Saturday 2 August 2014

LK Bennett Marlene Sandals from Zalando

The end of the summer sales are hotting up so it's definitely time to take advantage of those bargains around the web. Zalando are in the ladt few days of sale and have a huge range of items - shoes, clothes, accessories and sportswear for men, women and children - and lots of designer brands.

I have found this gorgeous pair of LK Bennett heeled sandals, which are perfect for those warmer evenings which are surely to come, despite the current changeable weather.  They come in stripey black (reduced from £175 to £125) or red (reduced from £175 to £140).

I see them being worn with a classic, box pleat, A-line skirt for daytime or evening elegance and a simple blouse or silk t-shirt.  Add a cropped cardi to keep warm whilst sipping cocktails outside!

It's worth noting as well the current sale, until 31st Sepember 2014, customers can ger 5% all items (excluding sale) with the code ZAAUGSEP5 on orders over £50 at Zalando.

Thursday 31 July 2014

Dark Floral Scuba Structured Playsuit from Lavish Alice

Lavish Alice is a gorgeous, online store that specialises in fashion's most covetable trends at reasonable prices.  It's also well-loved in showbiz circles, with popular singers like Pixie Lott, radio DJs such as Fearne Cotton and reality TV stars like Millie Mackintosh, Michelle Keegan and Samantha Faiers.

They have a great range of playsuits, perfect for the summer months.  I love this one with a digital floral monchrome print, making it easy to wear with a range of accessories - from flat pumps for daytime wear to heels for a smarter look; oversized sunglasses and hat for chilling in the sun or bright jewellery to give a complementary colour pop.


In line with the celeb theme of Lavish Alice, it's been recently spotted on E! News presenter Giuliana Rancic in the USA with some fab killer heels.  Very nice!


It's £44 - unfortunately it's not in the current 70% off sale. But so lovely!

Lavish Alice

Wednesday 30 July 2014

New Sorbet Range from the Body Shop

I am loving The Body Shop's products at the moment. My current favourites are now the Sorbets, particularly - the Morninga products - cooling skincare treats for the face and body, simply luscious.  I've been using a couple of products - one for the face and neck and one for the body - to keep my skin moisturised, cool and smooth. A great tip for using these is to pop them in the fridge before use, for extra frosty refreshment!
Moringa Body Sorbet & Vitamin E Aqua Boost Sorbet - lovely!
The first product is the gorgeous Vitamin E Aqua Boost Sorbet which I have been using on my face and neck. It really is cooling, light and smooth and perfect for this muggy weather. It contains Aqua Sphere technology - microscopic moisture spheres that act like tiny reservoirs and hold hundreds of times their weight in pure water, basically meaning that it works beautifully for up to 24 hours. It does! It also contains wheatgerm oil, Community Fair Trade shea butter and soya oil.

I've also been using the Moringa Body Sorbet (not for the face!).  Again, cooling and smooth, smelling of divine florals, it absorbs really quickly into my skin with no stickiness. It also comes in strawberry, mango, peach and satsuma.  As ever, it's all ethical - the body sorbet range contains 100% organic Community Fair Trade Aloe Vera from Guatemala, to comfort, cool and soothe skin frazzled by the summer heat. Perfecto!

Until 5th August, customers can get 35% off using the code 35OFF.

The Body Shop UK

Tuesday 29 July 2014

Lola and Luxury Lace Bras from Gossard

Gossard sent me some gorgeous lingerie from the Lola range and Luxury Lace range recently.  Gossard have always been on the cutting edge of lingerie fashion and it was great to try these fantastic products.

