Munique Fashions

Ring in the new year in this Phase Eight jumpsuit

Tue, 31 Dec 2013 13:24:00 +0000

I bet many of you could not wait to hit the after Christmas sales. Some of you may have lined up in the early hours of Boxing Day to be the first into stores like Next while others couldn't wait to return those "unwanted" gifts - naughty naughty!!! Thank god for gift receipts!!! Though I can never bring myself to return any Christmas gifts as I think that it is the thought that counts and it's great to get a present that you would normally not buy for yourself. Not to mention I would hate to think of my family and friends returning gifts that I bought them.

If you are a woman with a calendar then the first item on your sale shopping list must be an outfit for that New Year's Eve party. So what type of event are you attending? Is it formal or informal, casual, dressy casual, is dinner involved because a girl has got to eat? Looking for that perfect outfit to ring in the new year isn't always that easy when you are distracted by so many cocktail dresses on sale. Have fun trying on as many outfits as you like but in your gut you know what suits your fancy be it slinky, elegant or both. We ladies do like to glitter, shine and sparkle at this festive time of year. I'm always blinded by the shiny glitter ball dresses and outfits that light up the high streets when it comes to Christmas and New Year's Eve parties.

Me, I'm keeping it understated this year though and sticking to the golden rule of less is more especially since I'm no teeny bopper. No doubt my conservative dress code this year is drawing me to this Phase Eight Amanda jumpsuit which oozes elegance and sophistication. As detailed in the description "it is a stunning alternative to an evening dress". Love the cummerbund effect which singes the waist and the wrap over neckline is always a favourite. This Phase Eight jumpsuit is perfect for ringing in the new year with a little dinner and dancing and I can see myself wearing it for years to come - a very practical addition to any wardrobe.

Bodyshapes and outfits - defining your body shape

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:54:00 +0000

I'm sitting here at the car dealers waiting on a car service and MOT to be carried out. I have opted to wait for my vehicle as the last time I used their courtesy same day pick up and return service I didn't get my car back the same day. Instead they brought me a brand new courtesy stick shift Jute. Perhaps their way of encouraging me to part ways with over 3 year old Quashqai. I remember it well, it was a Friday evening, I don't do gears and I had to ferry the kids to their million and one activites that evening and the next day. The kids happily jumped in, all excited telling me how much they loved that new car smell. I on the other hand was quite irritated and had no intention of fiddling with gears and getting used to new controls. I couldn't even find the windscreen wipers and it was raining!!!! Out we jumped to climb into my husband's very large (by UK standard) vehicle which I find impossible to park but at least is automatic.

So hear I am today waiting anxiously as the school pickup is looming near but still managing to put this look together on the boden outfit maker which is quite fun really. The mechanic have emerged to say that the brake pads are flagged up and in need of changing soon as they are coming near to the legal worn limit - decisions decisions decisions!!!! Since my car is outside warranty I feel I must shop around and thank goodness for the technology to do so on my iPad while I wait. Here's a tip - did you know Kwikfit offers a life time guarantee on brake pads and will always replace your brake pads for free once you own the vehicle? I hope there's no catch but I will certainly check it out.

Oh finally something worth watching on the telly as I glance up with tired eyes from the glare of the iPad screen - "What not to wear" re-runs with Trini and Susannah is on. One of these fashion wardrobe makeovers shows with good advice, I thought, to change the way women make decisions on the best fashion buys for their bodyshape. The pair drastically reduces wardrobes to core essentials and buys a whole new wardrobe for (what they want us to believe is the unsuspecting participant who is blindsided by the whole affair) your newly defined body shape. The advice on underwear (what to wear under your garments) in terms of suitable bras and panties I thought was invaluable. I just love balconette bras now. The difference in body shape between the two presenters was also genius to emphasize how bodyshape really determines what will highlight your best features and downplay the ones you wish you did not inherit.

I remember this episode specifically because their "fashion crisis victim" was a mid forties woman who dressed like a young teenager with lots of mini skirts and tight tee shirts. As the fashion duo, Trinni and Susannah explain how to make your legs look longer - they announce that my car is ready. Anyway the trick to making your legs look longer, other than heels of course, is to wear tights and shoes in the same colour and when wearing trousers aim for foot length trousers that are a couple inches longer than needed to give the illusion of a few more inches to your legs. Going back to why this episode was memorable, I can recall that the fashion debutante in question ditched her new wardrobe, advice and all, and reverted to her preferred regular style once the program was over. The lesson being - it is one thing for your family and friends to think you need fashion tips on how to dress but you do have to buy into the whole idea and want to change your style. Feeling comfortable in your new style is key to exhibiting that new found confidence.

