Fashion Bandit

What I Wore: Maximising my Assests

2012-02-03T13:09:00.001Z

Friday at last, it has been a long week here. I have spent most of it in my hometown, near Liverpool, as we've had some illness in my family. Needless to say I've been sat by hospital beds most of the week. Not much fun.

I realised I've not posted an outfit piece for a bit so thought I'd show you what I wore when I went to the cinema with my friend Lizzie the other day. If you follow me on Twitter you probably know I spend a lot of time at the cinema, I've got one of those membership-card-thingy-bobs that means I just pay about £14 a month and can see as many films as I like in that time. Works out well as my man is a bit of a film buff, so it keeps him happy too!

I've been wearing this maxi quite a lot lately because it is so comfy and I can layer it up to keep warm. Plus I keep getting told it makes my rather ample derriere look, erm-herm...'good'. Who am I to argue? Unsurprisingly though, I've not posted a photo of my behind...

What I wore:
♥ Stripey maxi dress, Primark. I bought this 18 months ago and love it for all the above reasons, and also it was super cheap and washes really well. Man, I sound old.
♥ Shearling jacket, River Island. I had to exchange a jumper my Gran bought me for Christmas because it didn't fit, I swapped it for this in the in the sales, I've worn it so much already but a bit scared of it getting dirty with it being so pale.
♥ Ankle boots, M&S. You can't see them very well but these are the ones I bought in the sales.
♥ Ri2k bag, worth more than I would ever spend on a bag. I won this in a competition a while back...thanks Superdrug :)
♥ Love ring - a present from my friend Steph a couple of years ago.
♥ Leaf knuckle duster /double finger ring, Miss Selfridge. I bought this in the January sales, last year!
♥ I'm also wearing some long gold coloured chain necklaces (no idea where they are from, possibly H&M) and an Urban Outfitter's 'A' necklace.

I had my hair done yesterday too (above picture is prior to hair cut), it looks pretty much the same, just no more roots, and tidied up a bit. Was tempted to get it cut short again, my sister has just gone for the chop and it looks amazing so I have short-hair-envy...but I'm sticking with the grow out, for now.

Don't forget you still have a couple of days to enter my competition to win some lush Barefoot skincare products!

Hope everyone has had a good week!

Testing, testing...win!

2012-01-29T19:18:00.001Z

Hope you've all good weekends. Got something special on the blog today - because Sundays are good!

For the past month I've been testing a couple of products I was very kindly sent. The first is Trilogy Vital Mosturising cream SPF15 (RRP £24.50). I have quite sensitive skin that is rather prone to the old breakouts so I was interested in trying this skin that promises to lock in moisture and restore elasticity. The cream itself is incredibly rich and contains evening primrose oil and organic rosehip oil. Plus has SPF15, which, of course, is very good!

It is the sort of cream you can apply before going to bed and you wake up, still feeling like you have it on. For me, the cream is probably a little too rich to use on a daily basis, but it would be great if you suffer from very dry skin. After I've been on a night out, come home, and taken off my layers of make up, this is the perfect time for Trilogy to come to the rescue to rehydrate my knackered chops! On the website it suggests using one of the other moisturisers as a hydrating mask, applied in a 2mm layer, left for half an hour or so, then rinsed - I think this would work equally well with this product, I might try this next time I have a pamper sesh.

If you like the look of Trilogy you can check out their website here: trilogyproducts.com, where you can also learn more about brand founders, sisters Sarah & Catherine.

The other product I've been giving a thorough testing to, is Barefoot SOS Soothing Face and Body Wash (RRP £16). Reportedly a favourite of Frankie Sandford off The Saturdays, this wash is especially for very dry and sensitive skin. I suffer from eczema on my legs, and this time of year it is particularly bad, so I was hoping this might help.

This creamy formula contains jojoba and evening primrose oil (is there some sort of evening primrose oil revolution going on that I've missed?) which are meant to condition and soften skin, vitamin B5 and allantoin to maintain skin's moisture level, plus chickweed and burdock botanical extract to cool and soothe.

One of the other, more obvious ingredients, is geranium and lemon tea tree essential oil, which smells amazing. Clean and bright, the smell is a gentle wake up and (perhaps weirdly) reminds me of citronella - which I quite like! I can't say I've noticed a massive difference from using this product on my face, but on my legs it certainly seems to have calmed down my eczema. Because Barefoot is really mild you might also notice it doesn't lather-up when mixed with water, which does mean you tend to use more per-use, than you probably would with most body washes. I really like the clean simple packaging too. I'd definitely recommend this product if you have sensitive skin, suffer from any dry skin conditions, or equally if you just fancy trying a more mild face and body wash.

Find out more about Barefoot SOS here: barefoot-botanicals.com.

Luckily for you I've got both the Barefoot SOS Soothing Face and Body Wash, worth £16, and also a Barefoot SOS Daily Rich Body Lotion, worth £22, to give away to one reader!

How to enter:

♥ You must follow this blog via Goggle Connect or Blog Lovin'

♥ Leave a comment below telling me you'd like to enter the competition

♥ For an extra entry Tweet:

"I'm entering @Fashion_Bandit's Barefoot SOS competition to win some products. You can enter here: http://bit.ly/zeCI4f"

You've got seven days to enter - I'll be closing the competition Sunday 5th February 7pm.

Good luck all!

Pin Up Girl For a Day

2012-01-16T20:31:00.000Z

Youcalled?

I've been so excited, and a bit nervous, to share thispost...

Anyone who knows me, knows I am a huge fan of vintage. I love vintageclothes, cars and even magazines. But old pin up art holds a special place inmy heart. I'm not sure where it started, but I know why it did: these retro pinup girls embody glamour - who wouldn't want to look like that?

Then I came across Alter EgoPortraits, a photography studio based in Northamptonshire who specialise inGilElvgren style pin up portraits. Their online albums are full of glamorousgirls, dolled up 40s and 50s style, in classic pin up set-ups and poses. TheirFacebook page became a favourite, as a constant stream of glammed-up girlswould make me incredibly envious. Thankfully Alter Ego held a competition overthe summer, and on my birthday I got a letter through the post telling me I wasa runner up. I'd won a shoot and a print to take home, excited, was anunderstatement!

Left:Viven of Holloway dress, Right: My Gran's coat and a vintage Vogue!

I booked in with Martin Plant, who along with his wife, Karen, owns thestudio. Although I visited for a vintage pin up shoot, they also do boudoir photography,and Karen also does weddings.

Before the day the main thing I had to do was get myself some vintageinspired underwear. A lot of my shoot was going to be clothed, in the costumesprovided by Alter Ego, but there was also an optional underwear section.Although there are many shops who specialise in this sort of stuff, my budgetdidn't stretch to that, so I headed to M&S. One long-line bra and matchingknicker set later and I was sorted. Of course stockings were a must, so I tooka couple of trusty Charnos pairs with me.

I was also told I could take some of my own clothes if I had anythingappropriate, so I took my Gran's fur coat, a couple of dresses, a pile'o shoesand some jewellery.

Picnictime in my dress - my favourite photo

On the day of my shoot I arrived at the studio, tucked away in theNorthamptonshire countryside, just after 9am. Martin introduced me to the make-upartist Natalie, and after a drink in the calm studio, she got to work on mytransformation. Something that had initially worried me, is that out of all thebeautiful photos I'd seen, I couldn't remember one girl with short hair. Theyall had gorgeous tumbling waves, and victory rolls. My hair was given apin-curl style wave at the front and the rest of it slicked down, which looked cute. My skin hasbeen bad lately, but Natalie's brushes expertly hid away those flaws, whilesoft eye make-up and, obviously, bright red lips came out to play. I broughtsome false eyelashes with me, so Natalie applied these for me too.

While all this was going on Martin talked me through the Alter Egoexperience, and how the day would run, and I choose my favourite poses and setups for the shoot.

