Best Of The Sales: High Street vs High End

First things first, I hope you've all had a lovely Christmas! Now on to the sales.. I've done quite well in the sales so far picking up a black and white boucle jacket (I've been searching for one for ages) in the Next sale with 50% off and some make-up from the Emotional Brilliance range at Lush with 50% off! I've also been browsing the sales online over the past few days and I've compiled some of my best buys from both the high street and some designer items with great discounts!

High Street 

Benefit 'Fast Train to Fabulous' Debenhams Was £39.50 Now £26.33

Satin Scarf H&M Was £6.99 Now £3.00

Essie Mini Winter Collection ASOS Was £16.95 Now £12.50

Tan Leather Boots Topshop Was £110.00 Now £55.00

Studded Slippers River Island Was £30.00 Now £15.00

Peplum Military Coat Topshop Was £95.00 Now £50.00

Lace Drop Waist Dress Oasis Was £60.00 Now £30.00

One of my best buys in the sales last year was a Benefit set, in 'Fast Train to Fabulous' you get a full sized POREfessional and Benetint and a They're Real! mini mascara. To buy the POREfessional on its own costs £23.50 so you can see what a great saving this is! The post Christmas sales are a great time to find a half price winter coat, I haven't bought a new coat yet this season so I'm on the lookout! This military style coat with a peplum waist from Topshop is one of my current favourites. I love the studded slippers from River Island and at just £15.00 I'm tempted to buy them in black too! 

High End 

Hunter Original Tall Gloss Wellington Boots Net-A-Porter Was £85.00 Now £42.50

Anya Hindmarch Cosmetics Bag Matches Was £125.00 Now £62.50

Marc By Marc Jacobs Bird Ring Harvey Nichols Was £60.00 Now £36.00

Biba Purse House Of Fraser Was £79.99 Now £39.50

Marc By Marc Jacobs Purse Matches Was £130.00 Now £65.00

Versace Printed Silk-Satin Scarf Net-A-Porter Was £160.00 Now £80.00

Lily Mulberry Was £695.00 Now £486.00

I've been looking for a new purse for a while and have fallen in love with this purple flap over purse from Biba. It has enough room to hold my numerous store cards and cash and I love the Biba logo on the front. I've become a little addicted to shopping for designer accessories (as my bank balance won't allow my dream designer wardrobe!) I love the print on this Versace scarf, it's perfect for adding a touch of Versace to your outfit on a budget. There's some great savings to be had in the Mulberry sale. I sadly don't currently have £486 to splash on a new Mulberry bag but a girl can dream! 

Do you prefer finding designer items or sticking to the high street sales? 

Have you picked up any bargains in the sales? 

What's On: Boxing Day Sales on The Avenue

The Avenue situated in Manchester's trendy Spinningfields is home to the North West's luxury retail quarter boasting some of my favourite designers. Their post Christmas sales start today and shoppers are being treated to big discounts on a range of luxurious brands.

There's up to 40% off at the Flannels flagship store. With some of the world's leading designer brands including Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Lanvin and Dolce & Gabbana you're sure to find something you want to splash out on!

DKNY, Calvin Klein and Brooks Brothers will be offering personal style consultations alongside discounts of up to 70% off.

The Emporio Armani UK flagship store is celebrating the end of the season with customers set to receive discounts of up to 40% off their stunning A/W 12 collection.

If you're looking for footwear Kurt Geiger and Oliver Sweeney will have reductions of up to 50%.

All Saints is set to open its doors at 8.00am today offering big savings on their A/W collection.

Mulberry is launching their end of season sale with generous savings of up to 50% off the luxurious British brand. Get their early to avoid being disappointed! I'd love to treat myself to one of their coveted handbags. Both the gorgeous ink blue croc print and gold metallic Del Rey's will be on sale in their store on The Avenue

Del Rey Sparkle Croc Print in Ink Blue 

Was £1,400  Now £980

Del Rey Gold Metallic Snake Print

Was £1,100  Now £770 

What are you hoping to find in the sales this year? 

