Nikki Nakki Lou

New Project!

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 00:27:00 +0000

Ladies and gents, I am so happy to announce my new project - Beautifully Independent.
If you enjoyed reading Nikki Nakki Lou and you want to read more, please check it out.
I'm also on Facebook and twitter.

Hope to see you all there!
Nikki x

Bye Bye xxx

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:23:00 +0000

Hi guys. This is a post to say goodbye to you all.

I have been debating whether or not to carry on with the blog and I have decided that it's ran it's course. I feel that I can't give 100% to the blog anymore and it's something that I can't do if I can't give it my all.

The last two years have been amazing and I have learned a lot and met a lot of fabulous people, some of whom will be friends for life.

Thank you so much for all your support, and if you want to stay in touch, you can find me lurking on twitter @Nikki_Lou_

Lot's of Love

Nikki xxx

Rockalily Lipstick - Roulette Red

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:49:00 +0000

I am a firm believer that word of mouth recommendations are always worth listening to. So when I noticed people in my twitter feed and blogs that I read raving about Rockalily Lipstick I had to investigate. I had been searching for a great lipstick for a long time, and whilst I found some that I liked I was yet to find the one for me.

After checking out the Rockalily website, I was impressed with the care that had gone into everything. The site is more than just a run of the mill shop site and the accompanying blog is a fantastic read.

I was also pleased when I discovered that Rockalilly is an independent business, set up when owner Ree Ree found she was dissatisfied with what the market had to offer her.

There are four beautiful core shades in the range to choose from - Rockette Red, Hot Rod Red, Roulette Red and Pompadour Pink.

As well as the core range, there is also a limited edition range (with equally fabulous shades and names) which I advise to snap up when they're available because they're really popular!

You can see the dilemma I had with such lovely shades on offer. So I found Rockalily on twitter (@RockalilyLondon) and sent a tweet asking for advice. Ree Ree was incredibly helpful and after seeing a pic of me, recommended trying Roulette Red first. I took her advice and placed my order.

The order arrived quickly* and packaged really well. Opening such a lovely parcel made me feel special!

*I had problems with the post (nothing to do with Rockalily, problems with Royal Mail) and my order didn't turn up. Ree Ree was super helpful and arranged a second delivery which arrived really quickly.

This Picture was taken after using because the original unused picture disappeared off my camera!

Verdict after using:

The first time I used the lipstick I was really impressed. It went on with ease and the colour was gorgeous and vibrant. When applying, it didn't feel greasy like some lipsticks do and I didn't need lip liner (which is great for glamour in a hurry!).

The staying power is absolutely fantastic, I only had to give a slight touch up the first day I wore it (and that was because I had eaten a toasted ciabatta!) and there was no bleeding, smudging or embarrassing lipstick on teeth incidents. I also found that I didn't have my usual problem of it drying out my lips, as promised on the site (the lipsticks contain moisturising vitamin E).

Rockalily has won me over, and I will definitely be buying another. Since getting the lipstick I have actually started wearing it in the day (which is something I have never done before) because of how long it lasts and how good it makes me feel.

Ladies, I think I may have found 'the one'

Rockalily Lipsticks available at http://www.rockalily.com/

Me before

Me with my Rockalily lips

Outfit Pick N Mix - The Golden Globes 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 19:25:00 +0000

I have to admit that I wasn't hardcore enough to watch the Golden Globes coverage last night but thanks to Sky+ I watched the red carpet coverage today. I'd already seen some comments on my timeline about which dresses people loved, and the ones they hated on my twitter timeline but I tried to watch without pre-conceived ideas.

It was a pretty tame, with a lot of people opting for monochrome or nude gowns. But personally I like the people who opt for something a little bit different. So for the return of Outfit Pick N Mix, I wanted to share with you my favourite dresses of the night.

For more pics of the dresses check out my Facebook page and let me know which ones you loved and which you thought were a miss.

Rooney Mara in Nina Ricci - Image from Suicide Blonde Tumblr

Dianna Agron in Giles Deacon - Image from Celebrity Gossip.net

Tilda Swinton in Haider Ackerman - Image from Mirror.co.uk

Kelly Macdonald in Lorena Sarbu - Image from InStyle

Emma Stone in Lanvin - Image from Just Jared

Salma Hayek in Gucci - Image from Glamour

Evan Rachel Wood in Gucci - Image from Glamour

Laura Dern in Andrew GW - Image from Holy Moly

Beautiful Bras for Busty Girls

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:10:00 +0000

The past couple of weeks I have been suffering from an unfortunate plight that some of you may have experienced - my bras are trying to kill me.

I hate to admit it in public but I have put on weight (job loss + festive period = new dress size) and as a result my current bras are digging into me something rotten.

Whilst I have every intention of shifting my weight gain it is not going to happen overnight and I my poor body cannot take the discomfort of my bras much longer. I am also a big advocate of women making sure that they have the correct bra size after being really bad at it for so long.