A quick glance at my 'Alter Ego' in the mirror and I barely recognisedmyself! I changed into my first outfit, a gorgeous Vivien of Hollowaycherry-printed dress, and with retro tunes playing in the background, Martinset to work. Karen acted as assistant, arranging my skirt layers and helping mewith poses - while backstage Martin's assistant Lola was already editing thephotos being sent wirelessly from his camera, all very clever stuff!

Ann Summer's underwear and white men's shirt

It was around this time that I took a peek in the back of Martin's cameraand noticed something wasn't quite right, I had, what looked like a squintyeye! I realised I had a misbehaving false eyelash so had a quick sprint over toNatalie who put it back into position, and we carried on shooting. Before Iknew it I was changing into my first set of underwear, red polka dot lingeriefrom Ann Summers, these were to be worn under a white men's shirt, so wouldn'tbe really visible, but for a flash. Stepping out in my stockings and underwearI was a little nervous, yes, even despite my recentadventures, but my nerves soon subsided and the team got to work.

I've got to be honest the next couple of hours were a bit of a blur, we wentfrom one dress to the next, with Natalie touching up my make-up in between, twoof my dresses came out to play, as did my Gran's coat. We used maybe fifteendifferent set ups from a picnic blanket to a dressing up box, from being on thephone, to being in a trunk. It was like a very fun game of dress up! Then camethe money shot, the M&S undies and the black stockings came out and I hadto hold my breath and hope all the bits that should be covered, were.

Underwear warning!

Vintage-styleM&S lingerie (nervous of posting this...please be kind!)

The last couple of set ups were squeezed in and before I knew it our timewas up. Martin asked if I wanted to see the photos straight away (thanks toLola's quick first edits this is a really handy option and great if you'vetravelled a long way for your session), but I decided to come back another day.

On the day I chose my photos I was almost more nervous than when I had themtaken - but on seeing the ‘new me’ I was so surprised; it was like looking at adifferent person. We started off with around 70 photos and through a process ofelimination (which was very tricky) whittled them down to the top seven you cansee here, which I've kindly been allowed to share with you.

I think I’d like to go a back to do a couples shoot (if I could talk Jamesinto it) and I'd want to do it with long hair, as I love the big retro dos thatweren’t possible with my short barnet!

Recordplayer girl

I am really happy with the pictures, they are so different from the sort ofphotos I have ever had done before. Although I may not be chosen to join the ranks of theirmost beautiful pin up girls on Facebook, the shoot was a lot of fun, and I willtreasure the pictures. They are the sort of thing I'll be able to look back onwhen I'm grey and say, 'hey, I looked alright in my day!'

I would like to thank the team for my shoot. Alter Ego Portraits vintage pinup shoots are available in several different packages, make great gifts, andare also a fab idea for hen parties. Visit www.alteregoportraits.com to findout more.

Has anyone else ever had anythinglike this done? Would you?

What I Wore: NYE...and some bargains

2012-01-12T15:09:00.001Z

I really should have posted this sooner, as NYE was 12 days ago...oops. Anyone else having trouble getting going this month? I really dislike January. And its stupid smiley, healthy face. Think I've got the January blues!

And it all started off so promising, a night out with my friend Christina, my sister Han, and her friend Hayley - at Alma de Cuba in Liverpool.This bar and restaurant is a converted church - with a suspended floor which acts as the restaurant portion. It is all old beams and gothic candles, the place is even complete with amazing antler chandeliers. We were treated to a live band called Good Times, Cuban dancers, and as the clock struck twelve, a petal shower! It was a black and white ball, so we all donned LBD to head out.

What I Wore:
♥ LBD with one shoulder ruffle, this was a sale bargain from River Island (see below), it fit perfectly so was too good to leave behind.
♥ Leopard print tights M&S.
♥ Black ankle boots, Matalan. I' have worn these to death, but I do love 'em!
♥ Chunky black ring, Past Times.
♥ Long feathered earring, from River Island. I wore just one long earring to balance out the dress! The other side I wore a big sparkly stud.

I felt like doing something different with my hair so using my straighteners curled it into pin curls before leaving it to set. A bit of back combing, volumizing spray, pinning (at the sides) and a load of hairspray later I had this little creation! What do you think? Too much? - I was just trying to funk up the crop-bob!

I don't actually buy many clothes full price anymore - so the January sales is the one time in the year I let myself go a little clothes shopping crazy. This month so far I have picked up...

Left-to-right, top-to-bottom:

♥ LBD, River Island: This is the NYE dress seen above!

Full price: £35 - Sale price: £15

♥ Beach playsuit, River Island: I might not be able to wear it for a while but this little playsuit was so cute, I had to get it! I plan to layer it up to get the most wear out of this I can.

Full price: £17.99 - Sale price: £9

♥ Black transparent shirt, River Island: For work or play I think I will be able to wear this lots, and I love shirts with a ruffle, great for small busted lasses like me!

Full price: £30 - Sale price: £12

♥ Leopard print kitten heels, New Look: I am I lover of leopard print, however distressing most men seem to find it. I tried on a bazillion shoes in the New Look sale, but these seemed like they'd get the most wear.

Full price: £12.99 - Sale price: £5

♥ Ankle boots, M&S: The ankle boots I wore for NYE are great, but I wear them a lot. So when I saw these, they fit, and were comfy, it was like it was meant to be (honestly!) Plus I got staff discount thanks to James so I got them for about £16 in the end.

Full price: £40 - Sale price: £19

♥ Red jeans, River Island: I really struggle buying jeans. It comes from having big hips but a small waist, they never seem to fit. On the off chance that these would, I bought them in the first day of sale (before they allow you to try stuff on in the fitting rooms), when I got home and tried them on I was incredibly surprised when they fitted, and fitted well. Now I'm just trying to find things to wear with them...any suggestions?

Full price: £40 - Sale price: £20

Although the January sales is the one time I allow myself time to spend, how much did I actually cough up? If I bought all these items at full price it would have come to £175.98, in the sale their total cost was £80! On top of this I had a £25 River Island voucher, and £60 Christmas money, so I actually still have £5 left...

What did you buy in the sales? Anyone get any real bargains? What was the most you saved?

Stash of Goodies

2012-01-06T19:28:00.001Z

I was really spoilt this Christmas so I thought I'd show you some of my fabulous loot, aka presents, from my lovely friends and family! I've just included fashiony things as you probably aren't quite as interested in the awesome coasters, pretty picture frame or fun board game I got. No doubt you'll see some of this little lot in 'What I Wore' posts to come, so consider this a preview.

Above, left-to-right:

♥ Very cool reindeer PJs from my sister, Han. I got two sets of festive PJs this year, the other pair I was probably wearing when I took this photo. Something you should know about me, I love my pyjamas.

♥ Slipper boots from my Uncle Andy. Being dying for some new slippers for ages and these have barely left my feet since Christmas morning.

♥ Red jumper from my sister, Han. This is a Primarni number and as soon as I saw it I wanted it, rather a lot. Sadly they didn't have my size in my nearest store so Han bought this for me while she was a uni as part of my present. Luuuurve big cosy jumpers.

♥ Woolly hat from friend Lizzie. How cute is this hat? I am definitely a hat wearer in the winter and have worn this loads already, it goes with every coat I own.

♥ Matthew Williamson Butterfly for Debenhams jacket, from my friend Freya. Fits like a dream and has the coolest psychedelic patterned lining, it is very me!

♥ I forgot to take a photo of the gorgeous navy cardi James's folks got me for Christmas - it is so snuggly and perfect. And as for the reason there isn't a photo? I have worn it so much, it is in the wash!

Some more stylish things to wear...

Above, top-to-bottom, left-to-right:

♥ Dress, from my mum and dad. This 60s style dress from River Island will be great for the office, and I think because it is plain, I'll be able to wear it with lots of different accessories to get lots of use out of it.

