Blogs

Holiday season is in full swing with many of us looking forward to a long awaited get-away! Holiday shopping can be fun, but it also can be stressful when trying to work out exactly what to pack. Here at Blue Vanilla, our brand ambassador Hayley Sparkes has done all of the hard work for you. Take a look at her holiday essentials, with styles discounted by up to 70%!

Clothes that can be worn in multiple ways are so handy on holiday, that’s why I live the Phoebe tassel dress. This versatile daisy print dress not only looks super stylish worn during the day, it could easily be glammed up for a meal in the evening and also works as an ideal beach cover up. It is ‘one size’ so will fit a size 8-14, so there is no worry if you are in between sizes. The v-neck, short sleeves and midi length make the Phoebe dress a figure flattering style.

PHOEBE | Fuchsia | Daisy Print Tassel Dress | Blue Vanilla

The Natasha woven gold sandals are little gems! Choosing a gold or metallic shoe style means they will go with everything in your holiday wardrobe, eliminating the need to bring lots of different coloured sandals to match your outfits. I love the woven plait design, it adds a bit of glamour day or night!

NATASHA | Gold | Woven Cross Strap Sandals | Blue Vanilla

INES | Brown | Leopard Wrap Front Maxi Dress | Blue Vanilla

INES - Leopard Wrap Front Maxi Dress

Maxi dresses never go out of style and this is space saving holiday dress to take with you as you can roll it up in your suitcase. This glamourous leopard print number will easily take you from day to night. Add some pretty earrings and a clutch for the perfect evening look.

ANGELA | Black | Daisy Print Cami Fitted Jumpsuit | Blue Vanilla

I love this playful daisy print jumpsuit, which is an absolute steal at just £12.50

Jumpsuits never go out of style and they work for all ages. The v-neck and wide leg help to balance the silhouette. The spaghetti style straps adjusted to achieve the right fit for you. This jumpsuit looks stylish worn with pumps or trainers, so it is ideal for the days on your holiday when you might want to go and explore.

ANITA | White | Faux Leather Cut Out Flats | Blue Vanilla

Shoes you can easily slip on and off on holiday are such an essential. I love the Anita faux leather flats as they look so chic but they are also super practical. Pop them on around the pool, or wear with day outfits. The white option will compliment everything in your holiday wardrobe, but they are also available in a stunning green shade, that will be sure to brighten your day.

PHOENIX | Light Blue | Square Neck Shirred Swing Dress | Blue Vanilla

Whether you are shopping at a local market, going on a day trip or simply stepping out for lunch, the Phoenix shirred swing dress makes for an ideal companion. The 100% cotton fabric will keep you cool in warm temperatures. The belted waist adds definition and the three quarter length sleeves conceal the tops of the arms. The square neck design is also really on trend this season.

SAARA | Khaki | Magic Plain Smart Non-Crush Trouser | Blue Vanilla

These super slimming trousers are a staple, not only for your get-away, but they can be worn all year round! Like magic, these trousers are one sized- so they fit between a size 8-16. The elasticated drawstring waist can be adjusted to fit you perfectly. They are really comfortable to wear, and the high waist, ensures they elongate the look of your legs- a real figure flattering style!

Choose between khaki or taupe- wear with t-shirts or strappy tops on holiday or pair with long sleeve tops, jumpers and cardigans in Autumn / winter

KELLIE | Ivory | Waffle Knit Fringe Hem Poncho | Blue Vanilla

Part of your holiday planning should always include your airport or traveling outfit. I always like to take something warm and cosy for the aeroplane, but also something that I can wear in the evenings on my holiday, if the temperature drops. This stylish ivory poncho ticks all of those boxes, and is now only £14!

Whether you take a staycation of a tropical getaway this year, from all of us here at Blue Vanilla, we wish you a really amazing holiday! We know you deserve it!

For more holiday inspiration, or to view the rest of our amazing summer Sale- click here _

Summer is here at last and the race season is in full swing!

Our brand ambassador Hayley Sparkes has selected her top 5 picks from our new season, that would be perfect for a day at the races. 

INDIE | Navy | Bow Front Cut Out Dress | Blue Vanilla

“I love the multi coloured print of this dress, it makes it super easy to find accessories to match. You can pick out any of the colours and pair up shoes, bag and a fascinator or hat. The style is very figure flattering, the v-neck is slimming and the midi length is really elegant. I like how this dress covers up the tops of the arms too!”