Christmas Gift Guide: Stocking Fillers

For the final part in my Christmas gift guides I'm looking at last minute stocking fillers under £10.00, so if you're still to buy those few last gifts or need some ideas for stocking presents read on!

1. Alphabet Mugs - John Lewis - £7.00

2. Vaseline Pink Bubbly Lip Therapy - Selfridges £3.49

3. Smart Phone Doodle Pen - Topman - £3.00

4. Multi Pearl Dome Ring - JOY - £8.00

5. Egyptian Square Stud Earrings - Accessorize - £6.00

6. Jewellery Tree With Tray - Paperchase - £6.00

7. Lady Gaga Paper Doll Dress Up - Selfridges - £7.50

8. Black & White Aztec Socks - Topman - £3.00

9. Kensington Rose Pocket Purse - Cath Kidston - £4.50

10. Miss Pasta Spoon - Pylones - €14.00

6 - I adore this cute jewellery tree with little owls on from Paperchase. It has a tray at the bottom for holding your rings and is a bargain at just £6.00. 

7 - This Lady Gaga paper doll sets reminds me of the paper doll dress ups I used to have as a little girl. The set contains 2 Gaga figures for you to dress up in a range of her lavish outfits! 

8 - It wouldn't be Christmas without some new socks! Topman have lots of patterned socks for guys including this Aztec print pair for just £3.00! 

Have you finished your Christmas shopping? 

Christmas Gift Guide: Guys

Here's the second part of my festive gift guide to help you out with your Christmas shopping! I often think men can be trickier to buy for but here's some suggestions if you're still stuck for what to get for your other half, dad or brothers this year...

1. Charcoal Checked Holdall - Topman - £30.00

2. Fair Isle Pattern Jumper - Topman - £38.00

3. Mulberry Leather Card Holder - John Lewis - £90.00

4. Cool Christmas Lush Set - Lush - £8.25

5. Navy Print Lounge Shorts - River Island - £8.00

6. Beats by Dr Dre iBeats Headphones - Currys - £78.47

7. Grey Cable Knit Scarf - River Island - £17.00

8. Space Invaders Alarm Clock - Paperchase - £12.00

9. Comic Print iPad Case - River Island - £20.00

10. Clinique Skin Supplies For Men - John Lewis - £30.00

3 - For an extra special gift, how about spoiling them with this luxurious Mulberry credit card holder in natural leather. It features 4 slots for cards and a concealed middle slip pocket for storing receipts and tickets. 

4 - This 'Cool Chritmas' gift set from Lush contains a pot of Whoosh Shower Jelly and a slab of Snow Globe Soap to leave him smelling great throughout the festive season! It's packaged in icy blue tones and has a strong citrus scent. 

10 - If you're looking to pamper your man this Christmas why not treat him to this skin essentials for men set from Clinique which contains a shave aloe gel, a face scrub, a soothing post shave healer and an anti-fatigue cooling eye gel. 

What have you bought for the men in your life this Christmas? 

Christmas Gift Guide: Girls

With just a few days to go until the big day I've put together a series of gift guides to help inspire you if you're still stuck for what to buy! First up, gifts for girls. I always find my girl friends easy to buy for.. mostly because they often like the same things I do (they clearly have impeccable taste!) but if you're struggling for what to buy for your mum, sister or female friends here's a few ideas to help you out!

1. Clinique Taste of Honey Set - John Lewis - £30.00

2. Studded Clutch - Accessorize - £17.00

3. Ponyskin Bow Gloves - Oasis - £15.00

4. ghd Air Hairdryer - Feel Unique - £99.00

5. Travel Wallet - Cath Kidston - £18.00

6. Nails Inc Bling It On Leather & Skulls - Selfridges - £19.00

7. Cat Slippers - Topshop - £14.00

8. Diptyque Cypres Mini Scented Candle - Selfridges - £20.00

9.Kate Spade Wristlet - Kate Spade - $68.00

10. Owl Leather Personal Organiser - Paperchase - £20.00

2 - This studded clutch bag could be the ideal accessory paired with the lucky recipient's favourite party dress! It features a zipped top and is a bargain at only £17.00. It's perfect for your stylish friends!

