OOTD #8

Dress, Nancy Dee; Glasses, Fan Optic; Tote, Danielle Foster; Black Ring, Charlotte Valkeniers; Ring, Bloody Mary Metal; Shoes, Dr Martens

Today is an errand day. 

Time to give the eyes a rest and actually remember to wear my prescription. Perhaps these fancy specs from Fan Optics are the answer. A simple dress paired with equally simple jewellery for a classic yet understated look. Add in some comfy loved goodyear welted DM's in this season most loved faux snake print and a tote big enough to fit life in and I'm ready to tackle my list.

Andrea xx

February Lust List

ONE; TWO; THREE; FOUR.

Lemons, Oranges and Limes

Did I ever tell you about that time, the boy and I stumbled upon THE greatest drink ever? 

LOLz ™*

LEMON, ORANGE, LIME AND ZEST.

We literally thought we'd be laughing to the bank when we came up with it. Especially as you could ask for it in varying quantities i.e. MEGA LOLz.

All the same that 'development kitchen' in Sicily, proved even with the finest ingredients, rum was the only solution to the underwhelming outcome. 

My obsession au citron has gone into overdrive. So imagine the thrill I had upon discovering the zesty 'New-In' on Tatty Devine?

orange segment, lemon earings, fruit market necklace, lime segment earrings, lemon segment necklace, all Tatty Devine.

be still my limoncello heart. 💛

I have long been a fan of Tatty Devine. I'm pretty sure my first acquaintance with the the brand was probably about 13 years ago in Sugar or Cosmo Girl, the super cool plectrum pendants were all I wanted. Now, I get complimented every time I wear a piece of Tatty Devine. And because of it's trademark style, if I ever see anyone wearing TD, I have to compliment them too. It's just one of those items you will own that will transcend trends. It will transform a so-so outfit into a extraordinary one.  It will brighten your day and put a spring in your step. And I can  The Mibber guarantee you will be showered with compliments.  And unlike our LOLz,  it is never err, underwhelming.

Andrea x

* not really trademarked.



Recipe for LOLz

2 parts Orange Juice
1 part Real HOMEMADE style lemonade
Juice of one lime
The zest of one lime, lemon and orange.
10 parts White Rum. (joke, drink responsibly! 25ml)
Ice
Brown Sugar to line glass rim
Tatty Devine Necklace and Earrings to match


Directions:
1. Shake all the ingredients (minus the sugar and jewels) with ice in a fancy shaker, bartender style.
2. Run the Lime shell round the rim of a tall glass and dip in sugar.
3. Fill glass with ice and strain concoction over ice.
4. Place on your Tatty Devine finery
5. Try to ignore the texture. 

The #buybritishthischristmas Gift Guide: Part III

Good Evening!

Todays #buybritishthischristmas will be the final instalment, but please do not let that put you off using the hashtag! Hopefully, the suggestions which have been complied on The Mibber over the last three weeks, will have helped you decide what to get you're loved ones and with two weeks to go, will give you plenty of time to order in time for Christmas.

Last week saw, Small Business Saturday (another, and more welcome American import), so I hope it has encouraged you to explore your high street beyond the homogeneous destinations. I certainly have pursued the smaller stores in my quest for handmade and unique. My quest for Washi tape has so far proved futile though!

Ever the mixed bag, this weeks suggestions come far and wide!

I might as well be surgically attached to my brushed cotton PJs at this time of year, so much so, I attempted to persuade the boy to buy brushed cotton bedsheets. But even I admit, I may be going a step too far. So my first suggestion this week has to be this longer length brushed cotton night shirt from PJ Pan. Teamed with a luxurious cashmere hot water bottle as suggested by Jolly Lovely.

I'm a bit of a fitness nut, my sister is a bit of a fitness nut and a pretty sure all of my friends will miraculously turn into fitness nuts post Christmas. So for the sporty in my life, I love this yoga mat bag from Nomad Design who ethically source their Ikat prints and manufacture in England. My second suggestion comes in the form of new faves, Lexie Sport. From their new collection 13.3, these leggings (top or even the Norman Walsh Trainers) would excite any fitness lover.

