Spend / Save: Chanel, Mulberry, Jolie Moi

Whether you take a token tiny purse (that holds a postage stamp and nothing else) or, like me, carry everything you may ever possibly need EVER in one large bag....handbags are essential.  The question is, do you invest in one or two classic handbags that will last for life OR do you take the elements, browse the trends and save by purchasing in several cheaper versions?  I found this Jolie Moi handbag and immediately thought of Chanel and Mulberry.

Chanel classic double flap purse (top left), Mulberry bayswater (top right), Jolie Moi mini leather bag (bottom)

Chanel's iconic classic double flap purse may go up in price each year, but it is an investment item.  It's one to be cherished and used for a lifetime.  These bags are expensive and rarely available new online unless 'pre-loved' (or fake!).   A new Classic Chanel bag retails for nearly £3000 so it's easy to see why second hand ones generally go for between £1000 - £2000 (although I did see one genuine second hand Chanel go for £600 recently on ebay).

An iconic British brand is Mulberry.  Leather bags made in Somerset.  These are pretty pricey too (but look more affordable next to the Chanel!).  Mulberry have been recently accused of getting too big for their boots and out pricing themselves.  More on that later, but for now, a trendy Bayswater bag will set you back a cool £895 (at Net-a-porter).

However if you fancy a hint of Mulberry and chanel, but not the hefty price tag then Jolie Moi could be the one for you.  Made of real leather, with a postman's lock (like Mulberry) and with a metal chain (hello hint of Chanel!) BUT with a cheaper price tag.  Jolie Moi's Mini Leather Bag was £65 but is now an ever more affordable £45 at House of Fraser.

Which bag to you prefer?  If they all cost the same, which bag would you pick up?

Stand Tall x

P.s. Don't forget my Giveaway is still open. 

Find: Vintage Jewellery Antique Blue Broach

There is something very special about a pre-loved vintage item.  It has a story, history and is generally unique.    Hard to find, and hard to replace.  Vintage jewellery is something that always draws the magpie in me.  I have a few pieces which I will share with you on 5 foot 10 in due course.  Today I showcase my vintage antique blue stone broach.

Isn't she pretty? My latest purchase, a blue stone antique broach.

This lovely item has stones arranged in a flower shape.  The stones (most likely blue glass with a glittery backing) are set into a sightly rose looking gold inlay.  In some antique broaches the spin locks can become loose so the broach comes undone and falls off easily.  Thankfully the clasp on this broach is holding up quite well.

I spotted this item in a local charity shop and paid the pricey sum of £6.  I would have paid a little bit more as I think it is gorgeous.  I'd love to know what stories it has to tell- cocktail parties (with glasses of Babycham?), graduation ceremonies, christenings, birthday....  It will jazz up my LBDs (Little Black Dresses) or any formal work outfit.  I'm not sure if I could dress it down, but I'm not sure I would want to.  It screams 'Vintage Hollywood Glamour' to me, and yes it is a bit of costume jewellery, but I've always thought Vintage Hollywood knew how to dress and present themselves.

I almost wish I could wear it back to front.

I can't really give you a link to buy one of these, but these sort of broaches do pop up on ebay (link) so do keep an eye on there, or do as I did and pop into your local charity shop.  You get a pre-loved item and the charity gets vital funds.

Are Vintage Broaches wearable in 2014?  Do you wear broaches?

Stand Tall x

Haul: Dorothy Perkins Vintage Prints and Jewels

Dorothy Perkins Haul

After a much needed back massage the other day, I floated into the shops to browse some of the new spring collections (it would be rude not to).  After a long winter, it's always a welcome sight to see spring peeping round the corner.  I found a lovely top and some nice jewellery at bargain prices in Dorothy Perkins which I thought I would share. 

Paisley Print blue top from Dorothy Perkins

Have a heart?

 I picked up this blue and white long line vest top.  If you have a long body (like me) or just hate tops riding up (accidentally tummy flash) then long line tops are the way forward.  I wear vest tops almost daily underneath the rest of my clothes.  They add an extra layer, and keep things covered even when you are reaching for that gorgeous Chanel/Prada/Rebecca Minkoff handbag off the top shelf in Harrods.  I'm a fan of vintage-esque patterns and at just over £5 it was a bargain.  I couldn't find this exact top online but they have similar red one for £5.60 (link) and they have blue ones with capped sleeves (which are probably more wearable right now pre summer link).

Dorothy Perkins Vintage Hollywood Glamour Necklace set £10.00 reduced to £2.40

Dorothy Perkins Vintage Inspired Heart Necklace £6.50 reduced to £1.40

Along with the top, I picked up a couple of pieces of costume jewellery for £1.60 and £2.40.  The glittery heart will add to any outfit and the earring and necklace set will add a bit of statement glamour.  I'd recommend having a look at Dorothy Perkins online and taking advantage of the 20% while its on.  It's also worth noting that if you are a student, Dorothy Perkins will give you a student discount on the sale items too.  Absolutely worth knowing! (I think the code TREAT20 might still work for 20% off, and I had a pop up for free next day delivery if I entered my email address when finding these items online).

