Make A Statement

Statement necklaces are one of this seasons hottest accessories. They're a simple and stylish way to instantly update your look.

Throw on a bold necklace to dress up a plainer outfit, even a simple tee can look more stylish by adding a bit of bling! They're ideal for adding a touch of glamour, and can transform your outfit from day to night. They provide the perfect finishing touch to your look. 

These are some of my high street favourites all under £20.00

1. Metal Torque Necklace - Oasis - £12.00

2. Marbled Collar Necklace - Forever 21 - £8.40

3. Pearl Peter Pan Collar Necklace - Oasis - £12.00

4. Gold Pearlised Point Collar - Miss Selfridge - £12.50

5. Black & Gold Collar Necklace - Forever 21 - £6.65

6. Pearl Collar - ASOS - £20.00

7. Gold Crescent Collar Necklace - Forever 21 - £6.65

8. Black & White Collar Necklace - New Look - £5.99

Do you like statement necklaces?
Which is your favourite design?

Push PR A/W 2012 Press Day

Last week I attended Push PR's press day at the rather swanky W hotel. Rumour has it Nicki Minaj was downstairs at the time! I had a great afternoon discovering some of their client's new collections.

Alice Menter

I was really impressed with Alice Menter’s debut jewellery collection. The British designer transforms nuts, washers and zips into high end jewellery. The ‘Isla’ and ‘Ruby cuffs are hand woven using sliver and gold plated nuts to create a chain mail effect. She also designs bold statement collars and necklaces. 

Eastern Mystic 

Eastern Mystic’s jewellery is inspired by India’s rich culture. They used clashing colours and sparkling gemstones to produce statement piece. Each piece is hand made and limited edition. I really liked the beaded bracelets with spike detailing from the tribal collection. 

Abilu Creations 

Abi Lu describes her creations as wearable art. She designs eclectic, colourful jewellery and seeks inspiration from a variety of sources. The collection includes chunky gold necklaces, charm bracelets and a nautical inspired strand with anchor, mermaid and seahorse creations.  Each piece is handmade and many are identified with Abi’s signature plectrum. My favourite pieces would have to be the vintage style post stamp necklaces. They’re inkeeping with the jubilee inspired trend and would make lovely gifts too.  

Fabel

Fabel’s jewellery collection featured handmade silk ropes adorned with charms for you to mix and match. The Nautilus collection has bracelets in range of colours. I loved the cuff style rope bracelets. The bands and leather cuffs are perfect for that festival chic look. They have magnetic clasps meaning they can be layered or worn on their own. 

Nelly 

Nelly have recently launched in the UK. They’re the number one online fashion retailer in the Nordic region offering over 800 brands and producing 20 of their own lines. They provide a one stop shopping experience with womenswear, menswear, jewellery and beauty products. Their latest designer inspired collection boasts bold floral prints, metallic's, whimsical bird print shirts and pretty vintage style dresses. I loved the beaded detailing on the shoulders of the green dress. Their shoe collection features loafers studded with silver and gold, and brightly coloured heels perfect for summer.

Tara Starlet 

Tara Starlet is a vintage inspired fashion brand. They’re inspired by the 1940’s and 50s, the pin up era, and the silver screen starlets of the time. Their designs are cut to a fifties silhouette. Their summer collection features tropical print bralets, tie tops and skirts making ideal beach wear. The new Autumn/Winter line features tweeds and check patterned capes, a hot trend as seen on the recent Autumn/Winter catwalks. They’re holding a sample sale this Saturday at 5a Gransden Avenue, London, E8 3QA from 12-5pm. 

Victoria Plimsolls 

Victoria Plimsolls are available in a rainbow of colours in the traditional laced or eyelet design. I really liked the Jubilee inspired plimsolls laced with red, white and blue ribbon. Apparently Fearne Cotton has recently been sent a selection, if they’re good enough for Fearne….!

Tusting

Tusting produce handmade leather luggage, briefcases and handbags and have been established in the UK for over 130 years. Their luxurious bags are available in a range of designs to suit your needs. I loved their bright coloured pouches and the box style bag.