Putting looks together can be a matter of trial and error which is why this Boden Outfit Maker is so useful. The key piece for me in this look was the straight artisan skirt made from soft wash velveteen. I'm just bowled over by the embroidery which in my mind makes it special. It's a simple principle really just find a signature piece and build your outfit around that. I have gone for the colourblock cardigan and the hound bud print shirt with chunky knit berry tights and casual mahogany winter boots. But that's just me. I love colour. I'm sure if you have a play around yourself you can develop your own style. As to whether it suits your body shape, that's a whole different matter. Click here to use a bodyshape finder to determine your body shape.

fringed pashmina shawl wrap

Mon, 16 Sep 2013 10:56:00 +0000

With the drafts from the bedroom windows forcing me under the covers, memories of sitting on a park bench on one of the hottest day of the year, combating hay fever, taking in the summer fashion sense of passerbys while keeping an eye on the kids riding their bikes comes flooding back. It seems like I'm always multi-tasking. I remember it was not a day for wearing much clothes though some ladies had opted for maxi dresses. Nor was it a day for much physical activity though some were braving the weather and having a jog while others of all mixed abilities were having a go on the tennis courts - burning double calories that day. I on the other hand just got very thirsty looking at them while passing judgement on those walking by munching on ice cream that they clearly could do without judging by their waist lines - even though I had already binged on my guilty pleasure and could lose a few pounds myself.

I remember starring enviously at the bare back men, not that I was admiring their physique but I was jealous of their freedom to go topless without a murmur - a privilege only reserved for my bedroom I'm afraid. I had every intention of walking with a picnic basket or an insulated bag full of goodies and ice but could I find any ice to buy? The cold shelves and refrigeration section of the supermarket near the park were simply raided not to mention the long queues. Looking down into my co-shoppers baskets I could only imagine that their selections were the beginning of an impromptu barbecue.

"Earth to mummy" says my seven year old, jolting me out of my reminiscing. She was all ready for bed. No more battles to go to sleep as the nights are growing darker I thought , no more hay fever, no more sweat trickling down my neck. I think I can safely put my summer wardrode into hibernation until next July and start sifting through my winter wardrobe for what to wear tomorrow. My winterwear philosopy for this year is easy to wear and I don't think you will find anything easier to wear than this warm cosy poncho style fringed pashmina shawl wrap .

Autumn blues or new looks?

Tue, 10 Sep 2013 13:02:00 +0000

Full of dread I am as I can feel summer suddenly slipping away as the crisp morning air of autumn creeps in. Dark early nights, the bitter cold and worse the disruptive snow is not my idea of fun. I had hoped for a few more weeks of glorious sunshine after such a brilliant summer but you can't deny that definite chill in the air which now penetrates your jeans : the same pair of jeans that made you boil from the heat in the car a few weeks earlier. Suddenly you don't need a weather forecast to tell you how to dress.

Rather than lament though, lets celebrate our seasons which gives us ample excuse to reinvent ourselves and our look through fashion. Imagine for a moment if we only had two seasons like tropical countries the rainy and sunny season and were prone to storms and hurricanes. Would we then be wishing for snow and a white christmas? I imagine we would and with only summer clothing to buy wouldn't we be longing to wear a trench coat, an anorak or a duffle coat like the models in the fashion mags? It's a bit like our own bodies, don't you think? There is always something we want to improve or wish we didn't have. Be mindful of the old adage, "the grass is always greener on the other side" and be careful what you wish for.

I may not always like the cold but I love the challenge of layering up and pairing up the right coat with the perfect jumper or cardigan - What fun!!! Yeah there are days when I drag clothes on just to keep warm with no care of appearance. But looking spectacular and being warm in winter takes some doing if you don't wish to compromise one for the other.

With the morning temperatures in the low teens, it's time to bring the cardigans and jumpers out. Soon the temperature will drop and we will have to add the light outer jacket, then the outer coat, hat, scarves, gloves, boots, warmers etc and then find fashionably creative ways of including more layers as the sub zero temperatures set in. This alpaca wool cowl neck is so easy to wear and can be layered up with tee or warmer underneath for extra warmth. Easy to wear clothes like alpaca wool wraps just makes layering so straight forward and I like wool because it is absolutely warming. At the same time, I saw some sheep recently on the drive to Scotland freshly sheared and felt so sorry - I'm such a hypocrite!!

Maxi dresses - last lap summer bargains

Tue, 10 Sep 2013 11:30:00 +0000

Last lap summer bargains are hard to pass up especially when you know that the style you're after will totally still be fashionably correct next summer. Maxi dresses are always a summer favorite with the ladies and always on trend. They are so easy to wear and require little effort to look effortlessly stylish and picture perfect on a bright summer day. Just push your feet into some flat summer sandals or wedges, get your sunglasses on, pick up your tote bag and off you go. Look complete.

For those of you taking that long deserved holiday abroad outside of the school holidays (naughty if you're yanking the kids out of school but hooray if you're child free) summer sales are perfect to get those much needed summer essentials for your trip. Cruise holidays are the best and you can't have enough maxi dresses for that stroll on deck or relaxing pool side while you sip your pina coladas.

There are massive bargains to be had if you are luckily the right size for what's available. But don't allow summer sales to stress you out. Finding a bargain should be fun, not an act of duress. I know only too well how you can look longingly at a sale item on your computer screen, clicking on it several times hoping with all your might that it will magically appear in your size and say "in stock".

