SoleStruck

http://www.solestruck.com/jeffrey-campbell-lana-fab-red-tartan/index.html#

Now if its one thing I'm always struggling to say no to (and like most people) its shoes. Problem is, its not the simple 'everyday flats' shoe I struggle to say no to. Its shoes like these. If you've ever been shopping with me, and come across the heel section your bound to watching me parade around the store in the most ridiculous heals; (and note I'm roughly 5''8ft tall...so naturally I tend to stand out from the crowd sometimes..).  Worse thing is, its these kind of shoes I feel like a kid in, because of the whole 'dressing up and parading around the room' feel. You know when it comes to reality, you're going to struggle to stay on your feet (and after a view Vodka and Cokes its bound to be disastrous.) Still, If it means  having legs to kill and a look to die for then why not!? For those who require more information on the shoe, you'll find me in A&E come the early hours of the morning. 

The Chelsea Look

http://fashion-mommy.com/2011/10/21/made-in-chelsea-millie-mackintosh-style/

http://www.graziadaily.co.uk/fashion/archive/2011/09/27/serena-van-der-woodsen-blake-lively-caggie-dunlop.htm

Those who know me and know what I love, would know that E4's 'Made In Chelsea' is currently my guilty pleasure. Yes its a little far-fetched for most of us when it comes to their lifestyle. (After all, not all of  us can afford to run off to Paris when boy trouble strikes..) but we can dream. So, other then the never ending flow of champaign, those Chanel and Hermes bags, and countless trips to St Tropez; What else do we observe when watching this? Well for me its their outfits. (Surprise, Surprise.) Each of the girls have thier own look in the show, above Millie and Caggie have a similar approach to fashion, they channel the hippie vibe with that added Chelsea edge. Rosie and Ambers looks however differentiate. Rosie's look is more gothic/rock. Its simple but modern. Ambers look tends to appear preppy but conservative. Take a look for yourself!

http://atfashionforte.com/2011/

My Precious

http://www.linksoflondon.com/gb-en/online-shop/women/bracelets/8488-friendship-bracelet---navy-blue

Links Of London are currently one of my favorite jewellery brands in the UK. Their friendship bracelets in particular have become more recognised lately, mainly for its simplistic design and convenient touch. More importantly its good quality. Fortunately I do own a Friendship bracelet, I was lucky to find it on sale for roughly £55 (originally £110..or more).  Its design is Red, White and Blue silk with the standard Links Of London toggle at the end. I've had it for over a year now...maybe longer. Sadly the white part has become dirty and I really should find out if it can be cleaned. For now, I will admire this navy blue one. for £145 it isn't cheap, but they're worth it.  I also like this ring, again it's simple but you can layer this with other silver rings too for that added look. (£80)

Something Fresh

http://i-donline.com/magazine/the-offspring-issue/

One magazine I should consider buying more often is ID Magazine. Its approach to fashion is different to your standard Vogue and Elle but offers  a 'va va voom' feel. One of the images I found was this of model Gemma Ward on the front cover. Another reason why I love this image is because of the colours; Maroons and Purples are huge this season, and the best thing about it, it's durable come next season too! That and I'm a sucker for good photography. Also she's hot. Just sayin' .

Play With Me

http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/TopCategoriesDisplay?storeId=12556&catalogId=33057

The other day my room-mate Daisy decided to go through her clothes in a bid to earn some extra cash. In that attempt she modeled off some clothes she wasn't sure about selling, and then came the playsuit. Which lead me to think, why aren't we wearing these more? I own a purple tribal-esque print one from H&M and rather enjoy wearing it come nights out and shopping trips. Here is floral printed one from Motel at Topshop for £48. The best thing about this, is its nipped in waist with perfect shaping on the curves. Note no matter what size you are this will work. The second point, its very next season. With the floral look hitting the Dolce and Gabbana spring/summer '12 catwalk its a sure thing. You can team this with opaque black tights, faux fur gillet and flats for a day at the shops and rock it at night with a tailored blazer and heels such as these (below) for £68, again Topshop. Just because its looking dull out these days doesn't mean you cant brighten up the place!

