Sweet n’raw’s Xmas Gift Guide: MISS KITTY

The countdown has officially begun, only two weeks until Christmas! I better get moving because I am a little behind with the Gift Guide. Today I have for you the second part, a gift guide devoted to all of those cat lovers out there. Maybe real-life cats, maybe printed ones (I am one of those), but there’s a little something for everyone here. Are you ready for it?

SPLURGE

1. Embellished top, P.a.r.o.s.h.
2. Kitty beret, Eugenia Kim
3. Catwalk jumper, Moschino
4. Family pillow, K Studio
5. Animal print clutch, Serpui Marie
6. Long-sleeve dress, Jenni Kayne
7. Spotty sunnies, Stella McCartney
8. Noir de Noir Parfum, Tom Ford
9. Wallet, Dolce & Gabbana
10. Kitty flats, Charlotte Olympia
11. Kitten plush, Nikoki
12. Lips and nails set, Tom Ford
13. PVC pumps, Gianvito Rossi

STEAL:

1. Mean kitty tee, Wildfox
2. Fuzzy hat, Oysho
3. Fuzzy jumper, Topshop
4. Leopard booties, Zara
5. Sleeveless dress, Alice + Olivia (The Outnet)
6. Pour Femme Intense, Dolce & Gabbana
7. Sleep mask, Zara Home
8. Cat slippers, Urban Outfitters
9. The Catwalk Cats by G. Coddington, Amazon
10. Leopard to-go cup, G.B. Gibson Lolita
11. Cocoa lipstick, Laura Mercier
12. Cat-eye sunnies, ASOS
13. Nail polish set, Essie
14. Calf hair pouch, J.Crew

And we are done! I still have a lot to show you so keep checking back!

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Images: Zara, Net-a-porter, Topshop, Polyvore, Sephora, Selfridges, Essie

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

The Coat Check, A/W 2013

I have been fantasizing about that pink, wool-blend Rochas number for a while now. Planning this season’s coat edit, I already knew I wanted it to be the star of the cover and I made it happen (if only I could make that damn coat magically appear inside my closet) . If you have been reading me for a while now, you have probably noticed I have been making some changes when it comes to the content of this blog. I am now mainly focusing on trends, illustration and runway. After our Fashion Week coverage (it took me ages and I know, I still owe you the finest from Paris but I need some detox), it’s time to go back to this season’s trends and styles.

There was a time when one coats or two was all we needed, nowadays, they are never enough. Yes, everybody needs to have the two classics: camel and black. But why stick to the basics when you can have prints, pink, red and more? I have selected twelve trend coats for this Winter. You probably have seen them around so now it’s your turn to buy them!

1. Zara
2. Zara
3. Burberry Brit
4. Marni

1. Emilio Pucci
2. Karl Donoghue
3. Salvatore Ferragamo
4. Zara

1. Zara
2. Chloe
3. Kaufmanfranco
4. Glam-net

1. Burberry Prorsum
2. Topshop
3. By Malene Birger
4. TRF Zara

1. Rochas
2. Zara
3. Topshop
4. Mulberry

1. Acne
2. Zara
3. Stella McCartney
4. Neil Barrett

1. Zara
2. Stella McCartney
3. Loro Piana
4. Bottega Veneta

1. J.Crew
2. Kenzo
3. Etro
4. Nina Ricci

1. Zara
2. Isabel Marant
3. Maje
4. Zara

1. Giambattista Valli
2. Isabel Marant
3. Proenza Schouler
4. Nina Ricci

1. Giambattista Valli
2. Zara
3. Moschino
4. Zara

1. Moschino
2. Marc Jacobs
3. Alexander McQueen
4. RED Valentino

And your coat chart to wrap it up! Which one is your favorite? Which one is already a part of your Winter wardrobe? Drop me a line!