Never give in to the temptation of buying clothing and fashion accessories that are the incorrect size or body shape, or colour for you. While it's fine to try new things, it's pointless (and a bit daft really) if your desired sale item will simply sit in your wardrobe and take up valuable space. Each year you pull it out, try it on and still it does not suit you or fit as the it's just wrong for your body shape or you have not lost the weight you swore you would lose. Why put yourself through that!!!

Here's an idea though!! If you feel that need to have it then think birthday and christmas gifts. Who would that item be perfect for? Stocking up on christmas and birthday gifts can save you time and money and a much needed saving while you make that financial recovery from expensive holidays and back to school uniforms. According to "What not to Wear" experts Trinny and Susannah; styles that may not suit you may be perfect for a friend. Just ensure that you are getting it right as returns may be tricky after the stipulated period.

If you're shopping for gifts then clothing aren't the only bargains to be had, fashion accessories like belts, jewellery gift sets, are absolute great gifts ideas too. So get those christmas and birthday lists out and start shopping for your bargains now.

Tartan and more tartan ...visit scotland

Fri, 06 Sep 2013 12:51:00 +0000

Enjoyed a delightfully breathtaking visit to Scotland's capital last week, Edinburgh, home of the infamous Mary Queen of Scots. Missed the fringe festival unfortunately due to car trouble but got there in the end. Not the worst thing missing The Fringe though as by reports it is normally bursting at the seams with visitors.

No visit to Scotland is complete without a visit to Edinburgh's finest, the Castle, elegantly and royally poised at the top of the Royal Mile offering fabulously breathtaking views!!!!! The castle is not the only place for great view. Camera Obscura close by and Nelson's Monument offer spectacular visuals of the city. Whether you are up high or down low you simply have to love the city's architecture which is all around you in the historical buildings seemingly virtually untouched by modern refurbishment. It is easy to see why so many films have been filmed in Scotland : Skyfall, The Fast and The Furious IV, New Tricks, Not Another Happy Ending, Snow White and Huntsman, The Dark Knight Rises, Cloud Atlas are just some of the popular film names capitalizing on the country's gorgeous invigorating views, coastlines, historical castle and houses.

For the fashion conscious like yourselves there's tartan and more tartan in many vivid and vibrant colours : who knew tartan wasn't limited to infamous Burberry colours. Shopping in Edinburg is really decentralised as your main high street brands are located away from the Royal Mile with John Lewis department store closer to the Leith Walk side of the City. The Royal Mile (for those who have never had the pleasure) is the road leading to the Castle which is said to measure a mile though some say it's really one and a quarter mile. There is the tendency for visitors to gravitate towards the upper part of the Royal Mile closer to the Castle where tartan memorabilia and tartan clothing and accessories are spilling out of baskets on the sidewalks. There is a trendy little Boutique called Ness with at least two shopfronts where you will find funky tartan accessories and a colourful collection of stylish clothing as well. But for more shopping experiences or when you've reached your tartan saturation level, head down to the lower end for boutiques like Ragamuffin.

Ragamuffin, which you will find on the lower half of the mile, offers a collection of clothes made by various designers from natural fibres which is sure to appeal to those who celebrate the eclectic chic hippy folk fashion look. What's her name from x factor 2012 finalists, Melanie Masson, would feel right at home in that store. I personally loved it. Though I have to confess bought nothing as it was not cheap and I'm still recovering from purchasing complete new school uniforms for the kids. My personal favourites though were coats and long cardigans by Nicky Thomson and John Branson which were very unusual and unique, good quality and would certainly be worth every penny. Even if you are not into folk fashion you will be tempted to treat yourself to unusual and unique fashion accessories like scarves, hats etc.

Having visited Scotland, I'm thinking what a fashion faux pas if like myself tartan have not yet found its way into your wardrobe. This can be easily remedied with the addition of this stylish trendsetting tartan wool trousers which as I'm sure you would agree would be a timeless addition to your wardrobe as tartan never goes out of fashion.

Betty Barclay's charming colourful collection

Fri, 06 Sep 2013 09:24:00 +0000

Kids are back to school this week and finally I feel that I can exhale. As a child I always loved the start of the Autumn school term with new everything for school : new uniform, shoes, school bag etc. It's a term of beginnings either starting a new school or University, moving up a class, moving into 6th form. It's all about progress. The only difference for me now as a parent is the financial pinch of kitting out children for the new school year. What an expense!! And don't even get me started on the school shop crowds.

Exhausted from my previous 2 trips to the school wear shops and high street uniform retailers, I decided against putting myself though that nightmare and ordered online from John Lewis. I ordered their school shirts, school bags, swimsuits, swim bags, back to school stationery and even needles (for sewing those annoyingly vital name tags). Have to say John Lewis' order procedure is really quick and efficient and having opted to collect in store from one of their Waitrose outlets, I didn't have to wait around at home for delivery and I saved myself a few pounds. My order was available for collection from 2 p.m. the very next day - really time saving

Of course I had a little browse around for myself in the womenswear section as I always feel that I am owed a treat for just getting through the summer holidays with the constant "what are we doing today? where are we going? I'm bored!!! or the "don't book up my summer with too much activities". The Betty Barclay Collection certainly caught my eye as there are certainly some very daring and colourful pieces in this collection like this Betty Barclay striped cowl neck top in 100% cotton - perfect to brighten up your autumn look.