The IT Bag

http://www.mulberry.com/?gclid=CKS-lvDuhKwCFYVP4Qod1w3d-Q#/storefront/c5481/

You have no idea how excited I am feeling right now...In fact typing this isnt easy. If you know me and my love for peace signs and hearts then seeing this bag is making you think 'God shes having a heart attack right now...its perfect' Well lets just say i'm going to need to dial 999 soon. This bag for me isnt just any satchel bag, its the IT bag. Mulberry is one of the leading names in fashion right now, the brand alone have become increasingly popular over the past months given its recognition in the media. Like other leading bags brands i.e. Hermes. This brand is an all round British brand, with its bags being made in the UK this gives it that added edge on the authenticity note. More importantly, its durable, simple and one of those bags that are useful for everything. Sadly for £3,500 even my student loan wouldnt cover this (and yes some people DO use their student loan for these...) Well at least I know what I'll be dreaming of tonight. (Along with this scarf for £165)

Wrapping Up

Following my previous blog on animal print, comes animal fur. With the constant chilly days and breezy nights, the best way to keep it cool is by wrapping up with the seasons must have coats and jackets. I'm more of a leather jacket girl, which is why I'll be channeling my brown leather jacket with faux fur collar this winter. However, I have started to notice a lot of people wearing this leather jacket from Topshop (above) for £58 its not your cheapest jacket, but it is an investment...I am currently debating blowing my next wage on it...For those who prefer to stick to classy but colourful I recommend this colourful number below. This Motel 90's inspired coat is going for £99. With its colour blocking and faux fur paneling this is definitely something you savvy fashionista's should consider. 

Animal Instinct

http://www.hm.com/gb/

For all you animal lovers, this season is right up your end. With the launch of animal print hitting our high street stores this month I think its time for you all to start tapping into your wild side. Question is, what animal are you? I view myself as a more leopard print girl. However, this season is focusing on animals from leopard print to snakeskin. Above, both dresses sold at h&m for less then £20! The best thing about this trend? Animal print isn't just about the gowns, its the accessories too! With stores such as Zara selling snakeskin inspired boots, this will give your look that updated approach! Here is an image of elle.co.uk of how to work the accessory look, note don't let the entire look be about the accessory.

Also, I am against animal cruelty and would never encourage anyone to purchase real animal skin/fur. The faux approach is much better. 

''I Dont Know Who Invented High Heels, But All Women Owe Him Alot''

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2027675/Michelle-Williams-IS-Marilyn-Monroe-stunning-recreation-arrival-50s-London.html

Recognise this face? She was an inspiration of her time and since then still remains one, she was the girl everyone wanted to be. Her platinum blonde locks, beauty spot and pin up body won over Hollywood, her controversial affairs and lifestyle lead to her downfall. Her death still remains a mystery. This woman was the 50's answer to what an all round american girl next door is. However this isn't Marilyn, this is Michelle William. ''My Week With Marilyn'' is soon to be tipped as the next Oscar winning film, Michelle's startling resemblance to the late actress has already caused controversy.  Its hard to believe anyone can pull off the iconic look, for Michelle this will be her most challenging role yet. With this film is the start of a new look, the 50's. In the 50's we saw a more feminine approach to fashion, with nipped in waists and the hour-glass figure displayed, ladies its time to make the most of your curves, (And we finally have an excuse to pull off the fake beauty spot!).

The Truth Laid Bare

Now I know most of you will prefer to wrap up this season as the Mancunian weather has proven to be a tad chilly lately. However, a true fashionista never lets the weather win. (Even if does involve ruining £180 Ugg boots in the pouring rain). So, when a night out calls its the best time to fight back. Above is a Religion Vest top worth £45, I've seen this around and seriously considering one...well once my wage comes through. Its edgy, rock and more importantly new. I feel the best item to be teamed with this top are these sequin shorts from Lipsy Loves Pixie Lott collection £40. Worn with bare legs, black or even patterned tights this look is a sure winner. To complete this approach why not add these platform ankle boots from Topshop for £95. The style is simple and the material adds the added edge to your look. 

Colour Me Glitter

Stepping away from my fashionable side for a moment, I decided to blog about that extra accessory I use for a night out.  Its nothing fancy but it does the job, its easy to apply and remove. Collection 2000's 'Glam Crystals' range have been the go-to eyeliner for me over the past few years. Owning almost every colour sold (above) I decided to apply them all on for you to see, (Ok so I cant do a full head shot, this eye will have to do the trick) The best thing about this, is each eyeliner costs roughly £2.89 each. Bargain! With a number of shades you can never go wrong with experimenting. My personal favorites are the ruby red and green/turquoise ones. Im all about the impact with these shades, so I tend to go for  bold shades, don't fret though theres simpler shades such as gold (for that added sun-kissed/holiday appeal) and silver (for the cosy winter look). Get experimenting!.

