Fashion | Chic beach style on a budget

Summer styling can be expensive, especially if you are lucky enough to have several holidays booked over the summer, or if the weather is amazingly warm – no need to worry about that happening in the UK anytime soon. 

I’m currently lounging in the sunshine on the terrace of the apartment we are staying at on the Costa Del Sol on my annual family holiday. I usually take my time packing and planning outfits, topping up my wardrobe to create the looks I want. This year I left packing right until the last minute, and ended up with a mismatch of clothes - I'm not really sure what I was thinking. 

I put my lack of planning down to a few things, I've been super busy with the move and my sister's wedding celebrations, last Saturday was hen party number 1, making Sunday completely redundant. I'm also not feeling great in myself, as I've put on a fair amount of weight in the year since my last holiday and am just really unhappy with myself. After months of thinking about what I wanted from life, I decided to take the bull by the horns and go freelance, allowing me to have more flexibility and create a lifestyle that suits me better. My new chapter will give me the time and motivation needed to go to the gym, plan healthy meals and focus on decorating the house.

I head to Dubrovnik in a little over a week, with my sister and her friends, all lovely girls, but all very glam and very beautiful and I really don't want to feel out of place when I'm with them. We're all back here in Spain a few weeks later for the big wedding. Needless to say, I have a few things to add to my wardrobe (and plan what I am packing). As I'll be losing weight I don't want to spend too much money on things I'm going to wear this summer, so I've been shopping sales using LoveTheSales which allows me to search multiple websites at once for whatever I desire.

This beach outfit costs just over £100, with items like the Beach bag (£20.25), Sunglasses (£8.00), Havaianas (£17.49) and Cover up all being items I could reuse in other outfits. The sequined straw hat is a big statement piece at the moment, which is something that I couldn't resist. I also opted for this lovely one-piece swimsuit, I have been wearing bikinis this holiday, but I think I will feel less self-conscious in a one piece. 

What are your beachwear must haves? Let me know and give me inspiration for the rest of my summer style!

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Fashion | Slogan Styling Ideas

Hand’s up who else is slogan crazy? Whether it’s hats, t-shirts or jackets, slogans are massive in fashion right now. Everyone is wearing them, even the super chic Victoria Beckham. But this isn’t a surprise considering how versatile an item they are.

Chuck them on with leggings and a jacket while you run errands, tuck them into jeans for a casual lunch or team them with a pleated midi skirt and heels for a more feminine look, all are great options.

With the growth of political movements, such as #BlackLivesMatters or empowering communities such as Girl Boss, there has been a rise in people making a clear statement with their fashion choices.

But don’t worry, wearing a slogan t-shirt doesn’t always mean you must make a massive statement. If you don’t feel comfortable with getting involved in politicas, you can go down the novelty route like me. As always, you can see that I am taking my diet very seriously, with this Pizza is my Soulmate tee! This one is unisex, so Joe, the real pizza fiend, can always steal it for himself.

Not sure how to style your slogan tee? I have been scouring scanning Instagram for some great slogan tee inspiration….

I love this Weekend Vibes jumper, shared by fellow Brighton Blogger Everything’s Rosie. This jumper would be ideal with jeans and trainers for weekend walks with Bruno (who I am still to introduce on the blog…)

Weekend Vibes 🌷☕️ I'm going to have a chilled one after all the birthday busyness, and hopefully get some Paris blog posts up for you guys! What are your weekend plans?

A post shared by Rosie🦄 (@everythingsrosiex) on Mar 18, 2017 at 1:31am PDT

Here, Lisa from Shoes and shows how slogan tee’s are a perfect summer staple, with Demin hot pants, and sunglasses, keeping it simple, and summery.

S U N D A Y S T Y L E

A post shared by S H O E S & (@lisa_shoesand) on Mar 26, 2017 at 10:28am PDT

Lydia Tomlinson, shows us how to add a sassy feminine touch with a midi skirt and heels, while keeping it chic and strong.

| Sassy on Saturday |

A post shared by Lydia Tomlinson (@lydiajanetomlinson) on Mar 25, 2017 at 4:20am PDT

And finally fashion icon and all round female boss, Victoria Beckham dresses down her business style, and shows that she us quite happy to make fun of herself.