This Betty Barclay animal print cardigan is reduced to clear at £19.50 and only available in sizes 12 and 14 so order now if you want your friends to be asking you "where did you get that". Animal print is always versatile, never goes out of fashion and is always a fun way of expressing your wild side even if it is only by accessorising with an animal print bag.

If you are looking for a new take on the denim jacket then this Betty Barclay floral multi print jacket is sure to brighten up with most outfits. Again this floral print jacket is very popular and available in remaining sizes of 12, 14 and 22. Reduced to clear at £40.50

If you are feeling fashionably adventurous then the floral print trousers are available as well. Personally I wouldn't wear them together but independently they will contrast superbly with white or any other block colour in the printed pattern.

Reading Glasses : fashion statement or reflection of age?

Wed, 04 Sep 2013 11:55:00 +0000

You can buy reading glasses in such fabulously flattering fashionable frames now that they are fast losing their symbolism with age and gaining popularity in the fashion accessories department. No longer are reading glasses, eyewear that you must get from your optician. You can pick up a pair of reading glasses just about anywhere these days : at your local pharmacy, in the supermarket, high street stores. It is prudent though to have your eyes tested regularly and retain a copy of your prescription so you know exactly which strength reading glasses you require.

My kids constantly have fun at my expense as I carry around no less than 3 pairs of glasses in my handbag and a fourth on my face of course. But you know what, even the glasses cases are funky so I don't mind. How heavy my shoulder bag is and my need to change specs ever so often as I carry on with my day is a source of constant amusement for them. My daughter says that my reading glasses makes me look bossy but she knows when I put them on it's because it is school work time for her. I don't hear her laughing then.

I did give varifocals a try but those lenses didn't seem to work for me. I was constantly bobbing my head up and down, pushing my glasses up on my nose to ensure I was looking through the correct part of my lens especially with no line to guide you - frustrating to say the least. I tell you you can get glasses now at your optician that offers 3 in 1 - coverage for longsightedness, working on the computer and reading. Me I prefer to keep it simple, so after my fiasco with varifocals. I resorted to buying individual spectacles for reading, using the computer and one for reading which are all different strengths and prescriptions. Plus I have a pair of prescription sun glasses. So yes my bag is heavier than most, but my vision clearer and my sanity intact as it is far less confusing. Not to mention I manage to carry off four looks in one day providing the sun is shining like today. Hooray!!!

I'm sure I would try varifocals again when I'm happy to stick a larger pair of glasses on my face that provides enough space for all views. That said optical research would have moved on by the time I feel adventurous again or perhaps I may give Laser Eye Surgery a try, which as far as I know doesn't redress the need for reading glasses but would mean 2 less glasses to carry around. In the meantime I prefer petite fashionable frames for my oval shaped face and take pleasure in reinventing myself with new frames ever so often.

puffball trousers or knickerbockers?

Mon, 08 Jul 2013 13:18:00 +0000

I'm always on the look out for fashion books old and new. Rummaging through charity shop bookshelves, second hand bookshops has certainly become a pastime. Most anywhere I go now you can always find a bookshelf with second hand books being sold off for 50p in parish halls, doctors surgeries, public attractions like Gardens, steam railways attractions you name it. They say with the advent of Kindle published books are becoming less and less popular but I just love leafing through old books especially fashion books, magazines and newspapers as I'm always intrigued how fashion simply re-invents itself.

I recently picked up a book at, off all places my local library, called Worst Fashions: What We Shouldn't Have Worn... But Did by Catherine Horwood. Can't say that I normally frequent libraries but had to take the kids their to research a project on Thailand. Horwood in this book highlights fashion from the 60's, 70's and 80's which was felt to be a total fashion faux pas or simply unflattering. Ironically many of the fashion "we shouldn't have worn but did" have made a 360 degree turn and are back with us.

Knickerbockers a fashion trend popularized in the 70's is certainly back with us just by another name : puffball trousers. Have to say I quite fancy myself in a pair of these. Like all fashion some flatter certain body shapes more than others and what is a no no for me may simply be a green light for you as Trinni and Susannah illustrates in their body shape bible and "what not to wear" series. I remember in the 80's and 90's looking back at pictures of my cousins wearing bell bottom trousers and platform shoes with the big hair and thinking I'll never wear that. Now 70"s fashion is my favourite fashion era and I have an absolute passion for bell sleeves blouses. So I've learnt to never say never.

7th anniversary gift ideas

Mon, 08 Jul 2013 11:47:00 +0000

So it's your anniversary. What to get her? - is the question on his mind. Sadly if not unfairly, the onus is always on the husband/partner/boyfriend procure that present that she is sure to find special and make her gasp at his thoughtfulness. Mind you he has to get it right every year and outdo himself year after year after year. I certainly don't envy them. It's a bit like tennis where top players like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and now Andy Murray have to prove worthy of their tennis ranking match after match, grand slam after grand slam.

