Baby it's cold outside

It's absolutely freezing right now, but the sun is shining - which means - new sunglasses time. I always like to treat myself to new sunglasses in the summer, but I thought to myself on the way to work this morning - why not change my sunnies for the colder months. Why not ay? I think i'm going to switch up my Ray Ban aviators for these gorgeous beauties or alternatively these Prada sunnies.

Hugs & Kisses

xoxoxoxoxox

Moving Home: Saving Tips

As we all know - I bought my first house this year - a lot of people asked how I was able to save money for a deposit. First and foremost, I moved back home with my parents, so a massive chunk of my wages could be saved each month. I then got to work on saving extra money - I went through all my belongings to find items to sell. Clothes were the first thing to go - my pile of for sale clothes ended up taller than me - so needless to say it helped massively. I also sold the majority of my shoes, I have an awful habit of getting so excited at the sight of a pair of shoes that I have to buy them no matter what the  cost. The annoying thing - I kinda wear the same pair of shoes every single day - so they were just wasting space sitting in my wardrobe. Next up - jewellery - I had massive amounts of gold items, that I had no idea what to do with and my friend suggested why not sell gold. Brilliant idea and definitely worth the look. I would sell more, but I have none left! Finally - Starting to save money is the hardest part, but once you see your deposit pilling up it's 100% worth it.

Hugs & Kisses

xoxoxoxoxox

Seasons

I always love finding new online store. There are so many out there and I find it so hard to find new ones. So when I do, I get a little bit excited - so I just had to share it with you. Seasons Clothing is exactly that, with brands such as Wildfox and Acne, you are seriously spoilt for choice. Its is definitely my new one stop shop for all my shopping indulgences. Especially this Barbour jacket this angora Acne knit and this Wildfox USA heart jumper. What would you guys choose? 

Hugs & Kisses

xoxoxoxoxox

Ask Her Friends

Ever received the worst Christmas present ever from your man? Tired of dropping subtle and none-too-subtle hints which aren’t taken? It may not surprise you to learn that you are not alone. But, finally, there is help at hand – from AskHerFriends, a brand new online gift-giving platform that helps guys finally get it right. 

The idea is simple: guys face two problems, in that they never know what to get (despite those hints!) and even if they do know, they don’t have the confidence to go for it, because they’re worried about their fragile egos and getting it wrong. So time and time again we end up with the same boring and unimaginative presents. 

So AskHerFriends helps with both of those problems. They scour the internet looking for the coolest, most beautiful or most unusual gifts – sometimes these are from big stores but it’s better when they’re from the smallest boutiques that you and I have never heard of. People like Flights of Nancy, with beautiful handbags, or Two Red Trees, a collection of fabulous and original creations, or even Pretty Dandy, a passionate online interiors boutique. Imagine a guy getting you a beautiful gift from a little boutique that you didn’t even know existed?! 

And then comes the second problem – confidence in the choice. And here’s the crux of the site – who else can help a guy out? Well, you could tell him exactly what you want, but where is the romance in that? He could listen to you, but how successful has that been to date? Who does that leave? Your friends, exactly! So a guy creates an ‘Advice List’ of ideas, sends that out to your friends, they vote and voilà, he’s got the confidence to get it just right. 

AskHerFriends stresses, too, that it’s not just about the gift itself – it’s about the whole experience. So there are blog posts from gifting experts on anything to making the perfect gift at home to planning a surprise or buying shoes. There’s also real life stories about the best (and worst!) gifts that other women have received. 

So, where did it all start? Founder, Ben Blomerley, always struggled to get his girlfriend a decent present. Yes, he once bought an ex a worm farm. You read that right. A worm farm. So he started asking his girlfriend’s mum and friends for their advice and they were really helpful. He says “I don’t mind putting a bit of effort in, I do want to get something great, but where do you start?!”. Well, AskHerFriends is definitely a step in the right direction…

Shady Decisions

{Prada}

This summer sucked soooo much, the weather was awful, it rained so much it was unreal. I really don't think I remember a summer like it. So to cheer myself up from the lack of tan and motivation, I have decided to purchase a new pair of sunglasses. I hope that this purchase will act in the way that a sun dance does and we will have a super sunny september. I can hope right?