So I embarked on trying to find some reasonably priced bras to wear in the meantime. When I started to search in high street stores I found myself facing a few problems: finding my size, budget and bras that weren't minimizers proved difficult.

And I am not alone ladies. I noticed a few women on my twitter feed were having the same problems as I was, so I decided to write about it and try and find places that offered the bigger busted of us choice and didn't cost an arm and a leg. With the average bra size in the UK on the rise, surely women with big boobs are no longer a niche market?

Here are my picks of where to shop (if you have any suggestions or tips of places you like to shop, leave a comment below).

Simply Be

Simply Be has had a pretty good year. The brand, which started out as a plus size catalogue now has stores in Liverpool and Bury. If you can't get to the stores, don't worry you can also get their lingerie online. They stock back sizes from 32-48 and cup size B-H and offers a range of bras including sports bras, multi-way and strapless. Another good thing is that they even have a value section which stocks packs of two bras at really good prices.

SHAPELY FIGURES PACK OF 2 BRAS, £21 - SIMPLY BE

Boux Avenue

Owned by Dragon Theo Paphitis, Boux Avenue is a fairly new player on the scene. They sell beautiful lingerie and maintain the feel of luxury when buying underwear but without the 'luxury' price tag. Their stores aim to offer great service in a modern setting and I am dying to get to visit one, but in the meantime I shall make do with perusing the site. Offering up to a 40H in bra size a must for busty ladies. (Tip - check out their sale, there are some great offers at the moment).

LYLA SATIN BALCONETTE BRA, £24 - BOUX AVENUE

Bravissimo

Whilst a tad more pricey than some, Bravissimo is one of the champions of the bigger bust on the high street. They also offer a bigger range of large sizes than anywhere that I know of on the high street, with sizes D-KK cup. As they are a specialist in making bras for larger boobs, their designs are specifically catered to their market and give full and comfortable (and pretty) support.

POLKA DOT BRA, £18 (SALE PRICE) - BRAVISSIMO

Marks & Spencer

M&S have been doing what they do so well for so long that I doubt I need to explain. I got my first proper bras from M&S when I was a teen and their pants and bras have graced my underwear drawer my whole adult life. They cover all the bases bra-wise and they manage to do pretty and practical to perfection.

LIMITED COLLECTION VINTAGE LACE DD-GG BRA WITH SILK, £18 - M&S

George at Asda

I had to include George at Asda as I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw larger bras at such a great price. For day-to-day t-shirt bras, they are definitely worth checking out, especially if you're skint and are in need of new bras. And with sizes up to a G cup, they are offering great value for more women than most in their price range.

2 PACK BRA SET (AVAILABLE UP TO G CUP), FROM £9 - ASDA

Take 5 - Leopard Print Bags

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 14:34:00 +0000

You may have noticed a few changes sneaking in with the blog and I hope that you like them. I wanted to shake things up a little for 2012 and move things forward. This includes one or two new features, as well as tweaking some of the old favourites. Throughout January I will be working hard to update the blog as well as keeping the posting up so stick with me if I can't post every day.

One new feature I have decided to include is 'Take 5'. Each week I will share with you five great items I have found from around the internet for your viewing (and shopping) pleasure. To kick things off I have found five fabulous leopard print bags...

Leopard Print Bowling Bag, £19.99 - Quirky Boutique

Available in three colours (natural, red and pink) this cute bowling bag is a great every day bag for those who can't get enough leopard print in their life (like me!).

Black Leather Insert Satchel, £55 - Topshop

This gorgeous satchel is perfect if you want a hint of leopard print, but you don't want to go full on. The classic style of the back makes it a great investment for your wardrobe.

Nina Leopard Print Envelope Clutch, £18 - Boohoo

A clutch is a classic piece of arm candy that can add a hint of ladylike glamour to even the most simple outfit. This fabulous one from Boohoo is a great buy and won't break the bank.

Leopard Print Pony Shoulder Bag, £45 - Oasis

To me, this shoulder bag is a proper 'grown up' lady bag. Team with a simple day outfit for simple chic or add a little bit of vamp to your work wardrobe.

F&F Leopard Print Cross Body Bag, £8 - Tesco

I'm loving little day bags at the moment, they are the perfect weekend day bag and allow you to travel light while out and about. This one from Tesco is perfect, and comes with a perfect price tag.

Happy 2012!

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 19:31:00 +0000

I just wanted to say 'Happy 2012' to everyone who reads my blog and to all the lovely people who have supported me this past year and since I started blogging. Everything is still a learning curve for me and I am hoping that 2012 will be a great year for the blog. I wouldn't have got this far without you all and I hope you stick with me on my adventure.

Love N Hugs

Nikki xxx

IMAGE PROPERTY OF JOANA FARIA

Happy Feet

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 19:23:00 +0000

If you've partied hard over the festive season in your best high heels (not to mention the miles clocked up shopping for everyone), your feet may be a little worse for wear. What better way to help them out than a pedicure? To help tired feet everywhere get the TLC they need, I thought I would share with you my guide to giving yourself a DIY home pedicure.