If you are a traditionalist then that's half the battle won as all you have to do is google presents for sevens years of marriage or seventh anniversary gift ideas which is certainly going to narrow your choices. Mind you as you can see below you have traditional and modern presents in the Anniversary Gift Guide. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that copper is a traditional 7th anniversary gift as no woman would be disappointed to receive a unique handmade copper jewellery gift set like this copper necklace and copper earrings gift set entitled "grapevine". This unique jewellery piece is an absolute favourite with the ladies.

Jewellery gifts for her is always a safe fall back position but gifts for her should always be about the person and celebrating the uniqueness of your relationship with that person. So feel feel to stray from this set menu anniversary gift guide and buy your woman the gift that words would simply cannot express.

Anniversary Gift Guide

Anniversary	Traditional	Modern

1st	Paper	Clocks
2nd	Cotton	China
3rd	Leather	Crystal & Glass
4th	Linen (silk)	Electrical Appliances
5th	Wood	Silverware
6th	Iron	Wood
7th	Wool (copper)	Desk Sets
8th	Bronze	Linens & Lace
9th	Pottery (china)	Leather
10th	Tin (aluminium)	Diamond Jewellery
11th	Steel	Fashion Jewellery, Accessories
12th	Silk	Pearls, Coloured Gems
13th	Lace	Textiles & Furs
14th	Ivory	Gold Jewellery
15th	Crystal	Watches
20th	China	Platinum
25th	Silver	Sterling Silver Jubilee
30th	Pearl	Diamond
35th	Coral (jade)	Jade
40th	Ruby	Ruby
45th	Sapphire	Sapphire
50th	Gold	Gold
55th	Emerald	Emerald
60th	Diamond	Diamond

buy crocs boots online

Fri, 05 Jul 2013 09:30:00 +0000

Reviews can be so helpful when buying online. No matter what you are buying; be it shoes, clothes, handmade jewellery or anything else that you are after, other people's opinion can allay your own fears of distance shopping not only in terms of product quality and fit if applicable but in terms of customer service as well which is very important. I recently bought myself a crocs boot and was only encouraged to do so after reading through the reviews on amazon. Have to say I'm pleased with my purchase and my feet are so much warmer than in wellies and they are super light. While they come in several different colours, rather than celebrating my usual desire for colour I went for the classic and conventional brown (or expresso as it is called) which compliments all outfits.

Though I'm always benefitting from other peoples online shopping experiences I honestly seldom if ever take the time to offer feedback of my own despite doing 80% of my shopping on the internet. Awfully selfish isn't it? Really it's simply laziness but I do so much shopping online that reviews can become overwhelming at times. But I'm going to try and do better from now and start leaving reviews and not wait until I have a bad experience which is usually when internet shoppers ensure that fellow shoppers read all about it.

fashion wish lists

Thu, 04 Jul 2013 13:02:00 +0000

When you spend as much time on the computer as I do, you can't help but take a break sometimes to browse new arrivals, especially when your mailbox is constantly bombarded by email alerts updating you on sales, discounts and money off offers.

Just as you can window shop on the high street sometimes, I'm usually window shopping online, adding all my favourite items to my wish list which makes it easy to find if and when I do decide days later that I simply must have it. I'm sure there are times when you come across an item online which you don't buy immediately but days later its still on your mind. When you decide you're getting that must have item you can spend many hours of desperate searching trying to find it. Annoying isn't it?

Here are my picks of the week which I have added to my wish lists

Desigual, one of my all time favorite designer satisfies my desire for the eclectic, colour and unique designs. This desigual top "nadia" is certainly on my wish list.

Perfect for summer (if we ever have one) is this printed tunic dress from french fashion catalogue La Redoute. Read the reviews though if you are interested in ordering this fabulously flirty flowered tunic as it is advised to order 2 sizes down from your regular size. Can't beat the benefit of reviews so make sure and leave one when you buy online for the next shopper.

fleece plum throw

Thu, 04 Jul 2013 11:06:00 +0000

Buying fabulously fashionable summer coats, ponchos and rain macs to keep warm and dry outside is not my only concern this summer. When I'm at home i just want to snuggle up in front of the tv looking at all those feel good christmas movies that I've just discovered on one of sky's movie channels. Don't have to wait until christmas apparently though I wish the same were true for roasted chestnuts.

For that brief moment while it thunders with rain outside, I want to believe in the miracle of christmas and warm my heart with tales of santa and what could happen if we just believe even if it is just through the realm of my television screen.

I've just popped my much used and much loved fleece plum throw in the wash : my favorite tv snuggle up time blanket. The kids just love to pile in and cuddle up with me while I'm taking in these Christmas movies, not that they are so interested in the storyline but they grasp their opportunity to start whispering their christmas wish list in my ear. Can't say that they don't look out for number 1 - themselves!!!

