Christmas Wishlist

Christmas pressure is kicking in – there are only a few weeks left to find the perfect gift, and it’s always the people you care most about who are the hardest to buy for. If that last person on your list is the picky fashionista type then you’re in luck – I’ve handpicked five presents that they’re bound to love. Four of them are totally affordable, but I’ve thrown in one blowout option for you generous types! And if you’d rather be shopping for yourself then I’ve found the best place on the internet for scoring some designer treats, absolutely free. Happy shopping…

Diptyque Indian Incense Holiday candle

There’s no time of year that I wouldn’t want to be given a Diptyque candle, but for Christmas they’ve cranked things up a notch. This Indian Incense Holiday candle (above) comes in their signature glass packaging, but with a gorgeous purple, pink and gold design that echoes its intoxicating, Eastern-inspired fragrance. Not one for the girl who likes vanilla or fruit-based scents, it balances rose and carnation with the very festive incense and myrrh, for up to 60 hours of gorgeous candlelight flecked with those Christmassy colours.

Marc by Marc Jacobs iPhone 5 Case

Phone cases are a brilliant idea for gifts this year. No longer tech geek territory, they’ve become a statement fashion accessory that you can’t get wrong in terms of fit and style (as long as you know which phone they have). This one from Marc by Marc Jacobs is my current favourite - the glossy golden sheen is suitable festive and that melting effect brings something new to the table.

Bleach Super Cool Colours: Awkward Peach and Washed Up Mermaid

If you need a gift for the girl who always seems to be ahead of every trend, then London’s coolest salon has got you covered. Bleach recently brought out an at-home range that includes some of their signature in-salon colours, so now even non-Londoners can get a hit of Awkward Peach or Washed Up Mermaid. And they fades out in 2-10 washes, so it’s ideal for New Year’s Eve experimentation if you need it to be gone (or at least less extreme) by the time you head back to work.

Carven Tiger Knit Sweater

If you feel like blowing the budget for someone special, and they’re usually quite hard to please, then this tiger jumper from Carven should be your go-to gift. With a supersoft texture and snuggly roll neck, they’ll be able to wear it with everything from leather pencil skirts to skinny trousers, and those tiger stripes are one of this season’s most covetable prints.

ZARA Croco Combined Bowling Bag

I’d be very happy to find this under the tree – it’s one of the most luxurious bags on the high street this Christmas. It’s hefty (but not ridiculously sized) and with the croc panelling I think it could easily be mistaken for a designer piece. The perfect gift for spoiling someone rotten, without completely blowing the budget.

And something for you…

Shopping for Christmas presents is great, but it’s easy to get a little jaded when you’re spending so much on loot for other people. What if you don’t end up with anything quite so thoughtful in return? Luckily Farfetch is in the giving mood this season and they’re giving away a stunning gift every day in the build up to Christmas. Upcoming prizes from the Farfetch Wonderful Store include a metallic Lanvin clutch, Olivia Von Halle pyjamas (David Beckham bought Victoria a set last year), vintage Chanel jewellery and Valentino’s ‘Rockstud’ tote. It’s a seriously amazing haul, which will make it that much easier to be generous when you’re shopping for your own Christmas presents. Good luck!

J.Crew Jewellery

J.Crew finally landed in London this month – and the American powerhouse brand definitely arrived with a bang. The clothes are trend-orientated but classic, and a big part of Michelle Obama’s all-American, accessible-to-all look. My personal favourites right now include this jewelled chandelier sweatshirt, ideal for moving from the office to drinks at the bar.

But a lot of it can risk looking a little, well, safe. Great for picking up timeless cashmere sweatshirts, not so great for finding a cool new outfit for Friday night. Unless you’re looking for statement jewellery, which is where J.Crew really comes into its own. I’ve been eyeing their bold, bejewelled necklaces for months and I’m so excited that I can finally check them out and try them on in store now that they’ve finally hit the UK. 

So to welcome J.Crew to London I’ve put together a quick rundown of the five necklaces most deserving of your attention. They’re still slightly on the pricey side of most people’s budgets, but it’s a worthy investment when you consider how many outfits they could completely refresh with their hit of bold, dazzling colour and dramatic drop shapes.

Remember when I blogged about Shourouk jewellery back in June? This is the affordable version, and it’s even on sale, so I’m struggling to come up with a reason why I shouldn’t be hitting ‘Add to Bag’ right now. The Perspex plate keeps this piece looking contemporary, while the piled-in gems are just the right level of opulent.