Do you like my purchases?  Do you like statement necklaces?

Stand Tall x

(P.s. You might notice 5 foot 10 is undergoing a few changes.  Its now a fashion and lifestyle blog.  Although I am 'tall' the blog is not just for tall readers- its my little corner for fashion and life.  If you have any requests or suggestions, feel free to comment. Thanks)
 

Dupe: Vivienne Westwood Anglomania Lady Dragon Shoes Red Heart

Vivienne Westwood Dragon Lady Shoes.  Remind me of Disney princess shoes.

Vivienne Westwood makes great shoes, and her collaboration with Melissa produced some great bubblegum smelling heeled and flat jelly shoes with hearts on.  But at £120 a pop (or possibly less on ebay in the winter) they are not in everyone's budget.  However I found a cheaper dupe pair for the flat version with hearts on which retail at £28, but I have a code which means you can get them for just over £22.

Mel flat heart jelly shoes at Dorthy Perkins

These shoes are part of the Mel range at Dorothy Perkins (link), and come in 3 colours online.  Perfect shoes for walking places, but also a great addition to any holiday wardrobe.  I can see these going with shorts, or dressing up a light summer sun dress, or evening wear.  When it comes to holiday packing, I like to pack items that can be dressed up or down.  More on holiday packing later in the year :)

Use the code TREAT20 to get 20% off at the checkout, and if you are lucky you will get a popup for free delivery too :)

5 Foot 10 is undergoing a few changes at the moment so please feel free to make requests for things you'd like to see more of on 5 foot 10.

Stand Tall x

Tall Star Style: Miranda Kerr 5ft 9

Miranda Kerr rocking her Victoria's Secret Catwalk angel wings

Mrs. Orlando 'Legolas' Bloom AKA Miranda Kerr.  Victoria's Secret catwalk queen, magazine cover girl, mum, business woman, organic skincare maker... Miranda has a great body.  I think she looks healthy- not gaunt, but toned and healthy.  She treats her body with lots of respect- feeding it a balanced diet of containing all the needed vitamins, minerals and nutrients.  At 29 she looks glowing and her post-baby body seems to show no signs of her motherhood.  As someone who started a blog primarily about bad skin problems and how to fix them, I have been following Miranda as a skincare and health inspiration- so it seems only natural that I should feature her on my fashion blog about style!

Miranda is currently on the cover of Australian Vogue.

Photo credit Daily Mail

Miranda always seems to dress simply.  One or two clean tailored pieces and normally a killer pair of heels.  I'm not sure if it is due to the fact she is in hot places (Australia, LA, Mexico...) but I think I'd need to wear a few more layers in the UK!  She seems to get away with small fitted jackets and tight figure hugging shorts, leggings or trousers.

Photo credit to Glamour.com

When it comes to dressing up, Miranda is a big fan of floaty feminine dresses.  She seems to favour vintage Hollywood inspired dresses and states Audrey Hepburn as one of her style icons (who wouldn't?).  Of course these are teamed with another pair of killer heels.

Credit to Just Jared

I love this aqua maxi dress with puffed shoulders.  Very vintage siren!

Audrey Hepburn inspired

When it comes to dressing down, Miranda still looks as glam as anything.  She can carry off bold prints and distressed shorts (again with killer heels)....

 Or a simple t shirt with minimal makeup......

Simple over-sized t shirt and a gold geometric necklace

 Just to prove she wears flats sometimes, here she is in some very office-esque flat ballet pumps, in leopard print.  I found some similar ones on ebay at a very affordable price link!

Style

All in all, I'd say Miranda's style is effortless.  She makes dressing look easy.  Simple lines, great tailoring.  I'd say her posture helps- she always stands straight and has a great relaxed smile.  Inner assurance and confidence make a great canvas for anything.  She doesn't over clutter a look with many pieces of jewellery or accessories- just one or two choice pieces.  Mostly she seems to wear stud earring or bare ears instead of statement pieces in the day.  Necklaces are dainty or absent.  I think she favours a watch and sunglasses (sunglasses are an MK style essential to remain wrinkle free for as long as possible in sunny Australia)!

Miranda standing TALL (and proud!)

Miranda has been quoted as saying Net-a-Porter is her favourite place to shop because she travels so much and online is easier.  N-a-P do have some lovely pieces AND great sales- but if it is still a little pricey then I can really recommend the OUTNET for similar items but at much reduced prices.

Shoes

I'd recommend looking at shops like Dune (currently 50% off) or Kurt Geiger (also 50% off!) if you are on a budget.  For nude ones Dorothy Perkins did have some reasonable nude platforms (£29.50 normally but currently £23.60 with 20% off).  If you are not on a budget then head to Selfridges, Net-a-porter, the OUTNET or Harrods!  The world is your oyster!

