Category: Shopping

The Fashion Editor-Fave Brand That’s Taking Over Politics and Palaces — ME+EM Is Having That Summer Sale

When a brand is spotted on royalty and in cabinet meetings, you know it’s doing something right. ME+EM, the London-based label founded in 2009 by Clare Hornby, has quietly — and now not-so-quietly — become the thinking woman’s style secret. The philosophy? Flattering, functional, forever. And the delivery? Spot on. Loved by the Princess of Wales, Daisy Edgar-Jones, Phoebe Dynevor, and basically everyone with a well-curated capsule wardrobe, ME+EM’s pieces are the ones you reach for on your most put-together days. Think structured midi-dresses, power tailoring with soft edges, and elevated basics that actually feel good to wear. But don’t let the soft power vibe fool you — this brand is making big moves. When Lady Victoria Starmer stepped into Number 10 in that Labour-red crepe dress after the general election, ME+EM saw a 300% spike in traffic. Angela Rayner followed suit — literally — in a green trouser set for her deputy PM debut, and an orange dress that showed up at the first cabinet meeting like it had always belonged. And it’s not just making waves in Westminster. The brand landed on the Sunday Times 100 list of Britain’s fastest-growing private companies (two years running), and in 2024, it hit £120 million in sales — a 46% jump. Quiet luxury, loud results. Now for the really good news: ME+EM’s summer sale is officially live, with up to 50% off some of their most-loved pieces. So whether you’re building a forever wardrobe or just want to wear what the royals and reformers are wearing, now’s the time to add to basket. Your “wear on repeat” future self will thank you. Summer Dress Summer Blouse Wedding Guest Dress

It’s Backless Szn, Darlings! Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Sticky Bras (And Why You Need One)

Just in time for backless szn, wouldn’t you agree? And let’s give credit where it’s absolutely due: the humble sticky bra (and everything under that magnificent umbrella, from boob tape to discreet nipple covers) is, in our humble opinion, one of the most ingenious pieces of lingerie anyone with breasts can own. A true sartorial saviour. Come spring and summer, when our wardrobes lean into those slinky silks, daring cut-outs, and unapologetically open backs, a lot of us find ourselves relying on these invisible wonders. With an adhesive bra, you can wave goodbye to those pesky wardrobe malfunctions and, more importantly, banish the dreaded sight of your favourite strapless bra band peeking out at precisely the wrong moment. Because truly, what is more “unchic” than exposed lingerie when it’s not meant to be? Do Stick-On Bras Actually Work? (Spoiler: Yes!) Apart from taking all the guesswork (and mild panic) out of getting dressed for those trickier numbers, the best of the sticky silicone varieties are ridiculously easy to apply, remove, clean, and – crucially – reuse. That’s right, no need to stress about that unfortunate skin tugging that can sometimes accompany breast tape and nipple covers. So, whether you’ve got a show-stopping backless wedding guest dress demanding attention, a plunging white shirt poised for a sizzling date night, or a near-sheer linen midi calling your name for an upcoming holiday, a genuinely good stick-on bra can, quite frankly, make all the difference. It’s the silent hero of your summer wardrobe. Below, we’ve curated the crème de la crème of sticky bras and discreet solutions, many of which have been rigorously put through their paces by our very own La Mode UK editor, Daniel Izebe (Though a man). These are the ones that will truly offer you support under pretty much everything – whether you’re working with a petite bust or a more abundant one. Our Tried & Tested Sticky Bra Favourites: The La Mode UK Verdict What one person might crown as the ultimate sticky bra won’t necessarily be the same for another woman (we are, after all, delightfully unique creatures!). That’s why we’ve made a conscious effort to get as many as possible – from all shapes and sizes. Ahead, discover the 10 sticky bras we genuinely rate. Lounge’s Stick-On Bra If Lounge’s cult-favourite t-shirt bras are anything to go by (and trust us, they are), then their foray into the stick-on world is set to be an absolute smash hit. This style is already winning us over with its three different skin-toned colourways – because, finally, some options! Pros: A decent range of skin tones, which we’re always here for. Cons: We’re desperate for reviews, come on girls! Sizes: A-E. Colours: 3. Materials: Spandex, chinlon. Maidenform Push Up Combo Wing Bra Now this is a clever cookie! This push-up marvel offers serious lift, complete with those essential adhesive wings for all your daring backless moments. Plus, it throws in clear shoulder and back straps for when you fancy a little extra security. Genius. Pros: Proper supportive underwire; those brilliant removable clear straps. Cons: Some reviewers reckon it’s a bit of a commitment for long wears, but beauty is pain, right? Sizes: 2-5. Colours: 2. Materials: Polyester, elastane. Store:  Amazon. The Game Changer Lift & Shape Bra Perfectly poised for your most plunging necklines or a truly backless dress, this functional breast tape is crafted from sustainable hemp (fancy!) with a skin-safe backing. It’s here to ensure everything stays precisely where it should, all night long. Pros: You get five in the pack – hurrah Cons: On the pricier side for single-use, and darling, we need more than one colour. Sizes: 1-3. Colours: 1. Materials: Hemp, nylon. Ganache Nude Stick On Bra With a daringly low plunge neck designed to accommodate the most audacious silhouettes, this stick-on gem will have you truly going incognito. Nobody will ever guess your little secret. Pros: A solid 5-star customer review – that’s always a good sign! Cons: A warning for our sensitive-skinned beauties – might not be your go-to. Sizes: AA-DD. Colours: 2. Materials: Nylon, elastane. Store:  Victoria’s Secret. Fashion Forms Bandeau Silicone Bra Another universally adored sticky bra, this bandeau from Fashion Forms is crafted from smooth silicone, guaranteeing a flawless finish even under the most unforgiving bodycon dresses. Essential for those sleek lines. Pros: Absolutely brilliant for universally suitable skin tones. Love to see it! Cons: Just a heads up, it’s 100% silicone, so those with sensitivities might want to patch test. Sizes: S-XL. Colours: 1. Materials: Silicone. Backless and Strapless Push Up Bra Wired and shaped just like your favourite everyday bra, this Boux Avenue style is a top-drawer triumph. It’s a rare gem – a strapless, sticky bra that also delivers on the push-up front. We’re stocking up, frankly. Pros: Comes with detachable straps for versatility – wear it halter, wear it with a back strap, whatever you fancy! Cons: Come on Boux, we need more than two colours! Sizes: 2-6. Colours: 2. Materials: Polyester, elastane. U Plunge Push Up Stick on Bra A-E (M&S) Wearing something dangerously low-cut and backless? Thinking you’re doomed to go braless? Fear not, because this M&S design is absolutely fit for purpose. If only it came in more colours, our prayers would truly be answered. Pros: At less than £25, it’s a total steal! Cons: Just the one colour, M&S, you’re breaking our hearts! Sizes: 1-6. Colours: 1. Materials: Polyamide, elastane. Magic Lift-Its Stick-On Bra From the wizards at Magic Bodyfashion comes this rather clever lift stick-on bra. It boasts two silicone cups with the power to give your bust a boost of at least one cup size. Plus, detachable straps mean it’s ready for a wide variety of dress styles. Pros: Nicely shaped to give excellent full-boob coverage. Cons: The ‘lift’ section sits quite high, so perhaps not for your super-low necklines. Sizes: A-DD. Colours: 1. Materials: Silicone. Bye Bra Push Up Reusable Stick On Cups Moulded and, crucially, dermatologically