4 - The ghd Air is the ultimate in hairdryers. When my hair has been dried with this at the hairdressers it's left looking shiny and feeling smooth with minimal frizz! 

6 - Nails Inc latest hit, black leather nail polish sold out in seconds after going on sale in the US on Tuesday! Fashion favourite Alexa Chung is a firm fan being snapped wearing it at the British Fashion Awards last month. It's currently only available in the UK as part of this set complete with crystal and skull embellishments

What are you hoping Santa brings you for Christmas? 

Put On Your Party Shoes...

If you don't want to splash out on a whole new outfit this party season investing in a new pair of shoes can instantly update that forgotten dress hanging in the back of your wardrobe and leave you feeling good and looking great!

There's nothing worse than going on a night out and looking like you've had a few too many mulled wines already as you stagger about unable to walk in your new heels or ending up having to take your shoes off halfway through the night as your feet hurt too much.

Clarks are renowned for their well fitting shoes. I'm sure many of you like me visited each summer holidays during your childhood for new school shoes! This latest collection of shoes from Clarks features some of the hottest party shoes to keep you on trend this season and partying into the New Year! You can look stylish whilst appreciating the comfort with numerous styles available in half sizes and various width fittings.

Drum Time - £49.99

I'm a little obsessed with all things studded this season and the stud detailing on the toe of these black satin heels instantly caught my eye. They're not too high and have a wider set heel making them perfect for hitting the dance floor without having to hobble home afterwards!

Chorus Jazz - £49.99

These Mary Jane style shoes are a staple in my wardrobe. I love their cute retro look. They feature an adjustable buckle strap to help you find the comfiest fit. This classic patent nude pair looks chic and stylish and is easy to wear with lots of outfits. They'd look perfect teamed with a block colour or patterned party dress.

La Jaime - £120.00

These super cute ankle boots are part of the Mary & Clarks collection by Mary Portas. I love the snake effect leather in contrast to the suede fabric and exposed silver zip detailing. Their Cuban style heel makes them easy to walk in. 

Anika Kendra - £54.99

I love the glossy black patent finish to this pair of classic court shoes. They look sexy and chic in this timeless design which has been updated for this season with an exposed platform. They feature a wearable 85mm high heel. 

Curly Wave - £44.99

Wedges are a great alternative if you want to add a bit of height but aren't too confident at walking in heels. This classic pair in luxurious black suede have an 80mm wedge heel and feature a cushion soft foam layer for the ultimate in comfort whilst still leaving you looking taller! 

Carousel Tune - £39.99

If you're looking for some cute party shoes but prefer to wear flats, Clarks have lots of ballet pumps to choose from. I love the aubergine colour of this pair. Their opulent crystal embellishment makes them ideal for pairing with your favourite party dress. 

What party shoes are you wearing this season? 

Are you a heels or flats girl?

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Top Ten Party Dresses

Whether you're planning a festive get together with friends or you've got your work's Christmas party this week, if you're like me you'll find hard to resist treating yourself to a new party dress! These are my top ten dresses from the high street to see you through the festive season!

1. Black Leather Look Skater Dress - River Island - £32.00

2. Peplum Lace Dress - Oasis - £42.00

3. Green Embellished Dress - Next - £60.00

4. Black Metallic Textured Dress - Dorothy Perkins - £30.00

5. Beaded Flapper Dress - H&M - £25.00

6. Baroque Jacquard Dress - Oasis - £52.00

7. Jacquard Skater Dress - Apricot - £26.00

8. Sequin Skater Dress - Topshop - £65.00

9. Purple Sheer Sleeve Studded Dress - Next - £45.00

10. Crystal Collar Flippy Dress - Topshop - £50.00

You can't go wrong with a little black dress. This classic wardrobe staple has been updated for the season with cute crystal collars and on trend baroque detailing. I love the leather style skater dress from River Island with a studded neckline, it can see you through from day to night and it's a bargain at just £32.00! 