YOLANDA | Green Pattern | Diamond Print Sleeveless Dress | Blue Vanilla

“The Yolanda diamond print pattern dress really makes a style statement with the vibrant pink and green diamond print and feminine pleats. For race courses with a strict etiquette on thin straps, the wider fabric across the strapline won’t break any rules. The belt will show off the waist and the midi length shows off the slimmest part of the leg.”

ADELE | Green | Floral Wrap Front Pleated Midi Dress | Blue Vanilla

 “ The Adele dress is one of my personal favourites, the colours and design are so striking. This is a versatile occasion-wear dress that would not only suit a fun day at the races, but could be worn again to a wedding or summer party. This is a great investment piece.”

LEXI | Red | Angel Sleeve Tiered Maxi Dress | Blue Vanilla

“The stunning red /coral Lexi dress is such a beautiful colour to enhance a summer tan and really brighten the complexion. I love the gold metallic detail in the fabric, it adds that extra touch of glamour.”

HARLEEN | Blue | Wrap Front Elasticated Dress Blue Vanilla

“Last but not least the Harleen dress, which is also available in green. If the great British weather is a bit chiller than expected, or if you prefer a more covered up style on race day, this is a wonderful choice. The Harleen dress is one sized, so will fit a size 8-14, which means it has plenty of stretch and is really comfortable to wear. The pattern is stunning and the fabric is lightweight and feels super gentle against your skin. Wear this dress again on another occasion with a thick belt, for a different look.” 

Now we have reached February, we can’t help but look ahead to spring! It’s always exciting when we can look forward to a fresh new wardrobe! With the milder weather approaching it’s a great time to look ahead at some wardrobe staples that will help transition us through into spring. It’s often a tricky time as the weather can be constantly changing, so layering up is still key to getting spring dressing just right! 

Are you a uni fresher or heading back for a new term? Whichever it is, you’ll want to bag some gorgeous new outfits to update your ‘drobe!

University is the best time to discover who you are and make friends for life, and you’ll want to make an instant impression with your wardrobe.

Whether you’re planning a big night out with your flatmates, a lazy weekend to recover from it or want that laidback lecture look, we’re here with a stunning new edit. Perfect for uni, but they’re right on-trend for Autumn and Winter as the weather turns cooler.

Live your best life and find your unique uni outfits today.

Shop with your student discount now

Read on to discover our favourite new university term picks...

Luxury Lecture Look

University isn’t all parties and nights out; your lectures and seminars soon roll around. But what do you wear? For the autumn and winter seasons, you’ll need layers for your commute to campus, but you can still look stunning. 

You can almost wear anything for lectures, but we’re bridging the gap between classic casual and glamorously smart. From the top, our Peggy Shaggy Faux Fur Blazer will keep you on-trend and cosy. Just because you’ve left school doesn’t mean blazers are out!

Our Nora Gold Flower Polka Dot Shirt is perfect for in and around uni. Pair it with the right jeans and footwear, and you have casual night out style. Staying with shirts, if you want to be even more glamorous, our Sherry Button Through Cord Shirt Dress is just what your ‘drobe needs. Combining the comfort of a shirt with the style of a dress, it’s the perfect uni all-rounder.

For keeping cosy, our Anabelle Two-Colour Batwing Jumper is just what is needed as the days get cooler. Perfect for lectures and the library, pair it with a pair of boots and you’ll have a seamless outfit for relocating to the student union bar.

No matter what, however, you’ll need the student staple - denim. Got a lecture? Heading to the library? Meeting a study group? The answer is denim. Jeans go with everything, black, washed or torn, match them with trainers or boots to move from campus to clubs.

Big Nights Out and Freshers Socials

Night outs are a given at university, whether it’s with new friends, clubs & socs, flatmates or a social at the student union. Whichever it is, you’ll need trusty outfits to be there when you’re heading off for a night on the town.

Without a doubt, our favourites are luxurious lace hem dresses. Featuring animal print inspiration, these elegant dresses give you an amazing silhouette and gets two hot trends in one - lace and animal prints. Pair them with strappy heels and a clutch handbag to complete the look.

For added warmth on a night out, our exclusive Tegan Front Zip Jumpsuit is perfect for hitting winter streets in this catwalk-worthy piece. Featuring the on-trend animal print, bright accessories and footwear will finish this outfit.

Few items have become a fashion favourite like the bodysuit. This Animal Jacquard Wrap Bodysuit works perfectly with skinny, high-waist jeans or a mini skirt for instant fashion points. Our Yasmine Strappy Lace Bodysuit works the layering game when matched with skinny trousers and a blazer. Pair them with heels to complete your outfit.