Summer skirts and dresses

Thu, 04 Jul 2013 10:39:00 +0000

Today after picking the kids up from school I simply had to head home before taking them to their activity. At the risk of being late for tennis my detour home just could not be helped as i was sweltering in jeans and long sleeve tee shirt. my legs were screaming for some ventilation so a skirt or dress was just what i needed. having just moved house neither were readily available as my summer wardrobe was still packed away in suitcases chaotically lodged in the garage. Didn't think I would be needing it in a hurry considering the weather we've been having.

There I was having to rummage through the garage to find the right suitcase first of all and then pull out a dress which smelt as musty as anticipated having been packed away since winter. Did I care? It was simply too hot today. A change of underwear was also necessary as my white underwear is a no no for me under a light cotton dress. I'm simply not a Sex and the City kind of girl when it comes to that.

Sitting here waiting on the kids to finish I'm relieved that I made the effort to pop in and change first as if you think it's hot outside, the body heat generated from other waiting parents the body heat is really starting to take it's toll. Note to self - unpack summer wardrobe tonight including flip-flops and summer sandals. You just can't have enough summer skirts and dresses. Must try on as i unpack as I know I am a little more rotound than last summer.

don't get rained in

Thu, 04 Jul 2013 10:04:00 +0000

Rain drops keep falling on my head is the tune I was reminded of all of last week as it rained and rained during the half term last week. Other than play dates at friends' houses all I could manage was cinema with the kids to see Epic and IronMan 3. Be warned Epic does challenge your emotional realm as it borders on being a bit of a romance movie at times. Imagination wise, it makes you want to venture out into your back garden in search of this ultra insect universe.

Can't say that I enjoyed getting wet from the car to the cinema though the kids certainly didn't mind. On any other day we could have walked to the cinema but I didn't fancy getting there looking like a drowned rat. There should be somewhere to check your wet coats, water proof ponchos and umbrellas at more public places, don't you think? Especially given the fact that the weather is usually 90% unfavorable in the good old United Kingdom.

I wasn't always adverse to a bit of rain. Like the kids I used to love walking in the rain and was always happy to get caught in the rain especially when on my way home from school. Bathing in the rain was always a particular favorite. My siblings and I would done our swimwear and play in the rain for hours. Redirecting the guttering over a drum used to collect the precious rainwater to position it over our heads to feel the powerful gush of water cascading over our bodies was simply priceless. Obviously can't go out to play did not apply to us when it rained.

Why we complain so much about the rain when we get older must be a result of our diminishing spontaneity and our increasing role of responsiblility. Like anything else it is a matter of dressing for the weather. Some say that there is no such thing as being too cold but just a case of not dressing warmly enough. So too when outfitted for the rainy weather in our wellies, rain macs, ponchos (and I'm really starting to like the water resistant ponchos as it covers so much more of me) the pouring rain does not feel so bad. Me I've started looking forward to warming up with a hot cup of tea or soup once i get to where im going. It's all about perspective.

By now you may have realised that I wrote this article months ago as the half term is long gone but the topic of rain is still so very current as those of you attending Wimbledon, 20 20 Cricket, Sports Meets at Crystal Palace and the Alexander Stadium are well aware. Once you've bought you tickets for these events you are pretty much committed so get yourself a ponchos and stay dry.

Checked coat with wool

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 12:24:00 +0000

I spotted my friend Sally in this coat yesterday and thought what a fab coat. Simply had to tell her that I liked the coat to which she promptly blurted out that it was from Marks and Spencer. I was quickly reminded of the news a few weeks ago which reported that clothing retail sales from M&S had declined while sales at Primark was booming urging me to write a blog post on Quality vs Quantity Fashion. I said to her that one Primark shopper interviewed about their preference for shopping there remarked that Marks and Spencer was for "ole birds". We both had a good laugh and resolved that we both must be old birds then as I have several coats in my wardrobe from M&S as well.

I have to say that the online picture of this checked wool coat really doesn't do it justice and I would not normally go for a grey coat but the subtle burgundy colours in this woollen coat really lifts the coat and I simply love the furry texture of the outside - lovely to look at and gorgeous to the touch. Because the sleeves does not reach as far down to the wrist you can team with a roll neck long sleeve in burgundy which just picks up on the coat's colours. In fact Sally wore hers with a burgundy layer and a grey felt hat. Most important to me and as I said to Sally, "I'm sure that I'll be seeing you in this coat for many winters to come".

Christmas partywear with a shine

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 23:13:00 +0000

First Lady Michelle Obama is not the only one who recycles outfits. I do it every year especially at christmas time with all the festive parties with my name on it. More and more though I find that sometimes outfits that looked smashing one year ago are not as flattering now. Maybe because I've put on a bit of weight or the novelty has worn off or maybe I've just gotten a little older and wiser - I don't know. Now I make sure and try on my outfits way in advance to avoid hitting the high street a day or two before a party to panic buy an outfit. When I look at outfits bought in desperation I usually shake my head and wonder "what was I thinking!". But vanity masked as desperation can make us ladies do strange things.