♥ OPI nail polishes, from my friend Katie. I've not really used OPI before so I'm looking forward to giving these a try, it says on the box that the kit includes two 'Muppets' shades, 'Animal-istic' and 'Gettin' Miss Piggy With It', plus a toe divider. On closer inspection 'Gettin' Miss Piggy With It' is the super sparkly shade, but the other is a shade called 'Got The Blues For Red', not 'Animal-istic', which is a bit strange. Regardless - I actually really like this replacement shade - as I wear a lot of red nail polish.

♥ Vogue necklace, from my fella, James. This quirky bit of jewellery is a handmade piece James found on the internet, the resourceful chap. I like that I am unlikely to see many other people wearing it, which I'm sure is one of the reasons he chose it.

♥ Bangle from friend Katie. I love the smokey effect in this bangle from Accessorize, plus it is plastic, which means, unlike some of my other bangles, I won't end up with a green arm after wearing - bit of a bonus!

And finally some reading material...

I got loads of books for Christmas, but I thought these two might be of particular interest here:

♥ Fifty Dresses that Changed the World, from the Design Museum, from my mum and dad. This beautiful book is an ode to the dress and has some fantastic pictures, I love things like this, that show how fashion has evolved.

♥ How to Make Jewellery with Tatty Devine, from my friend Steph. A truly inspired gift from my friend Steph, who, quite correctly, figured out I love Tatty Devine, but can't afford to buy anything from them, the solution: make my own. This has totally inspired me to get crafty and make some jewellery for myself this year - I'll let you know how I get on!

What did everyone else get for Christmas? Did Santa treat you well?

She Sparkles

2011-12-30T20:33:00.005Z

I hope you've all had a cracking Christmas - I've spent the past week hidden away at my Mum & Dad's in Merseyside. Even though there is a computer and access to the internet, being here seems so far removed from my normal life it really is like being on holiday. Not to mention the fact I get looked after a bit!

I've been mainly chilling out and catching up with friends this week, and am looking forward to going out tonight to celebrate new year. I planned to test some funky glitter tattoos I was sent to try, before Christmas, but sadly my party plans prior to the 25th were a bit lack-lustre. So on Boxing Day night I finally had chance to really test this product...

This is what the kit looks like - despite it's name, these aren't mere glitter transfers. The kit contains three pots of loose glitter, silver, black and gold, glue, a large (blusher-type) brush and a small soft brush, plus a range of stencils.

I'm always looking for unusual make up like this, (last Christmas I was sticking little crystals around my eye make up) so I was really interested to try these. My friend Christina agreed to be my guinea pig...ah-herm...I mean model, for the purposes of a test run, so here is my step-by-step guide...

1. Select a stencil and cut around. Make sure your make up is applied and carefully position your stencil wherever you like - we like on cheekbones or next to eyes, but on the back of a shoulder or inner wrist could also look good.
2. Apply the glue right up to the edge of the stencil, try not to get too much actually on the stencil as this will make it easier to re-use at a later date. This glue reminds me a bit of eyelash glue, only slightly less messy.
3. Choose your glitter and press it into the glue using the small brush. Pop as much glitter on a possible to get the best end result - as you can see from the above photos, we perhaps should have used a bit more on this application.
4. Brush off any excess glitter with the larger brush, if you were really carefully you could collect this left over glitter and pop it back in the pot.
5. Remove your stencil and...ta-dah! Cute glitter tattoo. This took all of three minutes to apply, very quick and easy.

I did a slightly larger glitter tattoo on myself and then we hit the town!

Even with lots of sweaty dancing into the early morning our new sparkly hearts stayed in place. Christina even kept her heart on until the next day - the pack says they can last up to five days, a theory I haven't tested yet. I'm not sure if it would stay that long on your face if you were wearing make up, but perhaps it would last if the tattoo was in a different location.

Regardless - the glitter tattoos have proved a real hit...in fact so much Christina and I will be wearing them again this evening for our NYE night out!

Hope those of you who have had time off over Christmas had fun, did you all get lots of nice presents? Who is out partying tonight?

I've got lots of lovely posts to come over the next few weeks; a round up post of Christmas presents, posts on sale bargains, more beauty reviews and a competition, so stay tuned!

A Christmas Wedding...and Two Outfits

2011-12-23T18:00:00.000Z

My lovely friends got married a couple of weeks ago and I've been meaning to share a couple of photos with you - one of the happy couple, Sarah and Jamie, above, and then a couple of what I wore.

The couple were due to get married next year, but due to personal family reasons moved their wedding forward and managed to organise a truly wonderful 'big day' in just three weeks. As you can see, they looked gorgeous - Sarah just looked about the happiest, most radiant girl in the world, and Jamie looked like the real gent in his kilt! The wedding started off in the town hall, of the town where both Sarah and I grew up. I'd never been to a wedding there before and was pleasantly surprised how pretty it was inside the building, which was built in 1853. The service was lovely and was followed by a wedding breakfast. Then in the evening there was another sit-down meal and a disco - all in all good times. I spent the entire day crying though. Never thought I'd be one to cry at weddings. Turns out I am. I'm just a bit messy blob of emotion.

Anyhow, this is a fashion blog so...
Because there were the day-time festivities, a few hours in between, then an evening do - I decided to do two outfits.

Outfit One: The Tux.

Ok, so not strictly a tux, but a nod to the tuxedo. A ladylike version, if you will. And I'll have you know that bow tie is the real deal. And I tied it myself. Skillz.
Here is what I wore:
♥ White shirt - Hawes and Curtis. This was a press gift, back in the days when I worked on the magazine, it is a beautiful fit and has a little stretch too which makes it quite comfortable to wear. Requires cuff links and ironing though, the latter which I don't really believe in.
♥ Bow tie - I've had this for years, I have no idea where I got it from, perhaps a department store. I do know it cost me a tenner.
♥ Braces, again, I've had these for about eight years. I have a feeling they might be from the old man's bit of BHS...
♥ Peplum skirt, this was from Select a couple of years ago. Not the classiest of shops, but I do find the odd bargain in there.
♥ Chandelier earrings, H&M, from about six years ago.
♥ Red skinny belt, M&S. I think this was about £15 earlier this year, and it has had considerable use as it can be worn as a waisted belt or on the hips.
♥ Tights are from the sexy 75th Anniversary collection from Charnos - they are called Brigitte, after the one and only Bardot, and have a Swarovski crystal backseam. During my work with Nobull Communications I've been working with Charnos and fallen in love with this range, these tights are my current fave though!
♥ Little kitten heel shoes are from H&M and only cost me about £20, and I've had loads of wear out of them.

For the evening part of the wedding I changed...

Outfit Two: The LBD

The whole idea was that my outfits tied together in colour and style. Also I wanted to change from the tux for the evening part, as a dress would be more comfortable for busting a move on the dance floor, much needed as both the bride and maid of honour are trained dancers.

What I Wore:
♥ Henry Holland at Debenhams, you may remember this dress from a wedding I went to earlier this year. The dress has made several appearances in 2011, probably because it always makes me feel good as the cut suits my pear-shape.
♥ Hair bow from H&M. A little bit Gaga - I bought this a couple of years ago, it has a hair clip and a safety pin on the underside so it can be worn as a brooch too.
♥ Shoes Carvela. 'nuff said.
♥ Earrings, tights and belt as above.

I also did little tux nails to match :)

It was a bloody marvellous wedding - and I know the couple will be very happy together - Congratulations Sarah & Jamie!

I hope everyone is organised for Christmas, I still have lots of wrapping, packing, cleaning and baking to do...arghhhh. Shouldn't really be sat here blogging then, should I?

Beauty Fix: Smooth as Silk

2011-12-18T20:16:00.001Z

Wow, what a couple of weeks. I have been snowed, thankfully in the non-literal sense, with work and home stuff. Today I have finally had time to sit down and tell you about Corn Silk, which I was sent to review!

