SS17 trends: The statement sleeve; a fashion buyers dream
As those of you that follow my Instagram stories will know I've been a little unsure about the statement sleeve. I was born in the 80's so they're slightly too reminiscent of perms and shoulder pads for my liking!
My gut instinct has been that exaggerated sleeves are a bit of a fad and too fussy to suit my style. Whilst I still think all of that's true I do understand why they're everywhere at the moment.
In many ways, a trend like this is a fashion buyer's dream; a statement piece that customers have to buy into as they won't have a similar item already in their wardrobe.
This an easy trend for young fashion but definitely trickier for other sectors, particularly for mature customers. I can imagine that when the SS17 catwalks started coming through, that half the UK's buying teams were as excited as the other half were in despair.
For young fashion brands, the volume sleeve is SS17's must-have item. It's easy, for their customer, to buy into it as it's a quick fashion fix to add to their wardrobe. Every blogger on Instagram's been seen wearing one the last few months so they seem to be an easy sell.
On the other hand, many older customers don't like it when they 'did it the first time', the 80's feel of this trend and the inherently unflattering shape could be off-putting. I believe, though, that when designed cleverly, the volume sleeve can suit most shapes.
Personally, I'm now a convert. This Zara number is surprisingly flattering, especially when I turned it around so the V was at the front and double tied the belt rather than leave it flouncing around (adding unnecessary extra volume to my middle!).
I was surprised by how good it felt to wear this top, it was nice to wear something a bit flouncy and fun for a change! I think a trend like this works well for me when I pair it back with jeans and flats.
From a trend forecasting point of view, I don't think the statement sleeve will be around for more than a couple of seasons (it's no skinny jean trend!) but I'll be enjoying it while it lasts.
Travel: Gilmore's Mexican Newquay
Gilmore's is one of my favourite places to eat in Newquay, they make the most amazing, fresh and simple Mexican food using local produce. Since opening in 2015, in a spot just outside the town centre, they've quickly gained a cult following, having been featured on the likes of the Guardian.
They use local Cornish meat and there tacos and burritos are stuffed full of fresh veg, home made salsas and Jalapenos. The breakfast burritos and mexican eggs are also worth a morning visit.
Gilmore's is also a magnet for the local surfing community; often hosting events for the likes of the Approaching Lines International Festival of Surf and Wavelength Surf magazine.
Tacos start at £6 and burritos start at £8.50
Open from 9am til late everyday in the summer months
12 Tower Road, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1LS
01637 872995
Fashion: My pick of the best baskets for SS17
If you've been following my Instagram for a while you'll know I'm partial to a wicker or straw basket. I've recently taken this obsession to the next level by adding this little honey pot basket from Zara to my collection.
I missed out on it last time it was in stock so when the waiting list email came through, to say it was available, I bought it straight away.
It's a bit smaller than I would usually go for but it's so cute I couldn't resist. Even though it's quite a novelty style I think I'll get a fair amount of wear out of it. It'll look great with jeans and can definitely be dressed up or down. I also think it works well with this poplin Zara jumpsuit and The March sliders.
My french shopper, from last year, will still get a lot of use again this year and I'm also tempted by a few of the other baskets out there at the moment.
See below for my top picks from the high street for SS17.
J Crew £49.50
Zara £19.99
Mango £39.99
Spring Wardrobe Staples: Levi's Mac
This spring I'll pretty much have this outfit on repeat. Despite being a fashion buyer my personal style is fairly classic so this will be my go to for the next few months.
I was so happy when I found this mac, it's super light and I know I'm going to find it really useful in my wardrobe whilst the weather's so changeable. Living by the sea means the weather swings wildly from 'named storm' territory to a Caribbean Dream World in the blink of an eye. You basically have to be prepared for anything.
It's the perfect shade and a good shape to wear with all of my spring favourites. The loafers were a value buy from ASOS whilst I save up for the Gucci versions, I'm starting a new business so they aren't really an option for me at the moment!
