Hot on the Highstreet Week 70

To call Alexa Chung’s newest collection for Madewell ‘sought after’ is an understatement, the US website crashed when the items went live because of the purchasing onslaught. The Americans clearly love our British fashionista as much as we do - this is the second collaboration between Madewell and Chung and everything is selling out fast.

The campaign was shot in Austin, Texas because of its Deep South landscape and "roadtrip feel”. The collection has a laid back but pretty look, and includes high waisted leather mini skirts, silk pyjamas, and even a coat inspired by the bin men in the UK. I particularly love the palm tree print, blue and brown dress that Chung wore to the opening paired with the sassy suede jacket and amazing leopard print booties.

At the launch party in LA, Alexa wasn’t the only celeb wearing her designs, Elle Fanning and Dianne Agron were also publicising the brand with their cute outfits. I browsed through the collection on the website and would happily add every single piece to my wardrobe, only problem is... it’s only available in America (or on the US website) so postage is a fortune and it’s pretty difficult to try on and send back.

There are so many girls out there who dream of possessing the secret to Alexa Chung’s style, I know I’ve been envious at times, well now here’s your chance to own a little bit of Chung charm.

Visit the Madewell website and see Alexa’s collection here.

Hot on the Highstreet Week 63

The perfect summer dress for me must meet certain specifications. It must be made from natural materials, be unrestricting, and be long enough to wear without black tights. Usually a good summer dress will follow the current trends and so will only last a year - it can’t cost too much as it will go out of favour a few months later.

I found my ideal dress this year at Topshop. The Flower Crochet Insert Sundress is available in a variety of colours, including plain and patterned fabrics. I liked it best in neutral cream. It is made from 100% cotton so it is comfortable and cool, as well as being suitable for machine washing. This sundress has beautiful detailing, and is designed to flatter any figure. The central waistband is crocheted with delicate flowers and the back has a retro V shape with little buttons lining the seams. Priced at just £34, it is a real summer bargain.

I wore mine all weekend at Hop Farm Festival with ballet flats, though I think it would also look great with chunky brown heels. I’m sure it would even work in winter with tights and a cardigan. I have noticed several other fashionistas wearing this floaty little number, including trendsetter Alexa Chung, who braved wearing it in the mud at Glastonbury. And I like mine so much I’m tempted to go and get it in another colour!

Buy online at Topshop here.

Hot on the Highstreet Week 51

Superga have launched their UK website just in time for spring. This Italian shoe brand marks its 100th birthday this year. In 1911 Walter Martiny started up a factory in Turin to make comfortable shoes with vulcanized rubber soles and the Classic Superga 2750 Heritage style was born! Since 1911 the company has expanded and now a variety of Superga trainers are made, available in every colour of the rainbow.

Despite the extensive range, my preferred style is still the classic 2750. With a low cut ankle and chunky sole, the shape is designed to complement the foot - a sophisticated sneaker appropriate for the beach or the office. They definitely have a fun feel, and thanks to the variety and androgynous style are brilliant for men, women or kids.

Superga are a much needed alternative to Converse and have a more vintage look. With a strong sturdy build, they can be used for sport too, if the emergency arises. I first noticed them in a magazine featured as part of the ideal summer wardrobe and they are increasingly stocked in London shoe shops. I eventually gave in to temptation and bought a 2750 classic pair in navy blue. I haven’t taken them off since.

Adding some British charm to the campaign is our favourite fashion idol Alexa Chung. The website shows the Chung’s photoshoot with these iconic shoes, she illustrates their versatility, pairing them with floral summer dresses as well as tom-boy denim shorts and shirt. If they are good enough for Alexa they are good enough for anyone.

A pair of Superga will cost you £40. Sold on the website but also in shoe stores all over, and with the addition of half sizes it is easy to find the perfect fit.

Visit Superga website and buy here.

Hot on the Highstreet Week 29 - The Boys are Back in Town

Courtesy of a very special boy, this week I will be taking on a male Hot on the Highstreet. It’s been a long time coming and at last there is a subject(s) worthy of this post. So, I introduce to you: two innovative men’s (sort of) highstreet shops: Pretty Green, and Sandro – Paris, both new to the London scene.

Pretty Green is Liam Gallagher's clothes shop on Carnaby Street. All the pieces are designed by Liam himself and have a real sense of his character about them. There are two distinct collections making up the brand. The Green Label is a casual range for everyday wear – signature pieces, well put together. The Black Label features classic British tailoring, with real attention to detail, using only the finest fabrics. I particularly love the khaki cotton parka, £245 (shown above) which has a vintage feel but with real quality, and has logo patches sewn on and engraved buttons. Pretty Green is doing so well they are all set to open branches in Manchester and Glasgow any day now. I’d like to say well done Liam, we always hear about female celebs creating fashion labels but for a male celeb it’s rather more impressive; who said fashion was just for girls?

On 25th November Sandro – Paris launched their first menswear store in the UK, on Westbourne Grove. On offer is classic Paris elegance with an injection of fun... check out the website here. I have always admired this designer and am currently lusting over their black playsuit, £160, that Alexa Chung wore to the store’s launch party, paired with a casual white tee – she looked painfully cool. Their men's clothes are just as unique as the ladies'. Smart slimline trousers and beautiful patterned silk scarves can be found on the boys' clothes rails. The pieces aren’t cheap but for such stunning staples they are worth every penny.

Watch out ladies, the boys are back in town, and they’re looking seriously stylish.

Hot on the Highstreet Week 10

Russell and Bromley are bringing the loafer back into fashion.

Simple, sensible and stylish they are the shoes for every occasion. Loafers can be worn with cropped trousers to create the androgynous look, or with a smart dress to replace heels. Cheap copies can be seen everywhere, and although Russell and Bromley is the top end of highstreet, I think its prices are mostly fair. These shoes are made from good quality materials and should wear well.

Every branch of Russell and Bromley seems to stock different colours, both patent and matt leather. I love them all and want them in every colour, but if forced to pick a favourite I think I’d go with a pair of the classic black patent leather ones. Regularly worn by our favourite fashion icon Alexa Chung.

I feel a little guilty for featuring footwear two weeks in a row but these loafers are just too cool to ignore. Treat your feet, £125 in Russell and Bromley stores now.