If you're still struggling for your Dad, Uncle etc etc, how about these tweed print mugs as suggested by William Edwards available from Wolf & Badger. Alternatively, this bi-fold wallet suggested and by Holdall & Co would we warmly received.

My final gift guide suggestions this Christmas go to the prints. Perfect for joint presents, awkward to shop for, homeowners, they are gender neutral and I think the gift of print is one of the most thoughtful gifts to give... although maybe I should hastily add, if you get it right! The first print was suggested by Emma Higgins and is a lino cut coastal print. The second by and suggested by Toasted Crumpet is this wonderful illustration.

A huge thank you to everyone who got involved with #buybritishthischristmas, what was a whim has turned into an actually genuine hashtag, we can now haul out EVERY Christmas to come, so thank you so much for all your suggestion and helping me get it off the ground!

Read the rest of the Gift Guide here. Or follow it on Pinterest. Or Twitter. Or.. well just about anywhere else you can hashtag!

Merry Christmas, and I cannot wait to see all the wonderful gifts people will receive this year!


Andrea xx

The #buybritishthischristmas Gift Guide: Part II

Another week and the hashtag grows! As the guide evolves into some more sensible order, I thought I would include my top picks and get some categories in the mix!

Don't forget, everyone has the chance to be included in the gift guide! Just use #buybritishthischristmas.

-----

GENTLEMEN

Let's start off with the boys and men in your life. I share a bathroom with two men, our 'shared' cabinet has more man scrubs, mattifiers, face masks, stubble softeners and manly man stuff that I can just about place a kirby grip in there. So for me it makes a lot of sense to buy them even more man face stuff. It's a winner. Something that recently cropped up in the cabinet is Scarmouche & Fandango, so when they tagged this Christmas Cracker I just had to include it.

Run & Fell have ran away with the tag (sorry, sorry, terrible pun). I really love this Organic Silver Foil Tee, but they have so many designs, I'm sure if this isn't your thing you certainly will find something for him.

The man in my life, like many, is a cook. Obsessive. So it's hard to ignore Netherton Foundry's vast range under #buybritishthischristmas. I would pick this smoker out for him. He's always wanted to give it a go.

My suggestions for the boys this week is this Dereks Everyday Backpack. Boys need bags too and this would be ideal for the commuter or adventurer in your life.

LADIES

I fell head over heels for these slippers from Arthur Sleeper. Shoes shouldn't be boring and when these appeared on my insta feed I had to suggest them. 

How could I pull together a Christmas Gift Guide and not include Stella + Alf, hurry though, there's only a few left of their Easy Tee.

If it's stocking fillers or gifts for the best gals then a budget selection seems necessary. We have Knickers by Kinky Knickers, Make-up bag screenprinted in England by Betty & Brice and a luxurious eye mask by Ayten Gasson.

I'm a little obsessed with these quirky Lou Taylor spider planter earrings, I know just the person. 

I bought a their poppy candle in Center Parcs and it smelt SO good we've already gone through it. So I'd be happy to spread the joy with a Christmas Tree Candle by Stonesglow. And you get some lovely seeds to sow. 

Finally why not Personalise a Milk Token by Brit-Stitch. Carry your public transport pass of choice in style.

home

If, like me, you and all of your friends, are starting to buy and rent their own space, homewares becomes a much more welcome present. As suggested by Wyckoff Smith, the perfect spoon for the ice-cream lover in your life. Suggested by Beyond the Fridge, for the sewer in your life a appropriate notice board! A recent follower, Cornishware offer classic style, and I'm sure would take pride of place on many of my friends kitchen counters. My choice for home would be this Tori Murphy wide striped cushion to adorn mine or any of the sofas of the houses I frequent.

Finally, some festive suggestions to get you and your home in the spirit. Like this throw by Chapman House and some festive bunting by Betty and Dodge.


Part III will be live next thursday, make sure you carry on tagging your gift idea with #buybritishthischristmas.