First of all remove any nail varnish, including any base coat you may have on. If you change your varnish a lot, try and use a remover that isn't too harsh on your nails. I tend to use the liquid remover rather than pads as I find pads make more of a mess but it's a preference thing.

Cutex Strengthening Nail Polish Remover 100ml, £1.55 - Superdrug

Next, buff the soles of your feet. This bit is probably the 'ick' bit but it is important to get rid of the hard skin. I recommend a foot file as I find they do the job best, and replace the file about 3 times a year (depending on use and how well you look after it).

File a Foot, £4.50 - The Body Shop

Time to soak your feet now. Either soak them in a hot bath whilst bathing in your favourite moisturising bubble bath/bath soak, or soak them in a foot spa or a good old fashioned bowl (you might want to get a cheap one rather than use the one you wash your plates in!).

Calm One Calm All Bubble Bath 480ml, £5.11 - Soap & Glory

Peppermint Reviving Foot Soak, £7 - The Body Shop

After soaking, it's time to scrub. You can use the scrub you use for the rest of your body, but if your feet are a bit more in need of some love I would recommend one designed especially for your feet.

Stepping Stone Foot Scrub*, £2.80- LUSH

* When using 'Stepping Stone' avoid immersing the whole thing as it will ruin the scrub. Break a bit of and crumble a little then scrub. You can get about three uses out of it this way. I would also reccomend keeping it somewhere dry in between uses (like a small plastic tub)

Once done, make sure you dry your feet properly. I know it sounds daft but if you don't dry your feet properly (especially in between your toes) you can end up with Athlete's Foot. A little talcum powder between your toes whilst drying can help.

When your feet are completely dry, slap on some foot lotion. Don't rub it in completely, just a little. Then slip on some socks, and leave them on for a few hours or overnight for maximum results. I usually fold my socks down a little so I don't end up with the dreaded sock marks. I would recommend doing this most nights, or at least on a regular basis.

Heel Genius, £5.11 - Soap & Glory

In the morning/after a few hours, take off your socks and massage your feet and ankles with foot cream/lotion.

Peppermint Cooling Foot Lotion, £8 - The Body Shop

Now that your feet are feeling and looking splendid, it's time to take care of your nails. If they are too long, give them a trim - cutting the nail in a straight line prevents ingrown toenails. Then smooth and buff the surface of your nails to prepare them for your nail varnish.

6 Way Shape it & Buff it, £5 - Models Own

The final stage is to paint your nails. Make sure you use a base coat to protect your nails and finish with a top coat to help the varnish last a bit longer. If, like me, you can be a bit clumsy I recommend toe separators (even if your other half mocks you as you waddle round the house!). Make sure you give each coat long enough to dry before adding the next and definitely before putting socks or shoes on.

Andrea Fulerton Triple Action Under Coat, £.4.99 - Superdrug

Rimmel 60 Seconds Nail Polish in 'Coralicious', £2.99 - Superdrug

Support at Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 18:15:00 +0000

Not everyone finds that Christmas is a happy time for them. For some people it can be I time when they feel lonely, isolated and it can bring their problems to a head. If you or a loved one needs extra support this Christmas, there are people and organisations out there who can offer help.

The lovely Kellie, writer of Big Fashionista, has come up with the idea of sharing a list across blogs of organisations that offer help and support for those who may be in need.

This list will be here throughout Christmas and New Year and I hope that anyone going through a tough time can find the help that they need.

If you know of any other organisations that are not on the list, please let me know and I will add their details.

Contact details

MIND

www.mind.org.uk

0300 123 3393

Samaritans

www.samaritans.org

08457 90 90 90

Alcoholics Anonymous

0845 769 7555

www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/newcomers

Stonewall

Info line 08000 50 20 20

www.stonewall.org.uk

London Lesbian and Gay Switchboard

0207 837 7324

SANELine

0845 767 8000

www.sane.org.uk

Preventing young suicide

www.papyrus-uk.org

For people in Northern Ireland

www.lifeline.info

0808 808 8000

Childline

www.childline.org.uk

0800 1111

Depressionalliance

www.depressionalliance.org

Refuge

www.refuge.org.uk

0808 2000 247

Eating Disorders Association

www.edauk.com

0845 634 1414

Shelter

www.shelter.org.uk

0808 800 4444

NHS Direct

www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

0845 4647

No Panic

0808 808 0545

www.no-panic.co.uk

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 17:57:00 +0000

As many of us have had to tighten our belts this Christmas (after finding myself suddenly unemployed at the end of November, I am amongst that category) I wanted to write a post about Christmas that isn't about what to buy. Don't get me wrong, I love Christmas shopping for my loved ones (hell, I just love shopping full stop), but for me Christmas is great for all sorts of reasons and if your Christmas just boils down to spending money , then you are doing something wrong.
Regardless of how skint I am or how tough my year has been, this time of year is a time that I take stock, make plans and spend time with the people that I love the most. When we reach the darkest time of the year, we are suddenly greeted with a mass of colour, light and glitter. Everything about Christmas lifts my spirits, and gives me a hopeful flutter of excitement.

