Tuesday 30 April 2013

Beautiful Bag: Modalu Mandarin Pippa Grab Bag from Masdings

Masdings has just launched its mid season sale, with up to 50% off many designer brands.

This luxurious Pippa three-compartment grab bag from Modalu London has been reduced in the sale; it is simple yet classically elegant.  Made from nubuck leather, it is sumptuous and will add a touch of vintage charm.  It is available in a great range of colours including black, nude, coral and grey (sale prices ranging from £146.25 to £168.75) but I am quite taken with this fab mandarin orange version, which will liven up any outfit.  There are also lots of pockets, zips and compartments, making it ideal for keeping everything organised.  Canny city chic at its best!

Fantastic Footwear: Emma Go Romeo Ankle Strap Sandals from Spartoo

I admit, I've been obsessing over focusing on wedge sandals for a while now, so I thought it was time to find something lovely and summery, but perhaps a bit more practical for every day use.  I have found an online shoe website, Spartoo.co.uk, which sells a great range of shoe and boot brands and there are loads of unique and delightful finds there!  The other bonus of the site is that it operates a loyalty points scheme, so you can collect points to convert to a gift voucher for future purchases.

I've chosen these flat Emma Go Romeo ankle strap sandals in tan and pink.  The two tone colour block design is very current and the pop of neon adds the wow factor to prevent these practical flatties from being boring.  They are 100% leather, so should be great quality and they should last.  They have been reduced from £110.99 to £88.79 at Spartoo and are available in sizes 6 and 7.

It's worth adding again that there are loads of lovely flat sandals on the site - some of which are reduced and some are still full price - and I had some difficulty choosing just the one pair to showcase!  But there are discount codes available for full-priced items, so do have a look at my discount voucher page if you wish.

The Look for Less: Savvy Monochrome from Amazon

For this look, I have been inspired by Paul and Joe's Spring/Summer 2013 collection, which I am completely in love with.  I have found all the pieces on Amazon, either discounted already or which will (hopefully) work with the current discount code for selected fashion.  Or all else failing, they're pretty good value!

Monday 29 April 2013

Delightful Dress: Slash Neck Striped Fit & Flare Skater Dress from Marks and Spencer

The Marks and Spencer sale has been on for a little while but there are still some nice bargains to be had.  I like this monochrome striped skater dress, which has been reduced from £49.50 to £32 and is on trend for Spring/Summer 2013.   With a little stretch in the material and a belted waist, it should fit comfortably and will be flattering.  Sizes 8 - 16 and 22 are still available.

Putting my money where my mouth is: Top Cashback

I had a bit of a surprise today by being a little more canny than I meant to be!  I subscribed to Grazia magazine through Great Magazines using Top Cashback.  It was £18 for the quarter for both the digital and print editions which I thought was already a great deal, as it is a saving on buying it from the shop each week.  Coupled with that, I got just over £6 cashback so even more savvy savings.  But on top of that, I saw that I was entitled to a free gift of some haircare products, apparently worth over £46 but you never know with these things.  I assumed I'd get some shampoo, conditioner and some spray or similar  but look what turned up this afternoon....



So, in terms of savvy and canny purchases, I think I have done rather well. A fab mag, potentially gorgeous hair and a bargain!

Putting my money where my mouth is: Rose Corsage Ballerina Flats from Accessorize

So once again, I have taken my own advice and saved money on some fantastic, fabulous shoes.  As I said in my original post on these ballet pumps from Accessorize, these shoes are so comfortable and well-fitting.  They go with so many things - I have worn them with jeans, dresses, leggings and skirts, both casually and to work.  The beige ones are older, but have lasted really well, even though I forgot to spray them with any sort of protector.  Definitely well worth the purchase and even better for the discount!

I've signed up to Instagram to highlight my savvy purchases, if you would like to have a look.  There's not a lot there at present but I'm hoping to add photos with money-saving advice when I get a chance.

Sunday 28 April 2013

Delightful Dress: Tabitha Webb Fashion Targets Breast Cancer Summer Blossom Dress from my-wardrobe.com

I can't help but highlight this pink silk and lace floral shift dress, available from my-wardrobe.com, as it's another Fashion Targets Breast Cancer beauty.  The colour, tangerine blossom print, cut and fabric is luxurious and irresistible; there is nothing about this dress that I don't like - including the fact that 30% of the £285 price tag goes to the charity.  It is perfect for all occasions and will take you seamlessly from day to night.  I suppose my only gripe is that it's not available NOW, only for pre-order, but once ordered, it will be dispatched as soon as it's available.  It can be ordered in sizes 8 - 16.