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Images: Zara, Net-a-porter, Topshop, Polyvore

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

FALL 2013: A Woman’s Right to Shoes

Even though we should be enjoying the last days of Summer (at least here in Mexico), it’s already starting to feel like Fall. But rain showers and chilly weather will not stop me from baring my legs and wearing my naked sandals and denim cut-offs. The jacket/tights/coats/boots season is just around the corner and the warmer one won’t arrive until April 2014. But, even though my body and my tan are refusing to accept the fact that Summer went by in a jiffy, my mind is already getting  A/W ready! Before the Fashion Week mayhem begins, I wanted to start with the trends you need to know for the coming season and like every season, today is all about the shoes! The February runways were filled with some fabulous footwear! From revamped classics to futuristic styles, there’s something for everyone and also, it’s always good to try something new even if you think it’s not really gonna be your thing. I’m not a grunge fan, but ever since those tough, cut-out booties came out, I’ve been dying to get a pair for my collection! Ready for some Fall 2013 shoeporn? Let’s start!

Blame it on Gatsby, blame it on whoever you want but thank God for brogues, loafers and oxford shoes! Being comfy and dressed-up at the same time? Best combo-in-a-shoe ever!

1. Tod’s
2. Zara
3. Saint Laurent
4. Givenchy
5. ASOS
6. Miu Miu

Remember the Teacher’s Pet trend I posted last week? Casual footwear has gone good! Shiny Mary-Janes, Penny loafers, tassels and laces are in for the season. Think school girl all the way!

1. Zara
2. Zara
3. Zara
4. Zara
5. Zara
6. Saint Laurent

The Chloé Susanna boots have been around for a couple of seasons and yes, even though buckles have been around for a lifetime, they were the ones that unleashed the “ankle-boot with buckles madness”. They still haunt my dreams and the Zara or Jeffrey Campbell knock-offs just won’t do! Want a little more heel? There are also plenty of buckled styles for you!

1. Giuseppe Zanotti
2. Tabitha Simmons
3. Chloe
4. Toga Pulla
5. Altuzarra

I’ve been waiting for this moment for a while, being an animal print junkie and all! The time has come, the time has come for us to embrace, wear and never take off the colorful, happy and bright animal print pumps! Join the wild and happy army, now!

1. Brian Atwood
2. Givenchy
3. Maison Valentino
4. Nicholas Kirkwood
5. Carvela

You know that already (my last post was all about that), bondage is still in and sexier than ever. Personally, I die when I see a sexy heel with laces and this Fall, I think I’m gonna be dying over and over and over!

1. Zara
2. Jason Wu
3. Alexandre Birman
4. Aquazzurra
5. Alice + Olivia

Spring 2011, silver toe-caps were major… Fall 2013, any kind of toe-cap is MAJOR and thank God for that. Whether you like a metallic one, a classic black paired up with a little Houndstooth or suede with PVC, possibilities are endless!

1. Jimmy Choo
2. Saint Laurent
3. Paul Andrew
4. Gianvito Rossi
5. Gianvito Rossi

Think cut-outs are sexy? Well, it doesn’t get sexier than mesh in a heel. This season, you can’t possibly survive without a pair of meshy booties or sandals, or pumps, just go out there and buy a pair!

1. Nicholas Kirkwood
2. Bionda Castana
3. Sophia Webster
4. Sophia Webster
5. Aquazzurra

Oh the cut-outs, it’s like an ankle boot with sexiness of a stiletto! It’s powerful and it’s showing a little skin in a season where covering up is almost mandatory. Have you gotten your pair?

1. Sophia Webster
2. Gianvito Rossi
3. Oscar de la Renta
4. Maison Valentino
5. Giuseppe Zanotti

I just saw The Great Gatsby and fell in love, not only do I want a guy like Mr. Gatsby but I also want Daisy’s wardrobe  and even though I will not get Miuccia Prada’s dresses anytime soon, I can get her shoes and so can you!

1. Miu Miu
2. Charlotte Olympia
3. Nicholas Kirkwood
4. Bottega Veneta
5. Max Kibardin

The famous or infamous Balenciaga cut-out boots are responsible for this and even if I despised everything about Hedi Slimane’s Fall 2013 collection, I do have to thank him for bringing back the grunge into our lives. I have to admit that this normally would not be my cup of tea, being a sugary, pastel princess. But in fashion and in life, it’s all about trying new things!

