Happy Halloween: Dinner Party Edition..

If fancy dress, sweets and overly crazy mid-week parties arent exactly 'up your street', why not see about throwing together an impromptu Halloween-themed dinner party? From simple yet effective black runners and napkins with long-stem candles to full-on spooky themed eats, its a little different and incredibly chic way to spend the evening..

Even if you're not prepared enough (and this post has inspired you at 11am the morning of the event) simply channel your creativity into a punch as sweet as it is strong, pick up some cobweb cupcakes from The Hummingbird Bakery and nutty toffee apples... 

The Rachelle Lust List: 30th October | Halloween Edition

I'll use any excuse for a celebration, so why shouldn't Halloween be one, too? A party, excuse to dress up and eat too many 'spooky' sweets. Its not all plastic masks and pumpkin carving, little touches can make for a glamorous evening! 1. Any occasion that allows me to (sort of) justify buying an Alexander McQueen bracelet (£160) is a good occasion in my book. 2. If you follow me on Twitter, you'll not only have read my hungover stories, but seen me twit-pic a dozen Halloween style Krispy Kremes on Sunday evening. Just what the doctor ordered to lift the hangover-haze.. 3. There's a Shu Uemura lash for any occasion, and while I'm not keen on bats dripping from my lashes, these cute outer-corner lashes (£15) have just the right amount of sparkle to create the perfect cat-eye. 4. Alexander McQueens skull clutch receives its most dramatic makeover yet, in shaggy Mongolian fur. The accessory of all chic Halloween outfit accessories. 5. Straying mildly off-topic here, the new Miss Selfridge Project (#3) launched last week. I always love these collections, alongside biker jackets and dresses with leather galore, this black jumper (£50) is exactly the black jumper I wanted for this season. 6. Bobbi Brown have released the ultimate in smokey-eye palettes, I love the texture of the brands eyeshadows - this pretty little lot will smoke you from scary Halloween looks to festive parties. 7. When better for a vampy dark lip than Halloween? Tom Ford wins this category hands down with the infamous Black Orchid lipstick (£36). 8. Fortnum & Mason are the Charbonnel et Walker of luxury sweets, I found myself buying these Dracular's Dentures for myself... 9. A candle too pretty to burn, I never thought I'd hear myself make that statement, but this D.L & Co candle will look stunning on your mantle all year round. And its not cheap to replace at £80! 10. More irresistible festive treats are available from Williams-Sonoma, sour bats in adorable cork-topped bottles are just one of the many sugary beauties available. 11. I find skull jewellery a really easy way to add an edge to my look on a daily basis, and I adore Nicole Richie's range of earrings at House of Harlow, so it was a certain that I'd fall for these Triple Skull Stud Earrings (£34). Have you any tips to up the glamour at Halloween? rachelle xo

Monday, Monday.. and Late Weekend Links

My name is Rachel, and I'm a bad blogger. Hope you didn't miss me too much, last week was just a haze of craziness and deadlines, awkward situations and a heavy and unwelcome dose of cold. Not ideal blogging situations. Hope your week was better than mine, but a Friday night date-night with flowers and plenty of champagne, Saturday afternoon brunch followed by a crazy night out with my favourite ladies (one of whom was dressed as a pumpkin.. no, really) and a lazy Sunday in bed with more food and films than you can imagine has me in a far better state of mind this morning...

Inspired Interior: Purple Accents

most sane (and probably quite right) people wouldn't dream of including purple in a colour scheme for a chic, well-used room in their home that they want to stand the test of time. I cant blame them, I wouldn't either. I do, however, think people should certainly consider shades of plum, violet and cobalt to accent their neutral decor.

Used cleverly with safer neutral hues; white, grey, cream - purple can lift the tone and add interest to a room, be it in the form of a feature wallpaper or tiled wall, to rugs and other soft furnishngs to minor touches like a simple, pretty tablescape or a huge vase of beautiful purple flowers.

My Happy List { № 4 } : Finding the Perfect Cup of Tea

A delicate, pretty cup with floral patterns or quirky prints (always with a matching saucer) filled anything from my favourite Ladurée teas; china tea scented with violet and orange blossom or their signature blend scented with vanilla, rose, orange blossom and cinnamon  to the supermarket-available Clipper green, herbal and fruit teas - an afternoon cup of tea at the desk, on the sofa or while catching up with friends is another daily micro-pleasure of mine. Even better when served with macaroons, but that's another post for another day...

