Tuesday 27 August 2013

Earrings from Joy

It's probably quite easy to spot from my posting history, but one of my favourite shops is Joy the Store.  I love its quirky and unique items, especially the accessories which are often great value.  The new Artysmarty collection is simply superb but quite pricey, but the Louche collection is reasonable.  I was perusing the earrings earlier and have found some gorgeous ones to highlight!

First up are these Louche Half Moon jewel stone studs which are just £8.  The colours are fab and they look a lot more expensive than they are!  They would look lovely with a smart evening outfit for a night out.
Next are these super cute Louche Kat stud earrings.  Again, the pink, black and white colour combination is lovely and these could be worn with anything - but I think they would be perfect for casual daytime with a twist.  Again, they're £8.
Finally, I've gone for some dangly earrings and have chosen these Louche geometric diamond ones - again, £8.  These would work for day or night, but would look especially brilliant with a fab evening dress.
Joy have an ongoing offer of 10% off first orders when customers sign up to their newsletter so these great value earrings can be obtained for even less!  In addition, customers can get a free zebra print weekend bag with spends of £75 or more, while stocks last.
Joy The Store

Monday 26 August 2013

Knee High Heeled Boots from Castaluna

A good pair of knee high boots is an autumn/winter essential.  They look good with skinny jeans tucked into them, but equally could be paired with dresses and skirts.  However, a problem I've had with them in the past is that they are too tight on my calves - if I can even get them zipped up in the first place - so I was really pleased to find these wide calf boots from Castaluna.  Castaluna is a plus-size online clothing store and they've got some really good clothing and footwear in sizes 14 to 36 and it's great that they have some boots that I can do up!

I like these boots also for their classic style - they will never go out of fashion.  They are simple but elegant and the heel height of 8cm isn't too high to be impractical, but high enough to give legs definition.  They are also versatile in that they could be worn casually or for work.  They come in sizes 3 to 8 and in brown (pictured), black or burgundy.
These boots are £89 but there are several different discount codes for Castaluna that can be used, so have a look at my voucher page to see which one works best!

Sunday 25 August 2013

Beautiful Bag: Jayne Colour Block Clutch Bag from Boohoo.com

One can never have too many bags and there's a great selection at great prices on the Boohoo.com website.

I really like these Jayne colour block clutch bags.  They are a good size for a clutch, being large enough to carry all of one's essentials, but without being too massive.  They come in a fab range of colours - I really love the bright yellow pictured below, but there's also pink, black and white.  The bright ones will look great with a neutral or black outfit for that burst of colour and the monochrome ones will look sophisticated with any outfit.  Just £16 normally, customers can get an extra 10% off at Boohoo.com till tomorrow with the code 10UK.

Saturday 24 August 2013

Over the Top: Maycroft Trench Coat from Joules

Indeed, one can tell it's a Bank Holiday weekend - it's chucking it down here!  We even had thunder and lightning earlier.... such fun!  So I guess it's time to dig out the waterproofs and see what's new online.

There's some great autumn and wet weather wear new in at Joules.  I love this dark chino trench coat which is perfect for when it's not so cold, but super wet like today.  It's a classic, stylish shape that will never go out of fashion and the colour is just right.  All macs like this need a belt, so that's that box ticked too.  I also like the traditional element of it, with the rain shield on the back, gun patch detail and lapels.  And, as it's Joules, it's got the gorgeous printed lining.  It also comes in green and is available in sizes 8 to 18.

This coat is £129 but, until tomorrow, customers can use code AFT15 which will give £15 off £90+ spends.
While I'm at it, it may be time to invest in some new wellies.  Joules always has a superb selection, but my favourite at the moment are these brown boots with a hare pattern - which, incidentally, will go very well with the trench coat!  The length is great; I prefer longer wellington boots to the short or mid wellies as I feel safer jumping in puddles!  The hare pattern is cute without being too sappy and they are practical.  The price isn't too bad either, being £39.95.  They are available in sizes 3 to 8.

Friday 23 August 2013

Awesome Accessories: Johnny Loves Rosie Statement Floral Drop Necklace from Spoiled Brat

One of my favourite accessories of the season is the statement necklace.  It can transform an outfit with very little effort or spend - so definitely a savvy way to modernise and vitalise any outfit.