1. Zara
2. Zara
3. Zara
4. Zara
5. Zara

One of the biggest trends of the season is “Blast from the past”. It’s all about the retro, the Noir films, the black and white format, the ladylike silhouette. And an old school lady is never really a lady without a pair of old school pumps.

• Dsquared
• Zara
• Zara
• Christian Louboutin
• Gucci

My favorite shoe trend of the season, I’ve been chasing the perfect pair for ages and I’m even trying to convince my brother to get a pair (he is resisting). Have you got your own?

1. Bottega Veneta
2. Saint Laurent
3. Church’s
4. Kenzo
5. Burberry Prorsum

That was the Fall 2013 shoe guide! Start making your list, start shopping and start wearing! Fashion Week is 9 days away, brace yourselves! As always I will be giving you an extensive coverage, looks, trends, calendars, everything you need!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources:  My Theresa, Net-a-porter, Polyvore, Farfetch, Zara, Topshop, J.Crew

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

FALL 2013: Baby Loves Bondage

The Bondage/S&M/Tough Love trend took the S/S 2013 runways by storm. Harnesses, leather, lingerie styles were all over the place and designers loved it so much, that they decided to keep it for Fall 2013. No, they are not suggesting you to put on a latex jumpsuit and tranny boots, it’s a more subtle and sensual approach. This season is all about plaid, candy coats, men’s silhouettes, the return or Noir and boyish shoes so it’s only fair that they threw a little “sexy” our way. Don’t have that cropped top already? Go with one with a game of straps or cut-outs (I’ve been crunching myself to death in order to rock that trend right). Need a new biker jacket? Forget about plain styles, go for the ones with lots of zippers, belts or clips. LBD? Mini, mini with long sleeves! And shoes, well it’s all about pointy with a stiletto heel, a bunch of straps, patent leather and lace. Last but not least, there’s nothing sexier and more useful than silk camisoles, not only for this style but for everything else as well! Ready to join the chic bondage party? Keep on reading!

First let’s start with a garment selection:

1. Biker jacket, Altuzarra
2. Thin strap bralet, Tophop
3. Lace sleeved jumper, Pucci
4. Suede baseball cap, Eugenia Kim
5. Mini dress with sleeves, Balmain
6. Textured mini skirt, Maiyet
7. Quilted belt, Jimmy Choo
8. Silk and lace camisole, Mason by Michelle Mason
9. Ankle strap pumps, Reed Krakoff
10. Belted skort, Miu Miu
11. Agent Provocateur perfume, Agent Provocateur
12. Cut-out booties, Gianvito Rossi

And now an item-by-item shopping guide, all you’ll need to rock the bondage style!

1. By Malene Birger
2. Mason by Michelle Mason
3. Elizabeth & James
4. Tibi
5. Lipsy
6. Topshop

1. Topshop
2. Michael Kors
3. Junya Watanabe
4. Balmain

1. Alexander Wang
2. Topshop
3. River Island
4. Ender Legard
5. Topshop

1. Roberto Cavalli
2. Maiyet
3. Saint Laurent
4. Alexander Wang
5. Helmut Lang

1. R13
2. Dolce & Gabbana
3. Raquel Allegra
4. Topshop

1. Alexander McQueen
2. R13
3. Acne
4. Topshop
5. River Island
6. Theory

1. Saint Laurent
2. Michael Kors
3. Reed Krakoff
4. Jimmy Choo
5. Oscar de la Renta

1. Sophia Webster
2. Gianvito Rossi
3. Oscar de la Renta
4. Valentino
5. Giuseppe Zanotti

1. Jimmy Choo
2. Bottega Veneta
3. Eugenia Kim
4. KARL
5. Zara
6. Eugenia Kim

That’s a wrap for today! How are you liking the Fall 2013 season so far? I’m loving it and can’t wait for Autumn to arrive!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources:  My Theresa, Net-a-porter, Polyvore, Farfetch, Zara, Topshop, J.Crew

