#DearSally My Long Tall Sally Christmas outfit and gift picks!

Long Tall Sally asked me to share my festive fashion outfit and gift picks.  For us 'taller' girls, Long Tall Sally is a godsend.  Designed for 5' 8" and up, you don't have to be worried that their top might not cover your midriff, or the jeans might not reach the floor.  Each item is designed to fit and sit right- but with a few extra inches in length.  Below I share my picks for Christmas Day, a Christmas Party, Christmas Gifts and a Christmas Shopping trip.

Christmas Shopping

When I go shopping, I try to keep things simple.  Few layers, easy to try things on quickly (in case I get distracted by finding pretty clothes for me!), not so hot I will overheat in the crowded shops, but not so cold that I will freeze while going between the shops.

I normally pair a long jumper dress, with some skinny jeans- however sometimes skinny jeans aren't very warm.  These Leather Look Trousers from TTYA x LTS (link) and Two Tone Cowl Neck jumper dress (link) will trap a layer of heat and keep me nice and warm.  I love cowl necks as they mean I leave my scarf at home (and done end up trailing it about the shop floor)!  I have no idea how long I will be shopping, but there is nothing worse than 'shuffling' down the high street because your feet are on fire!  Flats are a must, and I like these Leather Ankle Biker Boots (link).


Some people go shopping without a jacket or coat, however I get cold easily and generally take a massive coat.  Then I overheat and wish I had left it at home!  I found a compromise by way of the Hooded Coated Jacket (link).  It is lightweight so won't weight you down, but adds a waterproof and windproof layer should you be shopping at an outdoor Christmas market or caught in a rain or snow shower while waiting for your train.  (Don't forget your long fingered gloves and a bobble hat!)

Christmas Party

This year I think it will be a 'straight from work' small do, so I will probably be wearing smart office wear.  Add a bit of volume to tired locks with a spritz of dry shampoo, and a quick touch of sophisticated darker makeup (For a quick party fix I love Chanel's Illusion d'ombre eyeshadows in Epatant or Mirifique as they can be applied in ten seconds with fingertips- but look like you took 20 minutes).  Add a hint of glitter or shimmer lipgloss (Bobbi Brown or Laura Mercier), or a dark berry lipstick (Beguiled by Topshop) and you're good to party at the pub after work!

This Necklace Knit Sweater (link) is 2 for 1- you don't have to worry about accessories as it has an inbuilt necklace.  It reminds me of something Audrey Hepburn would wear.  Depending on how hot or cold the weather is that day, I would pair it with some simple black Leather Look Panel Camden Trousers (link) or a Coated Pencil skirt (link).  Add a double layer camisole top (link in case I overheat in the jumper), and a pair of double zip suede boots (link) that transition from day to night seamlessly.  However if you're lucky enough to have a Christmas ball to attend (rather than post-work office drinks) then LTS have some great long gowns.

Christmas Day

For Christmas Day, it has to be the novelty Christmas Jumper (link), and a pair of comfy, warm jeans (I love these skinny teal colour ones with 'super stretch' for after Christmas dinner!) and low heels (link) so I wont fall over after a sherry or two!  If the weather is dry, then I normally end up on a Christmas day walk, so a smart warm coat is essential.  This removable fur Boucle Coat (link) epitomises vintage glamour.  Add a bold lip (Japonesque have a great burnt red/orange lip paint) and sculpt your hair into a soft wave, and you could be straight out of the 1940s.

Gift Ideas

I am always careful to buy gifts that aren't too 'fitted', unless I know the recipients exact size.  This Cranberry Sequin Beanie hat (link) and matching snood (link) have a bit of Christmas sparkle and will brighten any friend's wardrobe.  I think the colour will compliment any hair colour making it a universal hit.  They are free size so anyone of any height can wear them.  They can also be purchased separately.  Any cat mad friend will love this Cat Sweater (link) (and if they are under 5' 8" then it'll be a jumper dress or tunic).  If your friend isn't cat mad then this Lacy Stitch Knit Jumper (link) is a soft, stylish extra layer, without looking weird if you accidentally buy too big.

Tall people often have poor circulation and keeping warm can be an issue.  LTS have a cute pair of fluffy slippers (link), and a good range of pyjamas long enough to cover your ankles.  I have these cosy, brushed cotton Large Gingham Check PJ Bottoms (link) for a friend, although the Spot Print PJ Set (link) in teal and white also caught my eye.  Yes onesies are great (and LTS have a few good ones!) BUT sometimes you want a good pair of PJs, complete with buttons down the front. 

So there are my picks.  I hope this has given you some inspiration and shown that if you are 5' 8" and up, you need not compromise fashion just because you are 'above average' height.  I also hope this post has provided a bit of inspiration for those of you who might be purchasing a Christmas gift for a special tall girl in your life.  LTS do have some great discounts at the moment so certainly worth a look.