Holistic Silk

I love the scented eye masks from Hollistic Silk. Inspired by cute kitsch prints as seen on the summer catwalk at Prada as well as retro girly patterns the masks are filled with Lavender for a relaxing sleep. They also have animal prints designs and luxurious brocade detail patterns. Their slippers contain magnetic massaging insoles providing a real treat for your feet! They also design relaxing pillowcases and yoga mats.

Which are your favourite collections? 

Yellowdoor A/W 2012 Press Day

Last week I visited the Yellowdoor showroom to discover their clients Autumn/Winter '12 collections. These are a selection of my favourites from the new season's lines.

Republic

High street fashion store Republic’s Autumn/Winter collection features aztec patterned chunky knits and ponchos perfect for festivals, studded denim, fringed detailed tops and embellished decorative capes ideal for party season. There's elbow patch detailing on their shirts and jackets. The collection has a rich colour palette for the season. Last years popular faux fur trend is set to continue with luxurious faux fur stoles. I loved their gorgeous accessories range, especially the oversized clutches. Inspired by McQueen there's a union jack knucklebox clutch and skull print scarf. Studded detailing was another key trend in their accessories, dresses were styled with studded belts and the studded black heels caught my eye too!   

Mimco

Mimco is an Australian fashion label meaning their new collection is their summer line. The colourful collection is inspired by the idea of when Pablo Picasso met Coco Chanel. Picasso's use of bold primary colours is combined with Chanel's renowned style. I loved the colour block bags and envelope style clutches available in a range of colours. Their glam tycoon collection derives from 1950's America. The jewellery is inspired by the concept of a wealthy landowner and a rebel. There's a rough edge to the collection shown through the chains and gunmetal tones. Their statement jewellery is the perfect accessory to dress up an outfit. 

Radley

Radley's Autumn/Winter collection features luxury leather handbags, holdalls and pouches. I really liked the embossed design on many of the bags. The large zipped pouches are ideal clutch bags for a night out. I love their fedoras with ribbon and feather detailing, they'll see you through the season in style!

Tula

I was really impressed with Tula’s collection. Owned by Radley they offer high quality leather bags all under £150. My favourites from the collection would have to be the purple ostrich leather designs. They had an extensive range of leather accessories including an iPad cover that turns into a stand, phone pouches, filofax's, passport covers and compact mirrors. The flap over bags are available in a range of jewelled colours for the season. I also loved the fur detailing and vintage style lock on the black bag.

Mary Portas

Mary’s new venture Kinky Knickers sold out within their first day of going on sale. They're awaiting new stock at Liberty, M&S, ASOS, House of Fraser and Selfridges. They're currently available in neon pink and orange, black and white or ivory lace. The team are developing new colour ranges. 

I loved the cobalt blue coat from Mary's Autumn/Winter collection at House of Fraser. The colour is perfect for the season. Her collection is designed and tailored to flatter women's figures. There's super soft knitwear in a range of colours, structured dresses and a metallic jacket that would look perfect over a black dress.

I really liked the snakeskin print shoes in Mary's new collection for Clarks. The peep toe ankle boots are perfect for the season and would look great shown off with a skirt or dress. 

Clarks 

Clarks have collaborated with Harris Tweed for Autumn/Winter offering tweed designs for both men and women. I loved the concept of the roll up trainer which rolls into a ball making it easy to pop into your bag for visiting the gym. The crystal embellishments on their pumps really caught my eye, it's easy to see why they're one of their bestsellers! Clarks is a great place to visit when looking for a new pair of boots to see you through the winter. They offer a wide range of sizes and width fittings. I really like their classic flat tan riding boots perfect for both daytime or paired with a dress in the evening. They have Chelsea boots in animal prints and leopard print loafers which are ideal for adding a hint of leopard print to your outfit. Their popular dessert  heeled boots are available in soft suede's for the season. 

What do you think of the new season's styles? 

Lola&Grace

I recently visited the new lola&grace jewellery store at Westfield Stratford to view their new collections, take part in Unlock London and find out more about the world of lola&grace. 

lola&grace is a new fashion jewellery brand from Swarovski. They offer fun and fresh designs for all occasions accented with Swarovski crystals and pearls. Their collection includes crystal solitaire rings, bold statement collar necklaces, dainty earrings, pearl bracelets and patterned bangles. 