Mini skirts are an all-rounder, ideal for days on campus or nights on the town. This Khaleesi Animal Mini Skirt not only looks stunning, but it will keep you warm on cold nights in between the bars and clubs. Match it with a bodysuit and your favourite heels for an effortless look.

Down Days & Weekends

Following a heavy night out, you’ll likely want a lazy weekend. For that, you want comfort. It’s all about comfort. But who says you can’t look amazing at the same time?

Where better to start than our adorable Elissa Animal Heart Diamante t-shirt is perfect for lounging or heading for a coffee. Pair it with your favourite jeans and trainers for easy day-wear style.

It’s only going to get cooler, and for that, you need a warm and cosy jacket. This cuddly Klara Shaggy Faux Fur Jacket is ideal for when the temperature turns icy. Alternatively, our brilliant Edith Oversized Borg Coat will keep you warm, no matter what this winter. Pair each with jeans and trainers or heels for an easy fashion win.

Everyone has a favourite jumper, and our fierce Selena Leopard Print Jumper could be yours. Featuring on-trend animal print and super-soft fabric, no other knitwear says ‘comfort and cosiness’ like this. Team this jumper with jeans or cargo pants and trainers for true style.

For extra comfort and style points, bodysuits are perfect when paired with jeans - it’s the new white t-shirt/jeans combination - for a day of shopping or relaxing. Our oversized range, including jackets, tops and cardigans are ideal for a lazy weekend.

Looking for outfit inspo for that quintessentially English tradition Afternoon Tea, that we love to indulge in?... look no further, we got you! Be the belle of the tea party with Blue Vanilla's Spring Collection.

The event was created over 150 years, by Anna Marie Russel, the seventh Duchess of Bedford (thank you, Lady!) in 1840. The Duchess would get peckish around 4pm (don’t we all) and usually have to wait until 8pm for their fashionably late evening meal… so Anna began  snacking alone her in the afternoon, but as time went on friends were invited to join her. Who wouldn’t love tea and tiny sandwiches!?... Upon returning to London Anna sent out invites requesting her friends to join her for “tea and a walking in the fields” and bam, Afternoon Tea was born.

It wasn’t long until all of Fashionable society was sippin’ a cuppa from beautiful matching china teacups and nibbling on dainty sandwiches and scones. What were all these ladies wearing? By the 1880’s the upper-class and then fashionistas would don long gowns, gloves and hats and swan to the drawing room to get their fill of tasty treats and tantalising gossip.

Nowadays Afternoon Tea is just as much of a social occasion and reason to get dressed up. We have pulled together our five fav looks perfect for Afternoon Tea.

1. Pretty Wrap Dress

The perfect easy to wear dress that flatters every shape. Our bestselling glittery wrap dress JOCYLN is back for spring! Available in a range of prints and colours, we have one to suit every style. Team with a statement stiletto for a classic look:

From Left to Right: Shop - NONNIE – Twist Front Midi Floral Print Navy Dress £28, Shop - NONNIE – Twist Front Midi Floral Print Navy Dress £28, Shop - HAYDEN – Navy Twist Front Midi Dress £26, Shop - KATYA – Mint Flower Twist Front Midi Dress £26, Shop - HAYDEN – Lilac Twist Front Midi Dress £26[/caption]

2. Silky & Sophisticated Pastel Dress

Perfect for a more dressed up look, for the most glamorous of girls. Wow you friends with this simple yes beautiful silky number. RABIA is sure to turn heads at the most luxurious affairs. Team with a simple nude stiletto, clutch, and pale blazer for a divine royal look.

From left to right: Shop - RABIA – Wrap Blush Dress With Adjustable Straps £28, Shop - KATY – Pastle Blue Gathered Midi Dress £30, Shop - EMMA – Mint/Lilac Ruffle Wrap Dress £25[/caption]

3. Trousers & Statement Knit

If you’re looking for a more casual but still gorgeous style, try teaming some smart trousers with a statement knit. Our LORALYN, CHRISTINE and DAISY are THE Afternoon Tea jumpers. Add a heeled boot or simple heel for lovely finished look.