Yeah mine too @victoriabeckham 😐😍 #VictoriaBeckham #SloganTee #StreetStyle #FashionMaffia

A post shared by Fashion Maffia (@fashionmaffia) on Mar 28, 2017 at 10:08pm PDT

How would you style yours?   

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Fashion | Winter runaround outfit

Winter is the worst time for running errands. All I want to do is sit snuggled on the sofa watching Netflix and drinking tea. I find that my anemia is a lot worse this time of year. I have no energy and am just feel overall rubbish, this pretty much renders me a weekend recluse.

The only way I can get out of the house, without looking a mess, is disguising myself in winter (faux) furs, warming knits and switching my old and battered Ugg boots for some comfy but stylish boots. I also keep to minimum makeup - just BB cream and eyebrows - in these pictures I forgot the trusty mascara.

This outfit has been a firm favorite, just to throw on, keep comfy and snuggly and not look like a zombie while I walk round Tesco. The jumper is from Simply Be and is great worn with leggings or jeans. Here I am wearing my 'fancy' leopard leggings, I call them fancy because they are more than just run of the mill black leggings and quite a good quality material. I also wear these to my gymnastic classes!

A lot of womens winter coats at the moment are rather shapeless and bulky, which don't necessarily suit my frame. But I found this utter gem of a coat at JD Williams. It gives me a bit of shape, has a lovely faux fur collar and is also quite smart for a dinner date or a night out.

What are your key runaround pieces?

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Fashion | Casual Christmas Outfit

This year, Christmas is back to normal. We’re all going to mums to spend Christmas Day as a family, my MIL will be coming along with my Nan and her cousin. This year we have another addition (no baby), our little Boston puppy Bruno, will be joining. Mum has already bought him a Christmas themed bed and a jumper to keep him warm and “…include him in the festivity…”. While the poor Sega (our cat) sits on the sofa all by herself at home! Although, I think she will appreciate time away from Bruno.

 We will all sit around drinking fizz, playing games, stuffing our faces and opening presents until the early evening, when the day turns into an open house. Friends and family are free to join and I already know that a few people are planning to come. As great as this is and trust me, after a day of being preached to by a certain family member, it is nice to have others to talk to.

However, it comes with its own dilemma. I like to be snuggly – the past few Christmas’s have been spent in comfy lounging clothes sans makeup. But now I need to look fairly decent when the guests come. So here is my casual but passable Christmas outfit.

I have chosen this lovely Esprit dungaree dress, this was a strategic move, as it means no stomach restrictions, no giving in to the inevitable trouser button un-doing allowing more nibbles. I’ve teamed it with this lovely Bardot style top, the neckline add a sense of elegance to it (as long as I remember not to slouch) and the sparkle details adds the Christmas magic, let me not forget the extra sparkle added by these tights. I haven’t decided on shoes yet – do I take day shoes and evening shoes, do I just give up and wear ugg boots? Or shall I take comfy warm socks and a pair of flats for later?

Mum, Joe and I like to pop out for dirty cigarettes throughout the day, they have a covered outdoors area with some heaters, but with this adorable hat (similar here) and this lovely pink boyfriend jacket I will no doubt stay toasty.

I’ve teamed the outfit with this lovely dusky pink watch to match the hat and jacket and a neutral toned bag, which will hopefully be big enough to carry my Christmas swag home.

I may bring a long a novelty Christmas jumper too, but only to wear during dinner so that I don’t spill food all down me – I’m a liability!

What are your Christmas plans – I’d love to hear them!

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Lifestyle | Deck the halls with Birthstone Jewellery

How on earth is it December already? It's completely crept up on me and I've hardly bought any Christmas gifts, which is really unlike me. I like to buy thoughtful gifts, especially at Christmas, I think it's important. Anyone can just tick things off of a list.

Taking the time to show that you have listened to or noticed that person's interests to get them something they would love adds to the gift. Knowing someone has gone to such lengths to get you a gift really warms the heart. Christmas is all about giving, and buying gifts that mean something really proves that. With the help of Orelia, I've managed to get my youngest sister, Bella, something I know she'll love.

Bella is someone who I always have tried to get a special gift for. Having a 13 year age gap means that I have watched her grow up. In her younger years, I wanted to make her Christmas as special as possible.

I've bought her dolls, games consoles, and remote control cars. One year I bought her snuggly socks and pretended that that was the only thing I got her, only to reveal the curling tongs she wanted. This year is no exception.