I love all the glitter and sequins around at this time of year, if you can't inject a bit of sparkle into your outfit at Christmas when can you?! For a statement look the silver sequin dress from Topshop would look ideal paired with some muted accessories so you don't end up looking like a glitter ball on the dance floor! 

The peplum lace dress from River Island is reminiscent of the Zara lace dress Kate Middleton was snapped wearing last Christmas. It looks classic and chic for a night out and can be worn throughout the year to the office too. 

Have you treated yourself to a new party dress this Christmas? 

Designer Christmas Wish List

With Christmas just around the corner I'm sure you've all written your lists to Santa. In case he's had a sudden windfall this year or is feeling especially generous here's some of my dream designer items available at Matches Fashion that are sure to put a smile on anyone's face this Christmas!

Erdem Lily Lace Embroidered Dress - £3,220

Mulberry Medium Lily Bag - £695

Marc by Marc Jacobs Studded Mouse Ballerinas - £225

Alexander McQueen Cashmere Blend Skull Scarf - £245

Christian Louboutin Patent Pigalle Plato 120mm - £445

Alexander McQueen Studded Tortoiseshell Sunglasses - £279

Mulberry Star Friendship Bracelet - £60

Marc by Marc Jacobs Biker Jacket - £475

Lanvin Sequin Fan Box Clutch - £1,350

A Mulberry handbag is always guaranteed to be on my wish list! The classic Lily looks stylish and chic with a woven chain strap.  Who wouldn't love to wake up to a classic pair of patent black Louboutin's this Christmas?! If I was lucky enough to receive some I don't think they'd ever leave my feet! I love the Art Deco style of the Lanvin fan box clutch. It's the perfect accessory for pairing with your party dress this season.  

What's on your dream designer wish list?

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These Boots Are Made For Walking...

Every year as autumn rolls around and ballet pumps just won't cut it anymore.. I've stepped in far too many puddles to learn this, I start my search for the perfect pair of winter boots. It can be a struggle to find a pair that both looks great and fits well. Numerous times I've found myself falling in love with a pair of boots I've seen in a shops window or a magazine only to try them on and find out they don't fit.

Step forward Boots by Duo Boots who offer Ladies Boots in 21 calf sizes  from 30-50cm and 3 widths meaning you can find the perfect tailored fit! Although they're a little more expensive than the high street they'd make a great investment purchase and I'd love to own a classic pair of boots that I could wear year after year.  Duo has a vast collection of the latest styles making it difficult to narrow down my selection to a few of my favourites! 

Aubin Tan Knee High Boots - £210

Dubois Fleece Cuff Boots - £175

Lakota Mid Heel Chestnut Boots - £175

Tan boots are usually my go-to choice. I love the Aubin tan knee highs with the simple strap detail. Tan boots are a staple in my winter wardrobe and are ideal for pairing with dresses and tights. The fleece cuffs on the Dubois boots will keep you warm on those chilly winter mornings. I love the colour of the classic chestnut Lakota boots. They have a mid heel and would look great for a night out too! 

Lazare Snakeskin Low Heel Boots - £230

Moulin Knee High Heeled Boots - £230

Flore Black Knee High Boots - £195

The snakeskin trim detail attracted me to the Lazare fitted boots. They're casual yet chic and would look great paired with your favourite pair of skinny jeans. Both sexy and sophisticated the Moulin heeled boots are perfect for party season. The Flore knee highs are great for a casual daytime look, pair with your favourite winter knits for a stylish yet cosy outfit. 