The Look for Less: Casual Spring Fling

I am becoming addicted to Polyvore! I'm enjoying finding some fab bargains and creating outfits from my discoveries. Today I have put together a simple spring daytime outfit using a combination of sale items, items that can be used with discount codes (that expire today) and from Secretsales.com.

Casual Spring Fling


Charlie leather tote from Ollie & Nic - use code SS1320 to get 20% off but it expires today.


White Sleeveless cotton shirt reduced from £85 to £40 at Karen Millen.


Seablue Aliana Womens Floral Print Trousers - use code AFTP2 to get £20 off £100 spend - again, expires today at Joules.




TOMS Bordeaux women's classics reduced from £40 to £24 at secretsales.com.


Fantastic Footwear: Petula Wedge Platform Sandals from Moda in Pelle

Now that the weather seems to be improving, it's all about getting that spring and summer wardrobe sorted and what better way to do that than get a pedicure and invest in some fantastic sandals?

Tribal prints are very current and these orange wedge, ankle strap sandals from Moda in Pelle take the trend in a subtle but lively way.  They'll look great with almost anything and of course, the benefits of wedges over heels is that they're more comfortable and they won't sink into the grass during those garden parties!  They are available in sizes 3 - 7 and are £99.95.

New customers can get 15% off at Moda in Pelle until the 31st May with code NEW15 and existing customers can get 10% off with the code SEASON10 - but that expires today so be quick!

Saturday 27 April 2013

The Look for Less: Simple yet Elegant Tailoring

For this look, I've started with a wardrobe staple of an oversized, classic, versatile white shirt.  This can be worn with anything - shorts, jeans, trousers - but I have chosen to give it a little sparkle with a metallic cocktail skirt for some simple yet elegant tailoring which gives laid-back style.

Simple yet elegant tailoring
As usual, everything is currently on offer as follows:

Wardrobe Staple: Sun Dry Cotton Blazer from French Connection

A decent, good-quality, well-fitted blazer is an essential.  It can be thrown over anything and looks especially good over jeans and a simple top or with a maxi dress.  I've also seen them looking fab with shorts and, of course, they can be worn with more formal skirts, dresses and trousers for the office.

There's loads of blazers out there, and I've already posted about this one from Wallis.  However, I think it's worth thinking about investing in one that is going to last and for that reason, I often to go for those that contain quality materials such as wool, linen or cotton.  A bit of stretch is often helpful also.  Colour-wise, anything works - plain or patterned - and it's all down to personal taste.  The current style seems to be the boyfriend blazer which is single-breasted and longer, skimming the hips.  It compliments most women's shapes, especially the V-neckline which lengthens and flatters the upper body.  I'd also go for a single or, at the most two, for a more casual look -  a greater number of buttons tends to look more formal and office-y.

I've chosen this red cotton and elastane red blazer from French Connection, which is currently in the sale.  I think it would look amazing over indigo skinny jeans and a white top and I have some amazing red shoes from Schuh (bought ages ago - sorry!) that would complement it perfectly!  It comes in sizes 6 - 16 and has been reduced from £120 to £90.

Fantastic Footwear: Zign Turquoise Wedge Sandals from Zalando UK

With the sun finally showing its face, I'm obsessed with finding fabulous wedges at the moment and these gorgeous turquoise and black ones from Zalando UK are no exception.  Not too high, they should be fairly comfortable and practical without compromising on style.  They are also good quality leather, so should last well.  Stylish and beautiful, they are versatile and will go with almost anything - but for Spring/Summer, I'm thinking a sleeveless blouse and denim shorts.  Normally £60, they have 25% off at the moment, so they are £45 and come in sizes 3.5 - 8.  Zalando also offer free delivery as standard, which is always a bonus.

In addition, I need to wish Zalando UK a Happy 2nd Birthday!

