The Allium B Blog - Fashion and Brighton: Iris

I first discovered Allium B when we appeared side by side in an article in Red Magazine and so like to think of it as fashion fate taking a hand. Here was I, a grown up fashion blogger in a grown up magazine, next to a label that specializes in grown up dresses.

Being a confirmed dress girl (it’s easy first thing in the morning when wardrobe browsing time is somewhat limited) and owning a couple of their lovely pieces myself, I always look forward to seeing what each new Allium B collection holds. This season is no exception…

First up is Iris. I’m generally drawn to little black dresses as they always win on investment and versatility points on the basis of being a day to night outfit. And this one has pockets…I fully admit to an obsession with dresses that have pockets! For winter daywear I’d loose the self-fabric belt and pair this with opaque tights, biker boots and throw my new cocoon pink coat over the top. Come the evening it would look fabulous with bare legs, a glitter belt, killer heels and a winter wine hued pedicure.

Day - Biker boots - Daniel Footwear, Pink coat - Marks & Spencer

Night - Glitter gem belt - Dorothy Perkins, Sandals - Topshop, Chanel Le Vernis in Accessoire - Selfridges

Next is the prettily printed Juliet. Made from Liberty silk in the Joy and Sorrow bird print, this begs for the tough contrast of a biker jacket, fierce ankle boots and an oversized tote. I’d wear this for trips to London and lunch or coffee dates with girlfriends.

Patti Biker jacket - Whistles, Miu Miu tote - Net-A-Porter, Ankle boots - Kurt Geiger

When you’re looking for a dress for evening, simplicity and comfort are key factors and I think Stella ticks all the boxes. I love the subtle details such as the pretty fluted sleeves, keyhole back and raspberry belt to contrast with the rich blackcurrant hue of the dress. I can imagine hosting a dinner party wearing this or meeting friends for drinks in the run up to the festive season. Team with ballet flats indoors and add heels, a simple envelope style clutch and cocktail ring for going out.

Velvet ballerina flat - LK Bennett, Crystal suede court - LK Bennett,

Fendi 2Jours clutch - Matches Fashion, Anton Heunis floral crystal ring - My-Wardrobe

And finally, talking of Christmas, I always like to plan what I’m going to wear on Christmas day – it’s all part of the excitement for me! Post present opening and pre raising that first glass of bubbly, I’d put on the Sophia in emerald green. The easy shirtdress cut would be perfect for celebrating in style with family and the colour is the perfect nod to the festive season.

Premium emerald & crystal drop earrings - Topshop, Burberry Prorsum pumps - Net-A-Porter,

Statement bracelet - J.Crew

A huge thank you to Amanda (The Online Stylist) for a wonderful edit.
We are avid readers of her blog The Online Stylist, so do take a look.

Our kids are busy writing their Christmas lists, so we are off to join them.
Do you think Father Christmas can stretch to the Miu Miu tote?

Happy shopping

Clare & Mary x

The birds were just waking and the sun rising, as we headed up from Allium B HQ

to London's East End for our AW 13 Photo Shoot.

First stop Haggerston Espresso Room aka HER for a truly delicious coffee and some cake for later

We were shooting at the Russian Club again, so as Sarah and Chloe got the lights

and camera set up,

we got everything ready. First job is always to check the dresses look good against the backdrops. The grey and teal both looked great, but the lilac wasn't working so it was back to Travis Perkins for more paint and a boiler suit!!

This is our third campaign shot by Sarah at the Russian Club, so with make up done by the wonderful Salina (who will be guest editing our blog next week with how to get the

Allium B look) and Hannah looking gorgeous,