From left to right: CHRISTINE – Jewel Collar Bow Navy Jumper £25, LORALYN – Organza Lace Collar Pink Jumper £25, DAISY - Leaf Mesh Sleeve High Neck Navy Jumper £25, DALINA – Double V Pearl Cross Over Peplum Pink Jumper £26, NIDHI – Shirt Frill 2 In 1 Navy Jumper £25

4. Beautiful Tulip Dress

This silhouette is sure to enhance your most flattering areas! Get ready to enjoy the sunshine in our bestselling tulip style dresses. Wanting to cover a fraction more? Try our JEANNE high neck tulip for a more sophisticated look.

From left to right:  ASHA – Lilac Wrap Front Tulip Dress £25,  DASHA – Navy/Yellow Pleat Tulip Dress £26,  KACEY – Cornflower Blue Wrap Front Tulip Dress £26,  EVANA – Dusty Pink Wrap Front Tulip Dress £26,  EVANA – Black Wrap Front Tulip Dress £26 From left to right: JEANNE – High Neck Blue Tulip Dress £28, ELLY – Pale Blue High Neck 3/4th Sleeve Tulip Dress £28

5. Fabulous Floral Jumpsuit

Be the shining stylist of the group in our pretty fabulous range of jumpsuits. With unique floral prints to catch fashionistas eyes, you will look the part for any Afternoon Tea meet up. Wear with a posh wedge and statement earring to finish of your look.

From left to right: BESS – Cream Kimono Front Jumpsuit £35,  NIKKI – Pale Blue Tie Shoulder Jumpsuit £30,  MACHA – Navy Tie Back Culotte Jumpsuit £26, RITU – Navy Strappy Culotte Jumpsuit £32, JULIE – Pink Button Front Jumpsuit £30

Ever wondered where your fave celebs, bloggers and Insta-babes take their gorgeous pictures for the ‘gram? Whether it’s a restaurant decked out in floor to ceiling millennial pink, or an impressive townhouse with white pillars and a statement front door - we know the places to go to get the shot.

So when you next find yourself in London, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 Instagram-able spots to visit. Don’t know what to wear? We have you covered there too with our fave new season pieces as seen on your fave influencers.

Top 10 Instagram-able Spots In London

Where?

Regent Street/ Oxford Street - Central London

In central London doing a bit of retail therapy? Take a snap in and around the Oxford Street/Regent Street area and your followers are guaranteed to know where you are, all thanks to those imposing London buildings, iconic tube stop signs and the classic red phone box! Steal @katiepenny’s chic Blue Vanilla style by teaming our Belle Tie Front Button Cream Shirt with a smart blazer and cream trousers.

Where?

Peggy Porschen, Belgravia, SW1W 9QQ

Ah, Peggy Porschen, a much loved location for shooting the prettiest pictures - especially in spring all thanks to their candy floss coloured exterior and flower wall! Head over to beautiful Belgravia and recreate @RosieFortescue’s gorgeous look at Peggy Porschen by pairing our Libby Long Sleeve Snake Print Oversize Mint Tunic with knee high boots and loose, effortless waves. 

Related: What to wear to afternoon tea

Where?

Notting Hill W11 and South Kensington SW7

If you’re looking for picture perfect streets lined with Georgian mansions, head to St Luke’s Mews and Lancaster Road in Notting Hill or Kynance Mews in South Kensington. There you’ll find blossom trees, rainbow coloured houses and imposing front doors galore. Work it like Rosie in our Maryetta Animal Print High Low Hem Top, or opt for a statement floral piece such as our glamorous Eryn Red Keyhole Halter Neck Floral Dress.

Where?

Carnaby Street, W1F 9PS

The original birthplace of the swinging 60s! Head down to Carnaby Street to find a hidden shopping mecca nestled between bustling Oxford Street. Looks familiar? Carnaby Street is particularly sparkly at Christmas time with the infamous Carnaby lights. For now though, add a pop of colour to your spring wardrobe the @IndiaMoon way with our Gloria Brushed Check Mustard/Grey Crombie Coat.

Where?

Sketch, W1S,2XG

Sketch needs NO introduction. You’ve probably spotted the blush pink tones of The Gallery restaurant, the natural botanical vibe of The Glade, or the cool egg shaped toilets on Insta. Visit Sketch to ensure your coloured Insta-theme looks fresh. We recommend wearing our flowy Haley Floral Print Wrap Tie Back Yellow Dress which can be styled up for afternoon tea, or an evening meal at Sketch with the girls.

Where?