Andrea xx

The #buybritishthischristmas Gift Guide: Part I

Edit 01/2/2014

I had a few troubles with my ability to post my gift guide last week, a weekend condemned to work gave me very little opportunity to rectify, but the weekend that proceeded was Black Friday Weekend. Apparently named so because it’s the day of the year the brands go back into the black; a stolen tradition from the biggest consumerist on the planet, USA. It’s uncomfortable viewing. Scenes of brawls, fights and crowds, snatching items off the shelves. It’s made me question my own self, a temptation here, a temptation there (I resisted, I was working after all) but it’s made me wonder how we’re all wired. Wired with this almost primal instinct to grab a bargain, how and when did this happen. If I could take one thing to encourage you to shop this Christmas, if it’s not already too late, is not to over buy. Spend you’re hard earned cashed on the right people in the right places. Spend more time than money with your loved ones.

Cue epiphany from A Christmas Carol.

------

When I incidentally hash tagged my gift guide tweet with #buybritishthischristmas, it hadn't even crossed my mind that such a saying wouldn't have been already utilised. Of course, it seems so obvious. I was just adding to the no doubt huge outpouring of tweets encouraging people to Buy British. But after a curious click I discovered it hadn't been tweeted out in over two years.

The synapses were probably not working up to scratch at 8 am on that Friday. But later on I had a light bulb moment. I'm a huge fan of hashtags. As in I actually use them. They’re like a filing system. You can find exactly what you’re looking for under a #. Numerous, if not the vast majority, of Made in Britain merchandise and brands, I have found searching the internet filing system. And whilst they are often abused (#girl #me #duh #yeah #pout #smile #happy #lfl), when used right, it’s like striking gold.

So I seized my opportunity to use a hashtag to create a collaborative modern day gift guide. All that was needed was a brand or shopper or wish-lister to tweet a link and or picture and the hashtag.  I could then easily find it and hey presto, gift guide.

What I wasn't, and rather naïvely, anticipating was just how relevant the hashtag would be. It’s not just about pushing more consumerism down people’s throats. It’s about the livelihoods of the little guys, the makers, the doers, earning their living. Not just the bag makers, the clothes makers, the jewellery makers etc. Not all the pretty things I often wish upon on these blog pages. It's also about the farmers, the food producers and even the indie shop owners! There’s an awful lot more to Buy British This Christmas.

Anyway, every week, I’ll be rounding up the best of the hashtag gift guide, and sharing on The Mibber. All you need to do is tag your picture, product link and I’ll find it!

 The first suggestions came from Ink and Thread, an indie based in Derby but also have an (Online store, take a gander!). This Striped jumper from Nancy Dee would be well received wrapped under the tree. As too this wonderful Scarf from Karen Mabon, fun and bright, sure to cheer up those grey days we have ahead of us.

Knitwear really is a recurring theme and the lovely Hilary Grant hashtagged this print on Instagram.

For the beauty lover in your life, perhaps not the most obvious answer, how about a hand-woven face mitt, from Minor Goods, I know, what am I suggesting? But seriously, any beauty nut would love a decent first step in the routine, it’s all about the double cleanse these days, and you can’t move for hot cloth facials. So you should probably get them a luxurious clensing oil too, like this one from AS.AP via Content Beauty.

Jewellery as a gift for Christmas is as essential as the box of miniature chocolates, so these delicate heart earrings by Nicola Hurst are a great choice and at a greater price point too. Alternatively this ceramic necklace from Luna and Curious would be a lovely addition to anyones jewellery box. 

It’s no secret I love Rianna Phillips use of print and it's has expanded to include small tech accessories. An abstract iPad case is ideal for fashion techy people. Yes, that’s a type of person. In contrast, Grace Gordon suggested this fab pinky nude backpack, clean lines and simple design add class to the school style shape, elevating it to a must have and we all know how practical one is.

The only suggestion this week for the men comes from Sweater Co. Their Trinity Sweater  made from cotton is affordably priced and comes in a variety of colours.

Finally, the other Gift Guides! Let’s face it, I am cheating, little leg work from me, so it seems only fair to link these great Made in Britain guides. Make it British, has something for everyone you could possibly need to buy for. Although not strictly a Christmas gift guide, Being Content, a beauty boutique, round up their MIB faves here.