Friday 26 April 2013

Delightful Dress: Fashion Targets Breast Cancer Sleeveless Tie Waist Tea Dress from Laura Ashley

Breast cancer is a cause close to my heart and I try to do what I can to support charities and research in relation to it.  Fashion Targets Breast Cancer is a way to try to raise funds for Breakthrough Breast Cancer through the sale of specially designed products which are sold in various stores and online; generally, at least 30% of the price of the item goes to the charity.

The range can be found via the website, but I have chosen this gorgeous pastel pink silk tea dress which is available from Laura Ashley.  A cotton and silk mix, it will feel luxurious and keep you cool for those upcoming summer outdoor events.  It comes in sizes 12 - 20 and is £95 but 30% will go to Fashion Targets Breast Cancer so it's almost like using a discount for global benefit!  And, of course, you could always try using a cashback site in the first place.
In addition, there is currently 30% off selected fashion, as well as homeware offers, at Laura Ashley with free delivery for orders over £50, so well worth a look.

Awesome Accessories: Faith Pink Neon Patent Clutch Bag from Debenhams

It's the Debenhams Blue Cross weekend, which means there is 20% off selected items throughout the store and online - and, as I am so good to you, I have found a code for an additional 10% off!

I've still obsessing over neon and I adore this pink patent clutch bag from Faith with the gold frame and hinged clasp fastening.  It will certainly give a real colour pop and brighten up any outfit!  With the 20% discount and code HK73, it can be snapped up for just £20.88.

Thursday 25 April 2013

Summer Staple: Ted Baker Jaynesh Tuxedo Tailored Shorts from House of Fraser

House of Fraser are currently in the middle of their two-day brand event, both online and in-store, meaning there's up to 25% branded products until midnight on Friday 26th April.

I have had my eye on these mint coloured Ted Baker tuxedo shorts for a while to take me into the summer months but, at £109, the price was a little scary despite the quality.  However, with the 25% discount from House of Fraser, this is reduced to £87.20.  The tuxedo tailoring is classic and the front pleats should flatter the thighs.  They can be tailored with a simple t-shirt or blouse or made a little more edgy with a funky vest top.  These come in sizes 6 - 14.

And oh look!  There's a matching 'Jayne' jacket, also with 25% off, so they can be worn as an amazingly chic outfit to the office when the weather improves!  Stylish, savvy, canny and chic.  What more can you want?

Delightful Dress: Blue Cutwork Skater Dress from Warehouse

There's 20% off dresses at Warehouse today and tomorrow (ends Friday at midnight) so it's a good opportunity to find something pretty!  There are so many fantastic dresses on the site, but I have gone for a skater dress in this season's shade of royal blue.  The pattern is not quite a broderie anglaise design, but it's certainly headed in that direction and I love it - this makes it a bit more interesting and delicate than the average skater dress.  The capped sleeves, cut of the dress and the scalloped hem all contribute to a flattering silhouette.  It's available in sizes 6 - 16 and is usually £95 but with the discount, it's £76.

The Look for Less: Savvy Office Chic

I've just discovered a site called Polyvore where I can find clothes, shoes and accessories online and put them together in a collage, to see how they work together.  Here is my first attempt:



As you would expect, it is a combination of sale and discounted items, so you can get the whole look for less.  In this collage I have included:

I'm thinking that for the future, I can focus on specific gorgeous pieces as I have been, but every now and again do some outfits this way to give an idea to update one's wardrobe!  So I suppose my question is, is this the sort of thing that you would like to see?  Would it give you inspiration and ideas - as I hope!

Find me on Polyvore by clicking here!

Splendid Skirt: Rhonda Rose Skirt from Monsoon

When there is up to £50 off selected lines at Monsoon - one of my absolute favourite stores - how is it possible to pick just one piece?  I could go for some casual trousers, an evening gown or a pretty jumper.  However, I have gone for a classic, floral print pencil skirt.  I like the fact that it's a wardrobe staple with a twist, with its vintage rose pattern.  And pencil skirts are amazing in that they suit most body shapes, depending on the cut and what pieces they are styled with.  I'd team this skirt with a neutral blouse and heels for an understated but classy look, perhaps for a lovely lunch out?  It comes in sizes 8 - 22 and has been reduced from £59 to £44.