The 1960s - just think The Beatles, Breakfast at Tiffany's, Mary Quant and Edie Sedgwick. I think the 60s was such a stylish era, and I can't see a better way to celebrate it that carrying around a Corn Silk compact in my bag.

Although the name is decidedly unsexy, everything else about this product is really stylish. I love the cute gold-detailed vintage-style case, and the fact that, unlike many pressed powders, it has a handy mirror. The powers that be have told me the Aimee Adams, who is a make up artist to likes of Fearne Cotton, Pixie Lott and even the X-Factor girls, uses Corn Silk. She said: "I recommend Corn Silk for getting make-up to stay in place and give you a flawless complexion...the only face powder I use on my famous faces!"

I was surprised to learn that Corn Silk only comes in one 'colour' - so although it looks peachy in the compact, it is actually translucent when applied - which saves spending 40 minutes in Boots trying 31 shades on various bits of your body.

Corn Silk has quite a 'classic' floral smell, in fact, it smells like something my grandmother would have worn. It might not be the most 21st Century scent, but I quite like it - it make be feel like a laydeee!

I found this powder left my face shine free for most of the day, and didn't clog up my pores, so no cakey-face here! Most of all I really really impressed by the price: (from) £7.40. At the same pricing level as most decent high-street brands, but with a superior quality - I honestly think I've found a new favourite.

Corn Silk is available at Boots & other leading pharmacies.

Have you ever tried Corn Silk?

Pure Eightiesness

2011-12-04T22:52:00.001Z

Sup folks? Here are the last of that shoot I did with Ian Jamieson - these particular photos were done just for fun. Ian was looking to add to his portfolio and we just had some time left so I tried out another outfit, because there is always time for another outfit, isn't there?

This time it was a sparkly little number from Topshop (if I remember correctly) I bought it a few years back in a sale - and this time every year it makes an apperance. I don't know whether it is the sheer eightiesness of the dress, the shoulder pads, body con and glitter, but I do love it. Here I wore it with a pair of fringed leggings which were from another Topshop sale this summer and I picked up for about £8, the real joy is that they are a size eight, which is perhaps why they didn't sell at full price, they must have been baggy on an actual size eight gal!

My outfit was finished off with some vintage 80's earrings, a pendent from Topshop (more Topshop than your averge Fashion Bandit post, eh?!) plus knuckle dusters - golden leaf from Miss Selfridge and 'Love' from Primark.

So this is my last real-clothes-meets-proper-photos post for a while. You'll have to get used to the arms-length outfit shots again - hope you don't mind too much! I do however have some very fun photos coming up - hopefully in a couple of weeks - although I'm having them taken this week. I've got a few beauty reviews to share with you, plus some nail art and two wedding outfits for just one wedding.

What have you all been up to? Anyone else been tempted to have professional shots done for their blog? How do you cope without someone else to take your shots?

Dressing up games

2011-11-28T21:38:00.001Z

Alright lovelies! I promised I'd share some more of those Ian Jamieson photos I had done...and here is the next set! The Read All About Me set of images were done specifically for my blog publicity - but this set were really just for fun.

This is a dress that James bought me for my birthday, when a jumpsuit he originally chose for me didn't fit. We chose this together on our little shopping trip to Westfield Stratford. Hard to tell from a photograph - but the colour is a lovely rusty orangey-red - and surprisingly it is from Topshop. I say surprisingly, because I normally don't buy from Topshop unless during a sale-rail scenario, my pocket just can't afford it. The thick material on this dress, also means I'll be able to wear it throughout winter.

In the top two photos I paired this dress with a River Island belt bought a couple of years ago, a ring from Past Times, and my M&S leopard print tights which you might remember from my previous post.

After looking at the first photos in the back of the camera I thought I looked a bit manly, although photographer Ian kindly said he liked the androgynous Peter-Pan look I had going on. Anyhow, I decided to girl-up my look a bit...

I changed my belt for a vintage 80s one that was my mum's, a necklace from Topshop that my sister bought me for my birthday, and an Accessorize silk scarf. I felt much happier in this combo, and truthfully this is more like how I'd style this dress for 'actual' wearing.

I believe Desperate Scousewives is just starting, it will be like going home - did you know I'm from that neck of the woods? ...well I'm actually from Liverpool's more reserved cousin, Southport. But my Dad is scouse, born 'n' bred. Liverpool is in a league of its own when it comes to style - the girls wear their tan thick, their hair big and their heels high. There is no where more glamorous. And that thing about the girls wearing rollers to go shopping, it isn't a joke. Just read this column I wrote in February this year...regardless I won't be watching Desperate Scousewives, I can't be doing with these fake reality programmes. Scenes created for entertainment purposes - purrlease.

I've got one more set of photos from the fabulous Ian Jamieson to show you, but I might share them at the weekend. What do you think of these shots? Which look do you prefer?...And did you watch Desperate Scousewives?

What I Wore: T'other Day

2011-11-24T21:37:00.001Z

I've not been feeling very stylish this week as I've been off on 'holiday' - although I've been at home, so lets call it a break instead! James has had a bit of time off too so we've just been getting the house sorted and doing a bit of Christmas shopping, even though I'm not really feeling inspired, fun times.

So this is a recent work outfit, which you may noticed is accessorised by a small cat. Very chic.

Here are the details:
♥ Leopard print skirt, Forever 21. I bought this about a month ago on my trip to Westfield Stratford - it was the first time I'd been in a Forever 21 and I was quite impressed by some of the stuff and the prices. This skirt is going to be a winter favourite - I love me some leopard print, even more than Bet Lynch.
♥ White Tee & Black batwinged cardi, both from Primark. The cardi I've had for ages because I love the shape and the T-shirt washes so well and was about £2, which is beyond a bargain.
♥ Tights are Charnos - of course. From last year I think, I love the gorgeous deep wine, maroon colour, which instantly winter-izes my wardrobe.
♥ Boots - not that you can see them very well - are from Topshop a few years ago. They have a fab fringe down the outside which I think is a nice twist. The only thing I don't like about them is that they are completely flat so don't offer much support...God, I sound old.
♥Big beaded necklace is, surprisingly, another Primark purchase. People often compliment me on this oversized piece of jewellery, and are always amazed it is from Primarni.
♥ Black flower clip is from H&M. It is a good one to distract from my currently shapeless hair - damn the grow-out!

Meeting up with a couple of friends tomorrow and hopefully going to see at least one film, over the past couple of weeks I've seen Breaking Dawn, In Time and Tintin - I enjoyed the first two and fell asleep during the third, perhaps I really am getting old...

Read All About Me

2011-11-15T21:48:00.001Z

As most of you will realise, my blog images are mainly made up of photos of my holding my lil' digital camera (actually James' digital camera) at arms length. Needless to say, not the best photos. So a friend of mine, awesome photographer, Ian Jamieson -you may remember the images he did of me a while back- agreed to do some funky new blog publicity images. These are so I can represent the blog and myself with something better than a blurred and discoloured arm-length snap. Amazeballs.

Ian has been a photographer for some time, but has taken his former hobby into a full time career over the past year or so and did these photos for me a couple of weeks ago. I always feel comfortable with Ian taking my photos - although he is not much of a fan of my gurning faces (the cheesy one above is a good example) - he does have a very good eye for what makes a strong fashion photo.

He took some other photos too in a few different outfits, which I'll share with you later this week. I think it must be because we are the 'Facebook generation' but having your photo taken and published is normal to most of us - so where I once upon a was nervous having my photo taken - now it is quite fun.

I wore my bespoke T-shirt, the slogan is about me, but probably not about what you think. It is not about the blog or my former role as a fashion columnist, but it is rather fitting for the blog - don't cha think?

