fashion blogger

If you haven’t heard already, this week I attended my very first Pitti Immagine event, Pitti Uomo 92. Pitti is one of the largest fashion events in Europe, bringing together brands and designers to showcase their work not only to buyers but also to the press. Not only was I there for my own personal blog, I was also writing a short piece for The Florentine magazine, which you can read here.

LOCATION: Pitti Uomo 92
Fortezza da Basso, Florence, Italy 🇮🇹

Pitti Uomo is the menswear event under the Pitti name (uomo is ‘man’ in Italian) and this year, the theme for the events is ‘Boom Pitti Blooms‘, focusing on flowers with colour, patterns and textures, with the art direction by Sergio Colantuoni who says, “The theme is also a metaphor for our fairs, of what fertile ground they are for new and often unusual creative expressions.”

I didn’t know exactly what to expect from the event but as I soon realised, one of the major purposes of Pitti is for brands to reach out to new buyers and distributors, so it was interesting coming in from a blogger angle. Of course, on my blog, I focus mainly on womenswear and in particular, ethical and sustainable womenswear, so I planned to go in learning more about how ethics fit into menswear. As already mentioned, I was also there to write for The Florentine and you can read my 5 point sustainable round-up if that takes your fancy.

It was hard to resist following the crowd and not taking some time to grab some street-style photos. It was 33°C on the day I attended, so I have to applaud the attendees dressed to the nines. In true fashionable style, I overheard one person say, “Even if I faint, it’s worth it.”.

If you’re in need of some sartorial style inspiration then Pitti Uomo is the place to be. It most definitely reinstated my love for tailoring and sleek suits. Those Pitti Peacocks are well dressed, albeit extremely hot and sticky.

SAVE THE DUCK

I discovered Save The Duck a while before Pitti, knowing of their collaborations between Christopher Raeburn who is one of my favourite designers due to how he repurposes materials and is committed to that way of thinking across his whole brand. Actually talking to their team and understanding how they too, are extremely focused on being as sustainable as they can be, was rather inspiring.

Their latest collection for summer is their Recycled range, which is made of recycled materials from the lining to the zipper, and even uses recycled ‘Plumtech‘, which is their innovative material to replace feathers used in outerwear, making their brand vegan and sustainable. And although they manufacture their pieces in China, I was reassured that factories have to be certified in order to work with Save The Duck. Visiting their booth was most definitely my Pitti highlight, on par with meeting Christopher himself and attending their last collaborative presentation. I’ll be posting a piece dedicated to the collection, shortly.

PRESIDENT’S

Although Pitti Uomo and the other Pitti fairs are open to worldwide exhibitors, of course being in Italy allowed for there to be plenty of brands Made In Italy. President’s use organic cotton in their shirts and tops and dye their leathers with vegetable tanning, so they’re on the right track.

Their brand, although sticking to traditional Tuscan craft, is modern and fresh and is a brand I will be keeping a close eye on whilst I travel the area. You can read more about President’s here.

STUTTERHEIM

And last, but most definitely not least, is Stutterheim, a Swedish raincoat brand who surprised me with their upfront honesty on where they stand on sustainability. John Laster, one of the directors of the company was very open when talking to me, sharing the fact that their materials are most certainly not of a sustainable nature with PVC coming from oil, of course. This doesn’t however, mean they’re entirely going down the wrong path. I and John both agreed that mindset can often be more important than fabrics…

“I think the biggest strain on the environment today is the buying and throwing away of things. It doesn’t matter if it’s made organic or not; use it five times and throw it away, use it for one season and it’s not sustainable.”

As I said, I will have another post up soon about the Christopher Raeburn presentation but for now, that is all from me at Pitti Uomo this season. You may just see me at the knitwear event, Pitti Filati, sometime soon…

What do you think of Italian menswear? Have you heard of any of these brands? Let me know in the comments!

The reason this outfit is having a public display of affection is because this is probably the most public My Style outfit shoot I’ve ever done. There were people looking for sure which definitely makes you feel a little weird but what can I say? This is the time of the internet, you should know the drill by now! I also just really love this outfit at the moment so it should have some affection, right? I hope you like it too!

