{i'm not dead.. yet}

Well, its certainly been a few weeks, or perhaps even months too long  lovelies. After a few too many exciting and time consuming but incredibly fun adventures I'm back at the desk - which unfortunately for me looks very little like this pastel affair. I am, however; wearing a ton of jewellery as per, opting for a similar pale pastel hue on my talons and have a large cup of strong coffee by my side, nursing myself to some kind of caffinated delusion I'm recovering better than I actually am from a crazy weekend on a farm in Somerset, also known as Glastonbury Festival of Contemporary Performing Arts - but more on that later. Sleep first. More sleep. The boy and I haven't made it past 10pm in the last two days..  I am (slowly but surely) back in business, so expect to see a fair bit more from me in the very near future! 

rachelle xo
♥

{the rachelle lust list : 19th february 2013}

Although it still mightn't feel like it, winter is finally on its way out and I'm already clearing some space in my wardrobe for some lovely spring things - and some cult classics that I'm desperate to try...

t h e  n i n t e e n t h  o f  f e b r u a r y . . .

1. Unless you've been living under a rock, you'll know that monochrome (once again) is huge news for SS13, as are digital-print florals (again). I've declared love for statement jackets and their versability too many times before so  I shan't harp on again - but instead quietly buy this beautiful Topshop blazer (I first spied the pink version, which has been shit on by this one.. sorry, Mum). 

2. Spring also marks the start of me throwing my dark, matte lipsticks to one side (sorry, Diva) in favour of lighter, sheer pretty neutral hues - I'm desperate to try a YSL Rogue Volupte Lipstick which you may not believe still isnt in my makeup collection yet. How am I even sitting here, having the audacity to write about beauty you may (quite rightly) ask...

3. I'm becoming somewhat of a skincare Nazi after a bad reaction resulting in a horrible, dry and spotty face at the beginning of the year and am desperately trying to fill up any gaps I have in my current skincare routine to prevent/treat any issues as they may arise - I've heard nothing but glowing reviews about the entire Dr. Jart range, in particular the Water-Max Sleeping Mask which sounds right up my street. Watch this space.

4. I picked up this lovely little skater dress last week, Topshop do the best skater dresses on the high street - perfectly nipped in at the waist with just the right amount of flare, this is another classic monochrome piece I can see myself living in throughout the next few months.

{the rachelle lust list : 14th january 2013}

The only thing good about a Monday morning is the Rachelle Lust List, no? A collection of my new favourite things - even if it is a bikini in January; of which the best thing to come of the month is the re-release of the Cadburys Creme Egg.. 

t h e  f o u r t e e n t h  o f  j a n u a r y . . .

1. One positive aspect of endless dull winter nights is being able to socially close your blinds at 4pm (the only other benefit is being able to car-sing-and-dance without inhibitions and curious looks from passing traffic) and begin burning candles in the fashion of a large church, my favourite scent at the moment is - of course - a Diptyque number, Ambre (£40 at John Lewis) Yum. 

2. Another River Island bikini to tempt me. I'm going to order this cut-out beauty and pretend I'm not sat at my desk shivering over a cup of green tea watching snow fall through the window. 

3. After about three weeks of use, I think I'm finally qualified to say I'm suitably impressed with Mac Prep & Prime 'Skin Base' primer. I have dry skin, yet my t-zone and chin often get incredibly oily throughout the day. I need a primer to keep my makeup in place all day (who can be bothered with hourly touch ups?) but also provide a silky base to keep my dry skin nourished and behaving well. This is performing very well so far; I'm not a one-product-review kinda girl but this may require a dedicated post..

Fashion Inspiration: Haute for the Holidays

Make like these fashionable lovelies and go all out on the glamour this Christmas; fur with diamonds, backless dresses with intricate embellishment, the most fabulous of blow-drys and champagne with friends..

Even if your budget doesn't quite stretch to haute couture, both Topshop and Zara have some stunning party-pieces and equally glamorous shoes to accompany - and All Saints do the best luxe leathers and faux-fur on the highstreet.