What I Wore: A Spooky Week Ago

2011-11-09T21:47:00.000Z

We went to a late party on Saturday, which was a bonfire-cum-late-Halloween affair - hence why, two weeks after Halloween I'm showing you a fancy dress outfit! As you can see, there isn't much fancy about it, because by the time I knew I was going to said party, Halloween had been and gone and the shops were all-out of party supplies.

So I had to freestyle. So 'modern vampire' was my look, I used made up and even some dark eyeshadow for contouring on my cheeks to create a 'vampy' look. Then I donned some fake lashes, purple and red lipstick and some fake blood - and ta-dar! I also back combed and slicked back my hair using wet-look gel, and I actually really like this effect and may re-create the hair for a night out.

What I wore:
♥ M&S Thermal lace top - which I lurrrve at the moment. Obvs.
♥ A strange see-through dress, I bought this from TK Maxx about a year ago. This is the first time I've worn it, mainly because I've never been sure what to wear it with, and it only cost me a fiver.
♥ Fringed leggings. I got these in a Topshop sale over the summer for (again) a fiver. Random, but quite funky and good under long tops. Very long tops.
♥ Belt, Warehouse.
♥ Awesome spider ring - one of three of a set I bought from H&M last week - quite gothic, non?

James went to the party as Dexter, sadly no one watches Dexter apart from us, apparently, so he was just a guy in a green top, gloves and some blood on his face.

For actual Halloween I baked some spooky cupcakes for my colleagues at Nobull and for my neighbours...

I made them with sticky Mars bar bases, chocolate sponge, and vanilla icing, complete with handmade chocolate and sweet bugs! They went down a treat at work and looking at the pictures is making me mighty hungry now, so going to post this before I start licking the computer screen.

What did everyone else do for Halloween? Any good fancy dresses?

Legs out - for National Stockings Day!

2011-11-02T18:01:00.000Z

Just over a week ago I got my kit off in public. Not all of my kit, just, you know, most of it. So, you ask - have times become so hard you have resorted to stripping? Not quite...I was helping celebrate National Stockings Day!

I am currently freelancing for fabulous PR agency Nobull Communications, and one of the clients I am helping to promote is none other than British hosiery brand, Charnos. So to cut a long story short, myself and fellow Nobull-ites Ali and Vic headed into London to cause quite a stir in our sexy stockings, encourage others to wear them, and raise money for Breast Cancer Care.

We modelled three of the, quite simply stunning, Charnos 75th range of hosiery released to promote the brand's landmark birthday. The products in collection are named after iconic sexy starlets so we each took on the names of our stockings we wore, I became 'Ava', Ali became 'Marilyn' and Vic became 'Katharine'.

Those who know me will also know I am a bit of a prude when it comes to taking my clothes off, and knowing I was going to be standing next to two stunning and super slim girlies caused me quite a few worries about my wobbly bits being on show. Thankfully a pair of Charnos sheers underneath my stockings preserved quite a bit of my dignity, as did a sexy thermal top from M&S (which will definitely be worn with a little black skirt over Christmas). To prepare my thighs for public exposure I had, of course, been slathering them in my latest wonder-product, Elemis's pro-collagen body cream, and trying to eat a few less cakes.

Image above by Rick Findler

At 5.30am we headed out in our sexy little outfits and quite literally stopped traffic when we took part in a photoshoot at Piccadilly Circus for National News and Pictures photographer Rick Findler. We dropped samples to celebs and gave out free stockings to members of the public. We even visited Johnny Vaughn and Lisa Snowdon at Capital FM...Johnny was quite a fan of our outfits!

We kept our eyes peeled and we spotted coverage from; The Metro, The Scottish Sun, Orange, Pictures of the Day, plus blogs and lots of coverage through Twitter!

You can find out more about what we got up to and how you can donate to Breast Cancer Care here and if you like the look of our stockings you buy them online here.

Could it be Magic?

2011-10-30T10:54:00.000Z

Morning campers!

I've had another manic week, they seem to follow each other at the minute, but I am using the extra hour allowed by good-old daylight savings, to do some blogging. In particular, to share a beauty review.

I like to believe in magic creams. In my heart of hearts I know a cream won't make me slim, rid me of cellulite altogether, or make me look 16 again, but still the promise of some sort of miracle is nice isn't it? I'm sure many women feel the same, after all, we keep buying.

So when I was asked by Elemis to test their pro-collage body cream from the gorgeous new sp@home range, I, of course, said yes. This anti-aging cream body cream has the aim of smoother, firmer and younger looking skin. But are these magic promises?

Elemis pro-collagen body cream

Here is what Elemis says: "Designed with lattice technology to help restore surface cell cohesion, promote intercellular communication and reinforce skin's natural moisturisation factor...a unique complex of Mexican skin tree, silk protein and amino acids with marine extract padina pavonica."

So because I am a hopeless-romantic when it comes to products I have so far tested this cream for over seven days, with my fingers crossed (not some new fangled application technique just metaphorically). Thanks to close to four years writing for a magazine where I looked after the beauty content, I have tested a fair amount of these magic creams, and not many of these proved to be all that magic. Thankfully, (drum roll) I've fallen in love with this one...

Aside from the slick packaging - something you can always rely on with Elemis - this cream has a luxurious feel. It is incredibly light and instantly hydrates skin, (instantly hydrates sounds a bit like marketing-speak, but I really can't think of a better way to describe it!).

As you can see from the above photo, this is not one of those gloopy heavy creams - it is genuinely light, luxurious and hydrating all the way! You might also be able to see that there are tiny reflective particles, which when applied leaves a lovely light shimmer. Nothing too sparkly or in your face.

This cream includes three exotic oils, babassu, castanha and bilberry seed - which claim to help skin recover from environmental damage. Now for the magic - I have been slathering this cream on my most problematic area of my skin, my thighs. And I have noticed a big difference. The condition of my skin has improved, it is noticeably smoother, all my lumps and bumps seem to have disappeared. I can't promise my thighs are firmer, but they certainly feel a bit taughter, and it definitely isn't from any exercise.

I don't know if this Elemis pro-collagen body cream is magic, but I get the feeling it is about as close as we are going to get!

You can find out more about the product here, it is priced at £49.

Have you tried Elemis's pro-collagen body cream? Did you get good results? Any other magic creams worth a try?

Put on a poncho

2011-10-24T21:51:00.002+01:00

Evening all!

I've had a mega busy week, from shopping at Westfield Stratford (oh my God - amazing, but got blisters) and parading around the streets in my underwear (if you follow me on Twitter you'll know why, if not I'll tell you some other day), to decorating, sofa and carpet buying - it has been a crazy one!

I promised to share a recent buy that was quite a bargain so here is is...

This Internacionale poncho was a mere £16.99, and I've been looking for one like it for the past couple of months. I love the Nordic-style print and know that I'll wear this a lot over the coming months. It has two small buttons under the arms which give it a bit of shape and prevent the dreaded poncho-slip-off (I think I just made this up, poncho-slip-off isn't a genuine concern is it?) Anyhooo...I first decided I wanted a black and white printed poncho when I saw this beautiful press shot from House of Fraser:

Black & white print poncho, £80, House of Fraser

Although I totally fell in love with the poncho in this shot, alas, I did not have £80 to spend so Internacionale came to my rescue! I will, however, be using the above image for styling inspiration. Now, where did I put my snood?...

Has anyone else bought a poncho for this winter? Have you found any bargains after getting inspiration from somewhere else? A great beauty product coming up later this week - you are going to love it!

Colour Rush!

2011-10-12T21:00:00.000+01:00

Happy Wednesday evening greetings! I've been getting back into my nail polishes lately - perhaps it is an autumn thing for me, curling up in front of the TV painting my nails in the evening, nowadays accompanied by a cat on my lap too. So I recently treated myself to few new shades as some of my vast collection is in dire need of throwing out.