Make sure you follow my Pinterest board which I'm updating daily with hashtagged suggestions and my own wishlist. And don’t forget to use #buybritishthischristmas. Please buy as much British as you can this Christmas. Next post goes live on next Thursday (EDIT as in 4th December!)

How many times have I said hashtag in this post.......

Andrea xx

Coats, Coats, Coats!

Pop Coat, Edina Ronay; Fur Pea Coat, Paper London; Duffle Coat, Gloverall; Fluffy Coat, Topshop;  Cocoon Coat; Marks and Spencer; Wrap Coat, Jaeger.

After facing our first bout of almost ground frost this week, it only felt appropriate to round up the best that British craftmanship has to offer. 

I deliberated for a long while because I was on the hunt for a women's parka, a shape I felt was quintessentially British, yet, I couldn't find any, not even close. It seems brands think all women want is wool. Men however really get the pick of the crop as per when it comes to fashion made in Britain *sulks*. So I haven't strayed too far from the trusty wool coat, in fact at all! If you know of any women's Made in Britain parkas.. PLEASE let me know. 

On a happier note, I really love this selection from the on trend sheepskin fur collar to a blanket wrap and that lovely fluffy wool effect. From fun and bright to investment-worthy and classically stylish.

On the plus at least I have found plenty of lightweight women's jackets for S/S. 

Andrea xx

Remember, Remember..

I think it's safe to say our thing is Bonfire Night.

Last year, I was enjoying the display at Centre Parcs. This year, I'll be by a lake. I love everything about BFN. Gathering with your nearest and dearest, taking your first sip of mulled wine or a struggling with a ridiculous hot chocolate and tucking into a hog roast. All wrapped up and excitedly waiting for the fireworks to begin. It really marks the start of the festive season.

So in light of this I've put together a few bits and pieces I would love to wear to watch a Guy being toasted. Bit weird when you put it like that. Traditions, eh?

Gloves, Dents; Personalised Cape, Selfridges; Shirt, Silken Favours; Gilet, Lavenham Jackets x Fred Perry; Ear Muffs, Celtic and Co; Socks, Perilla; Jumper, John Smedley; Boots, Trickers; Skirt, Topshop Boutique.

Gloves are the first thing... I always forget. Hopelessly clutching a warm beverages in the hope my fingers won't develop frostbite before the nights out. I've always found leather gloves, a bit weird, a contradiction I know as I have shoes and bags and I am by no means a veggie. But a second skin is all too much for me even when Leather Trousers are on my A/W wishlist. But if I had to go leather I of course would go Dents. And I was delighted to find some Cashmere Lined leathers!

Instead of a scarf this year, I think it's all about the cape. Thanks Burbs! Belted or layered it pulls the whole ensemble together. This Johnstons one can be personalised with your initials and is made in Scotland! Yes please!

As an honourary member of the Hair Bear Bunch hats have always either not fitted my head OR trapped too much heat leaving my body causing a sweaty mess. So I really do have a genuine love of ear muffs. I found these once thanks to google and I've got to say they are pretty much spot on.

Practicality wise it really is about a good skirt and tight combo in winter. Nothing worse than soggy trouser legs. NOTHING. That's something that's stuck with me since school. So this wool skirt from good ol' Toppers will keep you nice and warm, a decent length and like everything boutique, oh so stylish. Teamed with a light knit from John Smedley in this lovely rose goldy tonned jumper and a beautiful print on a Silken Favours shirt. 

You'll instantly see a coat missing from the line up.. I'm being brave. I'll live to regret this. So relief when I found this padded gilet from an awesome collab between Fred Perry and up the road from me Lavenham Jackets, sure to keep me warm.

Of course the other horrible thing about the cold is ice cube toes, so some British Alpaca socks and some sturdy boots by Trickers will solve all your woes. 

I hope you all have a lovely night.

Stay warm, stay safe!

Andrea x

OOTD #5

Top, Yolke; Skirt, Stella + Alf; bag, Rianna Phillips; Shoes, Ronnie Northampton.

I told you I was back!

I bet you almost didn't believe me. I put together something of the things I have been coveting recently for todays OOTD. 

I often rave about Stella + Alf, and of course love their Twenty collection. But having a gander at their AW14 main line and there are some beautiful pieces. I adore this mohair skirt. A simple shape, a beautiful fabric, a stunning outcome. 