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

FALL 2013: Teacher’s Pet

Fall is right around the corner! And although I am a warm weather person and I will miss my shorts and bikinis, I can’t be more excited to welcome another fabulous season. As I told you before, I’m not really a boots/coat/heavy knits kind of gal, but after witnessing the wonders that were shown last February on the runways, I can’t help but wonder: Is it Fall yet? This is the second post from our A/W 2013 Edit, first came pink (the strongest color trend) now come plaid and with plaid we get to have a style that we were kinda missing and that of course, we don’t need to take too literal: the school girl. Remember the “Baby, one more time” Britney days? Or Gossip Girl’s uniforms with a twist? Well, get ready my friends because this Fall, we will all wanna be the teacher’s pet! Warning: It’s called School Girl trend, that doesn’t mean you have to dress like a Halloween/sexy fantasy character. Remember, a trend is a mere suggestion, you take what you like and you wear it how you like! Ready?

Let’s start with a fabulous garment selection, from the affordable to the not-so-much, there’s a garment for every budget!

1. Pussybow blouse, Jason Wu
2. Fold skirt, Isabel Marant
3. Double-breasted coat, Zara
4. Gray sweatshirt, Helmut Lang
5. Uniform dress, Moschino
6. Structure shorts, 3.1 Phillip Lim
7. Two-tone lace-ups, Charlotte olympia
8. Bowling bag, Nina Ricci
9. Flat Mary Janes, Zara

Not sure about this trend? Don’t know how to pull it off without looking like you belong to a costume party? Take a look at the different runway styles!

NYFW: Karen Walker / Marc by Marc Jacobs / Suno / Kate Spade

LFW: Vivienne Westwood Red Label / Mulberry / Emilia Wickstead / Preen

MFW: Moschino / Fausto Pugilisi / Alberta Ferretti / Blugirl

PFW: Celine / Saint Laurent Paris / Chanel / Chloe

And last but not least, a garment and accessory edit with all the stuff you’ll wanna buy if you wanna give your look that teacher’s pet flair!

1. Moschino
2. Topshop
3. Alexander McQueen
4. Alexander McQueen

1. Zara
2. Jil Sander
3. Miu Miu
4. Zara

1. Alice + Olivia
2. H&M
3. Moschino
4. Isabel Marant
5. Miu Miu
6. Zara

1. MIH
2. Band of Outsiders
3. Chloe
4. Miu Miu
5. Equipement
6. J.Crew

1. Paige
2. Isabel Marant Etoile
3. Lipsy
4. Zara

1. J.Crew
2. Helmut Lang
3. River Island
4. Band of Outsiders
5. A.P.C.
6. Topshop

1. Zara
2. Zara
3. Zara
4. Zara
5. Zara
6. Saint Laurent

1. Mulberry Alexa
2. Saint Laurent Duffle 6
3. Nina Ricci bowling bag
4. Saint Laurent Petit Cabas Classique
5. Proenza Schouler PS1

1. Lanvin
2. Dsquared
3. Saint Laurent
4. Charlotte Olympia
5. Lanvin

Like the trend? I love plaid so I think that I am gonna be wearing this style a lot! Is there any trend or color that you would like me to write about? Drop me a line!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources:  My Theresa, Net-a-porter, Polyvore, Farfetch, Zara, Topshop, J.Crew

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

FALL 2013: A Pink Season

It was about time! Mint had its season, Tangerine and Emerald most certainly did and I had been waiting too long for my beloved pink to finally have its moment! Sure, we saw pastel pink two seasons ago. We also had hot pink on Spring 2011 but this Fall, any shade of pink is on trend and pink is the strongest color (I’m doing a victory dance as we speak) for A/W 2013. Some may say that pink is better with warm weather, if you think like them, you haven’t seen the candy coats that some designers sent down the runway last February! Pink for Fall and Winter (I’ve written “PINK” like a million times in one paragraph, but that word is just music to my ears) is pure bliss and since any shade is part of the trend list, you can pick as many rosy garments as you like! Not into pastels? There’s always magenta, raspberry and barbie pink. Not into brights? Vintage rose, perhaps? Remember, we take what we like from the trends and make them our own! That’s why fashion is the most beautiful industry in the whole wide world!