I guess my family is 'unique', we have a family colour. It's Purple. So it's not surprising that Bella, the life, and soul of our family, is born in Febuarary. Making her birthstone Amethyst - I'm just a little jealous as I love amethyst and it's believed positive and cleansing properties. I'm stuck with the not so pretty Peridot.

Bella has been a big fan of birthstone jewellery, she has a few birthstone rings and recently took me to look at more to add to her collection. It seemed like a no-brainer to get her a necklace or bracelet to go with them.

This is the lead up to her 18th birthday week so I might as well start off special and start the year with 'birth' theme. Yes, she is insisting on a whole week in February, to celebrate her birthday. She already has the itinerary, family members have been advised which days and times we are required and where we are going.

As you have probably guessed she is quite high maintenance. She's the life and soul of the party, even when there is no party. But most importantly she is the sweetest and kindest person I know, which is why she deserves something special.

Who are you buying a special gift for this year? Or are you making something? I would love to hear your ideas.

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Fashion | When Harry (Potter) met Fashion

As the temperature drops and, the days shorten it's nearly that time of year.... that's right, HARRY POTTER SEASON. If you love HP as much as I do, the love isn't a seasonal thing. You take the house quizzes (Gryffindor and Thunderbird), find out your Patronus (Manx Cat) and get totally emotional when you hear the word 'Always'. But as Christmas approaches, the whole world embraces HP a little more. 

Just like every year, Sunday will soon be Harry Potter day for one channel. Sky will create it's own Harry Potter Movie channel, and Fantastical Beasts will be in cinemas in just a few weeks.

Despite being 31, I still love Harry Potter as much as I did when I first read it. I read and re-read the whole series until the books fell apart. Each time discovering something new. The tears, the excitement, none of it goes away despite knowing what's about to happen. Joe and my family never understand, they aren't readers, they have never been captured by the stories, never understood the morals the wisdom and everything I love about it. 

I could go on and on about what can be learned from the Harry Potter books. How Neville's growth throughout the series could provide hope to anyone who feels awkward growing up, that the Weasleys' and the Malfoys' personify that money doesn't bring happiness and how a girl can be intelligent, strong and not just be a love interest for a boy.

There are so many things that can be taken from these books, and I often find myself quoting nuggets of wisdom from Dumbledore, or telling Joe he has the emotional range of a teaspoon.

via GIPHY

In a world where we too often see the difference in others, rather than the similarities, I took comfort and strength from Hermione and her 'mudblood' status and how she owned it. To me, it was a parallel to my heritage, while I don't look particularly Persian, my full name gave it away and while most didn't really care, there were still some who made comments. As a teenager, to many, I was just a white girl called Naz, they assumed my name was Natalie or something and I'd just shortened it. They had no reason to hide their vile comments about Islam, or people from the middle east. It took me a long time to be proud of my heritage and I think the world J.K Rowling created and the protagonists that she presented us with helped show me the way. 

Slogan tees, sweatshirts and jackets are being used to make a big statement at the moment and so I decided I would make my own slogan sweatshirt for a bit of fun fashion for Winter. I knew instantly what I wanted on it. Hermione's statement 'Mudblood and proud of it'. I was very happy with the quality and fit of the jumper that Clothes to Order printed the slogan on, and equally happy with the way it washes, the printing stayed fully intact and the new jumper feel didn't go away.

What would you put on your slogan top? Is there a book or TV series that has captured your heart? I'd love to hear, so please comment below.

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* I was sent the slogan sweatshirt for free, under no obligation to post but decided to share my choice of slogan to express my Harry Potter loving.

Fashion | Three Ways to Wear the Bomber Jacket - Autumn Essentials

With the weather we’ve been having the last few weeks it’s hard to believe we are on the cusp of September, that’s right Autumn is coming. The evenings will start to get cooler and kimonos will no longer suffice as the cover-up of choice. But our snuggly winter coats are a bit excessive, especially in this ‘Spanish Plume’.

Enter the Bomber jacket. My collection currently sits at 4. I have a cute pink floral one from Little Mistress, black and grey ones that came from an ASOS multi-pack (similar here) and the most recent addition is this lovely Khaki Green Bomber from plus size brand Pink Clove. I got the size 16 – which is a perfect fit. I’ve worn it a lot since we got back from our holiday and had so many comments – even hubs wants to borrow it.