We all know that pink is being hailed as the shade of theseason but if you haven’t found a rose coloured coat to fall in love with yet then this necklace will fill that sartorial void. Four glossy, oversized gems make even that chunky gold chain seem feminine, but what I love most is the tiny gold fringing that hangs off them, giving it an exotic, Morocco-inspired feel.

If you’re starting to feel tired of crisp, collared white shirts, then this necklace might be the ideal antidote. A pop of acid yellow, trimmed with black and the palest grey, will liven up a classic ensemble with its girly-meets-edgy attitude. Or throw it on over a neoprene sweatshirt (preferably in a bright lemon colour) to take a sports-luxe look up to the next level.

This one doesn’t have as much colour, but it still manages to make a dramatic statement. Triangular clusters of silver-toned crystals have all the razzle dazzle of an old school diamond necklace, but give it a more modern feel. And the soft gold circles add a slightly hippy chic vibe! J.Crew themselves describe it as architectural and Art Deco – it would be a wide choice if you want to channel Carey Mulligan in The Great Gatsby, but don’t want to look like you’ve dipped into the fancy dress box.

This fringe necklace is more of a gothic, sophisticated piece: a definite step away from J.Crew’s signature way with colour. I love the little cluster of gemstones at each side, but it’s the glossy black pendant, made up of rows of stones, that really makes this necklace stand out. Complete with that glossy gold fringing and an on-trend chain, this would make an incredible Christmas present for anyone who deserves to be spoiled this year.

Stocking Filler Ideas

We’re almost a month away from Christmas with only two paydays left. So, I’d say now is a better time than ever to start thinking about the Christmas shop.  I just can’t wait! I don’t know what I’m more excited for, time off work or the Christmas diner, which the Nanna does a splendid job of every year I have to say!

What makes Christmas really special is all the extra effort that goes into making the festive season feel more special than any other time of year, with the likes of John Lewis and there Disney televised advert and Christmas trees being decorated at Claridges by Fashion Designers Dolce and Gabanna.

What also makes this time of year so special is all the finishing touches, all the lights on the high streets walks to people pulling out all the stops to decorate their homes with a lavish display of lights. The reefs on the front door to decorating your walls with the tinsel and Christmas cards, all helps in making this season feel like no other time of the year.

One of my favourite Christmas traditions is having a stocking, now I’m little old to be hanging it out on the fire place, leaving milk and a mince pie for Santa along with a carrots for Rudolf and the rest of the reindeers. But still after all these years there is something so poignantly enchanting about waking up on Christmas morning and immediately undoing the Christmas stocking.

For years now my bubble has been burst somewhat because I always end up getting knick knacks that I just don’t want and totally forget about by Boxing Day. I’m not ungrateful, but clementine’s just why? It’s just bit of anti-climax and on speaking with friends this is a common problem. So with this in mind, why not try and make this year different with a little nudge to Santa so that those stockings are filled with delightful treats that will serve you all year round? I’m not saying to try and get all of your presents orchestrated in this way, but it never hurt anyone plus it makes sense…no point wasting things you don’t like. I’ve put together the ultimate stocking wish list comprised of accessories that are true hero piece’s that will last for season after season, while keeping you impeccably dressed.

1. Chloe set of Bangles-£53-Farfetch.com

Every girl loves a bit of designer and these Chloe bracelets are the perfect way to work designer into your stocking full of treats. They come in a set of three and are adorned with the brands signature logo.

2. Turquoise Stone Head Chain-£15.00-AsosMarketplace

This head chain is a beautiful hair jewellery piece that you can incorporate in to multiple looks to elevate your look.  It’s reasonably priced and will easily fit in your stocking full of other goodies.

3. Pink cable knit socks- £4.00-Riverisland.com

These pink socks with frilly lace around the ankle are the ultimate stocking filler piece. You can wear the socks no matter the season, with sandals or shoes for a fresh fashion forward style aesthetic.

4. Neon Ikat Make up bag-£8.00-Topshop.com

Every girl needs a make-up bag whether you wear make up on a daily bases or not. Make bags can also act as really cool handbag organiser. You can go all out with the design of your make-up bag to explore tastes that you would not normally wear.

5. Horn tunnel earrings-£9.30-Nastygal.com

These earrings are super cool and stylish. They come in all silver and give the illusion of a slightly stretched ear. These earrings would look amazing worn as a pair or in one ear in the second earlobe for a varied stylish look.