How to Wear Spring’s Fisherman Trend Without Looking Like You Just Docked a Boat

If your wardrobe’s been flirting with “coastal grandma” or “quiet luxury,” it’s time to reel in the next evolution of nautical nostalgia — the fisherman aesthetic. Equal parts functional and fashionable, this spring’s buzziest trend is less about actual fishing and more about dressing like you live in a seaside village with great Wi-Fi. From water-resistant outerwear to breezy stripes and deck-friendly boat shoes, the fisherman aesthetic takes rugged coastal workwear and gives it a breezy, TikTok-approved glow-up. It feels like a natural extension of heritage styles and other viral trends. It brings an approachable charm that feels like a lifestyle — not just a look. Runways have already co-signed this sea-soaked shift. Miu Miu’s SS24 collection played up marine motifs with raincoats, rope accessories, and swim trunks, while Ralph Lauren’s SS25 show went all-in with sailor stripes, gold buttons, and crochet separates that looked like a yacht club fantasy. But let’s be honest — the original inspo? Actual fishermen. “There’s something endlessly cool about this style’s rugged roots, It’s all about function — durable knits, canvas jackets, and easy movement.” And while it sounds niche, this is one of those trends that you can ease into without overhauling your closet. You don’t need to look like you’re about to cast a net. Just play with elements like nautical jewelry, netted flats, or a canvas tote.” Below, we’ve broken down the key pieces you’ll need to fish for compliments all season. Essential 1: Trench & Rain Coats A core pillar of the fisherman look is outerwear that actually works. Think: trench coats in classic khaki or bright fisherman yellow. Bonus points for rain-repelling fabrics or hardware details like toggles and drawstrings. Style Tip: Throw a belted trench over a striped tee and linen shorts. Sprinkle in a weathered cap for a nonchalant finish. Essential 2: Stripes & Nautical Prints Breton stripes are back, baby. From crisp button-downs to matching sets, these oceanic classics offer a foolproof way to dip into the trend. Want to be bolder? Try prints with sailboats, fish, or rope textures. People are really leaning into conversational prints this summer. Fish motifs, sailing knots, even netting textures — it’s playful and unexpected. Style Tip: Pair a striped polo with white denim or layer a fish-print shirt under a trench for coastal cool with a twist. Essential 3: Boat Shoes & Netted Flats If this trend had a mascot, it’d be the humble boat shoe. It all started with the footwear. From Sperry-style loafers to macramé flats, the right shoes ground the look in seafaring chic. Style Tip: Contrast is key. Style chunky boat shoes with a flowy dress or match macramé flats with utility trousers. Essential 4: Bucket Hats No fisherman-inspired fit is complete without a hat that screams “sun protection.” Opt for canvas or water-repellent styles with structure, or lean quirky with retro patterns and embroidery. Style Tip: Use the hat as your wild card — add color, texture, or print to elevate a simple striped base. Essential 5: Oversized Canvas Bags Canvas totes and slouchy carryalls? Functional, cute, and totally on-theme. Look for rope details, anchor prints, or weathered finishes for the full effect. Style Tip: Use an oversized bag as a balance piece when wearing more fitted or layered items. Bonus: it doubles as your picnic basket. Final Thoughts The beauty of the fisherman aesthetic lies in its balance — structure meets softness, tradition meets trend, and fashion meets function. It’s like stepping into a coastal daydream. You don’t have to live by the ocean to embrace the charm of dressing like you do. So whether you’re city-bound or truly seaside, cast your sartorial net wide this season. Your spring wardrobe just got a little saltier — in the best way.