The Khaki colour is very on trend at the moment and more versatile than you realise. To show you exactly how versatile, I’ve created 3 easy looks for you to throw on this autumn.

Transitioning with shorts

The sun is still shining, my legs are still making appearances (with the help of Garnier Summer Body) but once the sun starts setting a slight chill starts to appear, so adding a bomber is a great way to stay warm. Teaming the bomber with a cute Bretton Top and Pompom shorts is a great way to take this look from day-to-night.

Casual with jeans

If you’ve read my blog before, you will know I love to keep things casual. I live in my jeans and my Superga trainers. Throw on a black tee, add some jewellery and you have my daily uniform! Most would accessories with a choker, but I don’t think that’s a great look on me. So instead I have my trusty Love Bullet. It’s a great look for running errands or grabbing a quick vodka at the pub!

From dressy to edgy

This dress is a new addition to my wardrobe, from BooHoo Plus, it’s a bit out of my comfort zone, it’s been a while since I’ve been so forthcoming with the girls. This may not be crazy cleavage, but the low cut neckline and the strappy detail makes me a bit worried that I’m over exposed and my bomber jacket makes a good safety blanket or cover up.

Which look is your favourite? I’d love to hear what is your autumn essential is too!

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Fashion | Beach Holiday Confidence Styling

I write this from my hotel balcony while in Spain, it's almost time to come home, but this holiday will forever stay in my mind as the one I found my beach body confidence. No, the flight didn't miraculously make me lose 3 stone, my abs didn't suddenly gain definition, I am still the size I have always been. I don't know what has changed in my mind, but I know after I did Whole30 in June I feel better in myself than ever - I will write about my Whole30 journey soon.

Feeling better about myself, I got some acrylics and a much-needed spray tan, along with some new clothes that I felt amazing in and I have never received so many compliments. But the thought of getting into my swimwear was still awful. I left my swim shop too late and couldn't find any swimsuits that would support my boobs and would be delivered in time. So I bought two bikinis which I found using Lyst (I will post these separately) and that is all the swimwear I packed! I was dreading sitting with my family in a two piece, although I don't know why or what I thought would happen. To make myself a bit more confident I bought this ASOS embroidered cover up, which I love so that I didn’t feel totally exposed. But as I looked around I realized that so many of the women in bikinis were not slim, some had big tummy’s like me, others had gorgeous thick thighs and big bums but they all looked happy and beautiful. What on earth had I been so worried about? I felt like I had woken up from a 30-year daze and all of a sudden I saw the light.

If you are still not fully confident about your body don’t jump out of your comfort zone, I have donned a bikini in the past, but was so self-conscious I couldn’t enjoy myself. Instead, opt for something a bit more daring like this ASOS cutout D+ swimming costume.

I find that if you have a full outfit on you tend to feel more confident about yourself too – why not wear jewellery to the beach? I love this Gold Chunky Stone ring. It’s also important to have protection on your eyes, and these Catseye Sunglasses by Whistles are my favourite shape and look super chic. Teaming all of this with a lovely printed beach bag, like this Circle by Sam Edelman one, and these cute Popbands complete the look.

I know swimwear can be a daunting thing for everyone, not matter their shape, but as my mum's friend always says “who’s looking at you?” the answer is no-one, and even if they are I can’t worry myself with other people’s opinions because I can’t change them. All I can change is how I feel about my body – it may not be perfect, but it is mine and if I want to I can make it “better”, but that doesn’t mean I can’t love it and feel confident in the meantime. I’ve wasted 30 years letting people dictate how I feel about my body and that is stopping now.

What do you do to make yourself feel beach confident?

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Fashion | What to Expect from the 2016 Birmingham Clothes Show

This year’s 2016 Birmingham Clothes Show is set to be huge, with some well-known faces from across the fashion industry included in the line-up. Described as a one-stop destination for all things beauty and fashion, you’ll be able to enjoy a unique line-up of brands, fashion experts, catwalks, boutiques and live performances. With access to over 350 pop-up fashion and beauty boutiques, insider experts, non-stop fashion shows and great style advice exclusive to the show, this event is a must-visit for anyone who’s passionate about fashion, beauty and style.

Where’s the Show Located?

