this modern love.

This article appeared in the last issue of my University Newspaper last month. Enjoy.

Never have John Paul Young’s song lyrics been more true than this summer; love is truly in the proverbial air. That ‘air’ being; the catwalks and the high street. Romance is back with a vengeance. Think pretty pastels, gentle ruffles and lacey trims with all the frills.

My high-street hot spot for this fairytale fashion fix is Miss Selfridge. Admittedly, somewhat hit and miss but it is bang on for enviable romance pieces right now. 

Try one of their light-as-air dresses or blouses (or both)on its own or with a pair of staple denim shorts if the hem-line is a bit risque. Don't confine romance to daytime dressing; vamp it up of an evening with statement platforms. Guarenteed to get you the love, or at least a handful of compliments. And with a new branch opening in York's Topshop soon, what better excuse to treat yourself.

Lace is fast becoming a timeless classic; starting off as a mini-trend back in autumn '08 it shows no signs of dissappearing. Lucky for me and you I say. Lace is a lust-have for the romance trend. I bought a lovely white lace shirt from a vintage store in Newcastle recently. Worn with the appropriate undergarments, buttoned up and tucked into a pair of worn denim shorts or thrown over a tea dress it prettyfies any outfit. Be sure to check out the likes of DEEP and Purple Haze for a romantic steal before the end of term.

When it comes to jewellery think delicate and dainty. Quaint vintage boutiques are your best bet if you want a piece that every other person won't have in a few weeks time. Failing that, dig out or invest in the number one jewellery box staple; the string of pearls.

Now for the boys, that's right a masculine take on ‘Romance’ is guaranteed to earn you brownie points with your female associates. Get in touch with your feminine side. The same rules apply except; leave the lace. If pastel skinnies cramp your style try a light coloured tee. Topman's are two for £12 at the moment, plus student discount. The classic deck shoe has had a 'romantic' colouring make-over. Asides from your standard brown and leather numbers, there are an assortment of grey scale pairs on the high streetn ideal for a Summer update.

If you are struggling and find yourself blushing in the mirror with embarrassment and not the usual vanity;then check out Channel 4’s Frock-Me! with Alexa Chung and Henry Holland. Episode five is dedicated to the summer romance trend and has some valuable pointers. Girls like boys who (don't pretend to) know about fashion so see it as killing two birds with one stone so to speak.

Sorted; for a summer of love. You just need that hot summer fling to provide the perfect accessory.