Vice President Nina Muller describes lola&grace as the "cheeky little sister" of Swarovski. They offer the added Swarovski crystal gems for that bit of sparkle alongside the bonus of being more affordable and accessible for the budget minded girl like myself! 

I loved the bright purple colours used throughout the store and the revolving glitter ball! There's also an interactive touchscreen which you can play on with friends to explore the lola&grace website, check out their must have products of the month and access twitter and facebook. 

Alongside their all year round essential pieces they have four seasonal collections combining the hottest catwalk trends and latest cultural influences with contemporary and vintage inspired designs. The brightly coloured bangles and cuffs are perfect for adding a pop of colour to your outfit. 

There are styles to suit the outgoing 'Lola' who likes big chunky bangles, studded earrings and spiked detailing, and plenty on offer for the more conservative 'Grace' who prefers a more classic and contemporary look favouring the shimmering gems and glamorous pearls. 

I think I'm more of a Grace, I'm attracted to their bohemian style ribbon and pearl designs. You can mix and match your style, stacking bangles and layering necklaces, be a Lola one day, and a Grace the next!

I chatted with Nina about her plans for the future with lola&grace. They're looking to engage with the consumer and hope to collaborate with stylists and bloggers seeking their input and ideas on new jewellery designs. They're also beginning designing a range of bags and stationary.

Nina told me of her aims to take the brand to a global scale and she's set her sights on Italy as the next calling point for lola&grace. 

A new lola&grace store is due to open in Brent Cross later this year. 

These are some of my favourite pieces available instore now:

1. Fan Pearl Drop Earrings - £15.90

2. Wrap Twist Crystals Cuff - £43.90

3. Fan Pearl Bracelet Set - £19.90

4. Fan Pearl Necklace - £31.90

5. Colour Reel Pendant - £19.90

6. Daisy Lace Cuff - £29.90

I really like the fan pearl jewellery collection. The art deco inspired designs are timeless. I love the dainty crystals and ribbon tie detailing.  

The wrap twist crystal cuff features lots of little Swarovski crystals which really catch the light and caught my eye in the store! It's made from soft leather and is light to wear. 

Are you a Lola or a Grace?

Have you visited the new store yet? 

Manchester Fashion Week April 2012: Mulberry

As I awaited the Mulberry show at Manchester Fashion Week anticipation was high. This was the big one! As the audience poured out of the previous Flannels show the queue formed again instantly as the venue became more and more crowded, Mulberry was as expected the hottest ticket of the week! 

Mulberry are one of my favourite designers. I'm forever lusting after their iconic handbags calculating how long it would take me to save up for my beloved Bayswater and not being able to resist going into every Mulberry store I pass to admire them! I love their classic designs and how they mix timeless styles with contemporary trends. I was kindly seated on the FROW... dream come true, thank you Mulberry! The venue quickly filled up as we sat poised with cameras at the ready excited for the show to start.

Mulberry's Spring/Summer '12 collection has a quintessential English summer feel reminiscent of classic British seaside holidays. Models walked out to a 'Singing In The Rain' remix reflecting the British summer weather. The collection had a fun vibe with a mixture of ice cream and candy colours. The luxurious leather skirt with drawstring toggle ties creating a ruched waist detail was paired with a lemon sherbet baseball top with contrasting soft pink sleeves and accessorised with the bright yellow holiday Bayswater bag. The soft silk eyelet shorts are a great way to incorporate the sports luxe trend into your wardrobe. The beige shorts were styled with a neutral drawstring waist detail vest creating a flattering silhouette with a mini asymmetrical zipped biker jacket layered on top.

Models wore ankle strap cork wedges with cute ankle socks. The collection featured gathered macs, a practical and stylish summer cover up from the unpredictable British weather! The luxurious gold jacket and matching skirt were layered over trousers, a trend set to continue into next season as seen on the A/W '12 catwalks at Prada and Chanel. The model carried an oak Alexa satchel studded with gold teddy rivets, inspired by grab-a-teddy arcade games at the seaside.

My favourite piece from Mulberry's summer line has to be the colour block lollipop dress inspired by the classic seaside ice lolly treat. The dress features a ring detail belt cinching it in at the waist. Layered over a white top and paired with the green Bayswater bag it epitomises summer style perfection! 