I especially want to get it right for the office party so no harm in having a few backup outfits. This year I want to stay clear of black party wear as this colour is simply starting to dominate my wardrobe as far as cocktail dresses .... so enough with the dresses. I'm going for a fancy top and casual trousers. Less is soooo much more as this sheer metallic lace top with a lined body shows. This look is simple, chic and so fabulously feminine with the ruffles at the neckline - perfect if you are going straight from work to party.

Christmas gifts for him

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 22:10:00 +0000

We constantly blog about gifts for her on this blog and don't pay much attention to gifts for him. Let's rectify that now because with Christmas soon upon us I know I am in need of some ideas myself. This 100 % cotton howick multi stripe robe is a superb gift for dad, husband, partner or boyfriend. What's great as well is that they come in a variety of colour combinations so you won't be spoilt for choice.

By default clothes is usually the first thing that comes to mind when shopping for him maybe because I shop so much for myself. When I want to mix it up a bit I go for technology accessories as men never tire of their boy toys and I know my limits when it comes to choosing electronic gifts for my husband. Who knows better than them exactly which type or model of phone or laptop they need. Boy toys accessories includes iphone case, laptop bag which are much cheaper options for me anyway. Think practically about his needs and I'm sure you'll come up with even more ideas.

Today's online bargains

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 18:11:00 +0000

Psychologically it's always a great feeling when you grab yourself an online bargain. Here are our picks on bargains online for today. But remember bargains like these don't last very long and there is nothing more disappointing than not having it in your size. Click now to have a look Who knows what you may find.

This sleeveless graphic sleeveless shift dress reminds me of the swinging 60's with its geo printed fabric, shape and length. As it is the winter months, I would pair with black tights and knee high boots. Come summer it would be a fabulously playful mini dress for showing off some legs.

This classic shift Betty Barclay dress is made special with a feather print. A comfortable dress with a slight stretch that would suit most body shape.

The cricket jumper is no longer just a sports garment but has transcended the boundaries of cricket to trendy fashion jumper. Not without its sex appeal this cropped cricket jumper has a low v-neckline making it perfect to wear over a tee in winter.

Unique and festive fashion dresses

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 14:18:00 +0000

What do these dresses have in common? They are all simply cut dresses in appealing colour mixes - very ethnic and festive looking and I can see myself in all of them. Most importantly they are all available from House of Fraser where you get free shipping when you spend £50 or more. These dresses differ in price, quality and label. We have dresses from the Lauren of Ralph Lauren brand SodaMix and Izabel of London ranging from £24 - £155. So which frock do you fancy adding to your wardrobe this winter? If you like bright, colourful mixes and unique fashion then these are three dresses tick all those boxes.

kenzo poncho - style that last

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 14:18:00 +0000

Last week we were on about price vs quality with the whole Marks and Spencer vs Primark revenue profits debate that was filling the airwaves. This week I have been looking for key winter warmers to add to my wardrobe and found this kenzo poncho which just screams buy me, buy me!!!! Its full of all my favorite earth tone colours and the geometric ethnic design is simply glamorous. If you want to add drama and style to your look then here it is. In fact no one would really care what you wore under this poncho as their eyes will be fixed on this designer poncho itself. Unique fashion accessories wouldn't be absolutely necessary but a copper bracelet would go a long way in adding depth and detail to this look. .

Made from a blend of fabrics including 15% wool, I could just see myself wearing this poncho for many winters to come. As much as I try, I can't help myself, I am a quality girl and if I added only one new item to my winter wardrobe this would be it. Call me naughty but this poncho goes on my christmas list which I will leave carelessly lying around for my husband to see just in case he was void of ideas for christmas gifts for her this year. Better yet I can have one of Santa's little helpers (my kids) whisper it in his ear.

Michelle Obama recycles victory speech dress

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 11:43:00 +0000

Another US Presidential election and Obama emerges victor. I can't say that I have been following the debate as far as political issues put forward by the Democrats and Republicans are concerned. But I am now up with the political lingo as far as what swing States are. Remarkably as I stood in the kitchen doing the washing up yesterday, oblivious of the radio playing in the background, my pores suddenly raised as Obama's victory speech suddenly penetrated my consciousness. What a prolific and charismatic speaker, I thought, making a mental note to have a look at the speech online.

While Barrack Obama’s speech is simply hair raising to hear, being a fashion blog we are more concerned with what Michelle wore aren't we ladies. Click on the video below and you will see Michelle clad in a Michael Kors metallic raspberry coloured dress. If you have been following the first lady and her unique choice of clothes and fashion accessories you would recognize that she wore this same dress in 2010 at a military event.

What I always admire about the First Lady is the way she cleverly uses her attire to send a message. Michelle started off on her husband's campaign six years ago wearing off the rack designers like Donna Ricco which sent a clear message that her lifestyle was attainable, that she was an ordinary american citizen. Yes she has worn big name designers like Thakoon Panichgul, but also sent less recognized designers like Maria Pinto rocketing into the limelight by showcasing her custom made sheath dresses on the campaign trail.