Photography; My own. 

A Classic.

http://www.thedollsfactory.com/2011/01/interesting-facts-about-coco-chanel.html

Sitting in the back seat of my parents Lexus Hybrid; I propped my feet up on the cream leather front seat, played the Red Hot Chilli Peppers on my Ipod and flipped through the latest article of Vogue Magazine. Lo and behold I came across an article based on the biography of Gabrielle Coco Chanel. Now you all should know who she is, (especially those who are subjected to my constant natter about the brand alone.) This blog is based on her brand revival after the Second World War... don't worry kids its not a history lesson. At 70 years old Gabrielle Chanel reopened the doors of the Chanel brand and created a number of classic looks which brought her reputation back to life. After the Second World War, fashion became basic, uninspired and went through a 'Make Do and Mend' phase. When Christian Dior fought back with his first runway show this prompted Coco to bring back fashion the way it was post-war. By 1954 Chanel was back, with the traditional looks and tailoring of a true french designer; followed by the expansion of her ready-to-wear lines (she felt the days of Haute Couture were numbered due to labour and little interest). With her relaunch France went into a fashion frenzy, everyone who is anyone wanted a piece of it.  February 5th 1954 was the day Chanel was brought back to life. 

Heres a couple of facts:

Chanel's lucky number is 5. (Which is why she named her perfume Chanel No. 5 and had her fashion show on Feb 5th).

The classic Chanel clutch 2.55 is due to the model being made February 1955, this was originally made when she lived in the orphanage. She would hide love notes in the separate compartments from prying eyes.  

The Holy Land Of Jewels

 I don' t wear a lot of jewellery. Honest.

Massive thank you to my parents and sister Josephine for buying me some gorgeous presents. This blog is for you.

Knowing my family were sunning it up in Tel Aviv for the past week whilst I battled the Mancunian weather left me feeling pretty envious, (and being reminded just how hot the guys were out there by my mum, wasn't any better.) Still, I did request one thing and that is their jewellery; Thankfully they met my expectations (better then I expected actually!.) The main attraction is the Michal Negrin ring (final picture). His jewellery brand has been largely recognised in Israel and since then expanded to the UK. Sadly its not cheap, which is why I was a little stunned at the price! Followed by the ring (my sister has a matching one) is the Star of David necklace my sister purchased. The following bracelets arent Michal Negrin but instead bought at a Shuck (thats an israelie term for market) each one is worth 15-20 shekels, thats roughly 3-4 pounds. Not bad eh?. Seriously felt as though it was my birthday part 2 tonight!

PS. It wasnt easy taking these pictures, who knew rings could be so hard to capture.

Love Is A Drug

"We've never done a video like this before. This is probably one of the deepest videos I've ever done. Its all about love and love being like a drug... you definitely get that from this. The good feeling of it and the dangers of it. That's what this video is about." Rihanna

We all know Rhianna as the outlandish, Barbados singer who came onto the music scene with 'Pon De Replay' at the tender age of 17. Since then however its hard to believe shes changed into a 'rock star' to say the least. With her never ending hair colour,  raunchy music and changing looks...i've started to fall slightly in love with it all. 'S&M' was enough for me if i'm being honest, but now i'm constantly playing this song. The video shows the true affects of love and how its the most powerful drug, with this comes the side affects, here Rhianna displays the affects of drugs and how its an influence on the relationship. As well as this, her looks in this video vary through each scene, reminds me a bit like Ke$ha's approach to 'Tick Tock'; either way its grunge, different and more importantly accessible. Ok I admit I wont be running around in high waist striped underwear and a denim jacket anytime soon..

Provocateur Avec Beyonce

http://www.agentprovocateur.com/lingerie/corsets-and-basques/info/penelope-basque~white

Like most women, my fix is underwear. Its what I've been turning to for that 'pick me up' feeling when I'm feeling down. (ok so I may need to rely on other fixes that are more cost effective) but lets be honest girls, if we look and feel good then why not right!? (Lads dont be afraid to join in with this..)