This years' offering (not the best pic but you get the idea)

December is like a big comfort blanket, full of little traditions and familiarity that are like no other time. Everyone has their own little version of how their Christmas works from when they choose to put up their Christmas tree, to the food they eat, the films they watch, and the songs they sing. Everyone’s mum makes the best Christmas dinner (because she makes it just the way you like it) and every family has a dedicated time to open gifts.

The personal rituals that we carry out every year are important to us. There are personal ones (for example, I get a new pair of PJ’s every year that I wear on Christmas Eve), family ones (like the old battered fairy ballerina that used to go on my Grandma’s tree each year) and traditions you have with your partner (me and my other half open our gifts to each other in bed on Christmas morning whilst enjoying a pot of tea).

And as you move through life, they can evolve and new traditions emerge. I have little things that I do at Christmas because my Mum always did when I was growing up, but I also put my tree up at least a week before she does (she always puts the tree up after her birthday on the 10^th December, I put mine up as early as I can get away with!). Since living with my other half, we have developed our own little traditions that are just for us and I’m sure that if we have children together in the future many more will be created.

It is all of these little things that make Christmas so special for me, not how much I spend or what I get. It is the time of year that I suspend all cynicism and appreciate the things that I already have. As the crazy last minute panic sets in over the next few days, stop and think about the things that you do like about this time of year, and of the time you will get with the people you care about.

Take a deep breath and enjoy it, after all it only comes once a year.

Gift Guide - 30 Gifts for less than £25

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 22:33:00 +0000

Gifts For Her...

Silver Tone Encrusted Necklace, £15 - River Island

Pin Up Girl Compact Mirror, £8.99 - Quirky Boutique

Gold Glitter Box Clutch, £22 - Miss Selfridge

50 Dresses That Changed The World, £12.99 - Design Museum Shop

Mint Silk Body, £22 - Topshop

Rockalily Lipsticks, £14 - Rockalily

Gifts For Him...

Book of Skulls, £9.99 - Urban Outfitters

Heyland & Whittle Men's Gift Set, £19.95 - The Handpicked Collection

MyTunes MP3 Amp, £15.99 - Firebox

AC/DC Black Ice 4 Shot Glass Set, £10.99 - The Pea's Knees

Table Top Pool Table, £12.99 - Play

Brrrrilliant Gift Set, £7.95 - Lush

Gifts For Kids...

Gruffalo Giant Snap Cards, £7.95 - Wild & Wolf

Pat a Cake Kids Baking Set, £14.95 - Bombay Duck

Finger Puppet Set, £14.99 - Lakeland

Wooden Tambourine, £14.50 - Toyella

Ladybird Tricks and Magic Kit, £10.99 - Gretna Green

11 Piece Minature Tea Set, £12.95 - Dotcom Gift Shop

Gifts for Mum...

Bird Bag Charm/Keyring, £9 - Not on the High Street

Vintage Rose Big Book of Threads Tin, £15 - Cath Kidston

East of India Recipe Box, £16.96 - Temptation Gifts

Art Deco Erte Starstruck Birthday & Address Book Set, £9.60 - Past Times

Pink Marrano Frame, £10 - Paperchase

Lily-Flame Lavender and Lime Candle in a Tin, £8.50 - John Lewis

Gifts for Dad...

QI Board Game, £19.95 - John Lewis

Superman Dad Tshirt, £12.99 - Play

Worst Case Scenario: Man Skills, £16 - Topman

Eco Radio and Torch, £17.99 - Oxfam

Multimate Mini, £15.99 - IWOOT

Green Circuit Board Cufflinks, £4.25 - Amazon

Back Soon!

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 18:03:00 +0000

I've had a little break from the blog due to personal circumstances but

I'm really eager to get back and I've been making plans to

take the blog forward. Thank you all so much for bearing with

me and for the support you've all given.

Lots of love,

Nikki xxxx

Win some Skulduggery from LUSH!

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:58:00 +0000

If you enjoyed my earlier post about LUSH's Halloween treats then I have a treat for you guys...LUSH have kindly offered to offer 5 readers a skullduggery bath ballistic!

IMAGE COURTESY OF LUSH

how to enter -

Comment on this post saying that you want to win (if you enter this way make sure you check back for when the winner's are announced so I can contact you!
Visit my Facebook page and give me a 'like' and comment on the wall saying you want to enter.
Tweet saying - 'I want to win some LUSH skullduggery'

One entry per method allowed, but you can enter all three ways if you want to!
Comp closes tomorrow so get in quick!

Good Luck!