The Rachelle Lust List: 27th November 2012

It might be the fact that today is pay day, it could be that I've been denying myself any extravagant purchase for so long, or that I've been so busy focusing on Christmas shopping for all my nearest and dearest that's got me lusting after crazily luxurious with equally crazy price tags this week.. 1. The ultimate winter staple, black leather, in the form of a beautiful thin-knit jumper. I love this amazing cashmere blend by Reed Krakoff, £750. This will go so well with everything. 2. Gold jewellery is an essential of mine, I have a mild obsession with 'pretty' skulls - Alexander McQueen is the combines these two aspects better than anyone else; this beautiful bracelet, £180 (and matching ring, no 8, £120) is a prime example. 3. The prettiest bra I've possibly ever seen; okay the matching briefs and suspenders aren't entirely practical.. but this is a lust list! The Selena, by Agent Provocateur (Bra, £110. Suspenders, £110. Knickers £95. 4.  I have no words for these little bits of heaven in the form of shoe-porn. If you've read the blog for a little while, there's a high chance you've heard me rave on about these amazing Christian Louboutin Alti 160 spiked patent-leather shoes. Wow. I have similar amounts of love for the Just Pick studded patent leather and PVC heels too (no 9), but they seem to have disappeared off the face of the earth as of late.. 5. A pretty little sequinned top is perfect for this time of year, with a pair of leather leggings and a blazer this Michael Kors tee, £150 is the perfect way to add some festivity into your day wear. Is festivity a word? 'Tis now.  6. Steering off my luxurious theme, I picked up this Midi dress from River Island this weekend and cant wait to wear it; I'm somewhat a midi-virgin, dismissing the style as unflattering to a lady of just 5'4, but I think with some Zara sandals and a studded leather biker it'll be perfect for a gig the boy and I are attending tonight! 7. If you're going to be prancing about in the aforementioned Agent Provocateur undies, you'll need the supermodel-smooth pins to match. Agent Provocateur Petale Noir Body Elixir (£28) is the height of sexiness. 10. I feel a little like I'm cheating on my forever-faithful Maxfactor False Lash Effect Fusion mascara even writing about its Benefit rival, "They're Real", but I've heard too many amazing reviews to not even be tempted, £18.50.Watch this space. 11. Its almost time for a new year, and a new diary. I've fallen in love with this amazing purple snakeskin offering from Smythson; making plans has never been so chic. rachelle xo

Fashion Inspiration: The Lovely Lana

I am one of many of the thousands of people enraptured by the throaty, seductive voice of Lana Del Rey. Since falling for her first single, Video Games, I've become a huge fan of her album and developed a massive girl crush on the lady herself.

Channeling a somewhat '50s pin-up with bouncy, flowing locks and that feline-flick, Lana is undeniably as gorgeous to look at as she is to listen to. I found some stunning editorial shots from two recent cover shoots shes done for Vogue Australia and Vogue Italia. Enjoy!

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

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

The Rachelle Edit: The Army Jacket

Somehow, a combat print can be made feminine. Look to the streets of Paris where hundreds of models are currently running round in their off-duty-chic uniforms of high-fashion pieces brought down to earth with the likes of chunky knits and camo jackets. Be still, my beating heart. I decided to take the plunge & purchase my first ever military-inspired piece (I've never been a fan of those god-awful button-down jackets) which is this Topshop Studded Camo Jacket (£75), it was the studded shoulders that won me over, and it really does look good casually thrown over a chic outfit. This La Garconne Moderne Oversized Jumper (£220) is perfectly chunky to be paired with these sleek Zero + Maria Cornejo silk shorts (£330), Topshop Boutique do an excellent cheaper alternative. I'm obsessed with throwing on a gold, edgy piece of jewellery, be it a subtle skull or spiked chain to add another layer of texture and interest to an outfit. Cheapo ones will do, this £7 marvel from the site Chic Nova does the job perfectly. I'm not a high-street bag well, and firmly believe if you invest in the bones - they'll last forever. The Celine Luggage Bag is no exception. I've expressed my love for these beautiful Isabel Marant Lazio Wedge Boots before, expect to see them featured many, many times so I can convince myself they're versatile enough to go with pretty much any outfit...

p r e v i o u s  e d i t s  . . .

