Having never been to an event hosted by them, I was over the moon to attend the recent Laura Ashley SS15 Press Day. I have been a dedicated fan of Laura Ashley since I was a little girl with their classic sweet pea fabric as my bed linen and curtains, we also had the Laura Ashley hydrangea fabrics in my parents room so they were everywhere! As you can imagine I couldn't wait to see what Laura Ashley had in store for next season, especially as not only do I love fashion, I'm all about my home and garden too.
I started having a look around the home and garden areas of the press event first where there were plenty of perfect gifts. It's always handy to get ideas for presents whenever possible, as it illuminates those panic moments we have when we realize we need to get something for someones birthday.
Plenty of beautiful smells filled the room but I was drawn to the scents of the sweet pea candles and room freshener. There were gorgeous frames, pictures and other items ideal for home accessories and envious presents.
Fabrics from Laura Ashley sell themselves, as season after season they seem to hit the nail on the head regardless. I loved the Natural Glamour collection especially because of the off purples and dainty tones, it's the ideal combination for my lovely blog office to give it a quiet ambiance vibe.
They had specific Laura Ashley paints on display which are pain free for those wanting to revamp furniture... why pain free you ask? No sanding required! After taking weeks to revamp my purple office desk I'd certainly recommend an easier option! Kirstie Allsopp eat your heart out so get upcycling.
The other thing I spotted was a printed roller, forget having to faff about using wallpaper you can use this roller that has a print on it allowing you to paint the pattern straight onto the wall. There was some discussion over that fact you'd need a very steady hand to use it, but if you try it out on furniture for a spruce up first and see how you get on, then perhaps venture to the bedroom that has been dying for tidy up!
As mentioned to many I'm currently doing up various rooms in my home so anything I can add or gain ideas for is on my visual radar. I noticed that for SS15, Laura Ashley have taken inspiration for some industrial lighting but in line with their brand standards it of course. There was a gorgeous duck egg blue and similar classic Laura Ashley shades and big possibility for my kitchen lighting... watch this space.
The other piece of lighting that caught my attention had a clear bottom, like a jar but with a blue tint to it. When talking to a member of the press team apparently the idea is that you can fill the jar with whatever you like i.e. pebbles from the beach or flowers etc.
With any collection there will always be staple pieces which will be amended on marginally, but equally so Laura Ashley had totally impressed me with some different but fabulous prints and designs for SS15.
I fell head over heels in love with a pair of cigarette floral trousers, (I know, I do love my floral trousers) but these were different in a dusky pink tone that made them super chic. I spoke to one of the fashion designers for Laura Ashley and was told these were part of their luxe range, ideal for special occasions such as weddings. A new concept for me as I don't believe I've ever considered wearing trousers to a wedding, but after seeing these I'd really think about it...
I saw plenty of popping color in various garments and kimonos that had been styled by layering and teamed with a belts. Everything I was seeing was getting a big thumbs up from me, but I particularly took notice of the beautiful colours used on their leather bags. I can't say I'd ever really thought or noticed Laura Ashley bags before but these truly surprised me with how modern and on trend they were.
Overall I'd say my first Laura Ashley Press Day experience was a success but the only problem is I want to fill my house with everything and wear all the clothes too. Even though I am loving Autumn and the run up to Christmas I can't help but feel excited about SS15, wonderful pastel tones, picnics in the park and of course, florals.. I will most certainly be looking forward to it.
