Some jewellery like costume jewellery, you may just want as it’s fashionable at the time, but some pieces of fine jewellery you may wish to keep forever.

You may wish to remember a special relationship and not just with a partner, maybe with a child or a parent. Perhaps a special ring you got for your birthday with your birthstone in it. It’s worth spending money on this because you know you will treasure it forever and it will never date, unlike some cheaper modern jewellery which may be unfashionable in about 5 years’ time.

Some jewellery you may wish to keep as a reminder of a certain period in your life – like when you were a student, or when you first met your other half, or when your first child was born or when you went to live somewhere else. That necklace your aunt gave you when you were a penniless student and you thought at the time “What a waste” and that you would rather have had the money, but years later you still treasure it (and indeed wear it) and you know that you will treasure it forever and pass it down to your own daughter – and you hope she will feel the same. And the memories will last forever …. and the jewellery is always there to remind you of those happy, yet penniless times.

If you’re picking an engagement ring, you always pick fine jewellery because you want it to last forever so the same with other pieces. There is no harm in buying cheaper or loud bulky fashionable jewellery like costume jewellery, but these are expendable and may just be kept for a few years but fine pieces will always have their place and may even last you forever.

An eternity ring is another piece of jewellery you may wish to keep forever. The jewels in this are elegant and dainty. And remember the songs “diamonds are a girl’s best friend”. Jewels will last forever even if the relationship does not! And it will be a memento of happy times.

Older relatives in the family like to give fine jewellery as well and although as a teenager you may not appreciate this, you will realise its value in the years to come and the jewellery will always remind you of your family. And again you can pass it on to your own offspring, although they may not initially appreciate the gesture, but remember your own feelings initially and try to sympathise.

Fine jewellery is ideal to keep as a keepsake and as a memory of special times and events. It can also stay in your family for many years and be handed down the generations. Treasure it forever.

It depends on what you consider classic designer clothing? It is perhaps difficult to define as everybody has different tastes in clothing but I see them as items that have gone away and returned at multiple different periods in modern time. When I think of classic items, I think of items such as Kate Moss’s waistcoats or skinny jeans, Nike Air Max basketball shoes and leather jackets. These are all items that have been popular with the young generations in the past and have re-emerged at various different times to become the front runners of fashion again.

These are all items which are highly popular again now and I think it is a testament to the designers of these items who have been able to capture the tastes of various generations of different people. Now, look at today’s fashion and popular items. I think we are going through a wonderful time for consumer fashion in the United Kingdom. There are now more unique and wonderful items that are entering high street stores and I think some of them have the potential to become classics of the fashion industry.

The first group of items I would like to mention are the ‘two-in-one’ items. I am not entirely sure of the correct name for these items but I will explain. These are items that are two items of clothing which you would wear together as a combination, such as a waist coat and tee-shirt but are actually just one item sown to make it look as if you are wearing both items of the combination separately. Personally, I think that these are wonderful items that look better than wearing two items because when you would buy the two items separately it often occurs that the underneath layer will look creased and not very smart. They also save time when getting dressed. Now that’s efficiency!

The next item for me has to be G-Star jeans. I think that these will live on to be classic because of their sheer popularity and recognisability. People anywhere can recognise G-Star jeans, the designs, the colours, the fitting and most of all the brand logo. These items are perhaps the most easily recognisable line of jeans and I think in a few years time, their recognisability will surpass that of Levis and Wrangler whose jeans are becoming out dated.

I think the area of today’s fashion industry that sets it apart from that of any other period has to be the accessories. There are so many unique and individual accessories out there that I am sure there will be many that will become classic items. I think that the designer sunglasses are wilder and more unique than ever, such as the clear plastic see through sun glasses that are the pinnacle of cool. In addition to this, I believe that the ‘extra large’ beanie hats are also items that will go on to become classic items. In today’s society, we are more casual than ever and these particular beanie hats are a good representative of the way we are now and in the way that fashion is moving. It is not clean-cut anymore.

I really do feel that this current period of fashion has all the hallmarks of being something special. We are looking to represent ourselves and our personalities more than ever and fashion is a great way to express it. The aforementioned items of designer clothing do have the potential to become classic items but whether they surpass the ongoing popularity of classic items such as waistcoats and skinny jeans remains to be seen. Only time will tell. Until then we must enjoy this wonderful period of fashion.

I am very fortunate in that I am able to wear casual shoes to work. I understand that last summer there were moves afoot (pun fully intended) to ban the wearing of certain shoes at work, such as flip-flops. Well, perhaps there was a summer last year, but as I write in early September, I can hear the rain pounding outside and it feels like anything but summer. This won’t stop me wearing my flip-flops, though. I actually find them ideal in the rain since your feet get wet, but there are no saturated socks to worry about; nor are you concerned about rain damage on the actual shoe as you can be with more substantial shoes. The rain hits mainly your foot, the sole tends to be rubber and very little damage can occur. Besides, flip-flops tend to be cheap and cheerful and easily replaceable once broken.

