The Mighty Tartan

"These blends of blood, heather and sky,

Bring tears of pride unto the eye.

So care not if your skies start to darken,

Just stand tall, be proud, when you wear the mighty Tartan."

~ Cyber Artist

The mighty tartan, the ancient, iconic print that is a symbol of Scotland’s culture and heritage; it is eternally stylish, and quite literally, the little black dress of patterned fabric.

Jack Wills nailed the tartan trend perfectly with the very exquisite 'Delaney' dress. The fitted bodice, the nipped-in waist and the full gathered skirt make it the perfect occasion piece.

I styled it here with killer heels to show how great it can look for a special night out, but this is a versatile piece; black tights will add a sixties feel, tough biker boots a nod to 1980s punk, and smart blazer or over-sized knit will take it from one season to another effortlessly.

A man in a kilt may very well be the sexiest sight in the world, but we can’t let them have all the fun, can we?

Get The Look:

Dress: Jack Wills 'Delaney' Dress in tartan (similar here and here)

Shoes: Christian Louboutin 'Very Prive' Peep-toe Shoes in black 

Bound Up In Leather

"Thoughts, hopes, dreams,

My deepest secrets hidden forever.

A place to put my souls desires, 

My heart bound up in leather"

~ Alyssa

My new found love of vintage clothing is definitely becoming a bit of a thing. I have discovered some of the most amazing, unique, one-off pieces, all of them bought for a fraction of the prices I've previously spent on clothes. This gorgeous leather jacket is the latest addition to my tiny, albeit growing, vintage collection.

Hailing from the 1970's, in a black and red colour-way, with an edgy Country & Western vibe, this jacket is the epitome of cool! Made from the softest leather, it features two front pockets, front zip closure, red patch detail to the front and back, and gorgeous contrasting cream stitching throughout. It is a unique, one-of-a-kind jacket from my favourite fashion era and I love it!

You can't help but wonder about the story behind such a great old jacket. Who owned it? How did they wear it? Are they still alive today? Did they love it as much as I do? How did it end up for sale at Peekaboo Vintage? My mind goes into overdrive, wondering and imagining, and I am always so happy to become the next part of the story.

I styled my jacket with one of the first Emma Manley designs I ever bought; the timeless Slasher dress (blogged here) and the most amazing Isabel Marant boots on the planet.

Get The Look:

Jacket: Peekaboo Vintage Leather Jacket (similar)

Dress: Manley 'Slasher' Dress (similar)

Boots: Isabel Marant 'Andrew' Boots in black
Photos: Kate Carpenter Photography ©