Halloween at LUSH - Day of the Dead

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:12:00 +0000

This time last year I was a Christmas temp at LUSH and was there in time to enjoy the amazing Mexican 'Day of the Dead' themed products. These vibrant colourful products were some of my favourite LUSH products last year and I'm pleased that they're back this year with two products from last year's range and two newbies.

Lady Catrina Soap

Lady Catrina was was an etching from the early 20th Century by Jose Guadalupe Posada that parodied the rich and fashionable, commenting that even the rich can't escape death. Since then, Lady Catrina has been an iconic Day of the Dead image and big colourful hats are worn as part of the celebrations.

LUSH's own take is this fabulous giant soap hat, with colourful flowers and a zesty mix of fruit pastel and lime scents. It also contains Mexican agave nectar, which will soften your skin and bring it back to life. It is one of my favourite LUSH soaps!

£2.95 PER 100g

Skullduggery Bath Ballistic

In homage to Mexican 'sugar skulls' LUSH have created these fizzy uplifting ballistics. The refreshing lime and neroli fragrance helps the gorgeous citrus smell stay on your skin and the olibanum (frankincense) softens and protects the skin.

And if you party a little too hard this Halloween, they are a great hangover remedy, the uplifting fragrances will help clear that fuzzy head.

£2.75 EACH

Calacas Shower Jelly

Calacas is Spanish for skeleton and this jelly is shaped like a skull to represent another piece of Day of the Dead imagery, the dancing skull.

These wobbly jelly skulls contain aloe vera gel to soften and sooth your skin after a dreary autumn day and the invigorating lime helps revive. Or for a bracing morning wake up try freezing first...if you dare!

£2.95 100g

Pumpkin Knot-Wrap

LUSH's knot-wraps are a great environmentally friendly way to wrap gifts and for Halloween they have created this cute pumpkin knot-wrap to wrap up all of your lovely Day of the Dead products!

£2.50

Get down to your nearest LUSH or shop online to get your hands on these limited edition products before they're gone!

LUSH are also holding Nationwide Halloween Parties on Saturday 29th October in Lush shops all over the country. To find you nearest shop call 01202 668 545 or check online. Enquire at your local LUSH shop for Saturday opening times.

All images courtesy of LUSH

Fashion Zombies! - Spooky Halloween Accessories

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 17:13:00 +0000

The eternal child that I am, I just love Halloween. Whilst I may no longer be able to dress up as a witch or cat for a whole week like I did when I was about 7 I think I should still be allowed to have a little grown up Halloween fun of my own. And what better excuse is there for shopping for accessories?

Here's my pick of spooky yet chic accessories to celebrate Halloween in style:

Bone Earrings, £12.99 - Maggie Angus

Skeleton Hand Ring, £18 - Galibardy

Spooky Name Necklace, £10 - Punky Pins

Leaf Hair Garland, £6 - Accessorize

'Love Bites' Vampire Teeth Necklace, £14 - Me & Zena

'Batmosphere' Multi Drop Neckalce, £90 - Tatty Devine

Celtic Skull Ring, £8.50 - Topshop

Spooky Crystal Skull Necklace, £16 - Love Hearts And Crosses

Skeleton Hands Clips, £8 - Rachel's Wonders

Grumpy Kitty Necklace, £10 - Ji Ji KiKi

Knitwear Love with Kaleidoscope

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 22:03:00 +0000

As much as I love long summer days and the fashion that goes with it, I must admit that fashion wise I am an autumn/winter girl at heart. It may be due to the fact I'm a winter baby (31st December, as winter as it gets) but I always seem to get into my fashion stride during the gloomier months.

For me, knitwear is my AW comfort blanket, it's my trusty friend. But knitwear doesn't have to be drab and boring, it goes beyond the stuff that your Nana would wear (although having said that there are some uber stylish Nanas out there these days). And whilst it is the 'p' word (practical) it can also be fun.

When the lovely people at Kaleidoscope offered me an item from their AW collections I decided on a gorgeous patterned cardigan. I wanted to show you how to get different looks out of one item, and thought that such a lovely versatile piece was perfect.

This week I made it my mission to try different looks with my cardigan to show how one great piece of knitwear can serve you well. So I put together three different looks with my existing wardrobe (and it has become my new best friend!)

1. For a cold day, layering is key. Rather than hide an outfit under a plain black coat, I like to layer items so that I still have the warmth I need but can show off what I am wearing too. I chose an all black outfit to make the pattern on the cardigan stand out.

2. Using a belt over a cardigan can change how it looks, by creating a different silhouette. I belted mine with tan leather belt to emphasise my waist and to wear the cardigan almost like a long sleeve top over my skinny jeans.

3. The third look is a work look, wearing the cardigan as an alternative to a blazer/jacket. (In a cold office like mine, a cardigan is a godsend!) I also opted for clashing patterns to keep it interesting - don't be afraid to mix patterns, just pick out similar colours to tie the items in together.