For today, I prepared a little “Shades of Pink” shopping guide (don’t you dare think I took the title from the infamous books). No, that’s not the name Pantone gave this colors and yes, I gave them the color that first spoke to me when I put the collages together. Ready for this blushing season? I can’t wait to paint my closet (and my room, and my nails, I would even have a pink car if I could) pink! Let’s start!

1. Peter Pan collar shirt, Marc by Marc Jacobs
2. Zodiac slippers, Charlotte Olympia
3. Leather biker jacket, Mango
4. Powdery shoulder bag, Mulberry
5. Ankle-strap pumps, Topshop
6. Frisson nail polish, Chanel
7. Lace sleeve dress, Emilio Pucci
8. Pink frame sunglasses, Stella McCartney
9. Pink jumper, Topshop

1. Pink ruffle jumper, CLU
2. Powder pink skort, Maison Martin Margiela
3. Dressy button-down, Simone Rocha
4. Pink leather handbag, Miu Miu
5. Crystal embellished heels, Gucci
6. Sleeveless dress, Nina Ricci
7. Batman t-shirt, Zoe Karssen
8. Ballet flats, Repetto

1. Lace dress, Maison Valentino
2. Bow smart shorts, Topshop
3. Loose jumper, Topshop
4. Pink wool hat, River Island
5. Powder pink satchel, Cambridge Satchel Company
6. Cocoon pink coat, Rochas
7. Bow clutch, Maison Valentino
8. Studded Pigalle pumps, Christian Louboutin

1. Flower skirt, RED Valentino
2. Miss Sicily rose bag, Dolce & Gabbana
3. Rose cardigan, Jardin des Oranges
4. Rose short-sleeve shirt, Marc Jacobs
5. Two-tone pumps, Oscar de la Renta
6. Flirty sleeveless dress, Valentino
7. Pink embellished baguette, Fendi
8. Rose suede pumps, Alberto Moretti

1. Cropped shirt, Topshop
2. Salmon PS1 bag, Proenza Schouler
3. V-neck jumper, Miu Miu
4. Wool skirt, J.Crew
5. Suede ballerina flats, Repetto
6. Salmon coat, Simone Rocha
7. Denim shorts, Topshop
8. Salmon pumps, Rupert Sanderson

1. Feline sweatshirt, Brian Lichtenberg
2. 2Jours bag, Fendi
3. Draped blouse, Balmain
4. Pink pumps, Manolo Blahnik
5. Antigona bag, Givenchy
6. Slip dress, tOPSHOP
7. Draped high-waist skirt, Balmain
8. Rockstud pumps, Valentino

1. Wool trousers, Michael Kors
2. Pink skirt, Moschino Cheap & Chic
3. Silk blouse, Equipement
4. Bayswater bag, Mulberry
5. Pink wool coat, DKNY
6. Pink shoulder bag, Proenza Schouler
7. Suede pumps, Topshop

1. Magenta handbag, Asprey
2. Color-block jumper, Stella McCartney
3. Pussybow blouse, Fendi
4. Two-tone pumps, Manolo Blahnik
5. Peplum dress, Topshop
6. Shoulder bag, Burberry Prorsum
7. Ankle strap pumps, Proenza Schouler

I also made a chart in case you wanna look at all this shades together, don’t they look pretty and delightful? And remember, if you are not into pink, you just have to give it a shot! I used to like black, Korn and dog spikes, look what I’ve turned into!

That’s a wrap for today! And remember to keep checking back because anything you wanna now about the coming season, you’ll find here! Have a lovely day, my sweet readers!

Almost Friday! Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources:  My Theresa, Net-a-porter, Polyvore, Farfetch, Zara, Topshop, J.Crew

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

BIKINI SEASON 2013: Summer Colors

Oh, time really flies by so quickly, my sweet readers. It’s seems like yesterday when our Summer Special started and today, it’s coming to an end! We are saying bye-bye to our Bikini Season series with a very colorful and bright post: a swimsuit guide to color combos and schemes. I’ve already given you prints and shapes galore, now it’s time to focus on the solids, Remember, solids are a great way to mix & match. Color combinations are fun and unexpected, but they also look better when done right. That’s why I have categorized my selection in different shades and trends, from the always lovely pastel range to the classic of classics, the little black bikini. Ready to start?