Good old Boots had a 'buy two get one free' offer on, so made the most of it and bough this lot...

L to R: Models Own Glden Peach, Models Own Wah Nail Art Pen, Models Own Mystic Mauve

I was attracted to these two shimmery Models Own shades because I've been really impressed with the super sparkly gold Models Own nail varnish I got earlier this year, and I thought these shades were also very different (albeit a little summery) from the others I own. The nail art pen I've wanted for ages so it was bit of a treat to finally pick one up.

L to R: No17 Supreme Shine Polish Mink, No17 Supreme Shine Spiced Plum,Rimmel 60 seconds Grey Matter

To completely utilise the offer I also got these three polishes as they were all a similar (and very cheap) price. These three shades are very autumnal so I'm imagining them with lots on my (yet-to-buy) A/W wardrobe. I've not used the No17 Supreme Shine polish before - but it boasts up to 10-day wear, which will be interesting to try out. I have a few of the Rimmel 60 second range of nail polishes - and all the others wear very well indeed, so that was quite a safe buy!

Sex and the City, New York Nail Bar, polishes and file

How cute is this little set? I was bought this as a leaving present from a friend when I finished at the magazines - I love that each of the girls have their own shade, so I think these will be fun to wear. Hard to see from this photo, but the polishes are quite opalescent so I'm hoping this will transfer once painted - we'll see.

Got some good posts lined up for over the next couple of weeks, including a gorgeous new product to test which will hopefully banish wobbly bits and a fabulous must-have A/W fashion item at a really bargainous price! Are you feeling in the autumn mood yet?

Kitsch & Quirky

2011-10-02T10:13:00.000+01:00

As promised yesterday...

I've recently been making (or rather putting together) some funky jewellery from beads and pendants I've bought. I was planning on taking them to a craft-type fair but couldn't go in the end so I'm now selling them on EBay. So if you like my style and are into Kitsch & Quirky jewellery (also what I've named the lil' collection) I'm hoping you'll like these. They are fun, bold and very retro with a few pin-up girl pendants thrown in - I think they are quite unusual. I popped this little lot on EBay yesterday and they are for sale for five days. I've started the bids off cheap - so if you fancy any of the below please bid and you could get a spangly new bit of jewellery for a bargainous price! And I hate to say it but...we are in the lead up to Christmas and these would make great little presents for friends!

Just click on the link to be taken to the Ebay page for each item.

'Oh-la-la Pin Up' Girl Necklace
Fun and retro this cute pin up girl charm is a nod to a bygone era!
The starting bid on this necklace is just £3

'Call Me, I'm Yours' Necklace

Making a call on this phone might be tricky...leave a message.

The starting bid on this necklace is just £3.

'She's a Lady' Necklace
Sugar and spice and all things nice - with cute girly charms.
The starting bid on this necklace is just £1.50.

'Cinderella' Necklace
This fun and quirky plastic orange shoe is perfect for all heel lovers, and there is only one because that is all Prince Charming found!
The starting bid on this necklace is just £1.50.

'The Junk Shop' Bracelet
Fun times - this bracelet is filled with an assortment of kitsch plactic charms including a tennis racket and a boater hat!
The starting bid on this braclet is just £2.

'Room for Two' Pin Up Postcard Necklace
A retro pin up postcard-style charm!
The starting bid on this necklace is just £2.

'Cupid's Capers' Pin Up Postcard Necklace
Another pin up postcard-style charm - and she's not naked, but wearing pink underwear!
The starting bid on this necklace is just £2.

Happy bidding folks!

Bowl - Take Two!

2011-10-01T13:33:00.000+01:00

Before (above) and after (below) my new hair stylings!

Hello there! I have had a rather hectic first week in my new job - I've got a rather long commute that is going to take some getting used to, but apart from that I'm enjoying my new role.

As it has been such a hectic week I haven't had time to upload the above photos of my new hair that I got done last week. It isn't a massive change - I'm trying to grow it dontchaknow! So I've had it cut into even more of a bowl shape as this allows me to keep the length but still retain a 'style' of sorts. Obviously I've had it coloured too - bye, bye roots. I've had a slightly creamier blonde put in this time, which I like but does mean I have to pile on the make up so I don't look like a ghost!

I hate having in-between length hair and was very close to having it cropped again, but I'm persevering, at least for the time being.

As for today - I'm off to the supermarket (so much for making the most of the good weather), then the cinema with James and a BBQ if it stays nice. Hope everyone else is enjoying the sunshine this weekend.
Tomorrow I've got some jewellery pics to post - and better than that - you can buy them too!

Dressing the Legs

2011-09-26T20:42:00.002+01:00

Hello lovely people! I have had a glorious weekend -thank you very much- as my lovely friend Sarah took me to a spa as my birthday present, which was marvelous. Although we were only in the hotel 24 hours, she came to Milton Keynes to see me first so actually spent all weekend together. One of the things we did over the weekend was go to see the very moving Journey's End at Milton Keynes Theatre. Honestly one of the best plays I have ever seen, it was beautifully done and left most of the audience in tears. This isn't a theatre blog so I'm not going to go on about it, but if you ever have the chance to see Journey's End - do it!

Today's post is about 'dressing the legs'. I'm a big lover of tights, long socks, leg warmers and all forms of funky leg-wear, needless-to-say I LOVE autumn. I have a little rule. No opaque tights before October. And I'm sticking by that. But that doesn't mean I can't plan for next week!

I read an article a few years back where SATC styling mastermind Patrica Field said that she thought dressing your legs was really important, and I have to agree. The easiest way to turn a simple outfit into a really interesting one is to whack on some wild tights.

With this all in mind I popped into M&S for a browse and their new range of very stylish fashion tights caught my eye...

These leopard print tights from the Autograph range (£9.50) are lovely because they are completely black and are more of a pattern than a print, unlike another leopard pair I have. The Limited collection star tights (£12) look VERY much like the ace Henry Holland ones I've seen Jessie J wearing. So I'm going to give them a go. There were quite a few other cool pairs including bandage style tights which are quite like the expensive (£32) Wolford tights Cheryl Cole wore in her Promise This video, so if I like these two pairs I might be making a return journey.

I also picked up these gorgeous knee high socks which have great textured knitted patterns on them and will look great with my boots, over natural tights.

I didn't actually buy these Sam & Jo cute knee high socks - they were part of my leaving present when I left the mag, but I absolutely adore them. In fact I might even wear them tomorrow, for my first day at my new job, as an Acting Account Manager for a super PR company, which is one of the mystery projects I recently mentioned!

On that note I need to go get myself organised.

Wish me luck...

What I Wore: Competition and a Red Face

2011-09-20T12:43:00.000+01:00

This is what I wore yesterday and also it is my entry for the fabulous Gem Fatale and Me & Zena LFW competition. All you have to do is upload a pic of you rocking a favourite look to ME & Zena's Facebook page and wait with pinkies crossed in anticipation. The prizes are a Lazy Oaf Tee, a Me & Zena necklace, Lime Crime make up treats and nail varnish from BeautyUK. Oh plus the winner's photo gets posted on Gem's totally awesome blog - amazeballs! Gem hinted in her post towards DIY and nail art, both of which I am a mega fan, but when I checked out the other entries everyone seems to have uploaded nail art. So to be a bit different I decided a funky tied headscarf would work as my little DIY turban!