Whats your favourite tea? rachelle xo

r a c h e l l e ' s h a p p y l i s t . . .

the first coffee  |  morning cuddles  |  a thick stack of magazines  |  a good manicure 

The Rachelle Lust List: 23rd October 2012

I'm writing this from what can be described as just about my death bed, with a horrendous case of cold. Rather than filling this weeks lust list with all manner of drugs aimed to nurse me back to health, I'll dream of the material goods that offer similar effects... 1. I'd give my right arm to snuggle up in this modern classic French Connection faux fur jacket (£350), the shape is so chic and different to all the other bulky fur numbers I own, and the nude colour is winter perfection. 2. I've been cursed with painfully skinny fingers, which some mightn't think is an issue - until you attempt to buy high-street rings. River Island are the only store I've found to cater for my measly digits, with good colour staying power. This claw is so Rachelle, and only a fiver. 3. All Saints always pull out some incredible embellished numbers in time for Christmas parties, this is my favourite to be released so far (£295), the intricate beading and subtle cut out is amazing. It does weigh about the same as I do, but who said fashion wasn't painful? 4. Shoe Porn always cheers me up, especially when its in the form of Swarovski embellished Jimmy Choo sandals (£1,295). There are no words. mentally adding to my ever-expanding christmas list... 5. Until the aforementioned beauties become mine, I'll make do with my sparkles in the form of this stunning grey-glitter Topshop nail varnish in Panther (£6.50). 6. More 'Choo porn to sate my current texture fetish, the Teazer Feather Sandals (£695) are equally as lust-worthy. These could work in SO many different ways. 7. I've tried and loved the original Crème de la Mer moisturising cream, but heard even better things about the new 'soft cream' version (£190). This is exactly what my dull, cold-ridden and red face needs. 8. Another day, another textured jumper (Topshop - £46) - I think this is another Topshop re-release from Winter 2011, I need this in my wardrobe for lazy days where I throw on all black, jazzed up with a ton of different textures. 9. Not really sure what the boy was thinking when he turned up with this Mimi Holliday by Damaris Lace Body to ease my cold, but it certainly has made me feel ten times sexier, its undoubtedly one of my favourite lingerie brands - the lace is exquisite. rachelle xo

Happy Weekend: Exotic Details

this week has been a crazy one; there has been everything from tension to relief, late night dinners and early starts, hospital visits and shopping trips, champagne and cocktails and champagne cocktails and of course - the hangover that follows. I'm exhausted (and still relatively rough from Thursday nights antics..) and so really looking forward to a laid-back, lazy & leisurely weekend.

A Guide To: Wardrobe Organisation

Every single girl who cares about the contents of her wardrobe  wants an amazing, organised and pretty place to store her treasures in. While we definitely haven't all got tennis-court-sized dressing rooms like some of these slices of heaven, a little TLC and effort in your wardrobe can have a very similar effect.

"I like my money hanging right where I can see it, in my closet."

~ Carrie Bradshaw.

Aren't our wardrobes like scrapbooks anyway? Each piece of clothing represents the wonderful times we've had in each item. I make a lookbook/moodboard in my diary each season, it makes it easy to see what I have and what I need to fit the new mood.

A perfectly ordered wardrobe will save you money. When you can see everything clearly, you can work out new ways of mixing pieces together before hunting for new clothes.

Edit your wardrobe twice a year, switch out the items you don't need and pack them away in breathable fabric covers or boxes big enough to allow the air to circulate. Store them somewhere warm and dry. While your at it, do a bi-annual clean, not the most fun job but cleaning out the drawers and rails will help remind you of some beautiful items you may have forgotten. Just take everything out and wipe down your drawers and wardrobe with a cloth and non-bleaching spray, Dettol's Surface Cleanser spray is good.