Ah, a very cute and personal favorite, I bet you can tell by just looking at the layout of my website. Pastel bikinis look beautiful against a great tan, they really, really make you glow. You can wear a one color set, you can combine shades (vanilla and lilac look really pretty together, the pink and mint combo is a match made in heaven).

• Yellow tie-fron bandeau, Lisa Marie Fernandez
• Mint underwired bikini, Zimmermann
• Lavender knot two-piece, Tara Matthews
• Pink bandeau bikini, Melissa Odabash

Sorbet shades are the transition between pastels and vivid hues. They are sugary, but not too sugary. They are bright, but not too bright. Salmon and peach go great with sunkissed skin.

1. Draped salmon bikini, Norma Kamali
2. Ruffle blue two-piece, Zimmermann
3. Lime triangle bikini, NewLook
4. Scalloped pink number, Topshop

Remember how three Springs ago it was all about vitamin color-blocking? Well, that combo never gets old! Wanna turn some heads at the beach? Mix a bright shade of tangerine with some hot pink, you will be getting a lot of attention!

• Orange halter bikini, Topshop
• Hot pink bandeau two-piece, Melissa Odabash
• Hot pink string bikini, NewLook
• Clean orange swimswuit, Orlebar Brown

There’s nothing more flattering for your Summer skin than a silky dress in a jewel tone. That’s why you must own a jewel tone bikini or two or three. Teal and emerald are great for all skin tones! My advice? Pick a shiny texture!

• Bow triangle bikini, Topshop
• Mermaid teal two-piece, Vix
• Molded emerald bikini, Carine Gilson
• Shiny blue bikini, Vix

I’ve never been a fan of the neons and the electrics, but I have to admit that when it comes to bikinis, the brighter the better for your tan! Go for string bikinis, they look the coolest in this kind of shades.

• Blue appliqué bikini, Miu Miu
• Tie-side bikini, Heidi Klein
• Neon lime two-piece, Topshop
• Fringe pink bikini, NewLook

Navy, red and white bikinis are staples in every girl’s wardrobe. Red is pure glamour, Navy is sailor chic and white, well white is a classic! Do you have all three colors inside your bikini drawer?

• Classic halter red bikini, Orlebar Brown
• Navy halter two-piece, Melissa Odabash
• Halter cream bandeau, Topshop
• Ruffle red bikini, Zimmermann

Even though I am not a fan of black, I know the power a black bikini has. It’s sexy and it’s classic! Choose an underwired bra for a retro touch, a muti-strap one for the sexy vibe and some texture for a fun twist!

• Black triangle bikini, Dolce & Gabbana
• Wrap black bikini, Shimmi
• Retro underwired top bikini, Beth Richards
• Snakeskin texture two-piece, Zimmermann

Well, I guess I don’t have to explain a lot about this one. Nothing says bombshell like a white little number. Just a word of advice: don’t test it while you are in a crowded pool, test it before. You don’t wanto to be taking the plunge and emerging from the water with the “wet t-shirt contest” effect going on!

• Retro top bikini, H&M
• Leather detail two-piece, Vix
• Bombshell bikini, Orlebar Brown
• Ruffle top two-piece, Zimmermann

I wanted to whip up a little color chart, just in case you wanna look at them together! That’s a wrap for our Summer Season coverage, we are moving towards Fall, the coming season (and a fabulous one). Ready for new trends and styles?

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources:  Net-a-porter, Polyvore, Farfetch, Zara, Topshop, J.Crew

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

BIKINI SEASON 2013: The Retro Beach Bunny

It’s Monday and July is almost over, that can only mean one thing: Sweet n’raw’s Summer Special has come to an end (only a couple of more posts about beach and bikinis and then we are done). As August approaches, I am getting armed and ready with everything you need to know about the coming season, Fall 2013. Today I have for you another style from our Bikini Season 2013, one I’ve been wanting to do for so long. As you can probably tell by looking at the illustration, I have been overdosing on Magic City episode, falling in love over and over again with that 1950s Miami fashion. Seasons ago, a high-waist bikini was unthinkable, at least for me. Granny bottoms? No, thanks! But they have grown on me, so much, that the underwired top with a cute retro bottom is a winning combo for me. The pros about retro swimwear? Bottoms can help with tummy control. Underwired tops can lift any boob, no matter the size, no matter where it’s hanging. The prints are always prettier and lovelier. And never underestimate the sexiness of a vintage-looking one-piece. Are you sold on retro beachwear yet? If not, keep on reading baby!