6. Moschino iphone cover-£81-Luisaviaroma.com

Dressing designer head to toe can quite easily break the bank. So this designer phone cover is the perfect way to have a piece of designer without actually wearing it. This phone cover is super chic and made from rubber, a great protector in case you drop it. The cover has a thin gold chain so that you can hang it around your neck for easy access.

7. Turban-£125-Thecorner.com

Turbans have been a hot trend for the season and celebrities like the Olsen twins and Miley Cyrus have all rocked out the trend. These pieces are perfect for an effortless fashion forward look.

8. Monica Vinader-£95.00- Net-a-porter.com

This red bracelet is a cutenumber you can slip into stocking and is traditionally worn as a friendship bracelet but it can have any sentimental value that you wish. It’s on a vibrant red cord and has detailing of rose gold plated on sterling silver.

9. Opaque Cotton tights- £10.00-Cos.com

Spring summer or autumn winter you can never go wrong with a pair of tights. Coloured tights allow you to work colour into your look that in a varied way. Tights look great teamed with skirts or shorts and are always great for giving you that extra warmth.

10. Combined Leather Glove-£35.90- Zara.com

Tartan has been a huge trend for the season and these gloves see a dark checks featured on the top. These stylish gloves are in all leather so your hands will be kept snuggled and warm throughout the wintery seasons to come.

There you have it, my top ten hero pieces as stocking filler ideas. Which pieces would you love to see in yours?

Wintery Accessories

We’re well into November now, and there’s no putting it off any longer: it’s time to start investing in cosy accessories. Think of them as an easy way to refresh that winter coat that you’re already bored of – mixing and matching hats and scarves can breathe fresh life into the outerwear that you have to pull on every day, and add a punch of colour if you opted for a coat in classic black, navy or grey. I’ve chosen my twelve favourite pieces, for a stylish collision of fashion and warmth!

1 & 2. If you didn’t commit to a Brian Lichtenberg t-shirt, then his beanies are an alternative way to tap into his tongue-in-cheek humour. His riffs on Celine, Hermés and Saint Laurent look just as good across your forehead as they ever did on tees and sweatshirts.

3. This pork pie hat from Topshop is as cute as a button, and it comes in a ton of different colours. Use it to add a jaunty twist to androgynous overcoats, and protect your hair on windier days.

4. There are hundreds of cute bobble hats out there, but this sunshine-yellow version from White Stuff is my favourite. If it’s bright colour doesn’t inspire a few smiles, then maybe the crocheted pattern will – even on a bleak January morning it’s a happy reminder of summer. The furry bobble is very nice, too.

5. This is the perfect scarf to layer with an old school biker jacket, from Mint Velvet. The waterfall shape comes in a supersoft, lightweight wool, while the faux fur trim is incredibly fluffy.

6. Master irreverent winter dressing with this brick print scarf from Marc by Marc Jacobs, available at Selfridges now. The closer you look, the more you notice the hidden bunnies and iconic logo - and because it’s monochrome, it’ll work with coats in any colour.

7. Plaid is back in a big way right now, and Topshop’s checked scarf is one of the best ways to channel it. The combination of lilac and blue, shot through with a skinny stripe of orange, is a more interesting alternative to the classic tartans – there’s something very nineties about it, without going too grungy.

8. Thanks entirely to Burberry, heart prints are in vogue right now. Follow Victoria Beckham’s lead with this scarf from Oasis, which will look great tucked into a trench coat.

9. Madeleine Thompson’s neon pink beanie is cut from sumptuous cashmere, and available exclusively from Net-a-Porter. It’ll brighten up everything from leather jackets to grey cocoon coats.

10. The fedora hat is the accessory of the season – just ask Alexa Chung and black is the obvious choice as it will go with everything. But this pale green one from Marie Mercié makes much more of a statement. With a wide grosgrain ribbon, it’s a slightly more feminine take on the trend. And will really compliment a fluffy grey coat.

11. Markus Lupfer’s known for his knitwear, especially his oversized sweaters emblazoned with sequinned lips. But this year he’s introduced this tiara hat, available in black, red, purple and white, for a quirky dose of his signature style.

12. This Monsoon snood spells pure luxury, but it’s all faux fur. Layer it over a white coat for classic winter style, perfect for hitting the ice rink or Christmas markets – add on a pair of fluffy ear muffs or mittens to take the look even further.

