Yesterday I tweeted and facebooked a snapshot of a new Bicyclette floral dress that I just couldn’t wait to wear, and as promised, here’s the full outfit post. Unfortunately the weather has been lacking in sun and summer, but it was the perfect way to brighten up the day with the bright floral print, structured bustier top and flowy skirt. I decided to add a little bit of edge (and warmth!) by layering a striped knit over top (no need to be scared of mismatched prints) and my over-the-knee boots, and accessorized with the usual pile of bangles, a studded belt and silver feather earrings.

The dress, among many others, will be available in the shop soon! Updates on the store launch date soon, as I have a phone meeting with my web developer tomorrow. Exciting  times approaching, that’s for sure!

The good news: yesterday at Magic I bought a lot of great pieces that you should be really excited about…

  • Florals: on oversized tanks, exposed-zipper dresses, and deep-v tees, both multi-coloured and black and white
  • Lace: as insets, full backs and decorative detailing
  • Subtle Studs: on oversized breezy tops, necklines of dresses, and embellishment on cardis
  • Bright Colours and Soft Neutrals: think turquoise and hot pink in perfect dresses, tunics and silky fabrics
  • Sheer Layers: breezy tops in light fabrics that are perfect for creating that perfect layered look
  • Leopard Print: the most perfect oversized, bat wing, light grey melange sweater with an abstract print

I’m really excited.

The bad news is, there is a very strict no picture taking rule, which means that I was unable to document my purchases and share them with you. Hence the words-only description and lack of visuals. Disappointing, I know.

I did, however, manage to get some shots of displays that had been put together with samples from the show, highlighting themes from upcoming seasons.

I’m back from Vancouver. Back from the Enterprize competition, empty-handed, unfortunately. The winnings went to three different start-ups, all tech-based, and all from UBC, which I guess makes sense seeing as they hosted the conference and competition. It was a matter of criteria, the fact that I was pitching a retail concept (not an entirely revolutionary concept, I suppose), and not inventing a product or system that is patentable and has the potential to dominate the market. I received great feedback, support for the idea and encouragement that failing to place in this particular competition had nothing to do with the viability of the idea or the belief that it could be a successful venture, but instead it was a matter of not meeting the specific criteria set out. Fair enough, disappointing, yes.

But without further ado, we are back to our regular programming, sans crazy business plan prep, which means that I am able to focus more on the blog once again.

I’ve discussed my love and adoration for accessories before, and we all know how much my eye is drawn towards embellishment and luxe detailing, so when I came across Angel Jackson, accessory label extraordinaire, my heart melted a little. These are pieces that stand alone, pieces that demand attention and catch your eye, pieces that draw you in and encourage you to get up close and personal. Angel Jackson was launched in 2005 by sisters Katie and Millie Smith and the line can now be found in prestigious boutiques around the world.

They were adamant that it would be possible to create an international fashion label with ethically sourced products and good working conditions for its staff, whilst being recognised for well designed, stylish and glamourous accessories… Stylish, super chic and with a twist of underground edgy-luxe, there is no wonder why Angel Jackson is a closely guarded secret by fashionistas…

Images: Angel Jackson / Collages: bicyclette

How fantastic are the feather pieces? I can’t get over the colours and textures, they’re just asking to be showcased and adored. And the oversized relaxed shapes. I’d attempt a DIY if I wasn’t so afraid of working with that many feathers.  I think it would be asking for disaster.

Thoughts? Too much extravagance?

I think one of the reasons I’m so drawn to these pieces right now is that recently any purchases I’ve made have been focused on finding luxe basics that are versatile and simple, encouraging more layering and creativity within outfits. Accessories such as these from Angel Jackson, especially the purses, are the perfect addition to these outfits, adding a surge of colour and texture and creating that focal point that every outfit needs. Voila!

So as promised, here’s a brand spotlight, a little late from Tuesday, but here nonetheless!

Not only am I personally a huge fan of accessories of all kinds, they also will be a big part of the bicyclette merchandise mix. For lower price points (well, sometimes), it is possible to completely change an outfit or make a statement with an otherwise simple outfit. Yesterday, I mentioned how Erin Wasson effectively uses accessories to take her style to the next level, and how well she incorporates tougher accents into her wardrobe.

Well, I found a line of hair accessories that will help you do just that: Jennifer Behr.

jennifer behr creates a range of seductive headpieces – 21st century crowns – each one with its own appeal… crystals set in dark metal and hand-stitched to ethereal silk chiffons, braided ropes, slick patent leathers and tough studs. this season jennifer artfully incorporates it all to pin back even the unruliest of locks. the collection is made by hand in her studio and within a network of small workshops in brooklyn and manhattan. this results in hair accessories carrying the soul of handwork, while remaining thoroughly modern in appearance.

From: http://jenniferbehr.com/

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These aren’t Blair Waldorf’s headbands, that’s for sure! I love that they aren’t traditional, they have a very current feel to them. I’m partial to the “Petite Jet Pearl and Rope Headband”… Which one’s your favourite?

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