A timeless staple: pearls

I used to think pearls were only for women 'of a certain age' and should be worn with boucle twin sets and sensible low heel shoes. However, I have completely changed my mind and believe that pearls exude a certain grace and elegance that suits women of all ages. The other night, a friend and I watched Breakfast at Tiffany's for the first time (the whole way through - yes, I know, this is indeed ridiculous) and obviously apart from being in love with Audrey Hepburn's gorgeous outfits, I suddenly developed an obsession with pearls. To be honest, I've been aware of their appeal for a while, and sometimes wear pearl hairbands when I'm in a (rare) ladylike mood.



For me, part of their appeal is that they're never too flashy or bling. Their sheer subtlety simply exudes class, whether it's a simple pearl necklace, earrings, hair accessories or even a beautiful pearl collar. I do still think they can look a little well-to-do older woman but this is why I try to mix them up with a slightly less girly/ stuffy outfit for a nice juxtaposition that is a more modern take on the classic look.

Joanne Stoker for Dune

It's the first day back from a lovely Easter weekend which consisted of lounging about, exploring London and afternoon teas and already, I'm wishing for it to be the weekend again - not ideal!

So to help me through the day, and it is dragging like crazy, I've been looking at lots of gorgeous shoes. I'm particularly a fan of Joanne Stoker's collection for Dune and my favourites are these two pairs. She's a young fashion designer whose signature look consists of “Graphic architectural heels mixed with classic forms and created using a multitude of materials such as perspex, foam, resins, stones, and textured leathers and fabrics.” Innovative and exciting, plus flying the flag for British designers!



I love the muted colour palette she uses, which makes the rather 'out there' style of the shoe appear classic and not at all garish. At £145, they're not exactly cheap but I think you could really create jazz up some plain outfits with these statement shoes. Looking forward to the weather perking up so I can tuck away the old black opaque tights and actually get the old legs out. I think I've forgotten how they look like, to be honest...