Creation L Patterned Cardigan, £35 - Kaleidoscope

With thanks to Kaleidoscope Clothing Catalogues

Vicky Sowerby's 'Make Do Not Spend'

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 20:36:00 +0000

When was the last time you went clothes shopping or had a little on-line spree after work? Could you go a whole year without buying any new clothes?

That is exactly what the fabulous Vicky Sowerby has been doing since December 2010. Vicky set herself two year long challenges to raise money for Oldham Cancer Support Centre.

1. To not buy any new clothes – including shoes, bags and accessories of any sort

2. To wear a different outfit every day for the year

You can follow Vicky's challenge outfit by outfit, and find out how you can help her raise money as she nears the last couple of months of her amazing challenge at her blog - Sewabee (Where she also shares her craft and sewing tips, including how to give new life to clothes you already have).

I thought that Vicky would be the ideal person to feature as a guest blogger and offer some advice on how to make better use of the items that we already have, especially as so many of us are feeling the financial pinch. She kindly agreed, and has written her own guide on how to survive without shopping...

Five things I've learnt through my Make Do Not Spend Challenge

By Vicky Sowerby

With less than seven weeks to go before my challenge comes to an end it seems an ideal time to reflect on the past ten months and whether I have learnt anything from my year of abstinence.

Here are the top five things I've learnt:

Creativity

I was always a girl who bought something new for a night out and on rare occasions I didn't I would be stood by my wardrobe full of clothes moaning 'I've got nothing to wear!'.

This year I've realised that just by being creative and altering the accessories you wear, you can come up with really different outfits using the same dress. My favourite accessories to ring the changes with are belts, shoes and head scarves. This has been essential for me not only in order to maximise my outfit options but also because I love some of my dresses so much that the thought of only wearing them once would send me into a cold sweat!

ONE DRESS, THREE DIFFERENT LOOKS

Sewing

Over the past three years I have built up my sewing skills and without the concession of buying material and being able to sew my own clothes I doubt I would have even embarked on this challenge.

Using my own skills to augment my wardrobe means I am able to have something really different for those special occasions. One of my favourite outfits of the year has to be my liquorice all sorts dress and matching headband for Ascot Ladies Day at our local hotel.

Don't be a slave to fashion

I don't think I've ever been a complete slave to fashion but over the years I've got better at knowing what suits me and incorporating the trends I like into my existing wardrobe. Not being able to buy the latest trends this year has proved to me that you don't need to have the most recent clothes to make you feel good.

Some of the dresses in my wardrobe I've had for over ten years and I still feel special in them thought they're not necessarily 'on trend'.

Retail Therapy

As well as buying new clothes for nights out and special occasions, I've also used shopping as therapy in the past (does anyone else do that?) There used to be nothing better than popping into River Island and picking up that new dress/top/etc. after a bad week at work.

This year has been very difficult for me, especially since July, when my Dad sadly passed away.

I really feel that the link between shopping and feeling good has been broken; after all if I can get through this year without retail therapy I can get through anything.

Memories

This year I've really noticed a link between clothes and memories. Anyone who's read my blog will see that I have a real thing about cherries and this all stems from memories of my Granny.

On the day before my Dad died, I wore a dress that I had worn for my cousin's wedding. Not only did this remind me of an amazing day with my Dad, but I also remembered my many shopping trips with him, especially buying that particular dress.

The thought of throwing out many of my clothes fills me with dread as they have so many memories attached.

'DRESSED FOR MEMORIES'

'DRESSED FOR THE ROYAL EXCHANGE'

Overall, I really think that this year has taught me to appreciate the clothes I have already and to make the most of them.

I plan to have a blow out on 2nd December, the day after my challenge ends. But after this I think I'll be much more discerning in my purchases. I'm going to try and steer clear of mass produced clothes and opt instead for vintage and second hand clothes but watch this space....

Big Thanks to Vicky being a guest blogger for Nikki Nakki Lou

You can make a donation at Vicky’s Just Giving page www.justgiving.com/makedonotspend

Vicky takes a picture every day and writes a blog tracking her outfits. You can find her blog at www.sewabee.co.uk

All Images courtesy of Vicky at Sewabee.co.uk

New Look's charity t-shirts for Macmillan

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 20:06:00 +0000

I've said it a number of times and without sounding like a broken record I am going to say it again: I love it when great causes and fashion brands collaborate. Fashion and retail is such a huge business in this country and it's nice when some of the shopping that you do can lend support to something good.

New Look and Macmillan Cancer Support have come together as part of an ongoing collaboration to raise money to help improve the lives of people affected by cancer. They've created two exclusive T-shirts for New Look as part of an on-going campaign with Macmillan, with 50% of the price going directly to Macmillan and the amazing work they do.

The T-shirts retail at £12.00 for the menswear design and £8.99 for the women's and are available at New Look's site and at selected stores.