The Birmingham Clothes Show is held at the NEC, which is a great location for those who are travelling to the event by car. It’s eight miles east of Birmingham city centre with some great motorway connections and over 16,000 car parking spaces. If you don’t plan to drive to the show, it’s central to all the main public transport stations and is easily accessed from Birmingham Airport. If you’re staying from the 2nd to the 6th of December in order to enjoy the whole show, there are a great range of hotels in Birmingham where you can stay at great prices.

Show Highlights

This year, the Alcatel Fashion Theatre, known as Rock the Runway, is going to bring together music and fashion, with over forty international dancers and models, along with newly discovered artists, which you can enjoy as part of The Clothes Show Discovers – a search to find this year’s headlining acts. You’ll also be able to enjoy a wide variety of trend presentations from some of your high street fashion favourites, all compiled by ITV’s very own fashion presenter, Mark Heyes, who’ll be giving visitors to the show an insight into some of this year’s hottest fashion must-haves. Along with that, there’s a host of well-known faces from the industry expected to appear in the theatre each day.

Catwalks

With your show ticket, you’ll also be able to take a seat at one of the show’s catwalks – the Style Studio and the Discovered Catwalk. Here you’ll be able to get your fix of all the latest fashion and beauty trends, watch interviews with some of the leading fashion designers and listen to what the industry experts have to say. If all of that wasn’t enough, there’ll also be some great on-stage hair and makeup demonstrations to watch – you’ll come home more clued up on beauty than ever before!

Celebrities

It’s no secret that the fashion and beauty industry is filled with celebrity faces and at the Birmingham Clothes Show, you’ll definitely spot some famous faces. Make your way to the Paparazzi Pen, where you’ll be able to visit the hugely popular celebrity signing area to get autographs and selfies with ome of your favourite celebs.

The Birmingham Clothes Show is set to be bigger and better than ever before for 2016, so what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now to this amazing girls’ day out as they’re expected to sell out.

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Fashion| Summer Shoedrobe Essentials

The sun is finally out, and hopefully, it will stay that way. Time to say goodbye to winter boots and thick socks, and hello to painted toes and flip flops.

Summer shoes can take many forms, I guess in practice the perfect Summer wardrobe is a personal thing. For me, as always it is about comfort. Not to say I hate heels or fancy shoes, I just don't like hurting feet and feeling like imminent death is around the corner. For me, there are 5 summer shoe staples.

Espadrilles

This is pretty obvious and is a given really, espadrilles are designed for Summer use. I have these cute ones from Moda in Pelle. With a slight wedge to them, they are perfect for day to night summer days. The ones where you start off going to the beach and end up in a bar, pub or restaurant until late evening because the weather was so nice. They are comfortable, not too smart, not too casual. Also, I like a chunkier look - I feel like I don't have to compromise style for comfort with these.

Light Trainers

Yes, trainers are a must have - I live in mine all year round, but after discovering Superga trainers - these are a firm favourite. Just bring out a pastel or bright colour to match with the summer vibe and you have your winter/summer transition done. These trainers, are light and breathable so no need to worry about sweaty feet.

Flip Flops

I know sliders are big this year, but I am just not feeling them. I think Joe's obsession with the socks and sliders combo has completely put me of them. So I will stick with my trusty Flip Flops this summer. I have a few pairs, but Havaianas are a firm favourite - they are substantial enough that they last a while, while other Flip Flops I have had have flattened and indented with my footprint.

Party Shoes

Summer is a time for a lot of fancy occasions - weddings, parties, the races - you get the picture. Although not top of my priorities, it's practical to have a nice pair of shoes for these types of events. I have had these for years, which I guess is a sign of how little I wear them. I decided to go for nudes as they are super versatile and give the illusion if a longer leg - which is handy at my height and proportions.

Sandals

Last but not least - the trusty sandal - perfect as an everyday shoe if you want to escape the trainers get those feet out, but a less casual than a pair of Flip Flops. Again a good transitional shoe - I could wear them by the pool and the throw on a maxi dress and go to a beach party.

What are your Summer shoe essentials?