The High Waist: As I mentioned before, retro swimwear is all about the high-waist bottom. You can go for a strapless top, an underwired one or a tie-front bandeau. My advice, I like my bottoms a little cheeky! Since you are covering part of your stomach and low back, a little butt cleavage never hurts!

• Topshop
• Norma Kamali
• Dolce & Gabbana
• Topshop

The Underwire: It’s cuter than halter or triangle bikinis, it offers support, it can have padding to push those girls up, what’s not to love? The cuter the print, the better it looks! Zimmermann and J.Crew have a great selection.

• Zimmermann
• Zimmermann
• Topshop
• J.Crew
• Zimmermann
• River Island
• J.Crew
• J.Crew

Scallops and Ruffles: Ah, the Lolita thing… Polka dots, ruffles, scallops, it doesn’t get cuter than this! Ever since the scallop shorts got so trendy last season, I have been obsessed with them. In a bikini top, they look so pretty! And the ruffles, well the ruffle bikini has always been a classic!

• Zimmermann
• Topshop
• Topshop
• Rosamosario

The One-piece: A classic that not many girls dare to wear. A classic than can be sexier than a teeny tiny two-piece. And when it has that vintage vibe, it’s glamour all the way! Give it a shot!

• Charlie by Matthew Zink
• Topshop
• Zimmermann
• Dolce & Gabbana

Need some accessories for that retro bikini? Here’s a selection you can find online!

1. Tie-front shirt, Peridot
2. Glitter flat sandals, Charlotte Olympia
3. Mint dungarees, Topshop
4. Floral shorts, Alice + Olivia
5. Pink sunnies, Dolce & Gabbana
6. Yellow sundress, Topshop
7. White bikini top, Melissa Odabash
8. Floral bikini bottoms, Dolce & Gabbana
9. Scalloped one-piece, Topshop
10. Shalimar perfume, Guerlain
11. Peach Peek-a-boo bag, Fendi
12. Mad Men special edition nail polish, Estee Lauder
13. Tropical Wedges, Pura Lopez

That’s a wrap! We are about to finish with our Summer 2013 cover so stay tuned!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources:  Net-a-porter, Polyvore, Farfetch, Zara, Topshop, J.Crew

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

BIKINI SEASON 2013: The Garden Goddess

It’s July already, my sweet readers! Time sure flies by, so quickly I didn’t even see it coming. Today I have the 6th part of our Bikini Season 2013 special. And hoping you already have booked your little (or big) Summer getaway, I have a style that is a favorite of mine and will always be. Flowers are a basic when it comes to swimwear, but lately, the prints and patters have become so elaborate, so beautiful and so different from what we are used to seeing. Zimmermann, my favorite swimwear brand in the entire world, has a selection with a retro feel to it, the kind of flowers you could find on a vintage botanical print. We can also find florals so lively that you can almost smell them, those are perfect for the whole garden, picnic, day outside kind of look. I have put together our usual chart, this time it’s all about the garden trend. Are you ready for it?

Gingham: Nothing says picnic like gingham And while someone may make the stupid “did you borrow from an Olive Garden table?” joke, a gingham top, sundress or bikini are as cute as cute can get.

• Lauren Dolige
• NewLook
• Topshop
• Zimmermann

Vintage rose: I’m a sucker for floral prints, the kind of prints that are as real as a flower can get. Dolce & Gabbana has been doing them for so long, and when it comes to swimwear, Zimmermann is definitely the way to go.

• Zimmermann
• Ted Baker
• Zimmermann
• Zimmermann

Micro florals: The smaller the print, the cuter it looks. Think Band of Outsiders, think a less tacky version of Sookie Stackhouse tanning in the backyard.

