Kate Middleton Wearing By Malene Birger. Yay!

Hi all,

So we couldn't keep quiet about this one. HRH the Duchess of Cambridge (we still like to call her Kate) has been seen wearing By Malene Birger on her official Royal tour of Canada. Whoop! We knew she had great taste. Malene Birger is the first non British designer http://bit.ly/qNlZlX she has worn on the tour and we jumped for joy when the news came through from BMB headquarters. As you all know already we have stocked Malene Birger since we opened back in 2009 and since then the brand has been gaining momentum rapidly. From regular features in top glossy mags such as Vogue and Harper's Bazaar to being chosen by Royalty. Hurry, make like Kate and head down to L'Armoire in Cowbridge to snap up your own piece of the chic Danish label Malene Birger.

We think this super chic ice blue blouse would look great on Kate worn with a slim navy pencil skirt or cute cropped trousers. It would most certainly show off her slim toned arms. Jealous? Us?

By Malene Birger silk 'Elina' blouse was £170 now £102 

Up to 50% off selected SALE Items & more items added!

As L'Armoire's fantastic SALE continues, there are extra reductions and new sale items added. The summer weather is set to continue for a while yet, so why not invest in a fresh wardrobe top up.

See you soon xx

L'Armoire Ltd
64a Eastgate
Cowbridge
Vale of Glamorgan
CF71 7AB

Tel: 01446 774766
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/eYE0Lp
Twitter: http://bit.ly/hCooNg

Wonderful Wimbledon

                                                                            Hi all,

The sun is shining (finally) and Wimbledon is in full swing and we confess that we've been watching it as much for the fashion as for the tennis. We just can't help but be inspired by the clean cut preppy relaxed style that the likes of Pippa Middleton & co show on centre court, and as always the Williams sisters continue to showcase their latest 'interesting' outfits, love them or hate them at least it makes for good sartorial debate while they break for rain. From panama hats, fields of fresh white cotton (on and off court), stripes, sharp blazers (Ralph Lauren style) and simple summer dresses it showcases true Brit style at it's best.

                           Most likely to hear this week: Is that the time? It must be pimms o'clock!

             Here are two great Wimbledon appropriate outfits we put together from the boutique

Malene Birger neural safari skirt was £145 now £105

White cotton shirt was £75 now £53, Powder cami (just seen) £35, Skin cotton supima jumper £75 all American Vintage

Indigo/nude stripe dress was £89 now £65, Indigo cotton jacket £130, Mauve cotton wrap scarf £48, all American Vintage

Deliveries this week  - OK so we know it's early, but the fashion world always keeps on our toes and Thursday saw our first delivery of AW11 stock- eek! A beautiful collection of scarves by a new brand stocked at L'Armoire called Asui. Their cool prints and luxury fabrics offer a splash of new season at a great price point.

Star Sale Pick - As our sale continues there are still some fantastic buys to be had, so if you've got a summer ball or wedding here is one of our favourite sale pieces that we are lusting after that will send you well on your way. P.S. This will also look great on a luxury bohemian holiday with bear feet and a tan!

Day Birger et Mikkelsen taupe 'Elegant' dress, was £179 now £126

Independents Day - L'Armoire is taking part in the national Independents Day campaign. On 4th July 2011 across the country, the public will be encouraged to buy at least one item from their local, independent shop to keep the high street alive. For us it’s all about having a pleasant day in our lovely town, encouraging local shopping and celebrating the diversity of the independent retailers on Cowbridge High Street.

Take part in a treasure trail of visits to independent retailers. Collect a trail quiz sheet from us, or other participating retailer, enjoy your visits to varied independents in the town, answer their question, when done take the sheet to a food/drink retailer on the High St and exchange for a sit down and some free refreshment. The trail can be done anytime from Sat 2nd- Sat 9th July. The trail will start on Eastgate (including a visit to us here at L'Armoire), finish on Westgate and include a visit to the Wool Barn and other tucked away treasures off the High Street.

What We've Watched This Week - We have mentioned BBC Four before as our secret indulgence TV channel. There are so many amazing programmes on we seriously recommend you tune in (if you don't already that is). This week saw the start of a 3 parter called 'Perfume' and is what it says, all about the perfume industry. It's a great watch- Tuesdays 9pm on BBC Four. http://bbc.in/iHTly4
Tip: As a trade off with your other half there is also a programme on BBC Four next Wednesday 9pm called 'The Perfect Suit' all about the evolution of the gentleman's suit. No fighting over the remote now...!