What would be your dream wardrobe addition for Christmas? 

Stand Tall x

This post is part of an ongoing collaboration with Long Tall Sally.  All thoughts, choices and words are my own.

Want / Wish / Wear 1

A few things that have caught my eye this week (I've ordered the skirt).  As we move into October (and autumn) I have been digging out my knitted jumpers, and trying to wear jackets over the top.  It is important to buy a jacket that has enough space to wear a warm jumper underneath.  Get it wrong and once you have a jumper and a jacket on, you'll find yourself unable to bend your arms.  It might be bearable at the beginning of the day, but trust me, by the afternoon you'll be unable to bend your arm, let alone carry your handbag!  I love a good jacket and skirt combination, and the Monsoon Galaxy skirt is stunning- ready to party, or just add sparkle to the day.  I was quite surprised to find a sterling silver ring at Accessorize for a bargain price, and the cute shoes currently have 20% off until the end of the week.

1. Zara Leather Biker Jacket (link)

2. Topshop Heart Motif Jumper (link)

3. Monsoon Full Galaxy Jacquard skirt (link)

4. Accessorize Galaxy Pave Disc Ring (link)

5. Accessorize Gold Cut Out Heart Ring (link)

6. Accessorize Sterling Silver Heart Midi Ring (link)

7. Oasis Large Bobble Gold Sequin Purse (link) (bargain price)

8. Long Tall Sally Deluxe Black Suede Bow Court Shoes (link) (20% off until Sunday)

Are you a fan of jackets and skirts?  I hope you like these posts!

Stand Tall x

P.s. Don't forget my £40 House of Fraser shopping spree giveaway (link)

Olivia Burton Vintage Woodland Watches

I have been a fan of Olivia Burton for a while.  Her elegant but characterful designs appeal to me.  While browsing the Topshop website the other day I came across these beauties.  Woodland creature inspired watches.  Not only do they contain lovely illustrations, they are affordable for the average pocket (especially with a student discount).  These watches epitomise vintage, feminine, delicate beauty and I have added them to my 'wants' list.  What I really need at the moment in new jeans- but with my loathing of trouser shopping, I am procrastinating my staring at pretty watches.....

Olivia Burton Woodland Watches

Olivia Burton watches come in two sizes, with a range of insect or bird illustrations on the faces.  The straps come in metal or material.  To be honest, I want the entire range.  However I narrowed it down to my top three

Woodland Mink Butterfly Watch £58.  I think there are two designs so you can get one with a different colour butterfly. (Far Left) (link)

Mini Hummingbird Watch (£65) with the most delicate and exquisite bracelet strap.  Certainly worth a closer look. (Far Right) (link)

Woodland Butterfly Bracelet Watch (£95).  I think this is my favourite piece and I really want it for my collection.  I love the colours.  Cleverly Olivia has managed to take a large dial watch (which can be quite masculine, and retain a feel of femininity.  (link)

Although I have linked the Topshop website above, you can also view or purchase these online and see other designs at many stores including Asos, The Dressing Room and John Lewis.  There is a full list of UK and international stockists on Olivia Burton's website.  Certainly a brand to watch (sorry, had to be said!)

Stand Tall x

P.s. Don't forget my giveaway!

5Foot10 Style Pick: Forever 21 Tropical Print Chiffon Maxi Dress

As promised, I'll be sharing some of my purchases and top stylist picks on this blog.

I adore this Tropical Print Chiffon Maxi Dress from Forever 21.  It's long, light, colourful and so versatile, plus it's affordable at just over £16 (or $19 if you are a US reader).  I also like it because the model is... 5' 10".. Such a valuable bit of information to have the model's height in the look book!

I'd add flip flops and a wide brimmed hat for the beach.  Transform it with a pair of espadrille wedges, a fedora, a smoking jacket and a metallic belt for an evening cocktail outfit.  Or add a pair of short cowboy boots and a waterfall cardigan for a more casual 'running to the shops' look.

Forever 21 only has a few stores in the UK (Birmingham Bull Ring, London Oxford Street, Buchanan Street Glasgow, Bluewater, Lakeside, Trafford Centre, Stratford City London).  They are worth a look but can get quite busy.  It's are a little hit and miss (I wouldn't buy handbags from there unless a very 'fashiony' item that I only wanted to use once or twice).  I like the jewellery (though be wary of green skin with some items!).  The range of clothes is vast and so you will normally find something, if you have the patience to look.  I prefer shopping online if I can help it!

Is this dress a hit or miss for you?  Do you like Forever 21? 

Stand Tall x