Yolke are masters of silk. This Art Shirt is perfect addition to an AW wardrobe. The slightly higher neck line; the long sleeves and loose shape and of course those pockets. 

This isn't the first appearance of Rianna Phillips on The Mibber, it probably won't be the last. I love the practicality of the shape of this bag. ASHISH and Margiela have both used the trusty carrier bag for inspiration and Rianna has elevated this with her classic use of abstract prints. 

The final shout out goes to Ronnie Northampton, a brand discovered on trusty Instagram. Although this is a graduate collection, I hold high hopes for this young designer. My idea of heaven, heritage and fashion. Taking the classic shape of goodyear welted and adding those small touches of hardwear laces and laser cut detailing really is a game changer.  Nice to see young blood and innovation in such a traditional game. 

Have a great Thursday! What are you wearing today?

Andrea x

Second Hand News

As I type, I actually think it's been raining for a whole twenty four hours. I feel a twang of guilt thinking of Autumn, like I'm cheating on what's left of Summer. But how can I not dream of staying warm and layering up. I'm the coldest human being ever. I even wore my winter coat out yesterday. Not to mention, my day job which reminds me AW14 is very much in full swing. So I need to face facts: it's already happened, Summer has slipped away.

I mourned Summer for all of about 30 seconds before googling faux British made fur accessories! Ha!

Whilst I don't want to invest in a new winter coat - my MIB Topshop wool one is still very much a good'un - I do want to tweak it. Not to mention my new favourite phrase: "What Would Stevie Nicks Do?". And then theres that felt fedora I just can't stop thinking about.. and I'm not and have never been a hat person *monkey seeing no evil emoji*

Naturally, when the heavens open my first thought was faux fur, on reflection I have seriously questionable fashion associations. Probably the same reason why I should be banned from buying suede shoes. It's true when they say there is no bad weather just bad clothes - or in my case bad choices.

Helen Moore, came up trumps in my search. Already adorning the shoulders of Fearne Cotton (or is it Wood now?) and already being hotly anticipated as THE fashion week must-have, you can't really go wrong. The multi-coloured scarves, the pill box hats and the perfect addition to my existing coat - the peter pan collar, in Forest green no less.

And lets not forget their MIB credentials, with an impressive 31 years of British manufacture under their belts. Swit Swoo. They promote everything I love in a brand.

Whilst I can't bring myself to look at woolies, just yet, I can ask WWSND? She'd accessorise!

Scarf, Age of Reason; Hat, Christy Hats; Scarf, Helen Moore; bag, M.Hulot; Shoes, Arthur Sleepers; bg, Liberty Print.


A scarf layered with a scarf, you say I'm crazy. I say think Burberry AW14! Tie your Shawl with a belt at the waist and luxuriously layer your faux on top.

I wanted a black felt hat but a pop of colour and the feather detail on the band, I just couldn't resist this emeraldyblue shade.

Slipper shoes in tweed to add in texture and bring out the bluey tones of the accessories (even more). The new age rock n roll blue suede shoes. Ones I still won't wear in the rain.

And lovely, lovely, beautiful tanned leather. This wrap over clutch is perfect.

Check out my Pinterest board with lots of styling and inspiration for my new favourite look.

Andrea x

Birthday Haul

Chocolates, Rococo; Custom Necklace, Anna Lou of London; Acrylic Necklace, i am acrylic; Top, Stella & Alf.

As you probably guessed from my recent blog posts, I've had a birthday. And as all my friends and family know: I only Buy British! The challenge was set and duly accepted. 

(I'm joking. I don't challenge my F+F!) 

I'm not one for birthdays and celebrations and attention being on me. Odd for a Leo, apparently. But I felt well and truly spoilt on the day and spent it in excellent company.

As well as the plethora of gift vouchers (not very exciting to snap!) I also received cash which I put towards this dreamy Stella & Alf top - a present from me to me via other peoples money! Can't blame a girl for getting what she really wants. I've worn it SO much. I wonder how I dressed without it before. 