There are loads of brilliant necklaces at Spoiled Brat and my favourite are from the Johnny Loves Rosie range.  This floral drop necklace is lovely.  The colour combination is really interesting and would really brighten up an outfit when paired with a neutral top.  The floral design has a unique retro hint of late sixties/early seventies.  It would work well for both every day casual wear and dressed up for evening.  Simply brilliant!
It's £35, but new customers can get 20% off first orders with the code TAKE20.

Thursday 22 August 2013

Delightful Dresses: Wiggle Dresses from Unique Vintage

Wiggle dresses are great for most figures, as the top half flatters the bust and chest, the stretchy fabric holds everything in nicely and they look utterly divine by bringing out one's gorgeous, feminine curves!  Inspired by vintage forties fashion, they are perfect for making a confident statement on a night out paired with some heels and cool accessories.

Unique Vintage has many gorgeous wiggle dresses on sale at the moment - in fact, they have loads of gorgeous products on sale (up to 70% off) at the moment!  The first I love is this black and white spotty Bettie Mae puff sleeve fitted dress.  It's made from a stretchable, comfortable fabric so should fit really well.  The puffed sleeves add an element of cute femininity and polka dots are always fabulous!   Reduced from $108 to $71 (so about £50), it's still available in size small.
The other wiggle dress on the site that I love is this super girlie candy pink Stop Staring Rosey fitted day dress.  It has a very slight snake print sheen throughout and contrasting black trim to create a really glamourous look. I also love the contrast between the pink and black - always a winning combination in my view.  It's available in sizes extra large to 3x large and has been reduced from $162 to $118 (about £75).
Don't forget about the ongoing discount voucher code for Unique Vintage - 10% off full-priced items if you sign up for their newsletter.

Fantastic Footwear: Groove Cognac Force Boots from Hot Topic

Hot Topic is an American website that stocks current, music-inspired trends.  They are really good for rock and band merchandise, but they also stock items relating to comics, cult films and cartoons, so it's easy to find something fun and unique.  They are currently offering 25% off everything so it's definitely worth a look at what they've got!

I've always been partial to a pair of military style boots and I love these lace up Groove Cognac ones. One can style military boots in so many ways - pair with a floaty dress to add an edge to a feminine look or simply wear with jeans.  The nineties grunge look is still going strong, so these would be perfect for recreating that era!  Originally $46.50, with the discount they are only $34.88 (about £22) and come in US sizes 5 to 10 - so UK 2 1/2 to 7 1/2 ish.
The only problem is that shipping isn't cheap - around £35 from what I can tell, but if one is buying a lot, it may be worth it for cool items that can't be found elsewhere!

Wednesday 21 August 2013

Delightful Dress: Baroque Print Midi Dress from Lipsy

I know I just blogged about a fantastic body con dress the other day, but I have found another fabulous one from Lipsy.

This Lipsy Baroque print midi dress is simply stunning.  It's from their Petroleum range, designed to be slick, strong and super fierce!  The teal and purpley-brown and colour combination is really interesting and unique and really flatters the body con silhouette.  I think this brocade pattern - feminine and luxurious - is going to be on-trend for AW13.  I'd wear this dress for an evening out, with fabulous heels and minimal - but edgy - accessories.  It's £48, but until 15th September, customers can benefit from £20 off £100 spends at Lipsy using a discount voucher code, so add this and a couple more items, save and look amazing!
Lipsy

Tuesday 20 August 2013

Fantastic Footwear: Limited Edition High Heel Platform Court Shoes from Marks & Spencer

The Marks and Spencer summer sale just launched today, with up to 50% off loads of items.  It's a really good time to stock up on some good quality basics, but they also have some really nice, on trend pieces that will jazz up anyone's wardrobe!

These black and white limited edition platform court shoes are a great way to wear the leopard print trend in a subtle way.  They are really versatile and I feel could be worn in the day or evening.  I think they would look totally amazing though with neon or really bright colours - either a fantastic pencil skirt or some accessories.  The heel's quite high (about 10cm) but not too high, so they should be fine to walk in!  Just £9 (reduced from £19.50), they're still available in sizes 3 to 8, including half sizes.