Coppa Club, Tower Bridge, EC3R 6AH

Looking for somewhere to dine in style, whilst getting that all important Insta shot? Check out the Coppa Club igloos for a memorable night. Make an impression and head out wearing our curve skimming Livia Long Sleeve Floral Print Navy Maxi Dress - we’re wearing ours with ankle boots for a chic day to night look.

Where?

The Shard, SE1 9SG

Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, the spectacular views over London and Westminster from The Shard will guarantee your jaw to hit the floor. Don’t pass up a photo opportunity so make sure you’re looking cute. Our Margot Floral Print Mint Pleat Detail CamI Dress is the perfect choice.

Where?

Camden Market, NW1

For a more alternative vibe head to Camden Market, famous for its punk scene, renowned Stables Market and the home of the late Amy Winehouse. Don’t forget to take a pic in front of the iconic ‘Camden Lock’ bridge. For your trip to Camden, style it out in our Vivika Button Through Black Polka Dot Dress teamed with a denim jacket and Converse.

Where?

Waterloo Bridge for amazing city views

For amazing pics in front of not one, but two London landmarks Big Ben and the London Eye, head to Waterloo Bridge for a photo op looking East towards Canary Wharf, or West towards the Houses of Parliament. Show off your style game on Waterloo Bridge in our gorgeous Nadia Leaf Print Belted Khaki Dress and sandals.

Happy snappin’!

Shop all the looks at Blue Vanilla now!
Time for more? How to dress like Meghan Markle

We’re well into autumn and that means cold weather is here, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look stylish.

Coats are the perfect way to start your A/W fashion game. It’s the first thing people see, so why not make a statement? Whether you’re after a coat for a night out, weekend shopping or just to cosy-up in, Blue Vanilla has the complete coat & jacket collection for the new season right here!

You can still be chic when the weather’s chilly.

Shop our new-in range now

Read on to discover our favourite new coats and jackets for autumn and winter...

Feelin’ Perfect in Puffer Jackets

Ideal for every social scene - work, weekends, day trips and uni - puffer coats are an A/W essential; they go with everything!

Related: What to Wear to Uni This Autumn

Our Faith Black Mix Quilt Belted Puffer Coat blends warmth and style effortlessly. With its faux fur-lined hood, belt and rose gold detailing, you’ll be sure to turn heads in this stunning coat. Its added length is sure to keep you cosy.

Just because you’re wearing a coat, it doesn’t mean you can’t stand out from the crowd. Our Mya Fitted Fur Hood Puffer Jacket will supersize your silhouette. Its shorter length makes it perfect when paired with jeans for a relaxed look.

For added luxury in your puffer coat, our Sienna Mink Velvet Chevron Puffer Jacket is just what your ‘drobe’s been demanding. Its glam soft velvet finish makes it one of the most stylish ways to cover up. Perfect for a night out with the girls.

Keepin’ Cosy in a Teddy Coat

If you’re looking for a cute and cosy coat this season, you don’t need to look any further than a teddy jacket. A must-have for every fashion ‘drobe this season!

To look as icy cool as the weather feels, our stunning Daru Powder Teddy Fur Coat will cover every base in your coat game; stylish, comfy and super-soft. Its sublime finish and relaxed fit means you can wear it to any occasion or throw it over your favourite knitwear.

Keep yourself cosy in this gorgeous Tilly Lilac Drop Shoulder Double-Breasted Teddy Coat. Its longline design and oversized fit are perfect for style and comfort, ensuring you stay warm this season. Chunky knitwear and jeans make the complete chic look.

With its luxurious texture and cosy, cream tones, our Edith Oversized Borg is the complete modern take on the Borg Teddy. The double-breasted design makes it a coat for any occasion and is perfect when paired with skinny jeans, your fave jumper, and boots.

Be the Pride of the Pack with a Faux Fur Coat

Faux fur is the trend that will never end. Guaranteed to look stylish, these coats will keep you cosy and chic!

In its autumnal colour, our Klara Shaggy Fur Jacket has a luxury touch with its chunky fur finish. A relaxed fit makes this cuddly beauty ideal for layering up. Match it with jeans and your favourite trainers for simple, but, stunning style.

Go for a luxe finish with our gorgeous Frankie Button Front Fur Trim Midi Coat. This is the complete all-rounder, so, wear it with a tee and jeans in the day, or glam it up with a floral dress and your best boots for a night out.

We are obsessed with this Hope Single Breasted Fur Coat. With a stunning longline, faux fur and single-breast design, this coat will seriously turn heads wherever you go. Style this beaut over a shirt dress, accompanied by ankle boots, and you’re set.