Wednesday 24 April 2013

Over the Top: Coral Blazer from Wallis

I've been searching for a decent coral blazer for ages, just a simple, boyfriend style one with a single button that can be thrown over a t-shirt and my jeans.  And of course, one with a discount!  However, for some reason, it's been proving rather difficult until I found this one from Wallis, where there's currently up to 30% off everything.  I love the cut of this blazer as it's slightly longer and skims the hips and yet still has some slight definition around the waistline.  It's also got a bit of stretch, which is always a bonus.  Normally £40, with the discount it's £32.

Initially, they didn't have the right size for me (this one comes in sizes 10 - 16) but when I checked again, they did, so I wonder if stock is coming back in?  Therefore, if you are looking to take advantage of the current discount, it's certainly worth checking every now and again if your size isn't currently available.
There's a similar one on the site for the same price, but with less definition in the waist - but that one goes up to a size 18 if needed.  Again, sizes in stock have been changing throughout the day so worth checking every now and again.

Terrific Top: Erin Lace Dip Dye Top from Pop Couture

Dip dye is one of the trends for Spring/Summer 2013, taking its inspiration from the tie dye fashions of the 60's hippy era - but with more taste and style!  Combine an oversized vest top with lots of jewellery, scarves and denim for a fab festival look or go for something more refined that can be combined with heels and glamorous makeup for an evening out.

I think that this blue and white dip dye Erin top from Pop Couture fits into the latter category.  It combines some of my favourite features - lace, a Peter Pan collar and a fabulous shade of blue.  It could be worn with a sleek pencil skirt and stilettos and look elegant, sophisticated and chic.  It's available in sizes S - L and is £17.  And until 30th April, there's 30% off £35 spends at Pop Couture with the code AWAPR13 so it could be worth stocking up with a few savvy priced, up-to-the-minute pieces!

Edited to add: there's a new 30% off code for May - as ever, check my page for the latest voucher codes!

Great Jeans: Slim-Fit 5-Pocket Style Stretch Cotton Jeans from La Redoute

Neon's been a fashion trend for a while and it looks like it will continue into Spring/Summer 2013.  I'm having a bit of a neon moment and have been after all sorts of neon clothes and accessories for the blog. I suspect that I'm a little eager for some summer sun and the vibrant shade makes me feel vitalised and energetic, ready for some warmth and joy.

Found first are these skinny jeans from La Redoute.  They are available in subtle neon colours - aqua blue, yellow or pink, so it's easy to embrace the trend without going overboard - unless you want to!  Team with a neutral top and some wedges and look classy but casual.  Or be brave and go totally 80's with some florescent accessories and/or a clashing neon top whilst you dig out that Cyndi Lauper LP.  

Cotton with a touch of elastane, the jeans should fit really well.  They come in sizes 6 - 18 - not all sizes are available in all colours, but it's not too bad.  Usually £55, they are on sale with 30% off at £38.50.

There's a couple of discount voucher codes for La Redoute currently, but because these jeans are already discounted, the codes don't work in addition.  However, if you're a new customer, code 4708 should get free delivery at the least.

So this is the first of a few potential neon posts..... look out for some savvy brightness!

Tuesday 23 April 2013

Delightful Dress: Sugarhill Boutique Flamingo Midi Dress from Rock My Vintage

Rock My Vintage is a fab online store selling original vintage pieces, as well as more modern, vintage-inspired clothing and accessories.  It's easy to shop by style, brand or era so simple to locate any gorgeous items that you are after!

I love this 1940's inspired flamingo bird print day dress in navy from the brand Sugarhill Boutique, available in sizes 10 - 14.  It is flowing, feminine and flattering, with its cowl neck and contrasting patent pink belt.  The pleated, longer length skirt makes it graceful and elegant.  It will look lovely for a summer wedding with some nude heels or it can be glammed up with some brighter ones for an on-trend colour clash!  It's £58 from Rock My Vintage, but with the code RMV8 there's 8% off until the end of the year, making it just over £50.

Delightful Dress:Notch Neck Shift Dress from Boden

Get in quick - the Boden mid-season sale has just started and, if past experience is anything to go by, the best items sell out fast.  There are loads of fabulous, great quality clothes, shoes and accessories available with up to 50% off.

I love this notch necked shift dress which was £99 but is now £59.40 to £89.10 in the sale (depending on the pattern and size chosen).  I love all the patterns - spots, stripes, colour combos - it doesn't matter to me as they are all lovely!  The cotton and linen material combination will be perfect to keep cool when the weather improves and the style is classic and flattering.  A good range of sizes is still available - from 6 to 22 in regular and long lengths - but with Boden sales, there really is a need to snap up those bargains before they go!  