Grayson Suede Ankle Boots - £110

Woodbury Leopard Print Chelsea Boots - £110

Bonita Heeled Chestnut Ankle Boots - £135

This season I've become a big fan of ankle boots. They look great styled with dresses and the flat pairs are a treat for your feet on nights out too!  The classic Grayson suede boots would go with lots of outfits and I love the bold print on the Woodbury leopard Chelsea boots, they're ideal for adding a splash of print and colour with a little black dress. I also love the classic Bonita heeled ankle boots with riding strap details. 

Duo Boots also offer a range of shoes in various width fittings. 

What boots are you wearing this winter? 

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Lulu Guinness for Cocosa

Lulu Guinness has designed an exclusive collection for luxury fashion website Cocosa who offer time limited sales with some of the most desirable fashion and beauty brands. The seven iconic styles for Cocosa are in keeping with her renowned red lips motifs.

The exclusive sale will offer over 50% off and starts tomorrow morning Thursday 29th November at 6.00am, set your alarm clocks at the ready! It's a great opportunity to own your own little piece of Lulu Guinness at a bargain price and with Christmas fast approaching why not treat a loved one to one of these classic designs.

Medium Romilly Lip Print Bag                                   Large Annabelle Lip Print Bag 

Was £275 Now £125                                               Was £275 Now £125

Medium Elouise Tote 

 Was £85 Now £40

Lip Print Make Up Bag                                   Double Make Up Bag

 Was £60 Now £29                                            Was £35 Now £20 

Shop the collection at Cocosa from 6.00am

Are you a Lulu Guinness fan? 

Benefit Bargains

Benefit has released a range of limited edition gift sets in time for Christmas. They'd make perfect presents for fellow beauty babes or if you're looking to treat yourself! The sets are a great way to try out some of Benefit's most desired products and are great value for money too! 

High Flying Glosses - £19.50

From the moment I tried Benefit's lip glosses at their launch earlier this year I was sold! They have a non sticky formula and glide on super smooth leaving your lips looking fabulous! You can read my full review on their Coralista lip gloss here. This gift set contains six irresistible miniature glosses, it's perfect if like me you can't choose which one to buy next! 

Good Time Gals Minis - £15.00

Get set for a good time with these 3 deluxe minis! The set features 'Posietint', a poppy-pink tinted cheek and lip stain, 'Girl Meets Pearl', described as liquid pearl for the face to give you a glow and 'That Gal', a brightening face primer which leaves your skin looking brighter and smoother. 

How To Look The Best At Everything - £24.50

Available in three shades: light, medium and deep this make-up kit aims to leave you with flawless skin. The kit includes a mini sized POREfessional (one of my favourite Benefit products, read my review here) to smooth and prime your skin, Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow foundation and powder in selected shades to match your complexion and the popular Boi-ing concealer. 

Sugarlicious - £24.50

This nude lip and cheek set contains everything you need for a natural looking glow. Included is 'Benetint', a rose tinted cheek and lip stain, 'High Beam', a completion enhancing highlighter, 'Sugarbomb' face powder and an ultra plush 'Sugarbomb' lip gloss. 

Sexy Little Stowaways - £25.00

This would make a perfect gift for all Benefit addicts or those looking for an introduction to the brand. The premium gift set contains a variety of luxurious miniature products including, 'Bad Gal Lash' mascara, 'Hoola' and 'Bella Bamba' face powders, The POREfessional, 'That Gal' brightening face primer, 'Sunbeam', a golden bronze highlighter 'Cha Cha Tint, a mango tinted cheek and lip stain, 'Ooh La Lift' for an instant under eye boost, 'It's Potent' eye cream and 'Stay Don't Stray' a stay-put primer for concealers and eyeshadows. 

Fast Train To Fabulous - £39.50

Packaged inside this cute case you'll find some of Benefit's most popular products. It's great value for money containing a full sized POREfessional and Benetint and a miniature version of 'They're Real' Mascara which has become the UK's no1 selling mascara! You can check out my review of 'They're Real' here.

What's on your Benefit wishlist this year?