What would you pick?

Hugs & Kisses
xoxoxoxoxox

Ways to wear a vintage scarf

A vintage scarf is a quick, easy and inexpensive way to update any outfit. Even your favourite items from last season can be instantly granted a new lease of life with the addition of a statement vintage scarf. Instead of investing in a whole new outfit, focus on smaller pieces to freshen up your style: a scarf is versatile and can be worn in a number of ways. Team this with a pair of shoes that will complement your look, and you’re good to go! Avenue 32 shoes provide a great choice of flats, heels and sandals in colours and styles that can be matched to your scarf.

Vintage scarves can be picked up easily from charity and thrift stores, as well as dedicated retro clothing outlets. Just because your scarf is a traditional item, however, doesn’t mean you have to wear it in a traditional way. There are many ways to show off your style credentials with a vintage scarf, to suit any taste or occasion.

Thin, silk scarves are often the easiest to style into an outfit. Rather than wearing around your neck, choose a narrow number in an eye-catching colour or pattern and wear on the head, bandana-style. Pull hair into a sleek low ponytail or bun and tie your scarf around the hairline, covering the ears and tying at the nape of the neck. This is a great look for summer festivals and an ideal way of disguising unwashed hair!

In a more formal setting, a vintage scarf can add a pop of colour to your work outfit and brighten up any dark-toned suit. A chiffon scarf works well for this look, adding a light and feminine touch to masculine tailoring and work wear. Simply tie around the neck and fasten in a bow. Light, pastel hues provide a particularly striking contrast to navy or black suits and can be matched with your favourite Avenue 32 clothing and shoes!

A wider and thicker vintage scarf is a fab alternative to a cardigan or bolero. Wearing a scarf in this way is perfect for completing a wedding or party outfit. A patterned vintage scarf with textural detail, like ruffles or fringing can be draped around the shoulders to add style and warmth. If you opt for detailing, you should keep the shape and style of your dress simple: a shift is a failsafe option for weddings and formal events.

Instead of splashing out on a whole outfit, update your classics with a vintage scarf. Worn in multiple ways, these can be matched with shoes and accessories to revive any attire.

Gorgeous goods to get on an Xmas wishlist

Christmas may still be a few months away, but as summer slides into autumn, that festive time will soon be upon us. Although planning your all-important gift list may seem a little premature, who hasn’t been on a shopping trip and gazed longingly at pretty clothes and knick-knacks that you couldn’t justify buying yourself?

Considering things you may need or fancy and collating a record now means that, come December, you’ll be spared the mad rush of gift buying for friends and family whilst trying to recall your own wish list. Whether you’re a fashionista with a penchant for the sartorial, a keen cook and a whizz in the kitchen or stylishly house-proud, the following gorgeous goods will definitely find a place on your Christmas list.

A Michael Kors watch is sure to get you noticed, and makes for a great way to dress up a plain, tired outfit. This gold plated Jet Set timepiece features a crystal covered bezel for added bling, though the uniform colour lends an air of sophistication. A practical gift in a timeless design means any girl would be overjoyed to unwrap this beauty on Christmas morning!

Few can resist the charming prints and kitsch designs of Cath Kidston homeware and accessories. Even if you are far cry from domestic goddess, you can easily add colour and fun to your home with an item from the extensive range. This cotton apron in a cute washed roses design is ideal for keeping your outfit mess-free and its design will add a touch of vintage-inspired chic to your kitchen.

The French are famed for their sense of effortless style, and for the home, nothing beats the design classics of Le Creuset. Key pieces in striking tones make ideal gifts that will last a lifetime. Why not enjoy your morning espresso continental-style, with this cute set of espresso cups and saucers from Le Creuset’s Café Collection? And of course, an accompanying pain au chocolat is a must!

Every girl loves to indulge in luxury brands and homeware, and Christmas provides the perfect excuse to stock up! For more ideas, why not browse Achica homeware for the latest must-haves.

Finally, no Christmas list is complete without the obligatory pair of new gloves to keep hands toasty on those chilly days. Instead of traditional black or dark shades, opt for this multi-coloured leather pair in Paul Smith’s iconic swirl design. Stand out from your high-street sisters in the essential accessory for winter.