Stunning Shoes: Gucci Black T-bar Peep-toe Heels from Secretsales.com

Secret Sales is a private sales website that offers high end products from leading brands at affordable and discounted prices.  Six new sales are launched every day and categories include fashion, accessories, beauty and homeware.  Sales last between 2-4 days and items can be discounted by up to 70%, so you need to be quick to snap up the best buys.  Brands they have hosted include Chanel, Maurice Lacroix, Gucci, Victoria Beckham and Dior.  You have to register for the site - either via the normal way or through Facebook - but once you do, you'll get an early daily email of what sales have launched. Additionally, if you successfully refer a friend, you'll get a £10 credit to your account which is always handy!

Speaking of Gucci, there's some fab shoes available on the site. I adore these suede t-bar heels with an RRP of £661 but can be bought from the site for £319.  Timeless, quality, gorgeous and 52% off.  Brilliant!  Unfortunately (or fortunately?) there's only one left and it isn't my size.  But there is still a decent range of Gucci styles and sizes still there....!

Monday 22 April 2013

Putting my money where my mouth is: Call It Spring Coral 'Janille' Pointed Toe Pumps from Debenhams

As you may have guessed, I love finding fashion bargains and I don't just find them - I buy them!  It's a bit of a risk for me whilst researching the blog I suppose....

My latest purchase is this pair of coral pencil pointed flat pumps from Debenhams.  The colour and patent shine is gorgeous.  They fit really well too and are comfortable - I think the fact that they are pointed toe rather than round gives them a slightly snugger fit meaning they are less likely to slip off.  I'll be able to wear these with jeans, dresses or skirts so they are a totally versatile bargain!


Until the 24th April, Debenhams are offering an extra 10% off sale prices with the discount voucher code CP37 so these can be picked up for just £18.  They are still available in sizes 3 - 8.

Delightful Dress: Fionna Chiffon Butterfly Print Open Back Maxi Dress from Boohoo.com

There are so many benefits to wearing a maxi dress.  They work with all shapes and sizes, they can be dressed up or down, they are comfortable, come in all sorts of styles, patterns and colours and one doesn't have to keep legs silky smooth during the summer months!

I love this butterfly print maxi dress from Boohoo.com.  The print is pretty, tasteful and delicate   The higher neck and shoulder straps keep the style dignified and classy, but the open back gives is a subtle quirkiness.  I like the way they have styled it in the image, with a slim brown belt, which is very flattering.

It's £30 and avaiable in sizes S - M (about 10 - 14).  But until 28th April, there is 10% off at Boohoo.com with the code TREAT4U.

Stunning Shoes: Floral Black Playdays Pumps from Office

I do love it when my clever, chic and savvy readers spot a fantastic bargain!  I've been shown these gorgeous black with embroidered floral detail pumps from Office.  The simplicity and colour of them means they will go with anything and the rose feature is lovely.  They are available in sizes 3 - 7 and are just £7!  I'm stunned that they are still available in a decent range of sizes, to be honest.

Take advantage of those sales and discounts and keep those stylish bargains coming in!  

Sunday 21 April 2013

Nifty Knitwear: Striped Point D'Esprit Panel Sweater from Forever 21

There's some lovely, great value and contemporary items at Forever 21 which prides itself on being style conscious and trend-savvy.  Today only (21st April), they are celebrating their birthday with 21% off with the code BDAY21, so it's a great time to stock up!

I love this unique lightweight stripey jumper with a mesh panel and peter pan collar.  It's perfect for spring with its gorgeous pastel pink and white colours and short sleeves and will look fab with a skirt or shorts.  Available in sizes S - L (4 - 12 UK) it's normally £14.75 which is a bargain even without the discount!

Delightful Dress: Striped Belted Skater Dress from Lipsy

Two Spring/Summer trends for 2013 are monochrome and geometric patterns, and this stripey skater dress from Lipsy ticks both boxes.  Horizontal stripes are often quite scary, but the fact that these are so narrow means that this shouldn't really be an issue.  The pleats in the skirt, cinched waist and slight stretch in the material should all combine well to give a really lovely, flattering fit.  It can be dressed up with a blazer and heels or for a more casual look, can be teamed with sandals and a denim jacket.  Available in sizes 6 - 18, it's half price at £25.