The deets:
♥ Huge baggy top, Primark. I know it is cheap and cheerful but I totally love this top, it hides many, many sins (namely chocolate, cake, chocolate cake and the such), and goes with so many different things. Nude sort of colours are new for me as I'd avoided them until recently, worried my pale demeanor would leave me looking, er, actually nude.
♥ Skinny jeans, New Look. You can't really see them in this pic, but they are just plain and fit really nicely, plus they were under £30, bonus.
♥ Necklace, Freedom @ Topshop. This necklace was a wonderful present from my sister for my birthday last month. I know she bought it from Oxford St Topshop so I'm hoping it might not make it to all the other stores so I don't see a trillion people wearing it.
♥ Bracelet, BHS. Yes you read it right - I got given this on a BHS press day about six months ago and love the deep red colour, it wraps around my wrist several times, which is good because although I have spade hands, I have tiny wrists!
♥ Coral cardi, H&M. James bought me this for my birthday last month and I've already worn it loads. It is lovely, chunky and warm. It has a waist tie wrap-around thing going on which looks quite chic when it is done up too.
♥ Catseye glasses, online. I bought these from a very cool online retailer that I'm going to blog about soon - I love the retro shape...even though I have been called Dame Edna a couple of times.
♥ Scarf, vintage. Picked this us cheap on one of my vintage hauls, it is a lovely big square shape that makes it perfect for tying in lots of different ways.

Yesterday I ventured out of the house and had lunch and a really nice shopping trip with a friend who has been away all summer. Then I went to the cinema to see Tinker, Tailor, Solider, Spy with James. Film was quite good but I needed the loo half way through (why do I ever buy those big drinks in the cinema?!) and when i came back into the screen I fell, rather dramatically, three times - THREE TIMES - up the stairs. I know what you are thinking. Impressive - right? So James rushed to help me, practically carried me back to our seats and gave anyone death-stares who even thought about laughing at me. Oh no, sorry he didn't. He laughed, took the piss out of me then told me how embarrassing I am. Cheers boy! Oh and I bent all the fingers on my left hand really far backwards when I fell (the second time?) and they hurt like hell now.

Please someone else own up to being a complete klutz so I don't feel like such a loon? Can anyone top my embarrassing up-stairs cinema multi-fall for red face factor?

The end of an era...

2011-09-17T16:54:00.000+01:00

Picture taken on my birthday!

Hello there beautiful people. This is my first post using the new Blogger interface and it has really thrown me (I know, I know, I should have used it sooner), I'm finding it very unwelcoming, but thankfully for anyone reading this, my little old page will look just the same, lucky you.

Yesterday was my last day at the magazines, and I had a real jumble of feelings. 1. I was relieved my notice period was over, anyone who has ever been made redundant will know working your notice period can be really hard when you've essentially already lost a job you love. 2. I felt upset, I've adored my job working for Style, and the other magazines. On my last day a colleague said to me he has never known someone so suited to a job, which is lovely but also a bit sad as I was leaving! 3. I felt scared, I'd worked there for almost four years and I knew my job inside out, which is very reassuring. Going somewhere new and doing something different takes me out of my box and my nerves are jangling already, which I guess is healthy. 4. I felt really surprised and touched (no, not in a gross way, you perverts) that so many of my colleagues came to our leaving lunch (three of us left yesterday) . I got some lovely presents and cards with messages that made me realise just how much I've enjoyed working with certain people. I also got some lovely emails from some of my contacts - many of who I really hope to stay in contact with.

So what now?

Well I've got ten days off to get myself sorted, clean the house, get back to the gym, do some blogging and generally get back to feeling like me again instead of a stressed little zombie. I've got a couple of exciting prospects bubbling away but I don't want to say too much until they are confirmed and contracts have been signed. But it looks like I'm going to be able to pay the bills, which is always nice.

I've had a hectic few weeks home-wise too so thought I'd share some pictures of what I've been up to outside of work...

My birthday weekend my parents came to visit and we went to a really fabulous cabaret club called The Greene Room in Milton Keynes.

It was lots of fun - as you can see here, I am having fun. Although my mother looks slightly worried. No change there.

My cousin, Sam, had a hoe-down of a 21st party, which saw lots of cowboys, cowgirls, one boy who was dressed as a girl and a few other wild west themed characters. I wore two different costumes, obviously.

I showgirled-it up, any excuse to wear a wig, and James in costume

My cousin Tom, and I, in our cowboy/girl outfits and the birthday boy Sam looks out from the saloon

My Gran turned 80! We had a family meal out to celebrate, which was lovely, and I decorated a themed cake for her, which turned out better than I hoped.

All my mum's side of the family.

My Gran with her cake I made, and me and my 'little' sister.

So that is me, what I've been up to and all that. I'm hoping my new job/s will give me chance to be a better blogger and dedicate a bit more time over here. Plus I'm probably going to get myself a laptop so I can blog-on-the-go. Exciting! Hope you are all well and happy and I look forward to getting reaquainted with my readers...*group hug*.

This is why...

2011-08-30T21:23:00.001+01:00

(Click to zoom/read)

I've been saying for some time that I will 'reveal all', tell you about what I do for a living, who I am - well this (above) explains, nearly, everything you need to know. For the past three and a half years I have been writing for several blooming wonderful magazines based in Buckinghamshire. From restaurant reviews and travel features, to fashion and beauty, I've done a bit of everything. Also, for the past year, I have been writing a weekly fashion column: Life is a Catwalk. And I've loved it.

Today my last column was published as I have been made redundant. Oh, and it is also my birthday.

Anyone need a freelance?

What I Wore: The Bowl Cut

2011-08-14T20:51:00.000+01:00

Howdy folks.

I was going to post this during the week, but with all the UK riots it just seemed, I don't now, sort of inappropriate to post something so trivial as an outfit. Like most people, I was really shocked by the riots and my thoughts are with all those who are now trying to rebuild businesses, homes and neighbourhoods. I went out to meet some friends for a meal last night and by the end of the evening conversation turned to the events of the past week, a rather lively debate ensued, but I sat back. Although I have my own views on the 'whys' of the riots I don't really feel the need to air them, I don't think I know enough about all the factors involved to really add anything to the argument, other than, I felt for the people whose neighbourhoods were damaged, and also found the whole thing rather frightenting.

That is all I'm going to say on the matter because A) I felt I should acknowledge it, and B) if you are here, you've come to read about fashion fun - not news-based opinion pieces.

So on to less serious things...
I've had my hair reshaped and roots done. I forgot how tedious the grow-out process is, the worst bit is the 'nothing' hairstyles between crop and bob-length. So I've gone for a bit more of (what I like to think of as) a bowl shaped cut. The fringe is quite square, and then it is graduated at the back. I think it looks quite nice from the side, but from the front I kind if look like I have a big fringe and my hair in a pony-tail. Equally, I'm not entirely sure I suit a full fringe, but at least it is a bit of a change. The plan is to keep the nape tight, so eventually I end up with a graduated bob. I want it now! I just can't wait until it is long enough that I can wear some extensions.

Here is a recent work outfit. I had to go do a job which required a bit of traipsing round town so flats were essential, I don't walk in heels.

Ridiculous posing face

What I wore:

♥ Black jeans: From unknown stall at The Clothes Show several years ago. These have worn pretty well and have really nice gold detailing -that you can't see here - on the pockets.
♥ Frill shirt: Bought this in a New Look sale ages ago, but this is the first time I've worn it like this with a tie ribbon and belt.
♥ Earrings: These are vintage, 80s stylee which my mum gave me.
♥ Cardi: Zara. I bought this to wear to a wedding but it didn't end up going with the final outfit so never got worn. I love the little leopard print collar, but it doesn't go with many things despite it being classic black!
♥ Belt: Primarni. I can't breathe wearing this super tight wide belt, sort of feels like wearing a corset. Fun times.
♥ Trainers: Matalan. I've had these for quite a long time, but only just started wearing them again, as you can see they are giving way at the bottom!

One last thing. I told you in my last post I'd show you something I'd won, which might be useful for my new hobby...

I won this Kirstie Allsopp sewing box in a raffle! Love the cute design, and it means I have somewhere to keep all my craft bits and pieces. My new hobby is making jewellery, I'm made stuff before, mainly for myself or for presents, but I've recently found a couple of places that sell really funky jewellery making bits, so I've been getting my craft on! I actually find it really relaxing too.