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Fashion | Styling Pantone's Colours of the Year for Men

We may be well into 2016 now, but the fashion world is still very much revelling in finding new ways to use Pantone's two Colours of the Year. If you weren't already aware, Pantone, the colour institute, normally choose one colour to direct all areas of fashion for a given year and capture the mood of the time, but for 2016 they actually chose a pair of colours for the first time.
These two beautiful hues, a soft pink called Rose Quartz and a pastel blue called Serenity, can be seen in fashion collections as well as other areas of design like interiors and product design, and are a big feature when it comes to both men's and women's fashion for the coming summer season. However, some men need a little encouragement to adopt these two gentle pastels, so here we are going to talk about styling Rose Quartz and Serenity for men in 2016:

Getting the Tone Right

The first important thing when it comes to looking stylish in Rose Quartz and Serenity as a man is to make sure you are actually wearing these shades. Rose Quartz and Serenity are fairly close to baby pink and baby blue, but there is a nuance in both of them that adds a cooler tone and makes them look less 'cutesy' and more sophisticated. If you like baby blue and baby pink then there's nothing wrong with wearing them, but if you are aiming to get the on trend 2016 look and generally find those colours feel too feminine or 'sweet', then try and seek out true Serenity and Rose Quartz pieces that don't have that baby pastel warmth.

Mix with Neutrals

Pantone don't just announce Colours of the Year, but also full palettes incorporating those colours for each fashion season. Within these palettes you can find colours that contrast with or compliment Rose Quartz and Serenity in interesting and stylish ways. One key thing to consider is mixing Rose Quartz and Serenity with neutrals, and there is a stunning and easy to wear grey called Lilac Grey in the spring and summer palette that looks great on men. Consider wearing a suit in Lilac Grey with accents – for instance a tie or cravat like the ones at formaltailor.com – in Rose Quartz, Serenity, or a mixture of the two, for a very fashionable formal look. If you prefer earthier neutrals, there is also a shade called Iced Coffee which works equally well paired with the Colours of the Year.

Casual Wear

For summer, your casual wardrobe is likely to consist of a lot of t-shirts and polos, and the good news is that both Rose Quartz and Serenity look great in this format. Paired either with denim or with neutral coloured shorts, pants or cargo pants, a relaxed look is easy to achieve with simple shirts in these colours.
Whether you are used to wearing pastels and pinks or not, adding some Rose Quartz and Serenity to your summer style is very simple, and will give you a fresh, classy look that is really fashionable.

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Fashion | Four Types of Dresses Your Summer Wardrobe Needs

Summertime is the perfect excuse to go shopping for new dresses. After months of wrapping up in cosy sweater and jean combinations, finally the sun has come out – and it’s time to make sure that we’re ready. Dress fashion trends can vary from year to year, with some classics never seeming to go out of style and others appearing and reappearing every now and then. If you’re about to embark on a summer clothing trip, it’s good to know which dresses are absolute must-haves for the warmer season. Here’s what we think:

Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses and maxi skirts are back this Summer with a bang. These are the perfect items of clothing for the beginning of summer if your legs aren’t quite tanned enough to get out yet but you don’t want to wear leggings or jeans. There is a great selection to choose from over at Axparis.com maxi dresses, from evening to beachy styles meaning that you can find a maxi dress for any occasion. Over the years, maxi dresses have long been known as one of the staples of summer fashion and although their styles can change from time to time, it’s hard to visit any beach in the height of summer without seeing someone wearing one.

Shift Dresses

Shift dresses are comfortable, practical and great for summer. They hang effortlessly without making you look shapeless, making them the perfect, comfortable yet stylish addition to a summer wardrobe. Shift dresses are comfortable and easy to wear, and can be dressed up or down which is just one of the reasons why they’re so popular during the summer time. You can get them in a whole range of different fabrics colours and patterns making them a hugely versatile choice of clothing item for your summer wardrobe.

Tea Dresses

This versatile dress may not have made an appearance for a while, but it’s definitely coming back with a bang this summer. Easy to wear and stylish, the classic tea dress is not only hugely practical and comfortable but can also make you look good in an instant. Tea dresses are available in a vast range of styles and colours, meaning you can wear them for work or casual and still look bang on trend. Dress them up with a smart jacket and heels, or go for the casual look by pairing with a denim jacket and flats or sneakers.

Midi Dresses

Mid-length dresses and skirts have been all the range at summer for quite a while, and they don’t look ready to disappear anywhere soon. These dresses hang below the knee but aren’t quite as long as a maxi dress, making them the perfect choice if you’re walking for long distances or even on the beach and don’t want the ends of your dress to get wet along the seashore. These dresses are hugely versatile and look just as good whether dressed up or down.
Which dresses do you plan to fill your summer wardrobe with? Let me know in the comments.