I do, however, have full understanding as to why these types of shoe might not be considered suitable for work and after my aunty fell and broke her ankle, (no alcohol had been embibed) wearing such footgear, I was told by a nurse that flip-flops account for a large number of falls. Along with slippers, which I would never suggest anyone wears to work, though, frankly in terms of style they’re not much worse than those dreadful slip-on mule things.

It’s in the dead of winter I struggle, though. Flip-flops are great to team with dresses, skirts, posh blouses and the like and you can still look well presented and well turned out. I manage to keep them on my feet from April to November, without looking (particularly) daft around the workplace. December to March is not an option, though. It is now that I would benefit by wearing walking or hiking shoes, but these look impossibly silly with a frock, or even with posh trousers. (Yes, I tried…) The kind of garb that suits this footwear is too casual and utilitarian to look appropriate in the lecture hall or office. If they looked ok with more formal clothes, I would certainly wear them to work because I love my hiking shoes and next to the flip-flop, they are my favourite footwear for functionality, comfort and just being plain wearable.

Normal work shoes, such as court shoes, Mary Janes, wedge heels and the like (obviously I’m referring to ladies’ options here – and doubtless male choices like brogues and Chelsea boots are adequately comfortable) just don’t do your feet any favours when worn for long periods. In fact I’ve come across more appealing instruments of torture than the average pointy toed, 5 inch heel worn by so many women at work.

Over the winter months, when denied both my flip-flops and my hiking shoes at work, my only recourse is to live in my Brasher hiking shoes at the weekends…..or perhaps I could change my job…

Jewellery is, of course, a wonderful accessory. The possibilities are limitless – from expensive ‘heirloom pieces’ that you wouldn’t dare wear without at least two extremely large armed bodyguards, to cheap and cheerful (some might say tacky) market-stall junk, and every price level in-between. There are hand-made items for something individual, or you can even try your hand at making something yourself, with a vast range of craft items available in shops or on the Internet.

It is true that the right piece of jewellery can change an outfit, or complete it. Most of us probably haven’t perfected the art of ‘capsule dressing’, as seen in those articles that advise you how to pack enough clothes for a month’s holiday in a bag the size of your mobile phone. All you need to do is add the right necklace/ earrings / tiara, and your outfit is utterly transformed, taking you from shopping trips to sightseeing to dinner with that charming man who picked you up in the museum … now, back to the real world.

With jewellery, it is important to match it to the occasion. Turning up to the school sports day looking like you expect to be snapped by the paparazzi is somewhat excessive, unless you are Victoria Beckham, in which case wearing a red-carpet outfit with jewellery worth more than the average house would be expected of you. Few women would think it worth wasting time selecting just the right pair of earrings, or wearing valuable rings if they are popping to the supermarket or doing the cleaning. Furthermore, it is guaranteed that adorning oneself with a mountain of ‘bling’ would be entirely inappropriate if you work in a bank or a funeral parlour.

However, putting on a necklace can alter the look of a top or dress, and there is no doubt that it can be a lot of fun. As well as choosing something appropriate to the occasion, it is wise to pick an item that complements the outfit you are wearing, and your personality. Someone who is shy and retiring would feel deeply uncomfortable in a bold necklace, and this would show in their demeanour. As a result, the necklace would not suit them. They would be better off opting for something more discreet. A more flamboyant character, however, would be able to wear a large necklace in bright colours, or with an original style, because their personality would allow them to carry it off.

In conclusion, jewellery needs to be chosen with a sense of occasion and a little style. If you don’t like jewellery, there is simply no point wearing it, but it can add that little something to a plain outfit. In addition, there is a difference between daytime and party items. Above all, wear something that you love, and the sparkle will be there.

With over one in five people in the Western world considered to be overweight, designers have been forced to start styling clothes for larger sizes (size 28). Fashionable large size clothes are becoming more available but there is still have a long way to go!

Due largely to influence lead by the media and catwalk fashion, the High Street mainly caters for sizes 10 to 16 maximum. Larger size women have hardly been considered at all. Fashion experts Trinny and Susannah, in a recent TV programme, attempted to find stylish clothing for larger size ladies. They looked at High Street stores, such as Gap, Debenhams, and Marks and Spencer’s, but found it almost impossible to find trendy, fashionable outfits for women in size 18 plus. Any clothing they found tended to be baggy, smock style tops in drab colours and frumpy styles. There was nowhere near the range of stylish, reasonably priced clothing which could be chosen by their slimmer sisters.