WHAT I WORE: WOW Jumper (River Island Kids – Old) // Maison Scotch Blouse (Jumble Sale) // Valentino Inspired Trousers (Mötivi) // Black Floppy Hat (ASOS) // Vagabond White Dioon Platform Heels (Mastershoe-MyShu)*

I think this outfit sums up a lot of what I’ve been wearing recently. I am obsessed with blouses (I now own six – four long sleeve, two short sleeved) and they’re perfect for this time of the year where we’re not really sure what’s going on. It really messes with your mind because you think “Ooh, it looks lovely and warm and sunny today” and then you walk outside and regret your outfit choice immediately.

That means layering is a go to option, especially with sweatshirts and jumpers, which I also have a growing collection of. I especially love this one which I’ve had for a couple of years now (which you can probably work out due to the very scraggy loose threads around the arms) and it’s still going strong. It works perfectly with every style… grunge, minimalist, khaki seventies etc… it’s a very versatile piece, surprisingly!

In terms of the trousers, well let’s just say…. I AM IN LOVE. They’re very Valentino inspired, and although I don’t usually gravitate towards knock-offs, I absolutely loved these and I couldn’t resist them when they went into the sale. They’re so gorgeous and the style fits like a glove. I can also imagine wearing them on a summer evening so I’m sure they’ll work perfectly throughout the year.

To complete everything, I usually leave my blouse hanging loose for that kind of casual vibe (it also gives me an excuse for skipping out on ironing…). My hat ties in the black from the jumper, where the navy of the trousers clash and my shoes are just doing their usual awesome thing. Honestly, I only wear these and my Dr Martens. You don’t see me in any other shoes at all… no. joke.

NOW PLAYING:
Sing For The Wind (Roo Panes) 🎶

To finish off this post, here’s a little sneak peek of what I’ve been listening to recently. I’ve enjoyed adding these little elements to my posts so far this year and I hope you have been too! I love the “Little Giants” album by Roo Panes. Super relaxing but still some nice sing-a-long tunes too. “Because love’s a journey of a lifetime… and where you finish isn’t where you start…”

What did you think of my outfit? What have you been wearing recently? Let me know in the comments!

Very recently I have become truly mesmerized by the beauty of which is, Valentino. I feel like I should have been a big fan ever since I became interested in Fashion, but only recently has it really occurred to me to look deeper into the latest collections and the in’s and out’s of the fashion house. I’ve more specifically fallen in love with Valentino’s Pre collections. If you don’t know what that is… it’s another full (or half) collection inbetween a season. It could also be called a “Resort” collection too!

~ VALENTINO PRE SPRING/SUMMER 2016 ~
(Images via Vogue.co.uk)

First, let’s discuss the most recent ‘pre-collection’; Spring/Summer 2016. I recently read a comment on an article where somebody was saying that Valentino was getting boring. I can see why (and you will probably) but I personally can push through all of that, starting with this collection. It is utterly divine.

It’s the most intricate mix of South American inspired pieces, heavily embellished and embroidered florals and sleek silhouettes. As you will see from the other highlights in this post, my heart always falls for the embellishments and embroidery. It honestly makes me squeal inside and I almost find it making me feel speechless. There is something so beautiful about fashion when it becomes more of an art form, and this in my opinion, is a great example.

~ VALENTINO PRE AUTUMN/WINTER 2015 ~
(Images via Vogue.co.uk)

This was really the collection that started my adoration for Valentino, and it’s the latest Autumn/Winter edition. When a collection is so clear in direction, it’s another way to make my mouth fall open in awe. I love what Valentino did with the pieces… inspiration coming from both the sky and the Earth, with the beautiful patterns of botanical plants and flowers, and (of course) the embroidery of the stars and planets.

There are also the more simpler and wearable pieces which I believe are representing the “core” of both the collection and the world. The collection was meant to emphasise the fact that fashion can’t change the world, but peace and love can. Honestly the thing that makes me smile the most, is the sheer amount of detail that goes into every piece. It’s beautiful.