I had a wonderful time at Manchester Fashion Week and can't wait for next year!

Catch up on all the gossip and my reviews from the Masato, Ted Baker and Flannels catwalks.

Manchester Fashion Week April 2012: Flannels

Following an impressive summer collection from Ted Baker I awaited the Flannels show at Manchester Fashion Week. Flannels stock over 150 luxury designer brands including Dolce & Gabanna, Gucci & Prada. They source key pieces from the hottest collections and also offer a range of footwear and accessories. 

My favourite pieces on the catwalk were from Temperley London. I'm a big fan of Alice Temperley's classic, feminine designs and can see why Kate & Pippa Middleton often favour her gorgeous gowns for public engagements. 

Temperley London's Spring/Summer '12 'Grace' collection featured flowing gowns, draped fabric and luxurious prints. Models wore elegant white silk headscarves, accessorised with big sunglasses and sported bright red lips in keeping with the glamorous theme. My favourite piece which also made the audience sit up in their seats was the flowing white beaded detail dress with off the shoulder floaty sleeves. The floral print jumpsuit looked elegant draped with a kimono wrap and paired with blue satin peep toes. The navy floor length silk gown featured a magnolia print and had a dipped back design.

As the show came to a close anti-fur protesters that had been unknowingly sat waiting in the audience and demonstrating outside the venue earlier took to the catwalk with a banner and threw leaflets into the crowd. As far as I'm aware there was no fur on the catwalk during the Flannels show.. but what would a fashion week be without a bit of added drama! 

Manchester Fashion Week April 2012: Ted Baker

I headed back to Manchester Fashion Week on the Thursday for an afternoon of shows from designers with stores at The Avenue, Spinningfields where the venue for the week was based. Although it was pouring with rain (I was in Manchester after all!) as soon as I took my seat for the Ted Baker show it felt like summer was here! Models walked out to a feel good soundtrack featuring tunes from Beyonce, Britney, Jessie J, Katy Perry and Willow Smith. 

Ted Baker's Spring/Summer '12 menswear collection featured casual suits mixed with pops of bright summer colours and this seasons hottest pastel tones. Chinos were rolled up at the ankle, worn with boat shoes and paired with tailored blazers for a smart casual summer look. Models carried satchel style leather bags. I loved the printed neckties and plait leather belts providing detailed touches to the menswear outfits. My favourite piece was the bright blue trench coat styled over a suit. A trench coat is an ideal summer staple for your wardrobe to protect you from those summer showers.. especially when you live in Manchester! 

The womenswear Spring/Summer '12 collection featured a palette of summer colours and printed designs. Pretty summer florals were a key trend. Models wore cork wedges, towering cut out detail heels and carried oversized leather bags.  I loved the laser cut detail clutches.  Dresses were defined at the waist with bow belts. In contrast to the sharper silhouettes one of my favourite pieces was the flowing blue pleated maxi dress. Styled with salmon pink peep toes and layered with chunky amber jewellery the gorgeous gown saw gasps from the audience. I also loved the layered ruffled peach dress cinched in with a bow detail belt and accessorised with sparkling black jewels. 

For the finale couples dressed in perfect summer wedding attire took to the catwalk throwing out bouquets into the crowd. The men were styled in smart suits with ties colour co-ordinating with their partner.  I loved the one shouldered red flowing floor length gown and the spring summer greens beaded dress. Both looks provided great inspiration for the summer wedding season.

Manchester Fashion Week April 2012: Masato

Last week I was lucky enough to attend the inaugural Manchester Fashion Week. As a northern girl I was excited to have the chance to witness a great selection of designers on the catwalk a bit closer to home.

I was pleased to learn Masato was set to debut his A/W'12 collection on the Wednesday evening. After studying fashion design at Central St Martins Masato went on to intern and then work with Giles Deacon. He began working as an independent designer creating his own label whilst still working with Giles and other designers including Kinder Agguguni. He left the Giles team last year to concentrate on expanding the Masato label and take up the position of head designer at Ghost after being approached at Brighton Fashion Week. The Masato label was launched at Essex Fashion Week in March 2011.

With Giles being one of my favourite designers I had high hopes for Masato's collection which did not disappoint. The venue filled up quickly with a mixture of press and fans anticipating the new collection. 