The main High Street store catering especially for larger sized women is Evans, who retail clothes in sizes up to 32. Their winter season range features smart, stylish trousers, skirts and tops which flatter the larger figure. They stock everything from work wear to classic, stylish outfits which would look great for the evenings. Marks and Spencer and Debenhams stock fashionable clothes in larger sizes, but don’t seem to stock enough outfits and they are soon bought from the rails.

Mail order catalogues, such as Littlewoods and Freemans also have large ranges of clothing for plus size ladies. And larger clothing can be bought online from retailers such as Fiftyplus, Marisota and Simply Be.

As people are increasing in weight larger size clothing is becoming more fashionable. More and more women are choosing to have breast augmentation to increase the size of their breasts. It’s important though to consider which type of clothing suits your particular figure. Starting with correctly fitted bra and underwear, it’s best to try on several different outfits to see which look good. Take a friend who will give honest opinions. Smartly tailored trousers with a neatly fitted shirt or top will always appear more stylish and fashionable than clinging leggings and smocky tent top.

When choosing a dress remember that horizontal stripes are more slimming than vertical, which can widen the larger figure. Never wear tightly fitting belts at the waist, a fitted shirt is much more stylish and flattering. Brighter colours can look great but it’s important to wear contrasting accessories.

Although ultra-thin models and celebrities, such as Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell and Keira Knightley are still dominating the pages of Vogue, Cosmopolitan and other glossy magazines, larger ladies are beginning to get a look in. Wearing the right clothes, size 28 women can be seen to be both fashionable and smart.

Normally made of silk, satin or even synthetic fibres, the Petticoat is an undergarment worn underneath the skirt or dress.

I did some research into Petticoats and it seems that what was once a mans undershirt, somehow transformed into a ladies undergarment; the name deriving from the French ‘Petit cote’.  Becoming an underskirt, it was highly fashionable in the 1840’s, with heavy warm winter fabrics and softer linen, cotton and muslin versions for summer. It’s popularity waned in the 20th century, despite brief moments of popularity…largely thanks to both Ralph Lauren and Vivienne Westwood.

Petticoats are now normally worn for occasions such as costume parties, weddings and other formal occasions. I looked to get one of my own and found that Bridal petticoats were massively popular… as are vintage petticoats. I just love the beautiful Burlesque Petticoats too!

It is far better to save any money that might have been spent on expensive jewellery to put towards essentials for the couple’s first home together or to save for the future. Brides can still look great without spending a lot of money. You might even be able to get your jewellery for free. Maybe you can borrow jewellery from a friend who has recently married? Or perhaps you can wear your grandmother’s necklace? Remember the old saying, “Something borrowed, something blue…”? If you do, you might even get away with spending nothing on your wedding jewellery!

Otherwise, simple costume jewellery such as a diamante chocker will still add a perfect finishing touch to your wedding outfit without breaking the bank. You will probably want to buy your bridesmaids or flower girls gifts as a thank you for helping you on your special day. This does not have to be expensive either. A silver bracelet in a presentation box and tied with ribbon will delight any bridesmaid as long as it is given with love. How much you spend depends more on your budget rather than your dream, so you need to work out just how much you can spend. Remember when budgeting for the wedding to budget for the jewels as well.

The rule of thumb for the ring is usually a month’s salary, it is something that is going to be worn for the rest of your life, all going well, so you don’t want to regret skimping on it. But that said one could always upgrade when they are more financially solvent. I would spend what my budget would allow and a little bit more, I don’t mind getting into a little bit of debt, but I wouldn’t want to still be paying for my wedding diamonds on my golden wedding anniversary!

Pearls and costume jewellery always look good, but take into account how you are wearing your hair and makeup and what your dress looks like. Mixing and matching costume jewellery with the real deal would be the best thing. A lot of imitation pearls look just like the real thing and it is highly unlikely that anyone will be grabbing them from your neck to try and tell if they are fakes, I doubt anyone will even ask. You can spend a small fortune on wedding jewellery, and you can do it very easily. A more difficult trick is to manage to look like you’re wearing a million pounds without spending it!

1. Avon Tahitian Holiday - Sounds lovely doesn’t it? With scents of the Tahitian tiare flower and coconut oils. Another new perfume that uses the tiare flower is Mariah Carey’s debut fragrance ‘M’ which smells delightful. I have a bottle myself and have received many compliments.

2. Carol’s Daughter Ocean - with hints of watermelon, cucumber, lavender and hyacinth.

3.  Comptoir Sud Pacifique Aqua Motu - according to Vogue it is a “blend of marine notes mixed with lily of the valley, warm sand, and kelp has been the company’s best-selling eau de toilette in Europe since its release in 1995.” P.S it is very difficult to find in the USA!

