A LOVE AFFAIR WITH PEDRO MIRALLES

Although the title may imply it to some; this is not confession hour and I have not actually had a love affair with a man called Pedro Miralles!

Pedro Miralles is a superbly crafted, expertly sourced Spanish footwear brand that I have recently discovered through my many trips to Hoad Shoes in Sevenoaks, Kent. Having incredibly narrow feet (standard is a 'D' width, I am a 'B') and being in the age that we are where the normal is now average to wide I really struggle finding shoes that don't slip on the heel - que numerous distressing shopping trips and trying on sessions! As you can imagine, discovering the beautiful collection by Pedro Miralles and trying on the superb selection and them ACTUALLY FITTING oh my heart skipped a beat!

(Just a note - although I have always struggled to find shoes that fit, if you looked in my shoe collection you would have trouble believing my claim!)

So far I have acquired three beautifully made pairs of Pedro Miralles shoes (all pictured below).

Say hello to my first pair of Pedro's - patent camel pumps with gold buckle detail. To me these scream sophistication - a classic cut with slightly more heel than you would expect from an every day pump make these perfect for dressier occasions, work or casual events. 

Number two - a fabulous sale purchase (if I do say so myself!) again another classic model black patent court shoes. The almond toe shape, thick platform and patent finish make these a timeless piece of footwear beauty.

Pair number three - coral sling back pumps. Once again the gold detailing, Cuban style heel and contrast stitching to the upper create a stylish and (I'm going to say it again) beautiful looking shoe.

My love for Pedro Miralles shoes began with the fact that they are a perfect fit for me but really took off with the attention to detail and classic styles which are transformed from your generic every day shoe with the addition of perfectly chosen colour palettes, material finishes and interesting trims. 

Next up on my Pedro Miralles lust list are these stunning burgundy knee high heeled boots and the black loafer-esq pumps.

I love the deep rich tone of this boot would look utterly fabulous for an evening alternative to court shoes; the finish of the leather ensures this boot doesn't dress down any outfit ensemble.

I love a classic loafer/moccasin style (who doesn't?!)  these are loosely based around them keeping elements such as the tassel and toe shape but dress it up by adding the contrast patent block heel and rich suede uppers. 

I think Pedro and I will have a lasting relationship although I believe my bank account will protest profusely!

O HEAR US WHEN WE CRY TO THEE FOR THOSE IN PERIL ON THE SEA; A MEMORIAL

Hi Lovelies!

This weekend my step dad had the honour of being asked to lay a wreath at the Sub-Mariners Memorial service in London; and we were asked to accompany him. 

The Sub-Mariners memorial service remembers all of those brave soldiers that have been lost at sea; this memorial service is always on the Sunday preceding Remembrance Sunday. 

The service began with the Sub-Mariners band playing while the sailors, admirals and others marched towards the memorial wall. 

All the spectators were dressed in black with their Poppy's showing in all their glory against a dark canvas. Ex sub-mariners and current alike were wearing their uniforms which was really lovely to see, so many people there to remember their comrades from all the wars before now. 

Before the memorial started we boarded the HMS President and saw the beautiful views of London - the weather was perfect a crisp, dry day with gorgeous sunshine. 

The service went on for 1 hour and included the naval prayer which can be found here and the naval hymn which can be found in the same place (the title is a line from the hymn, I thought it was very relevant but so poignant). 

As for what I wore; I kept my make-up really neutral for the day going with bronze/brown eyes, neutral lips and pale pink blusher with a white icy tone. 

As I mentioned before we all wore black out of respect I wore a black textured pencil skirt from New Look (similar here) and a thick black jumper (I really feel the cold!) with black suede wedge ankle boots (old from stylistpick.com).

Unfortunately my phone ran out of battery before I could photograph the wreaths but I will upload the ones my sister got soon. The service was beautiful and a fantastic tribute to those lost and those still fighting. To find out more about the Sub-Mariners please click here. 

Have you ever been to a memorial service like this? What did you think? What did you wear?!

Nicola x