~ VALENTINO PRE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 ~
(Images via Vogue.co.uk)

I think this collection shows that Valentino still has the cool factor. There maybe a few repetitive styles (including the ridiculously amazing embroidered dresses), but the collections are still fresh and modern. With this being the collection that most people would be wearing currently (…feels weird seeing as this was on show such a long time ago…), the seventies vibes are spread on thinly throughout every piece.

But, if you go and take a look at the collection for yourself, you’ll see that the real showstopping pieces didn’t feature any suede tassels. A wave of bold prints in rainbow colours attract the most attention. What do you think of the sudden twist in the Valentino Pre Spring/Summer collection? Did it fit in or was it too much of a daring contrast? I like it!

Which Valentino “Pre” collection has been your favourite? I can’t decide! Let me know in the comments…

I’m sorry for the rather boring title of this post but I really had no other ideas on how to describe this one! The thing is, I’m in a bit of a pickle… well, not literally; my head is not inside a small chunk of gherkin (although do feel free to imagine that scenario)… I’m just in a bit of a puzzle about blogging… once again, not literally, but do feel free to imagine that as well!

~ OOH, AN UPDATE ~

The weird thing is, a few weeks ago I was actually rather stressed about my blog and I was panicking over pleasing brands and not cramming too much in… and now I’m at the complete opposite end of the scale.

I’m not having a “blogger’s block” but I’m completely dried up. I’ve been busy with my offline life and suddenly my online one feels a bit deserted. My blog schedule has been empty and when I go to write a post, the idea has gone and the motivation has been used for something else.

I strive to make this blog interesting… I know that it has the capability to develop even more so I have to have 100% concentration, and right now I don’t. I’m one of those people who gets stuck in ruts very quickly and it’s a real shame because I have definitely not given up or anything like that.

WHAT I WORE: Crochet Top (Jumble Sale) // Zebra Top (Jumble Sale) // Necklace (Chelsea Doll) // Bun Crown (DIY)

I believe one of the main reasons I’ve been quiet is because of the very exciting thing that is, Mooi en Lief by TDP. It’s all coming together and I know that once it’s off the ground I’m going to be full of energy again. It’s like watching a big wave come towards you. You know it’s coming but when the water crashes, you realise that you rather underestimated the size of it. I guess I just really don’t want that to happen.

I’m a perfectionist too, so I always like to make sure what I do is tip-top-a-roo, and letting down people can really make me feel rather paranoid. So, I suppose this is me saying to you that you should just hold your breath whilst this wave comes because I promise you it’ll be worth the wait… does that make any sense at all?!

Here’s to the next month or more and this blog taking on new and exciting adventures. Sometimes it’s nice to take a breather even if it’s unexpected, hey? …seriously, I have genuinely know idea if any of this made a single bit of sense!

…also, here’s to new profile pictures! Cheers 😉

This blog post was featured on i-D Magazine!

It’s that time again! Spring has sprung so I’m here with another Changing With The Seasons outfit post! If you’re new here then you won’t know that you guys voted for a piece of clothing for me to style across 8 months of the year. You chose a navy skater skirt this time around! I’m gonna’ show you how to dress for spring in this post, and I have a feeling you’re going to ‘heart eye emoji like this’.

WHAT I WORE: Emoji Print Top (Primark) // Cherry Playsuit (Primark) // Skater Skirt (H&M) // Leopard Converse (Footlocker) // Emoji Pins (Emoji Shop UK)*

OK, so I know this outfit isn’t extraordinary and is pretty darn casual but I basically just threw it on. Surprisingly enough I’m finding this whole “Changing With The Seasons” thing quite challenging which I quite like, so I guess there will be those outfits which are just a bit… ‘hmmmm?’…if you get what I mean! It’s still fun though right, even if it isn’t anything too special?

Instead of just going for the normal skirt and top combo, I added my Primark cherry print playsuit for an added layer and a print clash. I think the neckline of the playsuit compliments the shape of the top and even the prints seem to work hand in hand! I mean, who wouldn’t buy an emoji top? Who wouldn’t!