• New Look
• Zimmermann
• J.Crew
• J.Crew

Fresh Greens: We are talking about the garden style, right? That’s why solid green bikinis are a must, you can mix and match them with a vintage floral print top or a wear the whole green thing with a flowery kaftan or silk robe.

• J.Crew
• Dolce & Gabbana
• H&M
• J.Crew

Last but not least, the garment and accessory selection to complete The Garden Goddess style:

1. Cropped top, Topshop
2. Green sandals, ASOS
3. Short-sleeve top, Dolce & Gabbana
4. Floral bikini, Zimmermann
5. Woven wedges, Dolce & Gabbana
6. Vert, vert scent, Balmain
7. Embroidered dress, Pull & Bear
8. Texture shorts, Roxy
9. Floral sunnies, ASOS
10. Bucket bag, Ermanno Scervino
11. Naughty Nautical nail polish, Essie
12. Bikini top, H&M
13. Bikini bottom, Ted Baker

Are you ready to pack your bags and leave this city? Are you ready for some sand and sun? I can’t wait to get out of here, I’ve got a tan to care of!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources:  Net-a-porter, Polyvore, Farfetch, Zara, Topshop, J.Crew

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

BIKINI SEASON 2013: Hello, Sailor!

Hell, hello my sweet readers! Summer has just started (Mexico City did not get that memo, rainy season in London seems nothing compared to this) and I can’t wait to pack my bikinis and leave again to a sunny destination! This is the fifth post from our Bikini Season special. Today’s style is not the newest of trends but a classic one: a sailor bikini is a must in every girl’s Summer closet. This beachwear trend lets you play the mix & match game (stripes with polka dots, anchors with solids and so on), it gives that old school, retro vibe we all love and it looks great with a tan and a skipper hat (you may laugh, but skipper caps are more fun than a straw or Panama hat). To start with today’s post, I made a Sailor Cheat Sheet, everything you’ll need to put together the “Ahoy, mate” look! Let’s start:

The balconette bra: It’s flattering for any boob style (padded for those who have less, with good coverage and underwire for those who have more) and it looks great with any bikini bottom. Look for a navy one with prints or with draping details for a retro vibe.

• Topshop
• J.Crew
• Topshop
• River Island
• Dorothy Perkins
• Heidi Klein

The stripes: Nothing says sailor like a stripe bikini. Buy a two piece so you can mix the top or the bottom with other prints or solid pieces. A stripe one-piece? It’s a risk but one you must not be afraid of! Try it!

• J.Crew
• Vix
• By Malene Birger
• Dorothy Perkins

Polka dots: Also a classic, always a classic when it comes to swimwear. Polka dots have a great retro vibe and a touch of Lolita. Don’t be afraid to mix up the colors, the size of the dots and the prints. Have fun!

• Seafolly
• NewLook
• J.Crew
• Rosamosario

Solid bottoms: Like the lovely France flag, get one blue, one white and one navy. Solids are the best way to reinvent your bikinis. And when it comes to the sailor style, this three colors will go with every stripe, every dot and every nautical motif.

• Heidi Klein
• Violet Lake
• La Perla
• Orlebar Brown
• River Island
• J. Crew

Now I have a garment and accessory selection so you can rock on the sailor style this Summer:

1. White bikini top, Heidi Klein
2. Anchor bikini bottom, J.Crew
3. Striped slippers, Zara
4. Anchor tee, By Malene Birger
5. Drawstring shorts, Eberjey
6. Straw hat, Eugenia Kim
7. Nail polish selection, Dior
8. Stripe dress, SEA
9. Cherry in the Air perfume, Escada
10. Navy sunnies, Balenciaga
11. Red rope sandals, RED Valentino
12. Quilted bag, Moschino
13. Striped bikini top, Topshop
14. Stripes bikini bottom, EJE

That’s a wrap! Hope you like this style as much as I like it! Soon, new surprises, more illustrations and of course, more Summer fashion! Don’t miss it!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources:  Net-a-porter, Polyvore, Farfetch, Zara, Topshop, J.Crew

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site