Reiss Party on Regents Street

Reiss and Marie Claire were having a party, so I went along to the Regent’s Street branch with two good friends. Champagne (well, Prosecco) was flowing and all the frocks were out, all with an appealing 10% discount. With this dangerous combination I was surprised not to see more fashion-hungry girls there.

The shop Reiss has never been one of my favourites, but since becoming a working gal I have found some real life-saving gems in there. Their prices have rocketed in the last few years, like most highstreet brands... which means you have to make buying less mean more. I tend to (try to) wait for the sale, prices normally drop to 50%, and even then I buy pieces that have versatility, like a silk top that can be worn with different skirts or trousers for work.

There were many alluring party frocks on display at the party, and my friends and I tried many (far too expensive) ones on. We agonised over several beautiful dresses, trying to justify the price and finding imaginary perfect events we could wear this one or that one to: Christmas Parties? Upcoming weddings? Best Friend's Birthday? I fell in love with a stunning leopard print silk top, that fitted well and seemed to suit me, but at £95 it just wasn’t worth it (see image above).

After finishing our second glass of Prosecco (we thought it would have been too rude to try for a third) we dragged ourselves away, deciding that our money was much better spent on food in a restaurant!

Visit the website here.

Levi's SHAPE WHAT'S TO COME Launch: YOU GO GIRLS

A few nights ago I was invited to the launch party of new Levi's social network: ‘Shape What’s to Come.’ It aims to help and promote women in their individual creative quests. It took place in the Regents Street Levi’s store, that had been all kitted out for the occasion. Beers were available downstairs, alongside some intriguing mood boards to ponder over.

The evening began with a discussion, hosted by Annie Mac who was accompanied by SWTC Ambassadors: Kathryn Ferguson (filmmaker), Justice Williams (Tru Life magazine), Kristin Knox (fashion blogger), Ikonika (DJ/producer) and Anna Murray & Grace Winteringham (Patternity).Each woman had their own personal struggles and story to share with the room (which was, by the way, dominated by a 90% female audience).

Questions were fired at the team of ambassadors, and the room fell ominously quiet as one brave woman mentioned feminism. Only blogger Kristin admitted to adopting a feminist stance, the others seemed to shy away from the term, and I can understand why. They don’t want to succeed because they are women, but as creative people who are just as capable as men. I felt encouraged and motivated by these entrepreneurial young people.

After the panel discussion we were free to mingle and meet other hopeful interesting women, and I did. I talked for a while to blogger, Miss Geeky, and also had a chance to chat to Kristin Knox (and her adorable dog, Butters) about how she developed her blog and her passion for fashion. She was down to earth and honest, and after peeking at her blog (The Clothes Whisperer) this morning, I can also confirm her quirky talent.

A surprise performance by The Noisettes was the highlight of the evening for me. Lead singer, Shingai was looking gloriously glitzy and gave a spectacular performance with her band. The evening concluded with a set from Ikonika, a few more beers and I watched as the newly inspired women left smiling.

Visit the Shape What's to Come website here.