More about Macmillan

Macmillan Cancer Support work to improve the lives of those affected by cancer, helping sufferers and their families to cope with a whole host of issues that surround the disease. As well as medical support, they offer emotional and financial support. With two million people living with cancer, the work Macmillan do is vital.

If you buy one Tshirt, it could pay for 21 copies of The Cancer Guide, a booklet that Macmillan have put together to help people and their loved ones when they are first diagnosed.

For more info about Macmillan Cancer support, visit www.macmillan.org.uk or freephone 0800 500 800 for an information pack.

images courtesy of New Look

Shoe Heaven! Louboutin Retrospective comes to UK

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:00:00 +0000

Like any lover of shoes my heart beats a bit faster at the mere mention of Louboutin. These shoes are my holy grail of footwear, but until I can afford them I can only look (and maybe drool a little, but don't tell). The signature flash of red on the soles is instantly recognisable (recent lawsuits aside) and for me they are a classic piece of design.

This week it was announced that a retrospective of Christian Louboutin's career will open in London's Design Museum next year. As well as documenting his life's work, the exhibit will also offer insight into what influences his designs and how his shoes are created. So even those of us who can't quite afford the shoes can have a look at the history of this iconic brand and it's creator.

Christian Louboutin takes place 20th March - 1st July at the Design Museum

Images from Lust, Love, Lose and Style Brief

Outfit Pick N Mix - LFW

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 12:23:00 +0000

After spying on what was being worn on the streets of NYFW, I wanted to see if London brought it, and they didn't disappoint. Here are my favourites from around the web.

1. Harriet Stewart, Junior Fashion Editor of Sunday Times Style, Image from Telegraph

2. Image from Harper's Bazaar

3. Image from Blink London

4. Image from Handbag.com

5. Image from Catwalk Queen

1. Image from Refinery 29

2. Image from Telegraph Fashion

3. Image from NY Mag

4. Image from InStyle

5. Image from Flare.com

Shopping Lust

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 11:44:00 +0000

Item of the Week

F&F Checked Belted Coat, £45 - Tesco

I know the weather has been more summer than autumn the past week but it is time to sort out that winter wardrobe before you get caught out. This Jacket from F&F at Tesco ticks three boxed for me - style, practicality and great price!

Cindy Piano Shoes, £650 - Charlotte Olympia

Totally love these shoes! (I am pretty much in love with Charlotte Olympia shoes full stop!).

London Fashion Week SS12 - The Trends I Liked

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:53:00 +0000

I know I am a little behind, but I still wanted to share with you my take on the best shows and trends from the various fashion weeks.

Everyone has their own favourites and opinions on looks and trends from all of the collections, these posts are merely my favourites and I hope that you enjoy them too...

London:

1. Mellow Yellow

Whilst orange seemed to be a favourite amongst the designers at NYFW, London opted for yellows. I used to be quite weary of yellow but over the last few years I have come to love it as a summer colour. The trick is to find the shade for you, whether it be bold and bright as seen at Holly Fulton or a more muted tone as favoured by Jaeger.

L-R: Jaeger London, Jonathan Saunders, Holly Fulton, Issa, Matthew Williamson

Images from - London Fashion Week, Smile, World Man About Town, Fab Magazine, Caroline Caoraline

2. Printed Trousers

Whilst not totally unexpected, the printed trouser can be a brave trend to wear. Teamed with masculine cute shirts and jackets to balance out the more feminine prints, the key trouser shape for this trend was the straight leg and cigarette trouser. Whilst the majority were floral prints (well it is SS after all) for an alternative see Vivienne Westwood's tartan prints and Henry Holland's animal prints. Off the catwalk, if you don't fancy the head to toe printed look, used the trousers to make the statement and play down the rest of your outfit.

L-R: Vivienne Westwood Red Label, Clements Ribeiro, Erdem, Mary Katrantzou, House of Holland

Images From - LDN Fashion, Telegraph Fashion, Searching For Style, My Stylist Says, Bullet Media

3. Tribal

Tribal is just one of those trends that comes back again and again. For me, the key is how the look is interpreted that keeps it fresh and exciting. This season, it is less about the 'global traveller' vibe and more about the print work and the detailing. Look out for bold, African inspired prints (see Burberry and Peter Pilotto) and luxurious cuts. This is a much more grown up take than the 'shabby chic' gap year tribal of past seasons.

L-R: Burberry, Topshop Unique, Sass & Bide, Peter Pilotto, Matthew Williamson

Images From - Marie Claire, London Fashion Week, Style.com, Fashion Inquisitive, InStyle

4. Full on Skirts

Whilst the more fitted skirt hasn't disappeared off the radar, it has has a more accessible and prim sister. It made it's appearance in various guises and lengths, and offered an understated yet feminine silhouette. I personally love the movement in a fuller skirt and lets be honest, it is oh so flattering for those of us who are mere mortals!