Saturday 20 April 2013

Wardrobe Staple: Hobbs Imperial Trench Coat from House of Fraser

I'm having a bit of a red day today I think!

A well-cut Macintosh coat is a classic wardrobe staple that can be relied on year after year, bringing timeless chic to any outfit!  Generally, it might be sensible to go with a traditional beige or black, but I have found this amazing Hobbs sorbet red coat from House of Fraser.  I think the cut and length is perfect and the fact it's belted means that it will be really flattering.  I also like that it can be be worn buttoned all the way up to the collar if preferred - and the fact the buttons are hidden - giving a really elegant style and shape reminiscent of a similar version from Burberry Prorsum.  It's reduced from £149 to £104 and available in sizes 8 - 16.

Beautiful Bag: Brit-Stitch Leather Laptop Bag from The Hut.com

Brit-stitch is a British brand selling quality and fabulous leather goods made in the UK.  The collection is classic, timeless, elegant and well-made.  They don't yet have their own website to purchase items, but bags can be bought from a range of retailers including The Hut.com.

I'm in need of a decent laptop bag that I can take to work, but I don't want one that's too boring or office-y, which is why I have fallen in love with this poppy red leather satchel bag.  The style and quality of the bag means that it should last year after year.  The colour is just amazing and will brighten up a work suit to give a bit of personality to the traditional professional look.  It's not cheap, at £163 but until the 24th April, The Hut are offering 15% off all Brit-stitch items with the code BRIT15, making it £138.55 - a fab investment for such classic style and exceptional design.

Wardrobe Staple: Jigsaw Knee High Stretch Riding Boots from Atterley Road

A classic, well-fitting pair of leather knee high riding boots is a wardrobe must and now is the time to take advantage of the sales to get a fantastic quality pair at a fraction of the normal price.  Leather is a must - anything else tends to look cheap and can fall apart when worn a lot, especially if the weather is bad.  It's also a good idea to get ones with a bit of stretch and/or adjustable straps to fit calves well.  They are incredibly versatile and look great over skinny jeans but can also be worn under boot cut jeans or with skirts and dresses.

These brown leather boots by Jigsaw are available from Atterley Road and fit the criteria for the perfect pair.    There's a decent range of sizes still available - 36, 37, 39 and 41.  They have been reduced from £249 to £149 which still fairly expensive, but they're an investment that will last year after year!

Friday 19 April 2013

Nifty Knitwear: Poppy & Stone Spot Jumper from Mint Velvet

There's lots of lovely items in the Mint Velvet sale, and I am quite taken with this cute spotty jumper that's been reduced from £55 to £39.  Polka dots are still on trend and the lightweight material of this jumper means that it will take you very nicely into spring.  It will look fab with skinny jeans or even some denim shorts if the weather behaves!  It's available in sizes 8 and 12-16.

Terrific Top: Lulu Guiness Cat Print Top for UNIQLO

I know I've only recently done a UNIQLO post, but how amazing is this Lulu Guiness designed cat print top, available for just £12.90?  Perfect print, perfect collar, perfect cut, perfect material (100% cotton) and perfect price!  It's available in sizes XS - L and in white, as shown, or black.  Gorgeous!

Thursday 18 April 2013

Latest Discount Voucher Codes: Allsole, Boden, Urban Outfitters and more!

Here's the online voucher codes I've found. If you're going to use them via a cashback site, I can't guarantee the cashback will track, as they're not always compatible, so work out what gets you the best deal. Also, generally these only tend to work on full priced items, but it's always worth trying them with sale items - I've sometimes been successful!

Shop
Discount / Deal
Works on
Code
Valid Until
15%
UGG Boots
UGG15S
23rd April 2013
£50
Spend over £250
ASAVE50
23rd April 2013
£30
Spend over £100
ASAVE30
23rd April 2013
20%
Selected Spring Fashion
NOWUKNOW
5th May 2013
Free delivery & free returns plus new customers get a free wallet
Full priced items
Q248
30th April 2013
15%
Activewear
15ACTIVE
?
20%
Full priced items
Apr-20
18th April 2013