I actually ADORE little boutiques. I think there is something about them that just really makes you feel like you have something a little more special than buying something out of somewhere like Topshop maybe. Even from where they are, down little cobbled roads, looking all pretty; they are irresistable, its an undeniable fact. Sadly, living being at uni in Southampton, I rarely get to see any, although to be honest, most of the best ones are in London. Me and my best friend were actually talking yesterday about her setting up her own boutique in a few years and me doing all the publicity for it, and like little girls we got all excited and giggly about it, generally screaming out phrases like, "it's going to be so good", "oh god I am excited!", and "this is going to be amazing", each said with several sequels inbetween. We aren't really sure on location or name or much else really, but we have this really cute idea of having a section at the back filled with gorgeous cupcakes with little french type tables and chairs for hungry shoppers; how amazing would that be! Baring in mind, this will be in many, many years to come, when we actually have a bit of money and are fully clear of our student debt; although right now that really does seem near enough impossible, but you know, it's fine, we still have a brilliant time wishing we could have clothes we can't afford.
Anyways, I was searching today for a dress, (yes, another new dress), for my best friends birthday in a few weeks, but sadly, it seems that I either have most of them or there is just nothing new around at the moment, but I did come across the site for one of my favourite boutiques ever; clearly they have gone a bit more upmarket since I last had a chance to visit. It's called Dahlia, you may or may not have heard of it, but I'm pretty sure it has recently become very popular so you probably have! And even if you have I just want to reinforce how beautiful it is; so vintage, (as a little bit cringe as that word is), but yet so girly!
I saw this dress and now I want it; see it, want it, thats normally how shopping goes with me. I just love the cute little flowers; flowers make me happy. Espeically daisies, and I think these are daisies. Sadly, it's probably a little too causal for my friends birthday but for a summer dress or a garden party I think it is adorable and I will be very jelous of anyone who has it!
But I am still in dire need of a party dress for this birthday, so if you have any, I am open to suggestions...please.
So, yeah, this really is just a blog about my pure love for cute little boutiques, although don't mistake me for not loving Topshop because that would just be a ridiculous and very untrue assumption!
Boutique baby!
a little heart stealer.
As per usual, my day off has consisted of nothing but sleeping, shopping, facebooking, eating and seeing friends, which considering i live with them is pretty much inevitable. So, while we all wallow together in the self-inflicted student bordem, I filled my empty hours, browsing and dreaming, about a new spring wardrobe, not reachable on my student budget. Instead, I managed to send myself into a shopoholic's state of grief after coming across this gorgeous Chanel dress worn by Alexa Chung at the Elle Style Awards and sadly realising that I can watch other people slip into such beautys for this season while i appear to be stuck rumaging around in endless heaps of Primark skirts and blouses, trying to find at least one decent buy, but coming up with nothing.
And here is my Topshop spring wishlist and trust me there is so much more I could hope for but for now I thought I'd better give my poor student budget a break from over spending. But like the naughty child I am when it comes to clothes, the lilac dress has already been worn and hanging in my wardrobe, but you know, when something steals your heart, it cannot be helped. I think i may buy the faded floral shorts next. I am going to either V festival or Reading this year, so i think those pretty shorts will look rather cute with wellies and an oversized t-shirt? Mmmm, we shall see! Anyways, having said that, I am very excited for 17.55 this evening for the V lineup annoucement; that excited that I have already planned my outfits...is that sad?
I think after making myself seriously depressed by Chanel's spring collection I think i have managed to reduce my hatred for my bank balance by allowing myself to treat myself to a few Topshop specialities and now I think i'll go and get ready for the V line up annoucement with my best friend. :)
Danielle xxx
Fabulous Clothes Given Away..And Helping Out!
I think charity shopping is one of the best things i have ever discovered. I remember, probably like alot of people, when the thought of wearing someone elses clothes was the most vulgar idea and how disgusting i found it; but like me, i want everyone to covert to the wonder that is charity shopping. 
Honestly, i can understand the reservations, but once you look past that there are so many reasons why charity shopping is magnificent. Vintage clothes, unique peices, cheap prices and most of all contributing to charity while solving your mass shopping obsession.
I kinda of have a problem. I get this feeling bubble up inside me, like a force, thrashing at my body, only to be stopped by a new dress, jumper or bag. This feeling crops up at least once a week, in full strength, pulling me towards a floral vest, or gorgeous ballet pumps, causing me nothing but endless misery and sleepless nights until i have that new outfit. OK, insomnia is slightly dramatic, but seriously i do have a shopping disorder and as you can imagine it can get expensive, and with a student balance, my overdraft can't take the weight of a fabulous new pair of shoes every week. So, thats where charity shopping has been my saviour! Obviously, i still can't resist a Topshop dress every now and then, but when i am in dire need of a money spend, charity shops call my name. I have actually got some of my favourite clothes from there, and not to sound big headed but many a compliment too.
You see, fashion isn't about the labels you wear. Having a pair of Jimmy Choo's or a Chanel bag doesn't make you fashionable (as beautiful as they maybe!). Fashion is about having style, your own style. It doesnt matter if you are wearing a £90 All Saints jumper or a £4 charity shop one, all that matters is which one shows style, and originality. Fashion can mould a person, but it’s the individual style and touches that truly make the outfit, and while some will take this in their stride, others just wrap themselves in endless labels, scared of reaching out further to create their own style, and to me that is not fashion.
Charity shops have provided me with vintage cardigans and bags, all which add the finishing touches and unique style. Im not saying you should buy your entire outfit or wardrobe from a charity shop, I just believe that you can get amazing one off pieces that help you create something new while helping and giving. Now surely that's fashion for thought.
