The Silk Road

I'm loving the new December Vogue editorial. Istanbul is such a vibrant buzzy city & I think that's been captured really effectively by the fabulous photography genius of Mr Testino. I'm more a fan of thematic location shoots so I love the drama of these pics.

It is with a slightly heavy heart I'm viewing these though as I was here wandering around the same beautiful city less than a month ago. It goes without saying that I wasn't managing to sashay through the bazaars half as glamourously as Kate! She looks as glorious as ever doesn't she? Although I have to say, has the photoshop editing gone a little too far? She looks as if time has stood still for her since the 90's Calvin Klein ads!

I'm glad to see Chiwetel Ejiofor as Kate's leading man too, I'm so looking forward to seeing him in Half of Yellow Sun. Go read the book before the film comes out, it's brilliant!

All images via Vogue

Magpie tendencies

So the sparklers in the top left may be slightly OTT, but am feeling embellished gloves & hats this Winter. I loved Elisa Nalin in Paule Ke & the House of Holland SS13 boyfriend beanies. Definitely going to have a crafty session in the next week as although I think there are some gorgeous pieces out there, it's something that can be easily replicated yourself- saving money whilst gaining unique pieces : )

I've knocked up a quick inspiration board, the simple Zara wool coat is perfect for jazzier accessories, teamed with BARGAIN chunky cable knit scarves from Asos, wardrobe staples Topshop Baxter skinny jeans & this beautiful Markus Lupfer sweat. I'm kicking myself for not buying the colourful embroidered Turkish boots in Istanbul, they're a little naff but I don't care! Likewise for the embroidered Simone Camille bag, Istanbul was teaming with similar bags with a far more reasonable price tag. Looks like I'm going to be making a return in the very near future then...

Gloves from top L-R, Christian Lacroix Vintage, YSL, Prada AW12, Styligion, Givenchy & H&M. All images via pinterest unless otherwise stated. I do not own any

ISTANBUL

It's been a week & Im still wallowing in the dark depths of the holiday blues. I travelled to Istanbul with my boyfriend (who happens to be Turkish- very handy if you're attempting to come away from the markets with a bargain or ten) We used airbnb for the first time to find our beautiful apartment, & I'll definitely be using it again, cant recommend it enough. We were right in the heart of Beyoglu & as the city is fairly accesible to navigate around, the flat was the perfect base. Istanbul has such a buzz about it, we tried to get round as much of it as possible in the 7 days we were there. I think we managed to pack a lot into a week but there's still more than enough to warrant a return trip...as soon as possible!