Alice Catherine

With the change in season well underway, I’ve been picking up some new pieces and discovering some new favourite shopping destinations along the way. I recently had a bit wardrobe ‘clear out’ and went through all of my summer stuff that was tucked away on top of my wardrobe. I find April the best time to do that sort of thing because it gives me some time to look for the pieces I’m missing, without impulse buying right before a holiday…

Naturally, I’ve been searching for the perfect vintage pieces to keep me cool on some upcoming trips. I’m heading to Portugal next month, and I also have Glastonbury at the end of June. I always want outfits that make me feel great whilst keeping me cool at the same time – so lots of linen and floaty silk numbers are key… 

First up on my list of recent shopping destination discoveries is the wonderful Retold Vintage. I stumbled across their page on Instagram and they have such a well curated selection of vintage. Perfect if you love neutrals and want something that not everyone else will have. I picked up a beautiful peachy linen dress from them recently, and it fits like a dream! I always find it’s best to turn notifications on for accounts like this so that you don’t miss it when they put new stock live – it tends to sell out fast, so be savvy if you can… 

Second up is Mr Larkin – a brand that’s truly nailed a mix of vintage inspired meets modern cuts. I ordered this top from them a couple of weeks ago because I thought it would be ideal with high waist trousers and skirts all summer long. It’s the type of piece that could be worn really casually, but also dressed up with red lipstick and lots of chunky gold jewellery. It hasn’t arrived yet so I’m not sure what the fit will be like or how flattering it will be but fingers crossed! They also do it in a few different designs if you fancy something more adventurous than plain white… 

Next up, I’ve been loving the latest Rouje collection that dropped last week – it’s called ‘Hotel California’ and definitely feels like their most adventurous yet. Think pastels, strawberry print, and a tonne of Granny-chic knitwear/accessories. All of the campaign imagery is so dreamy and really makes me crave some kind of summer road trip. I’ve not purchased anything yet, because to be honest, the choice is bloody overwhelming! I like to keep a few pieces in my basket and then check back over a couple of weeks and see if I’m still excited about them. So far, I’d like the Ondine dress in every colour-way please…

Last but not least, I always look to Paloma Wool for spring/summer wardrobe inspiration. They always create really unique pieces that are figure flattering for all shapes and sizes. I recently picked up this brown beaded bag because I wanted something a bit different for hot summer days. Most of my summer bags are hand held, so it’s always nice to have a little shoulder option too… 

Overall, I feel like I pretty much have a good selection of outfits to get me through the next few months of adventures. Only thing that seems to be missing is a few really good floral midi skirts – I always live in them when it’s super hot. They are so easy to style up with a white T-shirt and some chunky sandals. I have a few really nice silk skirts, but I don’t don’t find them to be the best option for daytime dressing… 

I popped into Beyond Retro whilst we were in London and it’s always one of my favourites – I picked up these amazing off white 501’s, and I really want to head back and hunt for some vintage skirts. These jeans aren’t the most flattering around the old crotch area – I think they are slightly too big, but I’ve still been wearing them none stop, and I love how they look with cream Superga for an elongated look…

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this little random roundup of brands/shopping destinations I’ve been enjoying recently. I feel as though I’ve been steering away from the high street even more this year, so it’s always fun to find new brands that are doing things a bit differently.

There’s nothing more rewarding than finding a vintage piece in perfect condition that also happens to fit you like a glove. It definitely puts the ‘personal’ right back into personal style… 

Photographs take by Catherine Booty 

Jumper & Jeans – vintage via Beyond Retro, Trench Coat – vintage Burberry, Shoes – Superga X Alexa Chung, Bag – Elleme, Sunglasses c/0 – Jimmy Fairly

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