4. Bobby Brown Beach - sand jasmine, sea spray, and mandarin. The smell definitely reminds me of the beach, reminds me of nice smelling suntan lotion!

5.  And lastly, CB I Hate Perfume At the Beach 1966. No really, the perfume is actually called that. “The vintage sunscreen is the prime note that along with hints of wet sand, seashell, driftwood, and something called-boardwalk” says Vogue.com

Anyway, here are a few of the latest female fashion trends with some tips on how to add these into your wardrobe.

Use these tips for latest female fashion trends and create new looks with the basics mentioned above. This will surely help to keep your wardrobe updated making you look stylish for any occasion!

For us women who follow fashion trends we need to be on the minute sometimes when it comes to the very latest trends; never knowing whether a trend will stand the test of time or be shelved after an initial flurry of interest. We constantly strive to ensure that we look our very best from season to season! You know it right?

If you have a keen eye and follow the latest female fashions as much as I do then you will notice that old ideas are always revamped over and over, meaning that we can go back to the closet and pull out some real vintage and yet be right there in the latest trend.

Latest Female Fashion Trend Ideas

Jodhpurs: In any shade of beige, or better still black….jodhpurs are always appealing. You know I love Jordan (Katie Price) and as a horse lover she is often seen sporting a pair. Now thats not to say you have to love animals to wear them, but due to the shape of jodhpurs I would recommend that you steer clear if you have wider hips.

Knee Length Skirts: or actually voluminous skirts to be precise. August is a great time to show some leg and experiment with your layers, tiers and gathers. I like nothing better than to put on one of my favorite voluminous knee length skirts and head out for coffee, pretending like I am in Paris or something. This look is hot right now!

Ruffles: I love the way that ruffles create such a nice look…offering that little ‘Je ne sais quoi!’ Just for frills I would wear soft ruffled necks for a nice romantic dinner and with the right shimmer in the fabric you will always get a compliment! Will they ever go out of fashion?

What are your top three things right now?

Is designer clothing actually better than standard unknown brand clothing?

Designer clothes can be better than standard unknown brand clothing. In some ways they are better. I know that if I buy a designer outfit people will stare. Maybe not because of how the clothes look on me, but more about how I look in the clothes. My self-esteem rockets when I am wearing designer clothes and I feel that I can achieve anything because I am suitable dressed. You could call it my body armour, if someone puts me down when I have my pricey clothes on it is much easier to put it down to jealousy rather than true. I feel capable of scaling any mountain (without even changing my Manolo’s).

I can achieve anything and more, because I have my designer clothes on.If my personal self-esteem is a reason that designer clothes are better, it is only a reason to me.Some people may not be so shallow or materialistic (or just get the boost from a fantastic haircut or lipstick). Some people may resent spending so much money on something that only provides a basic function (after all a beautiful evening dress cannot help with the housework – although it can make it that bit more glam). Others can’t afford to buy designer – so for them designer is definitely not better.How can it be when it doesn’t benefit their lives (and never will barring some lottery miracle)?

Removing personal tastes from the debate, and even the materials that clothes are made from, it can be argued that designer is better. Yes it costs many times more but for the cost you get a quality assurance. Designer items are more stringently checked for quality and workmanship. Loose threads are a cause for concern (rather than something to be snipped off). Seams are (and will remain) straight on tops. They will not stretch and twist in the washing machine (probably because they are dry clean only but if you spend money on a top you don’t want the machine to chew it up).On a serious note, designer clothes do not employ the services of sweatshops or deprived children.

Many other clothes designers do employ these services which morally cannot be justified. When teaching a class of ten year olds wearing such clothes I have to ask myself why children in deprived areas of the world should be considered to be less than our children. Why is their childhood not valued in the same way? These designers may pay a wage that is above the national average which although sounds good is not. This employment can cause economic instability in the host country and cause local and national businesses to try to keep up; artificially inflating salaries which will increase costs for local businesses and retailers therefore the cost of living will be inflated at a dangerously fast rate, thus creating more instability.

There are so many issues raised by the manufacture of clothes and the costs involved. I have to argue that designer clothes are better because they have an aspiration element to them.In order to wear designer clothing most people have to work hard to pay for them, they are not treated as disposable commodities by most of their wearers. All my friends treat cheaper clothes in this way, it doesn’t matter if you only wear it once – it was so cheap. Which doesn’t value the effort put in during the manufacturing process?

So to me designer is better, not only because of the ethical and moral arguments, but because they make me feel like a better person both inside and out. Shallow? Moi? Maybe but at least no children were harmed in the making of my clothes.