I am impressed.  Being a plus-sized person, I have found that over the years, it's been almost impossible to get well-fitting, reasonably priced, pretty, colourful and stylish lingerie and I do feel that these ranges cover all of these bases.  The first range I tried was from the Lola collection.  The Lola neon pink with turquoise ribbon detailing non-padded bra (pictured) comes in sizes 30D to 38G, the plunge bra in sizes 30D to 38E and the shorts and thong in extra small to extra large.  I love the colour combination of this range with the complementary turquoise ribbon and neon pink lace, giving it an amazing colour pop.  The non-padded bra is very supportive, with an inner net and criss-cross, gateback on  the back making me feel comfortable yet attractive.
The second range I tried was from the Luxury Lace collection. The Luxury Lace plunge bra comes in sizes 30D to 38F (pictured below in aqua).  Slightly padded, it allows for one's cleavage to look awesome!  I also tried the thong (again, below) in extra large which fit and looked superb.  There's also a balcony bra from 30D to 38E and the shorts and thongs in extra small to extra large too.  This range comes in three different colours - an aqua/turquoise blue with candy pink ribbon as shown, a darker, almost purplish blue (selling out fast with discounts on this gorgeous colour) and classic black - the latter two with baby pink ribbon detailing.  There's also a fab suspender belt in the dark blue to complete the look.
To conclude, thank you to Gossard for introducing me to these lovely ranges; my husband thanks you too! And as a savvy and canny shopper, I do think the pricing is very good already for quality, gorgeous and unique products, but do watch out for discounts, sales and voucher codes which become available at certain times making their ranges even more desirable!

Thursday 22 May 2014

Anna Scholz Cowl Colour Block Dress from Simply Be

I have just rediscovered Simply Be, a plus-size (12 - 32) store with a fabulous range of clothing, shoes and accessories. They have great basics at decent prices as well as on-trend, flattering pieces that can't be found elsewhere. I like it especially as the clothes have been designed for larger ladies, so customers can be confident that they should fit well and look good.

They have just started their online sale today (in store starts tomorrow) and there are some amazing items on offer. I will be purchasing this amazing cowl necked colour block dress by the designer Anna Scholz.  The colours and patterns are simply divine.  The cut and fabric composition, with a hint of elastane, will ensure the style is super-flattering to emphasise those feminine curves. I'd mainly wear this with heels for an evening out, but I do think one could get away with it for a lovely lunch out or other daytime event.  It's still available in sizes 20 to 32 and has been reduced from £70 to just £33!

As well as the sale, Simply Be has an ongoing code of 10% off for new customers, which is CQHC5.

Monday 28 April 2014

New Raspberry Range from the Body Shop

I'm really impressed with the range of products and discounts that the Body Shop offers on a regular basis.  Coupled with their ethics - including Fair Trade, against animal testing, human rights and green values - I don't think anyone can go wrong with them!

They have just launched the most fantastic new raspberry range and I've been using the shower gel and body butter. It smells wonderful and realistic; so often these sorts of products can smell synthetic, overpowering and fake but these don't - it is a natural, delightful, real raspberry smell! The raspberries are picked early in the season which also preserves skin-boosting antioxidants to protect and nourish.

The shower gel is soap-free which is great for me - I can use soap but it can occasionally bring out a little rash, so I do prefer this type of product. Obviously, I use it in the shower where it lathers up well and feels fresh and clean and my skin has been perfect afterwards. Even better, it's sweetened with Fair Trade honey, supporting bee-keepers and their communities in Ethiopia.

The body butter is gorgeous; it feels amazing when it goes on and keeps my skin silky smooth for ages - it certainly lives up to its 24 hour hydration promise. I also don't need a lot of it for fully moisturised, soft skin meaning it's great value for money. Using this after the shower gel means that the moisture gets locked in really well and I also get the subtle raspberry scent all over!  And again, one of the ingredients - the Shea butter - is sourced Fair Trade from Ghana, so its an ethical purchase. Simply divine all round.


The other products in this range include an Eau de Toilette, a body scrub and a lightweight body lotion, all of which, I'm sure, are just as amazing. Until today, customers can get 40% off with purchases of four or more and 30% off with purchases of two or three products with the code PICK.