Plans For The Weekend - Head to Jamie Oliver's Big Festival on Clapham Common for food, music fashion and fun (1st, 2nd, & 3rd July) http://www.jamieoliver.com/thebigfeastival/. Or if your staying at home we suggest a long walk in the countryside in the glorious sun...enjoy.

See you soon xx

L'Armoire Ltd
64a Eastgate
Cowbridge
Vale of Glamorgan
CF71 7AB

Tel: 01446 774766
contact@larmoire-cowbridge.co.uk

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/eYE0Lp
Twitter: http://bit.ly/hCooNg

Top Secret Sale Preview...?

Hi all,

We would like to invite all of our most important customers to our Summer Sale Preview. And yes, that means you!

Pssst..., L'Armoire's official SALE starts on Monday 20th June but for you it starts TOMORROW Saturday 18th June at 10am. If you quote the top secret words 'EARLY BIRD' you will get sale items at their sale prices. It's the perfect opportunity to get the first pick of sizes and styles.

Here are a few of our favourite SALE picks

Malene Birger white broderie anglaise cotton jacket was £190 now £135

Malene Birger black & white stripe dress, was £268 now £189

Malene Birger linen dress, was £220 now £155

We have also had a new beautiful (and inexpensive) jewellery collection arrive this week. The pieces cleverly combine delicate gold necklaces, bracelets and earrings with semi precious stones and cute charms. They make for thoughtful gifts or just a little treat for yourself. Prices range from £12 to £35. Come and check them out as they look twice as nice once you put them against your favourite outfit or on a good friend...

See you all soon xx

L'Armoire Ltd
64a Eastgate
Cowbridge
Vale of Glamorgan
CF71 7AB

Tel: 01446 774766
contact@larmoire-cowbridge.co.uk

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/eYE0Lp
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/larmoire_style

Keep It Chic

Hi all,

We know here at L'Armoire that all our lovely devoted customers love their fashion fix and we certainly do too. We believe that the ultimate working wardrobe is created around an injection of fashion pieces each season combined with (most importantly) the essential basics that are firm fixtures and the backbone of any women's style ethos. These are the quality, timeless classics. Here we celebrate L'Armoire's essential wardrobe staples that will carry you from season to season.

1. Classic Cotton Shirt -This blue Malene Birger classic is a great alternative to the ever popular white.

2. Soft basics - As you all know American Vintage does these best. They are the ultimate essential that are so simple yet have a high impact. Any wardrobe is bare without at least two colour choices.

3. Knits - Ours is a modern favourite, the boyfriend cardigan. The over sized style has crept in to this category over recent years and L'Armoire always has a great selection. This Day cardy comes in a versatile mushroom shade.

4. Fine cashmere - Also part of the knit group is a luxury cashmere sweater. Spun from the finest of thread you cant beat AV's heather grey staple. We say the softer the better.

5. The Breton Stripe - One of L'Armoire's obsessions being a nod to nautical. Mainly a summer essential (as seen below), but also have the tendency to wandered into the autumn/winter months disguised as a bolder striped knit. Both are a must.

6. Jeans - Ok, so this is a  pretty flexible staple as they come in all shapes and colours. Make sure they fit well, are comfortable and most importantly flattering. Day's take this season are hard wearing and are cut right on the ankle- a flattering length on most women.

7. The Trench (Our Best Buy) - As recently featured, this Malene Birger mac will keep you looking stylish for well.., eternity! One of the best investments you could make, a classic trench coat will be in your wardrobe for years to come.

8. The Cotton Tee - Nothing looks quite as cool and effortless as a good quality cotton tee-shirt. Once again American Vintage is the go to brand. This easy sky blue piece is also available in white.

9. The Blazer/ Easy Jacket - Literally the 'throw on with anything' jacket we challenge any style savvy women to live without. Team with  jeans, chinos, dresses or skirts, the list just goes on.

10. The Stylish Silk Scarf - An accessory staple that allows you to be more adventurous with colour and print. Liberty archive all their prints and you should to. They could become collectables! Now if that's not timeless then we don't know what is.

                         (All the above are available in store and for mail order - 01446 774766)

Our new make-up obsession of late is Clinique's Chubby Sticks. A super moisturizing lip colour, that is easy to apply as they are shaped like a large crayon allowing you to apply the perfect pout! We love the chunky cherry. 