As well as being greeted with an enormous bunch of flowers from the boy, I also received the traditional box of Rococo Chocolates (which were demolished before this picture was taken!!) a beautiful rose gold custom necklace from Anna Lou of London and tickets to go see First Aid Kit this September! I am beyond excited to see these girls and am already planning my nordic inspired outfit for the occasion. 

Finally, I received a few other little bits and bobs including the cute cloud necklace from one of the bests. I love Tatty Devine's wizardry acrylic but this necklace by I Am Acrylic is hand-cut! HAND CUT. How amazing and I am equally obsessed. Also, bought from my friends pop-up shop, I make fun stuff, specialising in local, hand made.. err... stuff.

Andrea x

Online Descriptions.

I keep having the same conversations. OVER. AND OVER. 

So I felt compelled to write a slightly more chatty post. 

I recently read this on the Business of Fashion so maybe this spurred it. Or maybe it was the difficulty a number or friends and family had with buying me gifts for my recent birthday which has had me repeatedly have this conversation. Whatever it is, we all need to be talking about it more and making it happen. Forcing change.

Bless the friends and family, they tried, even picking out products I had linked in old posts on The Mibber, which turned out to be made in China. It's okay if you've got so big you've had to outsource to cope with demand. It's OK. But when you claim to manufactured in the UK for X number of years and you celebrate British craftsmanship. It beyond frustrates me. Equally recently, I had a blunder with a dress I had bought which had stated it was MIB in the description and when I received it was actually made in Romania.

What frustrates me the most is how the majority of garments sold in the UK, state their provenance in the care label. And so I struggle to understand WHY if this information is available on the garment WHY it can't be included in the garments online description. Of course no manufacturer/brand selling in the UK is legally obligated to state this information. But I believe if they feel obliged to include it in the care label, they should include it in the online description. 

The "MIB movement" is growing. More people care about where stuff comes from. And to those that do care, at least they can make a slightly more informed decision. Would someone who really only cared about the latest look honestly question whether to buy a garment made in Bangladesh, probably not. So whats the harm about being transparent about where things are made. I'm not trying to say brands are trying to hide this information, or that they have something to hide, maybe they unanimously decided at the start of the internet - people didn't care enough. But now I feel like enough people really do care.

Foreign factories aren't inherently bad, one disaster taints the whole country the backbone of their economy, and whilst there are very dark and murky areas of fashion manufacture still, a lot of brands are doing a lot to bring up the quality of the factories in these 'bad' countries of origins. So they should be shouting and be promoting this. Some COOs are more technologically advanced, cater to more specific skill sets, it's not about reshoring every industry. It's not about boycotting. It's about more consumers being more open to education. Some manufacturers are better than others at producing higher quality of goods, treating their staff fairly, creating safe working environments. Why shouldn't we, as consumers demand the best in all of these issues at a fair and honest price regardless of where it was made? It shouldn't be assumed that something made in Y means it was made in horrid conditions. Is this what brands are afraid of? A retaliation of poor assumptions? 

Whilst I don't buy British because of manufacturing conditions - it is obviously becoming increasingly a contributing factor to my decision making process. Instead I buy British based on the economy, supporting the small factories and brands trying to do it here. I know how much minimum wage amounts to. I know we have strict health and safety legislation. I know the brands I'm buying from. To some extent I even know some of the factories and studios and people making the garments and products. There is traceable transparency in what I buy made in Britain. And since I started MIBing this had become very important to me.

I can't avoid online shopping with my niche of shopping. The high-street, in particular my high-street, is yet to recover from the recession, there are barely any indies in my local town. And that is why I so appreciate the smaller brands proud of what and where they make. I just think it's time we call about the big ones. I'm not asking for Honest By type transparency, not at all. Although extremely informative and even interesting to discover the extent they are willing divulge their manufacturing process. All I ask, is that if you make it, anywhere, you say you made it there. All the information on the care label should be shared in an online description. 

There are big brands out there that are stating which things are 'Made in Britain' but I'm sure this is just to emphasis their own good PR. Even more brands are 'backing British'. But equally there are more big brands which don't say anything at all. I think it would be better practice to just say where everything is made. And whilst I'm not totally naive to believe that product online labelling will change all the woes of manufacture - it's a bloody big step in the right direction. Maybe even the first ripple.