Monday 19 August 2013

Nifty Knitwear: Mantaray Bird Jumper from Debenhams

Discount voucher codes are nearly always time-limited so it is worth keeping an eye out as to what's available and shopping accordingly to ensure the savviest savings.  I apologise that I'm not able to keep my voucher page updated as often as I would like but I do do my best, I promise!  Right now, Debenhams are offering 10% off orders for 48 hours only - so that's today (19th) and tomorrow (20th August) - with the code BC66, so it's definitely worth having a look to see what they've got.

There are a lot of new season products, and I really like this grey bird print jumper by Mantaray.  It's got a lovely blend of materials, including cotton and angora, to make it super soft, warm and cuddly.  Pair with jeans for a casual, daytime look for autumn - but I also think it could be worn to a less than formal day at work, paired with a smart skirt or trousers.  And look how happy the model looks with the jumper - she's super chuffed!  It's available in sizes 8 to 20 and is £38 or £34.20 with the discount.

Sunday 18 August 2013

Fantastic Footwear: United Nude Fold Mid Rave Ankle Boots from Shoes.co.uk

One can't go wrong with a great pair of ankle boots.  A classic tan or black leather pair is a wardrobe staple, but fun and funky is always a good thing.

I really like these United Nude ankle boots - or are they shoe boots? - from online store Shoes.co.uk.  Whichever they may be, they're practical but cheery.  The rainbow pattern is gorgeous and will add a lovely pop of colour to any outfit.  The heel height is great - a little lift, but not too high, meaning they should be comfortable to wear.  The outer fabric is slightly elasticated, meaning that they should fit nice and snugly also!  Originally £138.95, they are reduced to £104.25 with free delivery.
It's also worth noting that there is a discount code for 5% off full-priced items at Shoes.co.uk until the end of August.

Delightful Dress: Maxi Dresses from Yours Clothing

Maxi dresses are a wardrobe staple for the warmer months, but they could also be worn when it's colder - just team with a great denim jacket for an offbeat, pretty look.  And what better time to stock up on maxis than the end of summer sales, especially when so many companies are slashing their sale prices even more.

Yours Clothing has been having a sale for a while, but there is now a further 20% off sale prices so there are some real bargains to be had.  They've got quite a few lovely maxi dresses and I've picked out two that I especially like.  The first is this mint green bird print dress.  The colour is lovely and the print feminine and delicate.  The shape, with the elasticated, cinched waist and flared skirt, is flattering and it will be so easy to wear.  Originally £35, it's been reduced to £19.20 but unfortunately it's only available in a size 16.
The second comes in a better variety of sizes and is a fantastic colour combination and shape. It's this feather print maxi dress in fuchsia pink, yellow and turquoise.   The empire line flatters most shapes and will make the most of the bust!  And the colours are simply stunning.  It's available in sizes 20, 22 and 30-32 and again, has been reduced from £35 to £19.20.

Saturday 17 August 2013

Fantastic Footwear: Pointy Leopard Courts from Goddiva

It doesn't seem to me as though the trend ever really left, but it appears a key pattern for this autumn and winter is leopard print.  It may invoke images of bored, rich housewives of Beverley Hills or even a throwback to the 1980's, but it was spotted on the AW13 catwalks of Diane von Furstenberg, DKNY and Burberry Prorsum.

The key with this pattern is to keep it simple, elegant and as untacky as possible!  One key piece is all that's needed - for example, a bag, jacket or shoes.  And shoes are what I have found, from online fashion store Goddiva.   These leopard print court shoes are sophisticated yet sexy.  They would look amazing for an evening out, with a black pencil skirt and top or dress.
New customers can get 15% off their first order by signing up to the Goddiva newsletter, meaning that these shoes can be bought for £28.90 (instead of £34).

Awesome Accessories: Lowie Cloche Hat & Tote Handbag from Rock My Vintage

In my opinion, vintage-inspired fashion will never go out of style which is why buying such items will always be a canny and savvy way to shop!  They can be mixed and matched easily - so one can go for the full retro vibe to channel whichever era one wants, or pick a few key pieces to add a vintage twist to a modern look!

Online store Rock my Vintage specialises in both original and inspired vintage dresses and accessories. The boutique offers a great selection of dresses, handbags, jewellery, belts, scarves and headwear.  There are loads of items in their sale right now, including some amazing dresses, but I'm focusing on the accessories today.