Whilst no one will be wishing away the summer, after taking note of these stunning gift ideas and browsing the net for further inspiration, we will all be left increasingly eager for December’s arrival!

Emerald

Green is a colour that I usually stay away from. Mainly because it was my little sisters fave colour (Hi Cat!) and it simply wasn't cool to like anything that she liked. Example - for years I pretended to hate peanut butter, just because it was her absolute must in all things breakfast - fast forward 15 years and I am obsessed with it. Much like the peanut butter, green has grown on me (Shhhhh don't tell the sister), and I no longer turn my nose up at it - oh I'm such a big girl now. Recently I have incorporated some green into my wardrobe with items such as cardigans and camisoles, however I think its time to add some jewels into the mix. So what better way to do so, than with Emerald rings from Gems.TV. Turns out an Emerald is actually my birthstone (who knew), so jumping on the emerald band wagon couldn't have been more apt.

Hugs & Kisses

xoxoxoxoxox

Evening Wear

Now the summer season is upon us (supposedly), it is safe to say that wedding season is well under way. This year, I have been left uninspired with what to wear to weddings, usually this isn't a problem. I always have a dress for every possible occasion, however, I just can't seem to come up with anything or even put a skirt and top together. If you're diary looks anything like mine, then you are in definite need of some cute dresses. Seen as the high street had nothing to offer, i've had to change my shopping tactic and switch to some gorgeous grown up designer evening dresses. 

Hugs & Kisses

xoxoxoxoxox

MDKonline

If you follow me on Twitter, you would have seen my sad tweets about me loosing my leather jacket. It's gone to leather jacket heaven or into someone else's house. I literally have no idea where it has run off to. Well MDK (Major Design Korporation) online has saved the leather jacket day. woo hoo! You really don't realise how much of a wardrobe staple a leather jacket is, until it is no longer in said wardrobe. I feel bad as I was getting really fed up with it and thought I should start looking for a new one - and now I have to! MDKonline has some fabulous little finds and I have found myself going to a fro with regards to these 2 colours. Which one do I get?

If you want to find out more information about the brand, please visit the MDK TV channel.

Hugs & Kisses

xoxoxoxoxox

Buying a New Build: Part Three

I have now moved in all my bits and pieces, sorted out all my furniture and decided on what artwork I want in my hallway, put up curtains, bought a dining room table and decided on a bar cart for entertaining purposes - Phew! Moving into a new home and starting all over again, brings with it lots of excitement and brokeness (im inventing a new word). 

You really don't realise how much you need to have sorted when buying a house and filling it with lots of lovely nice things. One thing that didn't even cross my mind was home contents insurance, which is essential. I have to admit I didn't have that the last time I moved out, which was very naughty of me. So many of my friends have had their houses broken into and literally everything stolen - laptops, computer games, clothes, jewellery - you name it, all gone. So I now have that sorted - woopie! Next up - I NEEDA KETTLE! For some reason this has literally been the hardest choice and I don't even drink tea!

Can't wait to show you pictures.

Hugs & Kisses

xoxoxoxoxox

Maxstudio event at the Serpentine Gallery

Amanda Le Bon wearing Leon Max Fall 2012 collection.

Hey Loves. Today I thought that I would share with you some celeb piccies of the Maxstudio and  Serpentine Gallery co-organisators of the event, which took place last Tuesday night.
The event was sponsored by Leon Max who is the founder and principal designer behind the US-based multi-platform fashion company that bares his name. The company opened their first UK shop earlier this year in Notting Hill. Which is a good thing as I think I may have fallen in love with every item of clothing on the website. The most amazing dress by far has to be the orange crinkled silk chiffon maxi dress as worn by Olivia Grant (see pics). How perfect would it be for a beach holiday Carrie Bradshaw style?

Cara Delevingne

Caroline Sieber

Jade Parfitt wearing Leon Max Fall 2012.

Jade Williams wearing Leon Max Collection.

Olivia Grant wearing Leon Max Collection.

Suki Waterhouse

Tallulah Harlech wearing Leon Max fall 2012.