P.S. Keep an eye out for our new jewellery collection coming in very soon!

See you soon,

L'Armoire Ltd
64a Eastgate
Cowbridge
Vale of Glamorgan
CF71 7AB

Tel: 01446 774766
contact@larmoire-cowbridge.co.uk

Facebook : http://on.fb.me/eYE0Lp
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/larmoire_style

Maxi-mise Your Style!

Hi all,

It's been an unexpected fashion feast this week as all eyes were on America's first lady Michelle Obama and our favourite two style icons of the moment Sam Cam and the Duchess of Cambridge. With all three competing in the style stakes we've been hedging our bets on Michelle pipping it to the post. We haven't been as excited about a state visit since...., well never really! We've loved their combined eclectic mix of well know and up and coming designers (many being home grown and British we hasten to add). Here are our favourites;

                                             Michelle dazzles in White empire line Tom Ford gown.

                     Kate wearing the now famous Reiss camel dress and Anya Hindmarch clutch bag.

A striking image of Michelle Obama wearing Roksanda Ilincic, whilst Samantha Cameron had chosen Peter Pilotto. Both British designers.

Why not take note from Michelle and add a statement necklace to your outfit. Whether it's putting a finishing touch to an evening look or glaming up a day tee shirt or blouse.

Day have come up trumps with this beautiful beaded 'Splendid' necklace. It has a black ribbon fastening allowing you to wear at any desired length.

                 Or for a more subtle (ish) approach we also love this smoky Day 'Crystals' necklace, £55

Our chosen outfit of the week is this versatile jersey maxi dress from Malene Birger (£143). A great holiday essential that will take you;

From day- Slip on a perfect pair of flat sandals, manicured toes and head to the poolside bar.

To night- Changed sandals for wedges and add lots of glamorous gold jewellery.

Here we've styled it for the UK with a mustard American Vintage tank layered underneath (£35), tan woven belt (£38) and a Day Birger et Mikkelsen mushroom cardy (£145) for extra coverage.

Have a great weekend. We will be closed bank holiday Monday 30th, but will be back open Tuesday 31st May.

See you soon xx

L'Armoire Ltd
64a Eastgate
Cowbridge
Vale of Glamorgan
CF71 7AB

Tel: 01446 774766
contact@larmoire-cowbridge.co.uk
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/eYE0Lp
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/larmoire_style

Refresh Your Summer Wardrobe

Hi all


Refresh your summer look with a twist (literally) of fabric. This cool Malene Birger twisted back tank looks fab layered over a crisp white American Vintage basic vest, a knot of a scarf and a great pair of jeans. This look will ooze summer style easy peasy!

Malene Birger grey twist tank £115, American Vintage white tank £35 & mauve scarf £48

                                                                         ( Back View)

For a comfy off duty look you can't go wrong with a hint of black and white. We couldn't help but play up the striped cord detailing on this super soft sports-lux cardy by teaming it with Day's black and white stripe tee-shirt dress. Style with black leggings and pumps and relax for the weekend.

                            Day smoke 'Comfort' cardy £172, Day black & white stripe dress £89

A great way to add a little colour pop is to invest in Chanel's latest must have nail polish in yellow or 'mimosa' as it is set to be called. Already boasting a waiting list, we suggest you head to your nearest Chanel counter and put your name down asap! And who realised we were all set to covet colour of the Queen's shall we say buttercup outfit at the royal wedding? Kate and Pippa aren't the only trendsetters of the moment!

And finally our outfit for the week (which includes dressing for the rain)...,

Day dusty grey 'Upsidedown' parka £235, Malene Birger neutral sloppy knit £115 & gold disc necklace £89

See you soon xx

L'Armoire Ltd

64a Eastgate

Cowbridge

Vale of Glamorgan

CF71 7AB

Tel: 01446 774766

contact@larmoire-cowbridge.co.uk

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/eYE0Lp    

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/larmoire_style

A little French Styling Goes a Long Way

Hi all,

Just a little tidbit for the weekend. We love this cool little French American Vintage outfit we put together today. Makes us feel all summery!

Light blue tee £50

Indigo cotton skirt £69

Indigo/nude stripe top £80

Tan woven leather belt £38

Continuing on the French vibe we've had another little summer scarf from American Vintage arrive so we couldn't keep quiet about it. Style with one of Day Birger et Mikkelsens easy fine knitted tunics and your good to go.