Masato's Autumn/Winter 2012 line oozed glamour and sophistication. His designs had a rich, luxurious feel with oriental prints emblazed on silk, patterned lace and sheer flowing fabrics. There was a mixture of feminine dresses alongside more structured jackets including one of my favourite pieces, the gold tulip wrap over jacket. Dresses were cinched in at the waist creating a flattering silhouette. Rich golds and black tones featured heavily throughout the collection. I loved the elegant gold brocade detailing and the contrasting bib style panel on some of the dresses. The gold floor length embellished gown was truly breathtaking and provided a stunning finale.

Masato will be showing his collection at Brighton Fashion Week next month, Cheltenham Fashion Week in September and Liverpool Fashion Week in October. He's set to return to Giles Deacon later this year for  Giles Spring 2013 collection.

Are you a fan of Masato? 

River Island S/S 12

These last few weeks I can't seem to keep away from River Island. They've got a gorgeous spring/summer collection and many of their clothes keep making it on to my wish list! 

Their spring/summer collection features summer brights and pretty pastels alongside a mixture of the season's hottest prints. They have a range of summer staple items perfect for adding to your summer wardrobe or for taking away on holiday all at great prices.

Navy Striped Skater Dress- £28.00

Turquoise Embellished Tank Top - £40.00

Floral Sleeveless Swing Shirt - £20.00

Gold Embellished Sandals - £30.00

Aztec Print Dress - £20.00

Lilac Capri Trousers - £30.00

Green Retro Print Dress - £25.00

Black & Turquoise Floral Print Satin Scarf - £13.00

Digital Print Block Vest - £20.00

Tropical Print Sleeveless Shirt - £30.00

Zig Zag Print Shorts - £20.00

Coral Lace Belted Skater Dress - £35.00

You can never have too many stripes (or polka dots!) in my book! The navy striped sailor dress with a white heart belt is easy to style, it'd look perfect for day out shopping and can be glammed up with a pair of heels and some accessories for a night out. 

One of my current favourite items would have to be the aztec print dress. I love the print and mixture of colours, it's perfect for a summer's day and an easy way to wear the aztec prints trend.

I also adore the tropical print sleeveless shirt. The print is ideal for the season and really stands out against the black trim. It'd look great worn with your favourite skinnies, styled with a summer skirt, or paired with some print trousers if you're feeling more daring! 

What have you been buying lately?

What's On This Weekend: Unlock London with Lola&Grace

Head down to the lola&grace jewellery store at Westfield Stratford this weekend 13th-15th April to pick up an exclusive key and unlock the world of lola&grace. 

Try your key in the "Unlock London" jewellery box in store for the chance to win lola&grace goodies and unique London experiences including the top prize of a private party for up to 50 friends organized by lola&grace with canapés, cocktails and top tunes from DJ's Yasmin & Orlando Boom at a secret London location!

Look out for the giant ampersand located on the first floor. This specially designed installation contains secret rooms for you to unlock and explore, prizes can be won by unlocking each door.

Find Fifi Lapin to discover the secret pearl themed cinema showing movies complete with popcorn for you to enjoy! 

Unlock the disco room and impress the DJ by throwing some shapes on the dance floor! Grab some props from the box and have fun dressing up!

Try your luck and have a go at hooking a sweet treat from the tree. Don't forget to grab your friends and some of the props and strike a pose in the photo booth! You can share the photos on Facebook instantly using the interactive screen. 

If you can't visit this weekend the lola&grace "Unlock London" campaign will continue on Facebook throughout April with more chances to win fabulous London prizes! 

facebook.com/lolaandgrace

Monki Must Haves

H&M owned Swedish fashion brand Monki recently opened its doors on Carnaby Street. It's their first UK store following their successful concession range in Selfridges last year.

The stores quirky 'Sea of Scallops' themed interior reflects Monki's creative and fun style. The concept store is described as a walk in closet full of treasures!

These are some of my favourite items available in store and online

They have an affordable selection of wardrobe essentials mixed with their unique designs with most items under £30. I love their bright colours and mixture of prints. They also have a gorgeous range of accessories, funky jewellery and colourful bags. 

I can't wait to visit when I'm next in London!

Have you visited the new Monki store yet?