I think this outfit is missing something to really pull it together. Perhaps a jacket or a bag…? What do you think? I think perhaps if the skirt were a little longer it would have worked a bit better, but I’m okay with that! It’s definitely not missing emojis though! What is your favourite emoji? I’d say mine is the dancing lady; so sassy! 

Speaking of emojis, I discovered the awesome Emoji Shop UK the other day and they were awesome and sent me a few pins to trial out. They’re awesome. I can now officially express my ’emoji mood’ with everyone at any time.

What a perfect time to make use of the shoe emoji! I really thought I’d grown out of my Converse but when I slipped them on for this blog post, they fit?! My feet are weird, but they look pretty cool in yellow leopard print. These are super comfy (as are all Converse) and add that splash of colour and touch of skater style to what I’m wearing. I like them a lot and I must start wearing them more!

~ SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE ~

Here’s the video for you! I know this is weird to say but I actually kinda’ pushed myself to put this post up. I was in a bit of a rush so I basically threw the outfit on, didn’t realise that my hair was in a frizzy mess and that one of my sleeves wasn’t rolled up properly. My sister said to me “Be the change you want to see” (I want to see people being themselves, because what else is more perfect?!) and she’s right.

This is a little message from me to you, to just be yourself. I didn’t feel great in putting this post up but, this is me. This is me on the day when I’m a bit rushed for time because a thunder storm is coming, so I just threw on something that looked kinda’ colourful. So don’t hold back even if you don’t think you’re perfect. Be you 🙂 😛 😀

Sound the alarm bells! These pictures weren’t taken on my drive way! Hooray! Prepare yourself for a very rare treat of a colourful backdrop, and the very first glimpse of summer! Yay! Okay, in all seriousness I really am excited for these photos. My family might not be too happy I dragged them around trying to find somewhere to take them but I am! 😀

WHAT I WORE: Cool Kids Club Jumper (ASOS) // Floral Blouse (Jumble Sale) // KENZO Shorts (Jumble Sale) // Blue Crochet Bag (Jumble Sale) // He Loves Me Tights £15.00 (Jonathan Aston @ MyTights.com)* // White Flats (Random Shop)

When the sun comes out, I come out. For some reason it’s like my inner stylist pops out as soon as I can leave the house without a jacket, and I’m so glad. I really did think I’d lost my mojo for picking out cool outfits but I think today’s pickings are quite good. I would say that what I’m wearing isn’t to everyone’s taste but I’m okay with that. Speaking of being okay with that, would you mind clicking off after this post and filling out a quick survey I’m doing for some research? Tah!

I recently received these bizarre yet super funky Jonathan Aston tights from MyTights.com, and I knew I had to show them off in full form, so I went with my KENZO shorts (probably my favourite ever jumble sale buy) on top. I then added my cool (kids club) jumper 😉 I think the mix of 2 floral prints and 2 bold slogans is an interesting combination… what do you think?

This outfit shows that I’m obsessed with blue. It’s probably my favourite colour because it’s bold, versatile and suits every mood I’m in. My wardrobe seems to be full of blue floral prints and it just seemed to work in this outfit. It’s also told me that I need to go to some more jumble sales because they seriously do have hidden treasures. I mean… look at my shorts?! I’m pretty certain they were only €1.00!

My sunglasses are freakin’ awesome too. The shape is growing on me and the print is too. Of course just like my jumper, they’re from ASOS; Ahh, I love ASOS… I mean I LOVE ASOS.

