Joules Leather Clutch

I've always been someone who's a total pain for carrying things. If my boyfriend tries to make me carry more than a single bag of groceries I will whine all the way home about how awful my life is. Bizarrely it doesn't seem to affect me when shopping for make-up, jewellery and skincare though... 

I do find that the one thing that really softens the blow of hauling around my essential items is something truly gorgeous to haul them in. I've been keeping an eye out for a gorgeous clutch for a little while now. I'm having a weekend in Cambridge at the start of May and I've spent longer than I'd like to admit fantasising about looking totally chic and heritage-cool with a new clutch bag. Imagine my surprise and delight when an email popped into my inbox asking if I'd like to try out a clutch from Joules. I'll admit that I'm not overly familiar with Joules. I was aware that they were a British brand that sold toiletries (thanks Boots Christmas 3 for 2) and I had a vague idea that they probably sold other things too. I wasn't told exactly what style or colour I was getting so I decided to leave it a surprise for myself.

And this is what I got:

I so love the Joules hare! Such an adorable logo.

I was immediately in sweet dreamy love. I mean really, I don't even know if heritage-cool is a term that should ever be used in real life but I genuinely think this is the epitome of it. It's exactly what I had in mind when I imagined myself strolling by canals and lounging in cafes (I can dream.) The clutch is a tan leather envelope which seals with a magnetic "popper". It contains three separate compartments including a zip-up centre compartment ideal for storing money and other valuables.The lining is a beautiful, floral printed, silky material which I'm assuming is polyester but I can't be sure since it isn't listed on the website nor on the label. It's an ideal size for carrying around essentials like money, a mobile phone and a few cosmetic items but obviously, there isn't an enormous amount of space. I also have to say that I love the colour pop of the pink strap and think it acts as a perfect contrast to the neutral clutch! But... it was £70. My jaw nearly hit the floor when I turned the ticket over. I'm a girl of limited means and I know that hand on heart, I wouldn't really have been able to afford this for myself. However, after having fully examined it and after using it for a couple of weeks, I completely agree that it's worth it. It's a timeless piece that will age with you and the craftsmanship is impeccable. There isn't a stitch out of line and the leather feels soft and supple. The colours are beautifully rich and vibrant and the lining pattern is stunning. I'd have no qualms about ordering anything from Joules in the future and am tempted for a duvet set as a post birthday-money treat! (So long as my long-suffering boyfriend will chip in!)

Some handy tips for leather care that were included! So cute.

Final Verdict: Absolutely beautiful and wonderfully made but certainly not cheap.

Joules Tan Leather Clutch £70*

This particular clutch is no longer available online but may be in stock at your local store. You can still get it in a pastel pink shade (yay Spring!) here.

Have you ever shopped at Joules? Know of any gorgeous handbags I should be looking at?

Lauren

November "Dream Infinity Money" Outfit

One of the sad things that I quite like to do when I have about £2.50 in my bank account is invent shopping baskets online that I could only dream of affording. This is my dream outfit for today.

The star here is that gorgeous metallic hounds-tooth dress. Ironically it's also in the cheapest item AND in the sale. It's truly mocking me. The jacket and boots are fantastic wear-with-anything items that will last forever. Plus they're great for toughening up such a statement dress.
Just a pair of thick black tights, touseled hair and graphic eye liner and I would be ready to go!

What's your infinity-money outfit of the day?

Lauren

Plus Size Slouchy Knits

A/W Slouchy Knits

One of the biggest trends for A/W 2012 is gorgeous, cosy, slouchy knits. Jumpers and sweaters are every where this season and it can be hard to find items like these in plus sizes that aren't totally drab and swamping. The key is finding something that will help you stand out from the crowd as well as keeping you warm and snuggly. That old brown cable knit isn't going to cut it this season! (I'm looking at you Evans. Tut tut.)
I've compiled a few of my choices below (I'm so sorry for my poor editing but I'm working on it!) that would all look gorgeous with some skinny jeans or thick leggings. Team with some knee length boots or chunky wedges to show off your curves.

From Top, Clockwise, Inspire Cream Owl Print Sweater, New Look, £14.99, Inspire Purple Cross Contrast Stitch Jumper, New Look £24.99, Soft Panda Motif Sequin Jumper, Yours Clothing £30 (coming soon), Metallic Star Jumper, Fashion World, £40, Dogtooth Jumper, Fashion World, £35, Inspire Grey Skull Knit Jumper, New Look, £24.99.

One of the great things about this trend is that it is so easy to wear and that it can straddle two trends at the same time! Berry colours, Animals (that's animals, not animal prints!), Gothic and Heritage are all represented here. Stay on the front line of fashion by combining trends this way. Yours Clothing have some fantastic stretchy bright coloured skinny jeans that would look great with these jumpers. A rich raspberry jean with the skull print jumper would look great.


Lauren

www.yoursclothing.co.uk
www.fashionworld.co.uk
www.newlook.com/shop/inspire-plus-sizes_2030071