Thursday 17 April 2014

Fashion Targets Breast Cancer Checked Dress from Laura Ashley

Laura Ashley is again supporting Fashion Targets Breast Cancer with two beautiful, complementary pieces of which 30% of the proceeds will go to the charity.

The first of the items is this gorgeous checked pink and white dress, gathered at the waist and a flared skirt for maximum flattery. It's 100% cotton so will be super cool for summer and great quality.  Pair with some pale pumps and it's the basis for a quick summer daytime outfit. It's £85 and comes in sizes 8 to 20.
And speaking of pairing, this pink bow neck cardigan is the other item whereby 30% of the proceeds will go to the charity, and it will be perfect with the dress if it gets a little cold!  It's £40 and again, comes in sizes 8 to 20 - but is selling out fast.
In addition, for the Easter weekend, Laura Ashley have 25% off all other fashion (not these items) so it's definitely worth having a look at the site for bargains.

Tuesday 8 April 2014

Dionysus Skirt from Coast

Coast has just launched its High Summer collection and it is gorgeous - lots of bold colours and prints, pretty pastels and florals and flattering styles, perfect for fun Summer occasions.  There are beautiful shift and maxi dresses, stunning strappy sandals and fantastic skirts, all in luxurious fabrics such as jacquard, lace and satin.

I love this Dionysus skirt.  The box pleats and full, A-line shape means that it will be flattering, especially to one's waist. It's versatile; it can be worn with pretty much any top - plain or patterned - for any occasion.  A simple t-shirt and pumps would make a great daytime outfit, or dress it up with a silk cami, jewellery and heels for an evening look.  My favourite colour is the baby blue (shown), but it also comes in yellow and this season's colour, royal blue. Lovely!
It's £75 in sizes 6 to 18 and until midnight tonight, customers can get 25% off full priced items with the code SUMMERTIME.

Monday 7 April 2014

Ekata Tweed Blazer by Malene Birger from Atterley Road

There are lots of lovely designer clothes, shoes and accessories in the Atterley Road mid-season sale, all with up to 50% off right now.

Structured jackets are great for the changeable Spring weather and I love this cream tweed blazer by Malene Birger.  The colour combination means that it will go with almost everything, but the beaded embellishment and trim prevents it from being ordinary.  It could be worn for work, over a shift dress and with courts - or wear it with skinny jeans and ankle boots for the day.  Originally £345, it's now £244 and available in sizes 10 to 14.
Atterley Road

Thursday 3 April 2014

Hayden Asymmetrical Dress from Fever London

It's always great to find online stores that stock unique, fun and retro styles and Fever London does just that.  There is currently 20% off selected styles, so I have been having a browse to see what's available.

I am tempted by this 1960's inspired pencil dress in navy with a contrasting red stripe detail.  The bodycon styling with a hint of elastane means it will flatter one's silhouette, pulling in at all the right places! The length means it's subtle enough that it could be worn for work, with some conservative court shoes, or it can be glammed up for a night out at a jazz club.

Usually £69.99, with the discount (which runs until Sunday) it's £55.99 and comes in sizes 6 to 18.
Fever London

Sunday 30 March 2014

Silver Bells Blazer from Great Plains

There are some nice offers at Great Plains at present and there are loads of gorgeous dresses, tops, trousers coats and more available, all great quality at great prices.

This 'Silver Bells' cobalt blue blazer is perfect for the transitioning months.  It's a perfect blend of cotton with a hint of elastane, so will fit perfectly. And, of course, the cobalt blue is the colour for Spring!  I'd wear it with a simple t-shirt, skinny jeans and pumps for a casual, daytime look, but it could also be worn to the office over a tailored blouse and skirt.  Best yet, it was originally £75 but is just £24 in the sale - a real quality bargain.
Great Plains

Monday 24 March 2014

Sophie Maxi Dress from Ossie Clark London

Ossie Clark is a well-established, classic designer who has been around since the 1960's and he invented the trouser suit! His collection consists of feminine shapes, vintage-inspired glamour with a hint of edginess.