AV navy/chalk gingham cotton scarf £55

Day crystal grey tunic £125

Add a twist to this work appropriate cotton and linen blend jacket by dressing it down with a crisp white dress for the weekend.

Day crystal grey 'Sari' jacket £179

Malene Birger white beach dress £155

Malene Birger silver 'Lentina' necklace £89

See you soon xx

L'Armoire Ltd

64a Eastgate
Cowbridge
Vale of Glamorgan
CF71 7AB

Tel: 01446 774766 (Phone this number for all mail order enquiries)
contact@larmoire-cowbridge.co.uk

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/eYE0Lp
Twitter: http://bit.ly/hCooNg

Best Dressed...?

Hi all,

Well, what a fun packed couple of weeks we've had. Of course we can't carry on without mentioning 'The Dress!' Sarah Burton surpassed herself creating a beautiful Grace Kelly inspired dress fit for a modest princess. We think Kate (sorry Catherine) looked positively regal indeed.

And not forgetting Pippa Middleton who caused just as mush of a stir in her amazing McQueen bridesmaid dress which resulted in many men all of sudden becoming glued to the TV having before proclaimed to be 'not interested'. We wonder why...?

What's New?

After post wedding, extra bank holidays and the Easter come down our thoughts turn to summer and we couldn't wait to get back to the boutique to see what's new in. There is nothing we love more than dual purpose items to refresh our wardrobes. So here they are with some styling ideas thrown in;

 American Vintage clay silky blouse £95

                                                          Day stone 'Samantha' jeans £95
                                                       Day smoke 'Crystals' necklace £55

                                               American Vintage cream silky button shirt £115
                                                    Malene Birger black skinny pants £78
                                                Day almond 'Tribe' bangles £75 (set of three)

To complete your look we think now is a great time to invest in a pair of fabulous flats that will see you through the summer with ease and style (check out Jon Ian in Cowbridge first for their amazing selection). A great pair of embellished sandals or the essential ballet flat of the season will keep you looking bang on trend and comfy too.

What better what to accessorize a summer outfit than to add a beautiful lightweight scarf. L'Armoire has a great selection of cotton, linen and silk to choose from. Here are our favourites,

(From left to right) American Vintage raspberry cotton large wrap scarf £48, Day almond silk crinkle scarf £85, AV Khaki cotton wrap scarf £48, Day pink tassels scarf £85, AV mauve cotton large wrap scarf £48,
                                                       AV powder cotton stripe scarf £55


The Met Gala Ball 2011

If the royal wedding wasn't enough of a fashion fix for you, a couple of days later came the 2011 Met Gala Ball in New York which this year celebrated the 'Savage Beauty' exhibition opening in honour of Alexander McQueen. It always comes around so quickly and here at L'Armoire we love to pick out our best dressed list as it is probably the most hotly anticipated event of the year in the fashion calendar. So here we go...

1. Top of our list was Diane Kruger showing off her enviable legs wearing Jason Wu.

2. Renee Zellweger sporting a flawless toned back in Carolina Herrera.

3. Emma Roberts (yes that's Julia Roberts new starlet niece) looking sleek in Michael Kors.

4. Jenifer Lopez in a dramatic pink Gucci gown.

5. We have to hand it to Anna Della Russo for staying completely true to her own very unique style wearing a tux by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen (not sure about the egg hat though...?)

Blog Tip


We love http://www.laurakatriblog.wordpress.com/ which makes a great read and allows you to keep up to date with reviews, informal talk, creative ideas, tidbits that inspire Laura the blog creator.
As a friend of L'Armoire Laura also has a visual blog for design/architecture/fashion/music http://laurakatri.tumblr.com/ which featured our boutique recently. Thanks Laura!

(For your info-Laura's core business helps management consultants, designers and other businesses in the creative industries to understand how to reach their clients and different market sectors through online, web and social digital media channels. She is based in both Birmingham and Cardiff, so if your interested in getting in touch - email Laura at enquiries@laurakatri.com )


See you soon xx

L'Armoire Ltd
64a Eastgate
Cowbridge
Vale of Glamorgan
CF71 7AB

Tel: 01446 774766 (Phone this number for all mail order enquiries)
contact@larmoire-cowbridge.co.uk

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/eYE0Lp
Twitter: http://bit.ly/hCooNg