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Fashion | Gemporia Secret Santa revealed

Yes, I know Christmas has long been over, but I am continuing to recover from my kidney hell, which means that my blog has been suffering. Secondly, I apologise for my granny hands!

Who doesn't love getting involved in Secret Santa? Especially when the budget is reasonable and your options are pieces of Jewelry? You can see why I couldn't decline when the glorious people at Gemporia asked me to get involved.

I quickly found out that my Secret Santa partner was Diana, who I actually stalk follow on Instagram. I love her vintage/alternative style and am ridiculously envious of her full and thick hair! After browsing the site for a while, I found this lovely Black and Silver Ear Cuff and thought it would eb a lovely details to add when she wears her hair to the side or behind a scarf.

The lovely Diana, in return got me this stunning Smokey Quartz "Chantilly Cut" ring. If you look closely at the Quartz, you can see that it has been polished with a polkas dot finish, which is such a lovely details. I also love the design of the ring, how the stone is lifted and the pattern used to hold the stone in place.

Is there anything on the Gemporia website that catches your eye?

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Fashion | Four of the Best Places to Shop for Knitwear this Winter

Winter 2015 was wet, windy, and mild, and it failed to deliver on more than one count, denying us the chance to fully indulge our knitwear addictions. We were forced to keep our cosy clothes shut away in the depths of our drawers, sticking to autumnal blouses and low denier tights to cope with the warmth of our centrally heated homes and offices.  

But better times await us. With a cold snap prophesied, and the chance of snow and ground frost on the horizon, it’s time to put away our umbrellas, let down our rain soaked hair, and layer up in the winter’s hottest knitwear. So, if you’re looking for some shopping inspiration, then here are four of the best high street stores to visit…

#1: Zara

Zara is famed for its chic styling, grown up glamour, and tailored silhouettes, and its knitwear never fails to deliver. Cosy, flatteringly shaped, and long lasting, it’s well worth spending your money on, and will look as great in two years as it does the day you buy it. Its slim fitting polar necks, in particular, deserve a prime place in your winter wardrobe.

#2: M and M Direct

M and M Direct might not be as well known as some of the names on this list, but it always excels in the knitwear stakes. Stocking designs from a variety of fantastic quality brands, including Ted Baker, Lyle and Scott Club, and Vero Moda, its offerings are cheap, chic, and fantastically designed, making them the perfect option for those looking to transform their winter wardrobe on a budget.

#3: Mango

European brands are triumphing in the style stakes this winter, and Mango is no exception. The Spanish store offers chic yet cosy knitwear, with a unique twist that will help you to stand out from the crowd. With stripes, polar necks, and chunky knits all proving popular, their latest collection is filled with fantastic finds to transform your winter wear in time for the cold snap.

#4: Gap

Gap is another high street favourite, and January is the perfect time to step in store and pick up some winter bargains. With a wide range of reductions to help make your money go further, its pieces are simple, sleek, and chic, and will help to reinvigorate your winter wardrobe. It’s especially perfect for those seeking to add a few basics to their look, with an abundance of block colours and slim-line silhouettes currently in stock.  

If you’re looking to update your winter wardrobe, where will you choose to shop?

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Fashion | #ChristmasJumper Joy with New look

Christmas Jumper c/o New Look

Have you got a Christmas Jumper this year? The last few years have seen the trend grow to epic proportions, when I was a teen/growing up they were almost unheard of and were incredibly uncool. The resurection of our festive attire, could partly be down to Text Santa and Christmas Jumper day, but also the fact that fashion has shifted from being a list of style rules to a form of self expression.

Whether you love to wrap up in a classy subtle christmas knit or a more novelty jumper, both are great to get in to the holiday spirit. This year I was lucky enough to get to chose a Christmas Jumper from New Look. They have a fair offering, with a mixture of novelty, classic and slogan Christmas Jumpers, as well as a good mens offering too.

After much deliberation, I decided to go for this 'Sleigh Bells Bling' jumper, I love the sequins, but more importantly, the sleigh bells, which actually sound like santas sleigh in the distance. I was a bit worried that my collegues would quickly tire of my new novelty sound, but I needn't have worried. Luckily it's not to over powering. Although, I do feel for the people who will be on a flight to Philly with my sister, as she plans to wear it!

Have you caved in and got a Christmas Jumper?

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