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

rachel xo

Fashion Inspiration: Print & Pattern

 

I may be a little late to this party, but I somehow (probably on Pinterest) managed to stumble across the seneca rising spring 2011 lookbook, and of course, fell in love with the motion of the shots, the soft colour palette and beautiful mix of prints & patterns.

The Rachelle Edit: Little Pink & Pretty Things

I'm not generally a huge wearer of pink, but who can resist being occasionally seduced by the pinkest & prettiest of pastels?

the celebration of dionysus nude necklace  |  blush teacup  |  mimi holliday by damaris bellini lace plunge bra  |  enamel ribbon detail shoes  |  petit bow bobbi  |  korres jasmine lip butter  |  diptyque 'baies' scented candle  |  asos oversized bowler [& in yellow]  |  rolex white gold and diamond lady's datejust wristwatch  |  edwardian diamond platinum tassel bow brooch

p r e v i o u s  e d i t s  . . .

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

rachel xo

Lately: Via Instagram | A Catch Up...

Its been an awfully long time since my last, Lately: via Instagram post, I'm not as Instagram obsessed as alot of you ladies so it takes some time to compose a full post! This could be due to my loyaly to my old faithful Blackberry so I only take photos through the social network on my iPod or iPad, which often get left behind when packing the Mulberry for the day...

my favorite body cream from Laura Mercier, it literally smells like lemon curd  |  obsessed with summer berries, I cannot stop eating them

a very exciting new foundation, 'Parure de Lumière'' by Guerlain was kindly sent to me, I cannot wait to try! watch this space.. | the best latte ever

a peek of a hot Sunday afternoon outfit; cream Topshop boutique mini dress, Steve Madden studded sandals, Chanel bag and Hermès collier de chien bracelet | shower gel samples from the body shop, perfect for my imminent Thailand trip! 

News: ADR for H&M

I love a designer collaboration. Luckily for us, there are a few very exciting collaborations on the card this season I cannot wait for; JW Anderson and Topshop, Margiela and H&M and of course, probably the most exiting - Anna Della Russo for H&M. The hotly anticipated accessories have been leaked and to my delight - there is a huge choice of gold, snakes, turquoise and more gold. Perfection. rachel xo

Lust List - 20th August 2012

This week, I'm craving abit of glamour. From Tom Ford burgundy lippie, to sequinned peplums and champagne flutes, this weeks Lust List has it all.

1. Tap into the inimitable glamour of the Italian design duo Dolce & Gabanna with this leapord print satin & lace underwear set, (bra £335, briefs £195). 2. After months worth of summery coral, pink and nude lipsticks I'm desperate to pick up a tube of Tom Ford Lip Colour in Black Orchid (£35). 3 . Tee's can be glamorous too, I've ordered this Etoile Isabel Marant number (£180) from Net a Porter this week and cannot wait to team it with my Zara waxed burgundy skinnies (and the Tom Ford lippy, ahem...) 4. This Zara skirt (£29.99) with a plain grey tee is just so right, if you haven't checked out Zara's new season collection you need to. Now. 5. I'm not a small bag kind of girl, but will gladly make an exception for this Box Suede Chain Bag from Topshop (£28) which will make a chic alternative to the evening clutch. 6. This Willow Body (£395) is cool, contemporary and impossibly chic. I want it on me now, with a nice pencil skirt and blazer. Mmmmm. 7. By the time I settle down on an evening, the darker nights are well and truly setting in, so its time to once again re-open my candle collection. This Jo Malone Wild Bluebell candle (£41) is amazing, but I keep getting told off by the boy for not blowing it out when I leave a room with it being so expensive.. Spoil sport. Why do men just not get it?! 8 . Whilst this Topshop Chiffon Tiered Cami (£33) isnt really my thing, it caught my eye when browsing the Topshop app, I must try it when next in store... 9. Karl Lagerfeld does pretty much everything better than everyone. Including champagne flutes (£96). 10. I've definitely over-invested in peplums this season, but this Topshop Sequin Top (£41) is too hard to resist. 11. This Pamela Love Necklace (£300) is intricate enough to wear alone, but I'd stack it with a few other bohemian necklaces from the range and a grey tee. And the aforementioned Zara skirt. Or the Willow body. I can see a pattern emerging... help. rachel xo