So I suppose I should celebrate this jumble of an outfit! It’s full of rediscovered jems, interesting tights (that I’m also learning to love) and shorts which give out those spring/summer vibes. Here’s to making up outfits in the form of late night doodles and to posing infront of brightly coloured doors. Roll on the summer! 😀

On March 29th 2012, exactly one year ago, the very first post of the Tolly Dolly Posh Fashion blog was published. It is now March 29th 2013, and I am proud to say, I have been blogging for one whole year. If you don’t want to read this post, don’t, because it is going to be filled with hundreds of Thank Yous, and lots of memories, so you are free to keep on scrolling down the page… (GIF via Tumblr)

My dream is to become a Fashion Designer as you know, and that is one of the reasons I started this blog. I don’t want it to be the only reason though, I don’t want it to be how I get ‘famous’. My plan in life is not to be famous, but to just be somewhere I am happy, and somewhere I am proud of myself. But, the blog has been the start of that, it’s the little seed that hopefully one day, will grow into a colourful flower, just like me. I’m only starting out my life too, I’m 12 years old, and I have still got an awful lot to learn. Again, my age isn’t something I want people to read my blog for. I want people to read it because they enjoy reading it. I want them to ignore my age whilst reading it, and then afterwards remember, that I am only 12. I hope that if you are a daily/weekly/monthly/yearly reader, that you do enjoy reading my blog, and seeing what I have accomplished in 1 year, I think, perhaps, just maybe, you might? So here’s the soppy, thank you part.

My Celebrity Fashion//Superstar Fashion Network//Wantering Trendsetter Blog//The Telegraph Magazine//BBC Radio 4//Francesca Pina Blogger of The Week//Lovely’s Vintage Emporium//Labelled Magazine
(Find all of my features, guest posts, interviews and more here!)

TOLLY INT

 I don’t want to boast, this is about sharing the successes which you have made possible for me. Okay, okay, I have made some of it possible myself (I do write the blog, you know?!), but the only reason I can get recognised is because of all of you support me, and believe that I can reach my dreams. My first big achievement was being My Celebrity Fashion’s Blogger of The Week, which was awesome! Thank You to all the team at MCF! The next one was being on Superstar Fashion Network which has over 44,000 likes on Facebook, Thank You! I have also been on Wantering as a Trendsetter which was so amazing, as I had over 130 re-blogs on their blog which was mind boggling! Thank You!! I was also nominated for a MADs Blog Award for 2013, which was amazing! (Good Luck to the finalists!) As you know March 16th for me was another amazing day! I was featured in The Telegraph Magazine that was literally insane. I cannot thank Jessica Salter who wrote the article, enough. Thank You!! Then, to have woken up last Saturday morning, to receive an email saying BBC Radio 4 would like me to speak on the ‘iPM‘ show, just made my life even more complete! WOWZA! (Click the player above to listen!) And! In even more recent news (yesterday), I tweeted an illustration of David Bowie, and it was RTed & Instagrammed by Iman (David Bowie’s Wife) who is a Fashion Designer! Thanks Iman! In a couple of weeks time I have a pretty exciting thing happening too, which you may already know about… Yes, Tolly Dolly Posh is going to be featured in Mizz Magazine! In the very next issue (the exact date will be revealed soon), you will find my face! You may not be a teen, but I used to read this magazine (when I was in the UK), and my sister used to when she was my age too, so it really is awesome!
So far in ways of stats and followers, my PB for stats is 530 which isn’t much for some bloggers, but I literally do not care, that is amazing! I have built up over 920 Followers across Facebook, Twitter, BlogLovin’ HelloCotton, and GFC. Again, I seriously just want you to know, I don’t want to boast. I am just telling you that you have supported me so much through all of these amazing achievements.

Unfortunately, due to the fact that I am 12 and don’t have the biggest of budgets, I couldn’t do a massive give-away, but there has been one on! It’s a little thank you for supporting me and my blog as we go on our little journey! Congratulations to the winner!

The Winner of The Harts & Crosses Earring Give-Away is…
MIA! – Teenage Beauty Blogger
I will message you ASAP with details.

So, that is it! It’s been one whole year of blogging! It’s been a very successful journey so far, and I hope from here the road is up! Thank You for all your support, it really does mean the world to me, and I am 100% grateful for it all. I mean it! If you’d like to be an angel, and support me even more make sure to nominate my blog as Best Teen Blog in the Company Style Blogger Awards. Please use the URL: http://www.tollydollyposhfashion.com (Nominations end on April 10th) Thank You so much, and where ever you are, I blow you the biggest kisses ever! *blow….* Did you miss it? You need to practice catching… tut tut… hehe 😉