* All pic credits go to  Dave Benett

Hugs & Kisses

xoxoxoxoxox

Bye-Bye Achy Feet

We've all been sucked in by the allure of beautiful, impractical shoes. A recent study even proved this, as 8 out of 10 women asked owned 9 pairs of shoes they'd worn once, twice or not at all. Now that's a lot of shoes! But surely by now we shouldn't still be choosing between style and comfort?

Hopefully the one size fits all width will become a thing of the past. But until then there are a few retailers that stock on-trend women's shoes in a variety of widths, ensuring that we avoid buying those that pinch or rub. The key to finding the perfect fit is to measure your feet before any shopping trip. All you need to do is grab a tape measure and check out this quick and simple tutorial by DUO...

Once you've got your measurements, you can use these to find the perfect fitting shoes either online or on the high street. Opt for anything from sky high wedges to embellished ballet flats or delicate sandals. For spring/summer look out for on-trend blues, from ice blue to navy and cobalt. Or try opulent metallic for a go-with-anything colour, in gold, silver or pewter.

SmartBuyGlasses

Each year, I allow myself to pick a new pair of sunglasses and be as extravagant as I like. I've had Marc Jacobs, Ray Bans and Prada to name but a few. This year, I want to get something a little bit different, so I have banned myself from aviators or wayfarers. I'm gravitating towards these Prada Baroque's as they look quite artistic or alternatively these DKNY ones are very minimalistic and might just stop me from looking like a bug.
Which ones do you guys prefer?



Hugs & Kisses
xoxoxoxoxox

Shop Shop Shop

Image via WeHeartIt

I find myself preferring to order online now, a lot more than I used to. Initially, I enjoyed shopping every Saturday, browsing the endless rails of clothing and leaving with an item that I literally could't leave behind. However as I get older, I find myself constantly busy with friends, work, chores bla bla bla. So shopping online has now become my new shopping routine. It's not a new concept, we all know shopping online has grown a million times over in the last few years, but window shopping used to be a hobby and I tried not to use the internet for said shopping. These days my favourite go to online stores are Very and Boden. Especially Very they have some AMAZING labels and AMAZING shoes in stock and I could literally buy everything in store.

Do you guys prefer to go to the shops or visit the internet?

Hugs & Kisses
xoxoxoxoxox

Best of British Fashion

With the Queen's jubilee just around the corner, this summer is the perfect time to celebrate being British. We've got an extra bank holiday to mark the occasion and the weather is sunny (fingers crossed it holds out!), so there'll typically British activities going on all throughout the country in the next few weeks.

If you want to get really patriotic, I've put together three looks that showcase how you can make the most of all our fantastic, home-gown fashion designers, whatever you've got planned this Jubilee weekend. national anthem singing is entirely optional.

Bunting, picnic tables and buffet food - is there a more British way to celebrate than a good, old-fashioned garden or street party? Teaming a casual Alexander McQueen skater dress in this season's hottest colour - coral - with sharp tailoring in the form of this Stella McCartney blazer will keep you weather appropriate no matter what the British summertime decides to throw at us (just add some black tights if it's chilly!). Finish the look with matching sunglasses and contrasting wedges - so your heels don't sink into your neighbour's immaculate lawn - and add edge with this leopard print bag by Mulberry.

The Queen is heading to Epsom Derby on June 2nd, and if you're lucky enough to be going too - or if you're going to any racing event over the summer - this Matthew Williamson number is just what you need. The neon print is sophisticated but cool, and teaming it with quirky shoes and a neutral bag and jewellery will ensure you stand out from the rest of the crowd at the racetrack - don't forget the obligatory hat!

So it might not be a typical British activity, but I defy anyone to think about the Queen's jubilee without thinking about the Sex Pistol's anthem "God Save The Queen" and the punk movement of the 70's. If you'd like to channel your inner Siouxsie Sioux over the bank holiday weekend, there's no better way to do it that in lots of Vivienne Westwood! I've opted for an unusual leather jacket and twisted hem trousers, and added an oversized animal print tee-shirt. Layer up the jewellery - the more skulls the better - and add some studded pumps (all over the high - street this season but staying true to the British theme I've opted for McQueen). Finally this Lizard print Mulberry bag finishes the look off perfectly.

Liberty-Belle Howard is a freelance writer and blogger currently writing on behalf of Matches fashion. You can read more from her at her fashion blog.