Five Favourites: Autumn Candles

at my house, candles are always burning. Year-round. Nothing is more inviting than the warm flicker and unique scent they disperse through the entire building. As the dark nights draw in and the temperature drops, my house ends up looking like an episode of the American show, 'Hoarders' waiting to happen: pretty little glass and ceramic jars on every surface, matches strewn everywhere. The wick maintenance in and of itself has me shuffling around like a crazy cat lady, nipping away at the charred tips so they stay just ¼” long—optimal for burning and advisable to minimize smoking. I keep doubles - triples even - of the favorites, stacked in boxes just in case one should evaporate before I’d thought to restock. Of course, a nice candle also makes a lovely gift, and having a cache of the best ones means you’ll never scramble to a house warming/dinner party/office gifting empty-handed.

My current roster is made up of earthy, smoky, full-bodied scents that pretty much all fall under the umbrella of “sexy”. There are no springtime florals or sparkling citrus top notes over here between October and February. I want to feel like I’ve sunken into a silk velvet sofa in the lobby of a very chic, dimly lit French hotel, listening to groovy music that I’ve never heard of and having a glass of Pinot Noir with someone very good looking. In reality, I'll be sprawled along the sofa with some trashy TV or glossy magazine, but the candles (and a glass of wine) makes my fantasy much easier to visualise...

I've rounded up my five favourites of the past few weeks, so you can enjoy my indulgement of these mini-pleasures. 1. Catbird “Campfire” - This Brooklyn-based jewelry shop has been producing hand-poured candles in New York for a few years. Campfire is “refined and animalistic”, with notes of wood smoke, saddle leather and honey. This was a gift, and as I'm running low, I'm trying to convince the boy to take me to New York for another pot...

Lately: Via Instagram | Phuket

Its only been a matter of weeks since I returned from Phuket, and I'm finally uploading some (rather poor) instagram shots! I'm sure you know, I finally upgraded to the new iPhone, leaving these shots taken on the old mobile somewhat forgotten about... As you can see, the island truly is a paradise of clear unpolluted Andaman ocean, white powder beaches, more palm trees and stunning greenery and a true melting pot of traditional Thai culture - I cannot recommend the place enough.

As we were staying on the south west coast of the island, the sunsets were breathtaking. The small temple structure was the scene of a few weddings during our two week stay, positioned right above the beach the views over the island were stunning. I cannot praise our hotel, the staff and grounds at the Kata Beach Resort & Spa enough.

Lazing by the pool (within an excellent proximity to the swim-up bar), many hours were spent relaxing to this beautiful view. An afternoon stroll up the beach to our favourite beach club.

The Rachelle Edit: Autumn Workwear

I'll be the first to admit, even I can find myself easily falling into a trap of comfortable, warm but not particularly fashionable work wear during the colder months. One morning (this morning) I looked at myself in the mirror in despair; clad in black wide leg trousers, a black cashmere vest and blazer. With a burgundy lip, I looked half Mac-girl and half goth. And not in a good way. A quick change into a not-so-well planned outfit has actually been a triumph; high waisted shorts, a white blouse and printed coat teamed with heeled brogues and a clutch big enough to carry my daily essentials. Had I been allowed the luxury of time (and this amazing Roland Mouret coat) this is how I would have looked. Take note. Roland Mouret Printed Coat available at Net a Porter - reduced to £465, Opening Ceremony Silk Shirt £135, Tweed Shorts from an amazing Sweedish fashion site, Romwe £25, Alexander McQueen Stingray Skull Clutch £515 at Harvey Nicholls. Do you ever need some serious fashion inspiration at the turn of seasons? rachelle xo

p r e v i o u s  e d i t s  . . .

gothic glamour  |  the army jacket  |  fall 2012 - all saints  |  new in - valentino  |  winning style  |  kiss-worthy accessories  |  jil sander fall 2012  |  nineties: the new vintage  |  fifty shades of fashion  |  resort 2013: proenza schouler vs valentino  |  resort 2013: chloe vs erdem  |  summer sorbet  |  laid-back sundays  |  summer shoes at zara  |  zadig & voltaire  |  ibiza: sunlounger to superclub

