I recently read Diane von Furstenberg’s book, The Woman I wanted to be. In this she was honest about her intuitive risk-taking such as developing her brand’s cosmetic and fragrance lines, and her resilience when she was confronted by the need to change.  Full credit goes to her who, when starting over and reintroducing her brand at the age of 50, declared ‘beginning again made me feel young and fearless...’

Her most recent change was to hand over the reins of her brand’s artistic endeavours to Scottish designer, Jonathan Saunders.

Saunders has reincarnated the iconic wrap dress through incorporating asymmetrical and bias cut treatments. This styling, together with midi and floor length options, has elongated the silhouette and shifted the traditional emphasis from the wrapped waist.

He has used clever piping detail to infer a wrapping mechanism for example in the Bournier Acid Yellow Bias Midi Dress. He takes the piping from the neckline and follows the asymmetrical line across and down the body, and again from the side of the waist as if gracefully encircling the silhouette.

Saunders has endowed a measure of resilience into the wrap dress that matches that of the brand’s eponymous creator.  I can’t wait to see what they both have in store for us next.

It’s easy for us to apply our make-up as a matter of habit most mornings, repeating favourite eye shadow and lip combinations.  But occasionally inspiration can trigger a change.  Inspired by images from New York Fashion Week of models for Jonathan Simkhai’s show, I attempted a change to barely coloured eye-lids and shimmery pale pink lipstick.  Bronzer on the cheeks gave a welcome hint of colour to save a washed-out look.

I may choose to use this combination only on weekends but it was fun to mix it up a bit and try something new.

We can all do with some comfort and style.  It’s true that I begrudge wearing anything but a reasonable high-heeled shoe.

However, the mule appears to be making a comeback of sorts.  It may have been George Bernard Shaw who said, “If a woman rebels against high-heeled shoes, she should take care to do it in a very smart hat.”  Or, I would add, in a pair of Stuart Weitzman mules. I love the detail of this design from the luxurious suede, tassels and embossed fabric that contrasts the suede across the toe and defines the shoe’s profile.

These are a must when travelling through airport security – easy to slip off without the hassle of undoing buckles or straps.

I came across this fabulous little store as I wandered around the Venice area of Dorsoduro. The pleasant shop assistant explained that the designer, Michel Letizia, used a technique where the colourful and whimsical patterns are ‘tattooed’ directly on to the wooden platform heels.

I’m glad I’m in Venice for a bit longer as it will give me more time to decide which pair I like best!

Check out the website (www.dueitaliani.it) for their sneaker range.

I thought this couple strolling along the streets of the Venetian lagoon island of Burano looked very chic. I love the woman’s smart backpack and gladiator sandals to add an edge to a white sleeveless coat.

Life is short – ask for directions then buy the shoes.

It was a sign I’m sure. Where else would I find to ask directions on losing my way to my hotel in Venice than a shoe shop! And yes, if I ever find the shop again it’s more than likely I will buy a pair of shoes. After all I wasn’t going to waste an opportunity, and in the midst of my panic of being lost I did notice that the shop had a nice range.

Finally, my hotel on the right

After two weeks of travelling and trying to keep a bit of sparkle to tired eyes and dry skin amid long-haul and multiple short-haul flights, I decided that a perfect pick me up was a new lipstick shade, It Girl from Sephora’s rouge cream range. I love their true colour and creamy texture.

Add a crisp white blouse and you’re good to go

Ellery white poplin shirt

Often simple ideas are the best.

A vase of fresh flowers can instantly brighten up a room. Sipping a cup of tea in your favourite armchair can be bliss.

So when co-ordinating or accessorising your day’s outfit can seem a bit of a challenge, don’t underestimate the power of a sleek white blouse to do the dressing up for you.

A tailored shirt suggests poise, instant glamour and self-confidence.

There is no need complicate things!

Take time to smell the roses!

I have always loved Chloe and now I’m also infatuated with its hand cream companion. I’ve found it not only a light and luxurious balm but also a soothing scent as I’m about to sleep. As I breathe in its scent it calms me and nudges my mind toward happy dreams.

“Perfume is the key to our memories”
― Kate Lord Brown, The Perfume Garden