There are quite a few items on sale on the website at present, including some beautiful, ethereal blouses and dresses, bold coloured tops and jackets and some stunning basics. However, I have gone for something a little more daring - this 'Sophie' black maxi dress with gold trim and ruffles. It's a maxi dress with a Disney villain twist - I'm thinking the stepmother in Snow White - but it's wearable, not costume-y at all! Wear to a fabulous evening do with gold strappy heels and subtle jewellery; this dress doesn't need much accessorising at all. Originally £149, it's been reduced to £79 and is available in sizes 8 to 18.

Sunday 23 March 2014

Strapless Pleated Maxi Dress from Marks and Spencer

Today, Marks & Spencer launched a fantastic three day Mega Event offering 20% off clothing, shoes and accessories - it ends on Tuesday 25th March and is online only.

I have had my eye on this cobalt blue maxi dress for a while now. The cobalt blue is one of this season's key colours. The pleats, ruching and belted waist will ensure the fit is flattering to most figures. It's totally glamourous and is perfect for an evening out, teamed with gold heels, jewellery and a sophisticated updo hairstyle. It could also be worn to a wedding - either as a guest or as one of the bridesmaids. Originally £89, with 20% off it's £71.20 during the Mega Event.

Friday 21 March 2014

Missy Cat Print Collar Dress from People Tree

I've said it before and I'll say it again, People Tree is a great store with an admirable ethical ethos and customers should be proud to shop there! Their new collection is out for Spring and Summer and customers can take advantage of the code ECOLOVE, which gives 10% off until 30th March.

I love this pussy cat patterned shift dress, with capped sleeves and a Peter Pan collar.  It's very 1960's retro, and I love the kooky geometric cat print!  It will be incredibly comfortable and cool to wear, being 100% high quality, organic cotton. It can be worn with opaque tights and black boots to channel the 60's or wear with wedged sandals for a simple Spring look. It's £75 normally, but with the discount is £67.50 and there's free UK delivery (or just £5 for international delivery).
Alternatively, customers can get £30 off when they spend more than £150 with discount voucher code LOVEPT30, if there are other items on the site that need purchasing...!  This is valid until 27th March.

Thursday 20 March 2014

Love Bubblegum Playsuit from Inlovewithfashion

Online store inlovewithfashion stocks the latest fabulous, feminine trends at affordable prices. They have new arrivals every day, stock is limited - and therefore, unique - and pieces are in high demand!

I just can't stay away from the candy pink trend for SS14 and I adore this bubblegum pink playsuit that is available. It's so quirky and different and the colour is simply gorgeous! It's perfect for warmer weather, teamed with wedged sandals and fun jewellery.
Until tomorrow (21st March) customers can get £10 off a £40 or more spend with the code MARCHTREAT10, so one could get this and a little something extra - maybe in the sale? - to utilise it!

Wednesday 19 March 2014

Crochet Lace Dress from Apricot in aid of Ovarian Cancer Charity Ovacome

March is ovarian cancer month and, to support this, Apricot has teamed up with ovarian cancer charity, Ovacome and are selling a fabulous dress in the charity's colour of teal.

The dress is lined and structured, to give an amazing fit.  The pattern detail, with circular crochet lace and pleats is divine.  And the colour is gorgeous.  It can be worn to the office with a blazer and courts or dressed up with accessories and killer heels for an evening out.  It's £35 and comes in sizes 8 to 16 and, with all profits from sales of this dress going to Ovacome, it is so worth it.
There is also a canvas tote bag available for just £2, again, with all profits going to the charity.  So do think about supporting this cause and gaining a fab dress and bag!  It's win/win for everyone!

Tuesday 18 March 2014

Everyday Leather Shopper Bag from Boden

I'm still loving that candy pink that's on trend this season and I've found some gorgeous ways to embrace this style subtlety on the Boden website - with a discount!  The code U008 will work to get 20% off selected items, plus free delivery and returns.