Agent Provocateur is one those fixes for me, their lingerie isnt just frills and silk, its sex. However its sex with that added class, most of the collection is raunchy but in my opinion its underwear...what do you expect? So whilst having a gander I came across this bodice (above) and thought it looks rather similar, it then clicked Beyonce wore this in her video 'Best Thing I Never Had'...and she rocked it. For £325 its not what i'll be running down to the shop for anytime soon....but atleast its something to admire from a far. Now if you excuse me, im off to Ann Summers..

How To Work The Leotard

This is for Nicki Hughes and her brave approach to the leotard.

When I hear the word 'Leotard' I think back to those embarrassing P.E. lessons back in primary school where I was subjected to prancing around the gym in the most unflattering, undignified and the most uncomfortable approach to exercise..(not to mention those whose underwear made the odd cheeky peak or so..)

Anyway, times have changed (and so has the uniform to P.E. I hope) and we've managed to somehow turn the leotard  into something fashionable. Nicki is wearing a leopard print leotard from Primark, teamed with a mini black pleated skirt from Matalan and New Look heels. By wearing something loose like the skirt, this draws more attention to Nicki's waist and legs, but still showing off her figure in all the right parts. Take note ladies, you can still do cheap and cheerful with a hint of style. Now wheres my old black leotard gone...

Boys, Boys, Boys

http://www.vogue.co.uk/news/2011/06/21/versace-collaborates-with-handm/gallery/7#

Sorry for the late blog, been a tad busy. Still, I've started to look into menswear more for my course lately (and for general interest really). Now I know I sound like a broken record but...I've become slightly more obsessed with the Versace for H&M collection. Vogue.co.uk have released images of the collection including menswear. So I figured I'd give you guys something to look at, some of the stuff is a tad outlandish for the majority of you...but here's a few items i've found and reckon most of you guys will be interested in. Boys, dont be afraid of what you find...some of it is rather affordable!

Cupid Exists

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GElz5t8YkQw&feature=related

Credit to Nicki Hughes,  the roomate and close friend who knows what its like, for introducing him to me. 

When a guy gets you down, you need another to pick you up. I've found mine and he's called Ed. Ed Sheeran, the 20 year old boy wonder whose track 'A Team' reached number 3 on the UK chart.  I've been listening to him too much lately, however given his music is more then just words I decided to go on a blogging spree about him. At 20 years old his music comes from experience, alot of experience myself, friends and others have gone though. Click onto Youtube and have a listen, it might just help. 

From Designer to High Street.Com

Oscar De La Renta £4, 335

Topshop £175

Dorothy Perkins £38

http://www.shopstyle.co.uk/

Credit to my room-mate and close friend Daisy Houliston for finding me this site. 

Ever gone into a shop and found yourself surrounded by Haute Couture and Value Retailer on the same floor? Me neither. (And no Selfridges doesn't count, they have many shop levels.)  Anyhow, the day Oscar De Le Renta and Dorothy Perkins are on the same shop floor level I'll eat my primark pumps. Still, this website is the closest us savvy shoppers will get to having the luxury. This website is every shoppers dream. A bit like Net-A-Porter for the less wealthy inclined type...www.shopstyle.co.uk have created a site where they combine the latest looks and styles from designers such as Vivienne Westwood to dresses worth £20 off BooHoo!. I have to admit, its my new fix. I've found the following above from the highest of pricest to the affordable desires. I'm feeling the OTT look right now, after all with the early evenings and cold nights, we all need that shimmer to lift our spirits. Girls, get those credits cards at the ready. 

Dear Lucky Blue

Dear Lucky Blue,

We first met on the day of New Years Eve in Topshop at the Motel section. Originally you started off to be an impulse buy for a house party that night. What was a one night thing turned into something more. You got a lot of attention for your detail and colour. You compliment me in all the right areas and work with everything; from Blazers to Jackets, Heels to Flats. You got lucky on a number of nights out with the boys and continued to since then. You got me through some tough times, and never let me down. I wore you the other night with my black ankle boots from New Look and H&M leather jacket. We turned a few heads in Revolution, danced the night away and still looked good (despite how hot it was in there.) I've had you since 2007, and continue to keep you. 

You are the one dress I will always consider lucky.