L-R: ACNE, Roksanda Ilincic, Giles, Nicole Farhi, Jonathan Saunders

Images From - Fashion Inquisitive, Marie Claire, Style.com, Glamour, Fashion Me Fabulous

5. Candy Box

Designers are most certainly having a love affair with colour this season and London was no exception. Mixing grown up chic with childlike fun in a mix of candy colours, the likes of Jonathan Saunders and Mulberry gave us permission to be girly girls without compromising our love of fashion. The looks were playful but still with that London stylish edge.

L-R: Mulberry, Meadham Kirchoff, Nicole Farhi, Henry Holland, Jonathan Saunders

Images From - guardian, style.com, Marie Claire, London Fashion Week, Hello

Shopping Lust

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 19:57:00 +0000

Item of the Week

Edner Tee in Black Tattoo Lace, £32 - Motel

A subtle yet sexy way to tap into the fetish trend that was all over the AW catwalk, this lace T-shirt is a great versatile addition to your wardrobe.

Shoes of the Week

'Evelina' detailed ballet flats, £18 - Linzi Shoes

Flat black pumps are a wardrobe must but I always like mine with a twist. This pair from Linzi Shoes with their stud detailing are perfect and perfectly purse friendly.

New York Fashion Week SS12 - The Trends I Liked

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 18:39:00 +0000

September for me used to mean the start of the school year, and later the start of my new term at college. Now it means only one thing...Fashion Week time. I love the buzz around each of the major fashion weeks and the feast for the eyes that is each designer's carefully crafted collections.

The shows get my fashion juices flowing, and I love that they get people talking. Different people will always have different tastes (one of the reason's I love fashion) and will have their own take on looks and trends.

I wanted to share with you some of my favourite trends from each fashion week and I'm kicking off with NYFW...

1. Sheer Beauty

I am a girl who loves to play with layers and textures and so it's inevitable that I loved the variety of layered sheer looks on offer at NYFW. From the oh so feminine looks at Ralph Lauren to the more modern mix at Prabal Gurung, sheer definitely ticked one of my fashion boxes.

L-R: Marc Jacobs, Tracy Reese, Prabal Gurung, Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti, Ralph Lauren

Images from - The Daily Truffle, Style.com, Vogue.com, Marie Claire UK, Cool To Wear

2. Brave and Bold

Florals are a given during the SS season, and whilst I like florals it isn't really something that gives impact. I love it when designers go for something a little more daring and there was plenty to get excited about print wise at NYFW. The bold prints that were on offer at the likes of DKNY and Diane Von Furstenberg are not for the feint hearted, which is why I love them!

L - R: DKNY, Milly, Diane Von Furstenberg, Sohpie Theallet

Images from - mlejit, 2 space, ELLE, Style.com

3. Pastels with a Punch

Pretty feminine pastels were a big hit back in SS 2010, and this SS the pastel trend is back. And whilst Jenny Packham and Calvin Klein opted for full on femininity, this time round the likes of Jason Wu and Preen showed an edgier side to the look, with clean modern lines and black accessories. My favourite take on the trend has to be at 3.1 Phillip Lim, with looks that managed to use head to toe pastels in a way that was much more modern and statement making than I thought possible.

L-R: Jason Wu, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Preen, Jenny Packham, Calvin Klein

Images from - designer dresses, Larapixie, London Fashion Spy, Style.com, Marie Claire UK

4. Gatsby's Party

A number of designers looked to the 1920's 'Jazz Age' for their evening wear inspiration and tapped into the subtle sexy allure of the decade and the full on glamour. There was plenty of tassels, glitz and shine to make you be the girl that wows at all the best parties. I loved Marc Jacobs' take on the look, which brought it hurtling from the 20's into a refreshing and playful look for 2012 and Rachel Zoe's interpretation which was just simply gorgeous.

L-R - Tory Burch, Marchesa, Rachel Zoe, Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren

Images from - The fashion spot, Glam UK, Lela London, Elle UK, nuvunova

5. Geometry Lessons

Geometric colour blocking was another trend that I felt hit the nail for me. The likes of Narciso Rodriguez, and J. Mendel black and white as a base, and added clean bold colours to create looks that will guarantee that you do not slip into the background. A great alternative if you love bold looks, but the busy patterns of the season are just that little too much for you. Don't over do it on the colour though, follow the designer's lead and add one or two colours to the black and white.

L-R - BCBG Max Azria, Ohne Titel, J. Mendel, Narciso Rodriguez, Carolina Herrera

Images from - Lela London, Wilhelmina Models, Style.com, The Blay Report, Harper's Bazaar

Grazia Go Backstage at LFW

noreply@blogger.com (Nikki Lennon) — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 16:32:00 +0000

Whilst I write up my favourite things from all of the various fashion weeks I wanted to share this fabulous LFW video from Grazia Daily. It made me wish so badly that I could have been there amongst the action!

You can check out more of their video coverage on their Youtube channel

Video used with permission of Grazia Daily