First, there's this everyday leather shopper bag.  It's a perfect size, a perfect colour and with neat compartments to store all one's bits and pieces.  Originally £110, it's currently £88 and an easy way to wear pink with style.
And why not team it with this card holder? Originally £15, it's just £12 and a perfect way to store one's cards and passes.
Both items also come in green, blue and silver.

Monday 17 March 2014

Geometric Print Tube Skirt from House of Holland

I love the House of Holland collection, with its 1980s inspired, bold patterns and styles.  The collection is available on its own website, but also can be found in other stores such as Debenhams and Urban Outfitters.

I spotted this patchwork tube pencil skirt on Pinterest and love it.  Its a perfect pencil skirt, with its edgy, geometric pattern, superb midi length and high-waisted, stretch jersey fit.  Wear with a black t-shirt and ankle boots for a great, urban look.

It's £90 on the House of Holland site, but this fantastic skirt is also available at Urban Outfitters who are offering 15% off until 23rd March with the code MIAMI15 making it £76.50.
House of Holland

Sunday 16 March 2014

The Look for Less: Burberry Prossum SS14

Think pink! Another colour trend for SS14 is pink.  It's been spotted on the catwalks of Henry Holland, Temperley, Tom Ford and Chanel amongst others, in a range of tones and hues. I particularly like the candy pinks that are available - brighter and more fun than more common pastel shades.  Add some lace and layers and one is totally en vogue for the season!

So for this post, I am channelling Burberry Prorsum as seen during London Fashion week!
I found a great floral lace pink blouse at Marisota that is not dissimilar to the top of the dress above. It's just £18, reduced from £65. One could tuck the peplum into the skirt ir leave it as is. But hurry as it's selling out!
The blouse can then be combined with this Jacquard lace pencil skirt (below) from New Look.  It's just £19.99, comes in sizes 6 to 18 and a range of colours (black, blue, light and dark pink).
To complete the look, one could pair the skirt and blouse with some silver metallic heels - or go candy pink mad with pink courts and clutch bag!  I think this outfit would work really well for a wedding or similar more formal occasion.  A designer look, for a fraction of the price: true savvy chic, canny style!

Charabia Moonshine Trousers from Anthropologie

Anthropologie stocks a gorgeous selection of high quality and unique clothing, accessories, homeware and gifts.  I was browsing their site for Mother's Day gifts and came across these fantastic metallic trousers.  Tailored metallic fabrics are on trend for SS14, as seen on the catwalks of Lanvin, Christian Dior and Issey Miyake, and I think these trousers are a perfect way to embrace the style.  I'd team them with a silk top and heels and some colourful accessories for a chic, futuristic look.

Originally £148, they are now £43.95 and available in sizes extra small, small and large.
A savvy tip for Anthropologie fans is to sign up for their loyalty programme, 'Anthro'.  Customers who do so get advance notice of sales, a birthday discount, at least two free delivery periods per year, invitations to special events and more. 
Anthropologie (UK)

Saturday 15 March 2014

Blue Sapphire Dragonfly Pendant from Libby J London

Libby J. London creates high quality, hand-finished jewellery in sterling silver. Their designs are unique and vintage-inspired, featuring bright and bold coloured gemstones. Price-wise, everything is under £100 to enable almost everyone to have a little luxury! It's only been around since November, so it really is a brand new venture.

There is a great selection of unique, gorgeous, quality jewellery on the site, including rings, earrings and necklaces and my favourite piece is this yellow gold dragonfly pendant set with a gorgeous sapphire.  The colour will flatter many skin tones and the blue of the sapphire gives it a hint of sparkle and elegance. And the dragonfly is always a great shape or pattern - so pretty!

Customers can currently take advantage of 20% discount on the site until the end of March as well as free postage and packaging as standard. The code is LJ2014. So this pendant, which is usually £45 is £36 with the discount.