled peppers...

Life is so busy, but that's no excuse for bad food. After a long Monday I do need some carbs.  Gnocchi is a great comfort food.  I didn't make this batch (hey, it's Monday) but I do usually and it's super easy! This roasted pepper gnocchi with seared tuna is devine, and ready in fifteen minutes. I always change what I put in it, but you can't go wrong with a lot of fresh herbs.

Pop some peppers in a roasting tin with a drizzle of olive oil - I love the tiny ones but the large cut into chunks are fine. 

While these are roasting (about 180degrees for 15mins) simmer 2 finely diced garlic cloves in some olive oil slowly. 

Put the gnocchi on - boil for around 3 minutes.

Sear the tuna steak in a pan with a touch of olive oil for about 3 minutes on each side, more if you like it less rare.

Add a handful of fresh chopped basil to the garlic. Add in the peppers and gnocchi.  Toss onto a plate and top with the tuna.

Easy peasy, very tasty and super good for you - even with the carbs! Enjoy x

London reflection

I love a bit of Zara, however I usually avoid writing about the brand due to the ridiculous amount of coverage in the blogosphere.  Yes, I did lounge in the sun in the Zara skort in several colours.  I do work in the black pointed cut out court.  So does most of london.  You don't seem to be able to avoid the brand when flicking from fashion site to fashion site.  Don't get me wrong, its great stuff - it's just a little too... yawn.  It just isn't really inspiring and special any more.  

I had to make an exception for this 70s inspired look.  I am quite a classic dresser.  I love simple, wearable pieces.  I love mixing designer, with High St, with vintage and something found in the back of the wardrobe.  This however is head to toe Zara, and I love it.  The skirt is new season and I adore the mix of neoprene and stripes.  The Prada inspired heels were my favourite sale purchase of the season - £70 down to £15!  They are very high yet the comfiest heels I have owned. I feel a little bit disney in them which I love. The long line blazer is a simple Zara classic.

This outfit reminded me that fashion is fun.  Don't always take it too seriously.  I would rather look back and laugh that look back and see black. 

Striped mini skirt £29

Zara printed heels

Zara Jacket

Primark leather sleeve tee

Michael Kors Watch

Find me if you can

Now this is what I'm talking about.  If camouflage if good enough for Kors and Kane this Autumn then its good enough for me.  I'll be wearing this silk Topshop Boutique dress from now (with bare legs) until Christmas (with thick black tights and military style boots). This is what fun fashion is all about. x

Topshop Boutique Silk dress £130

When Big bird met River

Well if you ask me River Island was looking a little Cara.  Neon beanies and 90s grunge boots filled the press room for their Christmas show.  However their were plenty of stand out pieces for those not feeling so... Sesame st.  The brocade Parker was a stand out winner and a must have for those seriously cold winter months.  My season love the over-the-knee boot make several appearances in a selection of suedes and leathers. Studded and gem covered chokers filled the room.  The collection was just enough Olsen and just enough Zadig et Voltare. I cant wait for it to land in stores. X

Tee time

Sculpted and structured tees are the Autumn answer to everything.  Perfect for work with a pencil shirt and choker. Perfect for weekends with check cigarette pants and ballet pumps. What do these not look exquisite with? Just the right amount of fashion item and basic essential I won't be wearing much else for the next few months.  This thick, textured, snake print Topshop one is ideal to start your luxury tee collection this season. In store now and £45 well spent. X

So shoe me

Aldo Rise is possibly the best thing ever to happen to high st shoes. These stunning lime and snake Preen heels have done me well this summer.  I love the toe cleavage and cigarette heel.  Worn best with a contrast colour or print dress for day or night.  Check out Aldo's sale now as there a still a few styles of their Preen collection available for over half price! Enjoy x