The Rachelle Lust List: 15th October 2012

1. Knitwear is such huge essential in my wardrobe from October to April (and often into the summer in the fantastic British weather..) so I'm always on the look out for amazing jumpers. This J Brand knitted top (£300) has fine golden flecks running through the wool as well as an incredible leather back. 2. I've raved about my love for the new season All Saints collection before, but cannot get these particular boots off my  mind! Everything about them is perfection; and I think they'll stand the test of time at £225. 3. My gold Michael Kors Chronograph watch has graced my wrist pretty much each day for the last three years, I think its about time a new sister for her was justified. With more than a little Chanel, this black beauty is the object of my desires. 4. When shopping at the weekend, the boy and I of course found ourselves in Selfridges food hall, and then, wandering into the alcohol shop... It was love at first sight for this cute little skull and I, full of Crystal Head Vodka (£45), I couldn't resist.. Especially for the imminent Halloween  Not that I can resist a skull at any time of year, I'll be decanting my Goose into this in future! 5. I missed out on this coat £135 (or a very similar style) in Topshop last winter, and I'm not leaving anything to chance this time! This little beauty is on order, I love an alternative to the plain black winter coat. And I'm a self-confessed-faux-fur-aholic. 6. Simple, stylish and timeless shoes are part of what Zara does best, I need these pointed toe courts (£59.99) for winter days where boots aren't totally necessary  7. If anyone happens to be stuck on what clutch to buy me for Christmas, Hanukkah, Halloween, Guy Fawkes... the list can go on... this Givenchy quilted leather clutch (£1,100) will do nicely. Ta! 8. The lip colour of this week is a re-discovered old favourite, a pinky/plumy shade from MAC with a lustre finish, Syrup. Its so wearable for any occasion with any makeup so I've found myself reaching for it each day last week. 9. Although I am a religious body moisturiser, I like to pamper my skin even more on lazy nights in, nothing beats any Laura Mercier body butter, my current bottle in use is the Almond & Coconut Milk variation (£22). rachelle xo

Places to Stay: The Feversham Arms, North Yorkshire

I adore a romantic (see term; dirty weekend...) break with the boy, and its often refreshing to opt not for a city break, but for a gorgeous rural hotel in the country with nothing but an amazing room, spa, restaurant and each other  In the pretty (up)market town of Helmsley, The Feversham Arms is made up of a cluster of rustic pale stone cottages arranged around a heated outdoor pool, this place has it all.

For me, the highlights of staying here include, but aren't limited to, the gorgeous champagne afternoon tea by the fire, Aroma Stone massage and Anti-Ageing Smoothie facial in the Verbena spa, our amazing suite - Room 22 – a galleried poolside suite with a wood-burning stove and the Poached white peach, vanilla shortbread and lemon verbena granite. As amazing as it sounds.

Michelin-starred chef Chris Staines (formerly of Marco Pierre White’s Oak Room) is now at the helm, alongside head chef Simon Kelly (ex The Waterside Inn, Bray and Nico at Ninety Park Lane). Dinner is served in the hotel restaurant between 6.45 and 9pm with a choice between a five-course tasting menu and a three-course a la carte. The restaurant has a modern take on fine dining and comes with a real sense of occasion, so pack heels and your favourite clutch. The five-course tasting menu is treat not to be missed. Dishes such as lemon-baked halibut with chervil hollandaise and asparagus keep the local foodie fraternity flocking here (and my chef beau happy!).

Happy Weekend: Nicely Neutral

once again, the beautiful time of the week known as Saturday morning is upon us! I haven't been as excited about a weekend since the boy & I took a trip to Leeds a few months back.

I'm currently enjoying every second of a luxuriously long lazy morning in bed (don't judge - its my first day off since I returned from holiday sixteen days ago.. ahem) before a relaxed afternoon shopping and lunching with the boy. Tonight will be more lively; cocktails with the best lady and her crazy student friends - I can see me lying in this same place this time tomorrow, but in the fetal position and a gin hangover...

Fashion Inspiration: Autumn & Winter Dressing | New In

cooler temperatures are ever-present in the lovely UK, and its about time I really invested some time, and money, into this years winter wardrobe. This time last month, I was en route to Thailand - with a suitcase full of plentiful planning & preparation (23kg of summer, 40 degree heat resistant clothing). Leaving the house in conditions currently around 2 degrees, I'm currently craving warm and luxurious clothing like leather and faux furs...

My shopping baskets and home deliveries during the last few weeks have ranged from sequin-sleeved parka jackets, iPhones, Diptyque and Tom Ford candles, books to snuggle up with while I burning the them and too much from Topshop, namely a pair of leather leggings and perfect fur gilet...