What do you think about online descriptions? Can it really be as simple as if it's on the garment: it's in the description box?

I'd love to know your thoughts. And these are just mine!

Andrea x

The Mibber Hauls the Highstreet

So I claim I shop fashion made in Britain in my Twitter description. But It dawned on me: I haven't actually shown anything I've bought recently. Or ever for that matter. If I was brave enough to YT it, I probably would, but till then here is a photo haul of some lovely high street goodies.

I'm apparently channeling minimalism. And too much white. Ragu will eventually ruin it all. 

 Jumper, Miss Selfridge. 

This ribbed jumper I adore. It's lightweight for summer and being white, ideal, but will be so good to brighten my dull winter wardrobe and overcast days. It's quite oversized so I sized down. I do love an interesting texture and it's boxy fit and slight crop means it sits perfectly over day dresses. 

 Shoes, Marks and Spencer via MelleRobot on Depop.

I bought them from blogger MelleRobot on app-based marketplace, Depop. Beautiful quality as you'd probably expect from British-Made brogues and they had never been worn. I look forward to wearing with everything tights come winter but until then, they will be carefully stored, longing for their first proper outing. Merci Melle, Merci!

 Vest, Topshop

Quite to my surprise, this basic vest - just £10 - had UK in its tag. It only a simple vest, but shows a good snoop in the label will show all that is good (and surprising) about the big high street stores. Even they get something as simple as a vest manufactured here. 

Trousers, Topshop Boutique

My best buy. They don't say much on this hanger. But the culotte-cum-trouser is my new out-out go to piece. High waisted. Silk (refreshing for these sweltering summer evenings). Checks. Monochrome. Britsh-made. And an odd but strangely flattering length sitting happily between mid calf and ankle.

The dream.

Andrea x

Birthday Edition: TWO

Amazingly, last years birthday wishlist resulted in a third of items actually received. So in the hope that this will be the case this year, I have no choice but to rehash the Birthday Edition. For purely selfish reasons you see. 

 Whilst I do have (massive) bias over what I include in my posts, it's not always what I really, really want need. With less than two weeks, I may have left my wishlist perhaps a little to late. But on the presumption my family and friends are still my only readers (I am completely ignoring my stats this year) here are my dream birthday gifts for my quarter centenary.

Where did that year go?

What would be your dream MIB present?

*insert birthday related emojis*

Mudlark & Co Copper Sandals will be the perfect summery addition to umm,  every item of clothing I own. Honest. It's not the beautiful coppery tones that make me heart long for them. It's for the greater good of my wardrobe.

As for this Charlotte Valkeniers Necklace it probably is its coppery/rose gold tones that make me lust after it.

It wouldn't be a Mibber post/birthday wishlist without some House of Hackney or Palmeral print. Why should this one be any different. It's probably the sticky weather that has drawn me to this simple loose Ameil Dress.

Equally, the weather has influenced this choice. I look at my wardrobe and my love of stripes is yet to appear in a MIB form. So this Stella + Alf Striped Dress, part of their The Twenty range, would quench my stripy thirst.

It's very much a jewellery birthday and the simplicity of this delicate Friendship Bracelet by Daniella Draper, bestowed upon me by a bestie, would be warmly received. 

It's not probably their most fashionable bag, alas those are most definitely made in warmer (and dare I say cheaper) climes. All the same the iconic Mulberry Bayswater, British made version, has been a bag that I've always wanted. And as I received a Baia bag last year - I'm aiming high this year. 

The hamsa hand is everywhere and it's quintessentially un-Britishness makes it difficult to desire. So this Jaded Ldn Evil Eye top hits the spot. 

Ohh Tatty Devine and Rob Ryan, you do make my heart sing, as does your Ring. 

I'm willing to forgive and forget my #notmadewithloveinlondon woes and be treated to this certifiably made with love in London two piece by Oh My Love. The delicate watercolour print is beautiful. And I do love a co-ord.

Andrea x

The Floral Duster

Floral Duster, ILWF; Shirt, Topshop Boutique; Jeans, Beyond Retro; Necklace, Georgina Wiseman; Clutch, Betty Brice; Shoes, Gina.