Yunus and Eliza Statement Jewellery

There’s not much more I enjoy in the world than surfing the web for amazing innovative fashion treats, call it ‘sad’ if you like but when it’s quirky and out there I get even more excited!

It’s always an expensive task bringing in your new season wardrobe staples, making sure they are on trend, while ensuring you get your cost per wear out of them can all get a bit much. The last things you want to think about and afford are accessories and jewellery!

Nether the less I love jewellery and accessories all the same and can’t help myself from being in search of hidden treasures. I have to admit it’s only been of recent years that I’ve started becoming more in tune with my jewellery collection. For years I’ve underestimated the value of how much jewellery can enhance a look.

The great thing about investing in designer jewellery is you know that it will last compared to its costume jewellery counterpart. You can wear designer pieces season after season and feel just as stylish and cool as the first time you wore it.

Jewellery adds that glam and sparkle and helps to define a fashion forward enviable look. My favourite jewellery pieces are rings, and I love the way you can stack rings in versatile compositions. I also love earrings, they help to define and frame your face in the same way necklaces and chokers can. 

With Christmas just around the corner I thought I’d share with you a label that is taking the fashion film, and music industry by a storm called Yunus and Eliza. The duos have compiled an eclectic collection of sculpted award winning jewellery.  The pair launched back in 2009 and ever since they have been designing the most lustful of jewellery pieces I’ve seen to date. Both designers have a background in art, Yunus studied Art and Design at Westminster whilst Eliza worked as a freelance sculptor before going to Heatherley School of Fine Art studying History followed by portrait sculpture. Neither trained as a jeweller they took the ingenuity of their skills, combining them to produce a jewellery label that’s wild yet eloquent.

Yunas and Eliza also design bespoke pieces for clients in whom their pieces have featured in block buster filmsJack the giant Slayer and head pieces for Universal records.  Yuns and Eliza range of jewellery are truly sculpted wearable art pieces that conjoin fashion and art into fantasying fascinating designs.

The pair feel strongly against the growing culture of disposable fashion and want to eradicate this buying tendency by making jewellery that up holds the most quality and craftsmanship in beautiful yet raw handmade designs.

The London based designers whose works are instantly recognisable are romantic with an essence of British Nostalgia, whilst  have infusions of wild and rebellious streaks in futuristic designs.

Which collections is your favorite?

Giorgio Armani Handbags A/W 13

One designer who has been around for a while now and I just can’t get enough of is Giorgio Armani.  There are not many designers out there that have a collection and I actually want every single piece from. Giorgio Armani bags are just divine they are the epitome of an ‘it bag’. They have bag styles from shoppers to totes and even clutch’s too, Giorgio Armani bags are officially my new found love.

Giorgio Armani is an Italian fashion designer that has built himself a billion pound empire of luxury goods. Armani established his name as a menswear designer and later branched out into designing womenswear. Armani’s business partnerships initiated from the 1980’s where he teamed up with cosmetic giant’s l'Oreal and brought out perfume scents. Armani has since then stretched his empire to it's full capacity, bringing supplementary fashion lines G.A Collezioni, Armani Swimwear and Underwear, Armani accessories and even Armani junior.

With an estimated net worth of 8.5 billion, where did it all begin for Giorgio Armani? Surprisingly Armani had a short stint in the armed forces before landing a job as a window dresser. Armani’s first proper role was at Nino Cerruti where he was a designer for menswear.

In gaining an astute set of skills and connections within the fashion industry, Armani was in demand. He freelanced for top designers like Allergi, Hilton and Sicons. At this time during the 1960’s Armani met Sergio Galettoi. The pair built a strong lasting relationship, it was Gellottoi who in fact persuaded him to open his own design office, ultimately leading the pair to work on joint collaborations.

Armani's talent did not go unnoticed whilst he was working as a freelancer designer, his efforts were soon picked up by the media from shows which invoked the designer to aspire for more. Giorgio Armani wanted to make a name for himself and branched out on his own so that he could show his own style in his own way. 

By 1975 Giorgio Armani presented a menswear and womenswear collection. The brand was received extremely well and Giorgio Armani shortly became one of fashions most sought after designers.

In celebration of a leading international label, we have listed the top 10 Bags of the season!

1. Plexiglas Handles
2. Monochrome Frame
3. Charniere Dorree
4. Medium Leather Bag
5. Beaded Satin Clutch
6. Velvet Clutch with Rhinestones
7. Printed Pony Skin Business Bag
8. Shopping Bag
9. Shopper
10. Tote Bag

Which one do you fancy?