I was in London over the weekend for 100% Optical. This is the largest optical event in the UK and over 8000 professionals attended to learn, network and to see the latest products and technologies. It took place at ExCel and, despite it being in its fifth year, it was the first time I’d been. The event ran from Saturday-Monday with the highlight being a Black Tie awards ceremony on the Sunday evening. As you might know, I write a monthly column for the professional journal Optometry Today and because of that, I was part of the judging panel. But more of that, including the stunning dress I wore in the next blog post.

Ian and I travelled down on Saturday and headed over to ExCel that afternoon.  We met up with a few friends and colleagues and had a look around. Because I knew we’d be going for drinks and dinner afterwards, I wanted to wear something suitable for both conference and cocktails. I decided upon a gorgeous red lace top and skinny jeans.

Red Lace Top With Swallows and Hearts

We stayed at Novotel London Excel which had a very nice bar area and pizzeria.

And wonderful views over the docklands and the Millennium Dome.

The red lace has the most beautiful swallows and hearts in the design. Wouldn’t it be perfect for a Valentine’s Day date too? (It’s from the Boden Clearance, reduced from £90 to £27. At the time of writing, most sizes are available and it’s available in cream too).

The grosgrain bow is super pretty and the sleeves are the ultimate in pretty feminine detail. The shade of red is my favourite, very bright with a slight orange undertone. This is the exact same colour as my favourite lipstick, Dior Rouge 999 (I’ve linked this further down too with the rest of my outfit).

Now, true fashionistas are no longer wearing skinny jeans, but I’m not ready to reliquish mine. And I’m not a fashionista anyway.  I like the neat silhouette. These are actually described as denim leggings and they’re stretchy, comfortable and easy to wear. Exactly what I wanted.

The Red Boots

Aren’t the *red kitten heel boots fabulous? They’re very comfy and add a touch of spring’s bold colour to a grey, windy day. I’ve worn fishnet socks a few times now, (last time was with flat shoes), and it always surprises me how much warmth they add. Not only that, they’re infinitely more stylish than normal socks.

An outfit to kick any January blues well and truly into touch.

[shopr_shopthepost collection=”red-lace-top-post” title=”Shop This Look”]

Business and Pleasure

One of my roles at 100% Optical was to select my three favourite frames from the thousands there, to talk about on camera. Of course, in the interest of research I simply had to try them, something I could never tire of.

After a brilliant afternoon and evening, Ian and I headed away to get tapas and to enjoy a much-appreciated few hours alone.

Don’t forget my new Get The Look page. I’ve put pictures with links of everything I have worn in my style posts, (clothes, accessories, jewellery, lipsticks), that are currently available to buy.  This page saves you trawling through the archives if you’ve seen something you like in a previous post and want to know if it’s still available.

My next blog post will be all about the black-tie awards ceremony so keep an eye out!