I love this hand-knitted Lowie cloche hat which is perfect for autumn and winter, when the weather starts to cool.  It takes me back to the Twenties - very Gatsby, I feel!  The ribbon is very cute and adds an element of interest, to prevent this from just being a simple woolen hat.  It comes in cream (pictured), red and cobalt blue and has been reduced from £40 to just £16.
I have also found this wonderful nude tote handbag which I think would work well with the 1920's, retro look - although it's also got a 1960's feel about it!  Mix and match of eras?  This would work well for all daytime occasions; the site suggests weddings and the races - August Bank Holiday at Goodwood anyone?  It's a great, versatile handbag and has been reduced from £75 to £45.
As these are sale items, voucher codes shouldn't apply but it's worth noting that Rock My Vintage do have an ongoing code (till the end of the year) for 8% off if customers fancy any of their full-priced items!

Friday 16 August 2013

Delightful Dress: AX Paris Comic Midi Dress from USC

The comic print trend is still very much en vogue and there are loads of fabulous patterns and styles available.  I've already spotted this brilliant pencil skirt, which I like for its quirkiness and idiosyncrasy and I do love a man in a Superman t-shirt....

But I want more!  And so it shall be.  I have been coveting this AX Paris comic print midi dress from USC for ages now but it's been full price the whole time.  However, it's now on sale - originally £22, it's reduced to just £15.  It will be so easy to wear - simply team with a pair of black patent heels and heads will turn!  This body con dress will really show off one's feminine silhouette - the elastane means it should hold everything in, so don't be scared!  Channel your inner superhero and fly away in style!
Visit USC for designer menswear and womenswear

Fantastic Footwear: Ugg Womens Classic Dylan Short Boots from M and M Direct

It's wet and it's grey and I really, really hope that summer isn't over already.  But if it is, it's time to start thinking about footwear for the colder months and to me, that means new boots!  Some of my favourite boots are Uggs, which are comfortable, warm, versatile and fashionable and they come in a great variety of styles so there is nearly always something for everyone.

M and M Direct is an online store that sells branded fashion at a discount, and they are often very good for having discounted Uggs on sale in a range of sizes.  I particularly like these biker style 'Dylan' short boots in a chestnut colour.  They are a classic style which is given a hint of a modern edge by the buckles and straps, that will look great with skinny jeans.  The quality is amazing, being made of a 'bomber-finished' sheepskin.  Best of all, the RRP is £219 but they're only £119 on the M and M Direct site and available in sizes 3.5 to 6.5.

Thursday 15 August 2013

Great Jeans: Hilfiger Denim Sophie Skinny Jeans from Isme

There's still time to take advantage of sales; another one I have spotted is from online catalogue company Isme.  They are offering up to 60% off their branded fashion products and 70% off other items too.

I think these Hilfiger Denim Sophie zip hem skinny jeans are great for the transition into autumn.  The floral pattern is delicate and feminine, but not too much so that it is twee.  I also like the fact that the ankle hems have a zip - makes life that much easier I feel!  They'd work well for summer with light coloured pumps and a vest top or team with ankle boots and a jacket when it starts getting cooler.  They're available in sizes 8 to 16 and are £48 to £52.50 depending on size (reduced from £80).

Wednesday 14 August 2013

Splendid Skirt: Peridot London Hopkins Wrap Leather Pencil Skirt from My-Wardrobe.com

It seems a new trend for AW13 is the asymmetrical, jagged edged wrap skirt.  They've been spotted on the catwalks of all sorts of designers including Prada, Band of Outsiders, Emporio Armani, Salvatore Ferragamo and Acne, so definitely a popular style for the season!  Plain, patterned, neutral and colourful - anything goes as long as it's a wrap.

These skirts are actually very versatile.  A funky, geometric patterned one could be paired with a plain t-shirt for an offbeat, casual look.  Or team a dark, plain one with a blazer and classic white blouse for a chic, office look.  Choose a floral one and pair with a light summer top for an ethereal, delicate look.  Or match the skirt and top for an elegant, evening look.

My favourite that I have found, however, is this fantastic, Hopkins leather one by Peridot London, available on the My-Wardrobe.com site.   It would be pretty much perfect for any occasion, teamed with the right pieces and accessories.  I'd wear it with a white top, but then pair with killer neon heels and jewellery for a really stunning look.
It's brand new, so no discounts or sales and it's £370 - but it's a quality, timeless, investment piece.  My-Wardrobe.com are offering free worldwide delivery until the end of the month with the code GLOBALSHIP so that's something at least!