Now she recycles a previously worn dress which is a clear political statement that we are living in hard economic times and we simply must be frugal; a reflection of the austere economic measures ahead for the American economy. I have to say that I like her style and can't wait to see what message she will be sending with her choice of inaugural dress. All Kudos to Obama's political advisers and campaign managers, they have certainly paid attention to every political detail (including what Michelle wears) in securing Obama another four years in office.

Click here for more Michael Kors dresses

Quality wardrobe or quantity fashion?

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 10:22:00 +0000

Marks and Spencer and Primark have been very much in the news today with regards to profits. The bottom line is that revenues at Primark is up while clothing sales at Marks and Spencer have seen a 10% drop in profit according to reports I'm hearing on the radio at the minute. Reporters have taken to the street and are asking shoppers with Primark bags why they choose to shop at Primark as opposed to Marks and Spencer and the comments have been "better value for money" , "up to date fashion", "Marks and Spencer is for old birds", "cheap stocking fillers" and simply "price". Interviewees have also commented that they are not bothered by the quality as for them fashion changes so quickly that they are happy to chuck purchases once the fashion changes in six months.

So what's your take on this- are you a quantity or quality person? Are you happy to buy one quality item or prefer to walk out the store with five items for the same price? Me, I'm so keen on building a wardrobe by adding quality clothes that would last and last that I find it hard to buy throw away fashion. That's not to say that I've never shopped at Primark. Years ago it must have been around 2007 I bought a black and white striped roll neck as well as a wool blend orange swing coat from Primark which I still wear today. Now whenever I pop into Primark, I'm always very cautious as it is very tempting to fill my basket up with items that may not wash very well so I can certainly see the attraction for younger shoppers on a budget as they carry a fun and funky range which may not always have the longevity factor but is appealingly trendy.

With Marks and Spencer, I know that the quality is there so I don't think twice when I'm buying a dress or coat online. Off the top of my mind I have two corduroy coats, a black pants suits, jackets and several dresses and skirts from M&S. So I have more Marks and Spencer in my wardrobe than Primark, hope that doesn't make me an "old bird". I shop from high end to low end as my philosophy is that you can always find a gem anywhere. It's all about spotting quality because let's face it sometimes you can pay more for the same wardrobe basics because of where you are buying it.

There is a saying "the more things change, the more they stay the same" and this is so true about fashion as I'm sure you will agree that what goes out of fashion comes right back into fashion at some point. So I'm not concerned that my wardrobe is ever out of fashion because I have clothes in there from ten or more years ago. For me quality far outweighs quantity but each to his own.

The perfect christmas gift for her

Tue, 06 Nov 2012 12:31:00 +0000

Is there such a thing as the perfect gift? In my mind the perfect gift is all relative to the person receiving the gift along with their hopes, desires, wants, wish list and I can go on and on. Who's giving the gift is also important because while I may have seen the ideal electric kettle to replace my old one, I don't expect that to be my christmas gift from my husband. When you are buying a gift for a loved one like your wife, girlfriend, partner there is an element of romance involved. So what is the perfect romantic gift?

Some ladies have lost utter confidence in their partners' ability to choose them just the right gift and are simply happy to have a voucher for one of their favorite shopping haunts. But where is the suspense and drama in that? Sometimes I'm presented with gifts from my husband that I would never have bought for myself and I do wear them and they turn out to get fab reviews from my friends. So maybe he knows me a little better than I think or perhaps he's just plain lucky - who knows?

The idea with gift giving is simple - just mix it up. For most of us gift giving is a biannual event for birthdays and christmas. When you include anniversaries and valentines day then it is four times a year - that's a lot of gift giving!!! If you are giving jewellery gifts then is has to be more unique and special to outdo what you have given in the past. Jewellery boxes, keepsake boxes are all great gift ideas. A romantic spa break for two can also be priceless. But with romantic gifts it is not always about how much you can spend. You simply want to give a gift that would be remembered and treasured for a long time.

winter warmers

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 14:36:00 +0000

The cold mornings have started and while its lighter outside since the clocks were turned back, I'm grumpier for having to leave my warm duvet covers to get out there and face the cold. With four layers this morning, including hat and gloves, I was warm enough but with snow in Northumberland yesterday I'm dreading a repeat of the winter of 2009. So while it is still only early November, for me, winter is officially here.

While I didn't have to scrape my windscreen this morning, with a reading of 2 degrees on the thermometer, I had to wait for the heater to defrost it and was begging the car to warm up quickly once I set off.

If you haven't already, it's certainly time to organize your winter wardrobe and bring all your coats, pullovers, and cardigans out of storage. I've just been pulling my winter clothes out as I need them but I just must become more organized so I know exactly what I'm wearing and where everything is. You can never have too much of layering tees, cowl neck sweaters, roll necks and thermals. Though for me thermals are fine once I'm outside but once I get indoors in the central heating it's like I'm on fire, so I'm going to have to reconsider thermals and go more for cotton and wool blends.

With a 50% flash sale on winter warmers at La Redoute today, I'm on the timer as sale ends in the next 10 hours. Nothing like a sale to motivate me into action. Shop now