I can't really afford Miranda's recent addition of an Alexander McQueen orange Heroine bag at £1745 but I did find a similar one on ebay for a much more affordable £11.99.  Not quite a McQueen.. but as Miranda says, fashion is about knowing how to wear things, not spending lots of money.

Bag from Ebay

What do you think of Miranda's style?  Are you inspired by her effortless looks or healthy living?  Do you wear minimal jewellery or is Miranda's take a little 'too' minimal?

Stand Tall x

Isabel Marant Ring £36?!

I just had to blog about this ring- in my sales trawling on Net-a-porter (it's good, 50% off!!) I found this beautiful ring by Isabel Marant reduced from £60 to £36!

So pretty!

They also have some matching turtle earrings by J Crew which are very cute and different- and affordable in the sale!

Using accessories is a great way to create a polished look (and spruce up an old or very cheap outfit).  Something I haven't quite got the hang of but I'm trying!!

To see my run down on the clothing sales see my previous post (now updated) or to see my beauty bargains & online sales overview click this link!

I love that I can shop from my warm bed with the tv on, while other made people are rammed in queues, surrounded by snot and germs and fighting to get a look!  You wont catch me doing that! Online is the only shop I'm visiting today!!  Any other bargains to report?

Stand Tall x

Pick of the Clothing Sales

Well, it's that time again!  Sales, Sales and Sales.  I have had a quick look this morning and found a few good bargains that I have ordered!  I though I would share them with you and ask for any recommendations.

French Connection has up to 75% off.  I cant wear everything of theirs but I do find that some of it is 'tall-girl' friendly! Hurrah.

French Connection Suzy Dress £130 reduced to £60

French Connection Ali Drape Cowel Neck Dress £45 reduced to £11!!

They have some gorgeous sparkly numbers, so if your New Year's dress isn't sorted.... move quickly!!

Reiss can be a little odd on sizing (no bigger sizes, and by big I mean 'normal but big for Reiss...sigh'), but hit it right and it is great!  I would have bought this dress if it hadn't sold out in my size- I will stalk for returns!! It' is.... The EMMA!! (link)  A perfect glitter party dress.... one to store for next Christmas!

I have my eye on a few other Reiss items including a few accessories (the belts are gorgeous!)... If I can't marry Prince William, then I'll just have to steal Kate's wardrobe instead (she is a tall girl- I did a Star Style article on her a while back...)

TOPSHOP TALL! YES!! Link! A whole section for us ladies!  I love the blue peplum dress for £28... and this metallic skirt for £15! Bargain!

Zara is my next port of call- I havent tried the trousers there, but a skirt suit and jackets are the perfect fit for me- normally- though I prefer to try them on.  However I hate fighting my way through loads of crazy women desperate to snatch items off the rails from in front of your nose all in aid of getting a sale bargain....

Where do you head for during the sales?  What have you picked up so far?  Any recommendations?

I hope you had a great Christmas.  I realised I posted on my beauty/lifestyle blog, but not here, so a belated season's greetings to all of you!  Enjoy the rest of 2012, and lets make 2013 the year of fashion that fits!

UPDATE: Skip Zara- overpriced and not great.  Do head to ASOS for cute Cath Kidston, some nice Wildfox and J Crew items (including gorgeous belts!).  Net-a-porter... how my bank hates you right now.  Gorgeous jumpers (50% off) and a good pair of sunglasses for the spring sun... it's coming!!  And finally House of Fraser- good port of call (Check out this Biba top for £14!)

Two more I'm off to check Oasis for tops and Dorothy Perkins Tall (I hear there is a pretty good sale on with further discounts online).

Stand Tall 

x

20% off Warehouse

I can sometimes wear dresses from here, but it's their accessories that normally grab me!

The glitter will be mine!

I'm stalking this glitter art deco purse which is £26 but will be £20.80 with the discount.  I love a sparkly purse to jazz up a plain outfit- especially at Christmas time!  Plus I love the fact it has a shoulder chain/strap so you can use it as a clutch or keep it secure over your shoulder.  Very practical, and I love practical fashion :)

Use the code MARIEXMAS from today until 1st December at warehouse to claim your 20% off.

Stand Tall x

20% off French Connection

I love French Connection- it seems to like the taller girls too! Hurrah.  It doesnt like my bank balance however.  I am a big fan of French Connection for dresses.  I have a fair few tea dresses and summer dresses from them.  I also love their festive offerings.  Lots of sequins!

This sequin dress would be perfect for any party, hollywood glamour event, even just evening cocktails with the girls... I love it.  AND it has £46 off!!  I also love their skirts and winter jumpers- very cosy for sitting by an open fire, in a cottage with a glass of wine and a good movie (not that I have any of those things... yet!)

To claim your 20% off at French Connection simply use the code instyle20 for the next 3 days!

French Connection: Do or Don't?

Stand Tall x