Nifty Knitwear: Teacup Jumper from White Stuff

I love White Stuff for its dresses, tunics and knitwear. They are great quality, fit really well and are perfect for daytime casual wear.  They've just launched their sale where there is up to 30% off, so it's well worth taking a look, and fairly soon - White Stuff sales do tend to sell out quite quickly.

There are loads of gorgeous jumpers and cardigans which will be ideal for when the weather turns - I don't think it's going to be too long before that happens, unfortunately!  I think this cream and pink/purple flecked jumper is lovely and is perfect for autumn.  It's simple, classic shape and neutral colour means that it will go with almost any coloured bottoms - but I think it would be superb with jeans and knee-high boots.  It's an acrylic/wool/mohair blend, so should feel soft and warm to wear.  It's still available in sizes 14 to 18 and has been reduced from £49.95 to £39.
White Stuff

Tuesday 13 August 2013

Delightful Dress: Myleene Klass Dice Print Dress from Littlewoods

Littlewoods is an online catalogue site which has a great range of products including fashion and accessories and items for the home.  They often have good deals - particularly on first orders - so it's well worth having a look if there is something one is after.

I spotted this Myleene Klass dice print dress on the latest advert for Littlewoods and thought it was lovely!  Red and black is always a great colour combo, vibrant and fun and perfect for when the weather dulls, but still suitable for summer.  The tea dress style hints at a retro, forties vibe but the dice print brings it up to date.  The shape and cut is flattering, with the tie belt waist and flared skirt providing instant, effortless style.  This dress is £69 but look out for discount offers on site, and it comes in sizes 8 to 20.

Putting my money where my mouth is: Verbena & Lavender Hand Therapy from Crabtree & Evelyn

As I get older *sad face*, I'm finding that I am needing a decent hand cream more and more.  My hands are drier than they used to be, plus the skin itself doesn't seem as supple or smooth.  Therefore, I find that I've been trying out the higher-end, quality products which, although more expensive, seem to work far better than cheaper products.  They also last longer too, so actually, it does seem to work out a savvier way to shop.

My latest find is from Crabtree and Evelyn, which I love for its variety of products and fragrances, its natural ingredients and its luxuriousness.  It's a rich, restorative and creamy hand therapy cream made from verbena and lavender.  I've said before how much I love the lavender scent and the combination with the lemony verbena is heavenly, reminiscent of the summer French countryside I think!
It's also blended with Shea butter, macadamia nut oil and antioxidant-rich vitamins C and E, meaning it moisturises, restores and conditions beautifully.  I only needed a tiny amount on my hands and it lasts for ages - as well as it smelling and feeling fantastic.  Look at my lovely soft hands! :D
Crabtree and Evelyn are running a 3 for 2 offer on mini travel essentials until the end of the month and the 25g hand cream counts as part of this offer - so one could stock up!  Alternatively, customers can get a free tote bag with a £30 or more spend with the code BAG until 19th August.

Monday 12 August 2013

Delightful Dress: Plaid Pinafore Dresses from Urban Outfitters

Pinafore dresses have been making a bit of a comeback lately.  However, I've steered a bit clear of them as I do worry they look a bit schoolgirl if they are the wrong colour, pattern or styled too young.  The key to looking like a grown up when wearing this, I think, is to layer it with some mature pieces, such as a crisp blouse or some funky accessories and avoid school uniform grey!  Another trend emerging for AW13 is a tartan or plaid pattern and so I have found a couple of lovely pinafores in such a print from Urban Outfitters - I couldn't choose between them so I'm highlighting both!

The first is this red Vintage Renewal plaid pinafore dress, which is £38 and comes in sizes medium and large.  It's got a real Sixties retro look and feel to it, and is fun and playful, without being juvenile.  I like the way they have styled it, with the long-sleeved cotton blouse and I'd team it with some dark tights and Doc Martens for autumn and winter.
The second dress is this Cooperative pinafore dress in Black Watch tartan print.  It's £52 and comes in sizes extra small to large.  Again, it could be styled as the dress above and look great!
Until the end of the month, customers can get 10% off at Urban Outfitters with the code AUGUST10 and for a limited time, delivery is just £1.