It's such a dull day so inject some brightness into your day with these fab MIB goodies. Whilst I love Hiut denim, I refuse to encourage you to slice the knees open to keep up with the ripped jean trend. Why not revive some of your old jeans or trawl through your local vintage stores selection.

Now all you  need is to perfect your milkmaid braid!

Happy Friday!

Andrea x

#3 Summer Layers: The Kimono

The third in my series of Summer Layers and my new guest post on Thoroughly British has just gone live. I select my favourite MIB Kimonos including this lovely one from Stella + Alf.

Check out my Tumblr for some kimono styling inspiration!

Let me know what you think and which is your fave...

Andrea x

New Balls Please.

Pleated Dress, Marks & Spencer; Backpack, Grafea; Silk Shirt Dress, Etrala; Headband, Rock N Rose; Dress, Closet Clothing; Trainers, Neon Footwear; Cardigan, Never Fully Dressed; Polo Shirt, Fred Perry; Pleated Skirt, Sunspel; Quilted Skirt, Never Fully Dressed.

I love everything about tennis and most things about Wimbledon (strawberries, not favouring well). It wouldn't be Wimbledon without Fred Perry. Or Pleats. Or err neon cardigans in tennis ball green? Update your look to include these sporty shapes and styles. And of course, they're all made in Britain.

#NoPressureAndy

Andrea xo

SALE

 It's mid-season sale time! Why not pick up some MIB bargains to enhance your wardrobe!

Shirt; Dress; Shorts, all Topshop.

Fresh off the catwalk and a previous Mibber fave this star print shirt is perfect for summer nights. I've loved these geo print shorts since first sight and are a absolute bargain now. Or how about this timeless blue shirt dress? The perfect addition to anyones wardrobe!

Jumper; Trousers; Loafers, all Marks & Spencer.

DROP EVERYTHING: these amazing loafers are now just £49. Yes, £49! The BOB range has delivered some stella pieces, now in the sale, how could you refuse this jumper or those checked trousers?

Jungle Dress; Paisley Dress; Pink Collar Dress, all Closet Clothing.

One for Work: One for Party: One for Play. What more could you want?

Sunnies; Necklace, Arm Cuff all Tatty Devine

Another previous feature of the Mibber, these statement sunnies are in sale even before we've had proper sun! The art deco/Miami colour palette of the quirky dolphin necklace is perfect holiday accompaniment or remedy "wish-I-was-on-holiday" syndrome/jealousy. Or how about this delectable iridescent shell cuff? Yummy.

Andrea x

Holiday packing

Clockwise from Top Left: Shirt, Silken Favours; Sunglasses, Fan Optics; Clutch, Rianna Phillips; Playsuit, In Love With Fashion; Sandals; Mudlark & Co; Scrub, Mitchell and Peach; Moisturiser, Mitchell and Peach; Shorts, Topshop; Towel, ASHISH x Topshop; Suitcase, Globetrotter.

And so you've picked your swimsuit(s) and your "summer layer" but what else do you pack?

I booked my summer holiday for April, now a distant memory. Leaving me with no planned holidays for the rest of the year. Foolish mistake. But if I were heading back into the sun this summer, I'd be packing these MIB essentials.

By day I'd be teaming my jungle Silken Favours shirt with these comfy shorts and stylishly simple sandals by Mudlark & Co and exploring markets, towns and lesser trodden streets. 

By night though, I'd be showcasing my tan in this orange playsuit from ILWF and reaching for this amazing clutch by Rianna Phillips for a not-your-average-dinner-guest attire. I'm on holiday after all.

You'd find me sunning myself and catching up on my holiday reading (a.k.a stack of weird and wonderful magazines bought in WHSmith duty free) on this tounge-in-cheek, Made in Britain, Towel from the recent ASHISH x Topshop range and my "act like a star" sunnies from FanOptics.

And heaven or Mitchell and Peach forbid THIS is the holiday I discover I am a peeler. 

Pack it all away in my price of a holiday suitcase from Globetrotter and a long weekend away is calling me. If only I'd pick up the damn phone.

Andrea x