Lust List - 13th August 2012

1. Alexander McQueen is not a brand to shy away from statement-making. It was love at first sight when I set my eyes upon this Unicorn Skull Embroidered Box Clutch, which will most probably, always be a lust at an impressive £1,435... 2. Behold, my daily go-to lip colour - Mac Angel in satin, I finished my fourth tube yesterday and the realisation has hit, I may be slightly obsessed... 3. As you probably already know, as I haven't shut up about it, I'm off for a fortnight in Phuket in a mere thirty sleeps (!!!) and I'm swimwear-searching and currently swooning over these Zimmerman styles. 4. I've previously raved about my love for  the highly-acclaimed Moroccan Oil, I cannot stop using it! I've been putting a little extra in my hair when drying it & smoothing a tiny little blob through the ends which has resulted in verrrry smooth & glossy hair. 5.   Winter buys are filtering into stores, I've fallen for this Cos coat (£175) the pastel hue is so refreshing for the winter. 6. As a gold jewellery fanatic, Alexander McQueen ring wins every time, this ring is 100% me. 7. These Christian Louboutin Just Picks need no further description. LOVE. 8. Love the idea of these surprises in the post each month, a non-beauty Glossybox! 9. Feeling incredibly sporty following the closing ceremony of the Olympics, this gold Stella McCartney necklace is as near to sporting as I get... rachel xo

Two Beautiful Things: Pillows & Pugs

A very quick good afternoon & happy Thursday as I quickly run from meeting to meeting to meeting, before a quick powder-room change to head to dinner with the boy to a horribly fancy steak restaurant overlooking  the river to enjoy my first piece of meat in what I'm realising has been over a week... and breathe... and remember your punctuation Rachel! Have an excellent Thursday evening whatever you beauties have planned, rachel xo

p r e v i o u s  t w o  b e a u t i f u l  t h i n g s  . . .
monochrome perfection | monday morning coffee 

ps; what could be more beautiful than freshly laundered bed linen in white silk and pink chiffon, or a charming pug dressed in more bling than Rachel Zoe? . . . 

What to Wear: Summer Holiday | Jamaica

Holidays in Jamaica are all about sun, sea and serious relaxation. The white beaches are some of the best to be found in the Caribbean and the relaxed vibe will have you transported to another frame of mind the very second you inhale that hot balmy air.

To me, Jamaican holidays are made with couples in mind and there are a ton of beautiful romantic beach side hotels ready to cater for you and your beau in every possible way. The high-fashion-girl-holiday outfits can take a back seat here and wear exactly what your comfortable in, not forgetting those sexy numbers to make your stay that much more special.

There's nowehere like the Caribbean to top up your tan. And theres no time like when you're resembling a stick of mahogany to wear bright coral. Or gold. Or both together. Take advantage of the massive UV12 rating and bake in this coral Toni Praver Ruffled Bikini (Top £105 & Bottoms £90)  teamed with all the gold accessories you can lay your hands on. This Yves Saint Laurent Arty Ring (£180) and Kenneth Jay Lane Bracelets (£105) look amazing on bronzed arms. Who can resist these Yves Saint Laurent Wedges, especially when theyre discounted from £805 to £362?... Aviators are perfect not just for holidays, but for terrace drinks on sunny London afternoons and I swear you'll wear them for years - I've had my Ray Ban pair for about four years. The lenses on these Victoria Beckham Shades are amazing (£495).

Happy Weekend: Monochrome Details

 What more perfect & leisurely start to the weekend could I ask for than to spend Saturday morning in bed with a French press full of hot, strong coffee and some croissants; selecting my favourite inspiring images I've collected over the past week to share with you in Happy Weekend posts.