That is it for tonight. I've hurt my right wrist, think it is sprained (can you sprain your wrist swimming? I think exercise is probably to blame), so I've had to type all this with my left and I'm aching now!

Hope you are all safe and have had a good week. What hobbies do you guys do when you are not working and blogging? - although I'm surprised we have time for anything else!

A holiday, a day out and a new arrival...

2011-08-02T21:02:00.000+01:00

I thought I'd do a bit of a catch up post, including some recent What I Wore mentions, it has been a while and you know I like a good natter.

After getting settled in our new house, we managed to book ourselves a short break to Dorset, camping. Whoa, wait a minute, don't raise your eyebrows - yes I like to camp. In a tent. Although I do insist on having an electric hook up! The weather - predictably, but disappointingly - was very mixed, although mainly dry, and we only got one beach-worthy day. Still we had fun and kept ourselves busy for six days visiting castles and cute little villages, riding steam trains, painting Poole pottery, eating out and even visiting a little boutique in Poole called Primark (sad isn't it!)

One beach day

What I Wore: Dress, Primark, belt, vintage

James and I, tourist central!

What I Wore: Tee, H&M, scarf, Accessorize, cardi, Boohoo.

Ahhh, also you may notice I am, sort of, blonde again. Yes, about that. I had this sudden urge a few weeks ago to have bob-length blonde hair and to be able to use my collection of extensions, so I'm gradually having it lightened, and I'm growing it. So it is sort of peachy here, and a bit shapeless. Mmmmmm! I am under no illusion I will, at some point, get bored of it and have it short again, but I just fancy a change at the moment.

Just over a week ago I went to Silverstone Classic for work, so took my Dad and James along. It was a fab day out - so much to see, including some celebs! The weather was mixed so while watching one of the races we absolutely froze, in fact, shortly after the below picture was taken!

Smiles at Silverstone

What I Wore: Denim shirt, River Island, cardi, market, scarf, vintage.

Finally, and most importantly, I've had a busy couple of weeks because we've welcomed a new addition to our household...a kitten. Eight-week-old Fizzy (so named because we brought her home in a Diet Coke box) has been with us for two weeks now. She is a little terror and I love her to bits. Although she does like to walk on the keys when I try to blog!

No kittens were harmed in the taking of this photo!

So there is a whirlwind tour of the past couple of weeks to bring you right up to speed. I won something the other day which will help me with a new hobby I'd like to pursue, so I'll tell you about that in an upcoming post. What have you all been up to? Holiday? Lovely summer events? Anyone got any cat related tips to pass on to me t help me in my new role as 'mum'?

Much love,

Re-boot

2011-07-19T18:24:00.000+01:00

So...er...hi!

Remember me? It took a little longer than I thought - but I am back from my unavoidable absence.

The house drama continued much longer than we anticipated - we ended up moving into our new place about a month ago, after five weeks of homelessness (where we lived with James' parents). I've got to say now we are in the house we are very happy - it's wonderful after renting for so many years. It took a couple of weeks to get the internet hooked up and then we went away on holiday. We got back two days ago, so now I've finally got five minutes to sit down and do some much overdue blogging.

When I first realised I'd have to take a break from my site because of the move I was, in some ways, quite relieved. I was so stressed with buying our first house that I just couldn't dedicate the time or energy that I wanted to into this blog, so a break was well needed.

It has also given me an opportunity to reflect on the direction I want the blog to take going forward and my attitude to it.

I'm going to be introducing more regular features. In addition to What I Wore, there will be Lusting After posts dedicated to items I'd love to buy at the minute, Inspiration posts featuring celebrities, friends, fellow bloggers or photographs that have inspired me, plus lots of other beauty and fashion items under the Beauty Fix and Fashion Fix tags.

I'm going to be reaching out to other bloggers to ask some of my favourites whether they'd like to write a guest post for the blog. And I'm going to dedicate more time to commenting on others blogs - as I read so many but don't always comment on what I've read.

Reading back over my posts from the last 18 months I realise that I haven't really 'shown myself' much, although my pictures are all over the blog, in many ways, I'm still quite anonymous. That is going to change. Watch this space.

I'm glad to be back.

Explanation time...I'll be back

2011-05-03T20:14:00.000+01:00

Sad hobo face

As of Thursday I'll be commencing my new role as a hobo, as we are getting chucked out of our rented house and still haven't got a moving in date for the place we are (meant to be) buying. I've never been so stressed in my entire life. I know understand why they say moving house is one of the most stressful things you can ever do.

From Friday we'll be abode-less so will be staying at James' parents' house until our new place is sorted. As a direct consequence we won't have proper access to the internet for some time so expect a delay on blogging until I'm all moved in. I will, however, still be tweeting: so if you want to chat, offer me a floor to sleep on, or poke fun at my homelessness you can find me @Fashion_Bandit.

When I'm sorted I'll be back on the blog front more than ever with some

exciting changes, announcements and ...revelations!

I hope you'll bear with me until then, thanks lovely people :)

Just a Touch of Decoration

2011-05-01T19:06:00.000+01:00

My excuses may be feeble - but at least they are true: I've spent the past three weeks in house-buying turmoil. We were mean to move over Easter, then over the Royal Wedding/May day bank holiday weekend, then on Thursday, now? Who knows! - more of that in my next post.

In the meantime I believe I owe you some nail pictures...here are some recent 'nail jobs'.

Mine (left) and my mum's nails (right), I love just sticking jewels on the ring finger for a bit of bling, it is so quick and easy to do too, I'm all about the easy.

My sisters nails looked really cute with flowers on the ring finger as an alternative to stones. This picture makes her hand look really diddy, so before anyone comments about me painting small children's nails, she is 22.

I used the usual technique for this leopard print, I think the practice is paying off because this is definitely one of my better attempts. I went for classic leopard colours for a change as well, which make the effect even more convincing!

I used my nail tattoos seen in my last post, plus tried out my new dotting tool, needless to say should have done another coat of colour before applying, and need more practice with the polka dots!

Finally, a photo not take in the best of conditions, but you can see the polka dots getting a bit better. Forgot to clean up the cuticle area on the thumb before taking the photo - oops! Chose some bright spring colours for an Easter egg look!

What designs have you guys been trying? Got any other tips for easy stylish nails?

Beauty Buys: Nails & Lashes

2011-04-12T23:14:00.000+01:00

Hello all you lot.

Yes, er, sorry about the delayed post - all this buying a house malarkey rather eats up your time. I fear there is more time to be eaten, yet to come :S

I thought I'd share with you some new beauty buys, with prices where I can remember them! I've been stocking up on nail art bits and pieces over the past couple of weeks as I've got back into decorating my (short and stubby) 'talons'.

Kiss nail art & John Lewis dress making pins

The Kiss nail art set I've bought before, not only are the flowers really cute on painted nails but the gems look great in lines on nails like studs, or even used on the out-side corners of eyes for nights out (I know this sounds lame, but actually I think it looks quite good - see here). The pack is about £3.50ish.

The John Lewis dress making pins are so I can try a method I read on Gem Fatale's Style Blog (the queen of thrifty tips!) where she showcased Cutepolish's video on household items you can use as nail dotting tools. These were a bargain at just £1. Ahh, good old 'value' range. Looking forward to having polka dot nails very soon.

Andrea Fulerton nail tattoos

I spotted these in Superdrug, and the skull designs in particular caught my eye. I've never used the range before (anyone else?) but there were a few designs to choose from. In the end I settled for a multitude of chains and those skulls. It was about £2 a set, but I think they'll last me a while.

Girls Aloud 'festival lashes'

A night out isn't a night out unless I'm wearing false lashes. Sadly I apply them badly so destroy them on removal. Needless to say my eyelash-bill is considerable.Or it would be if I had a social life. Anyway, I usually opt for Eylure lashes - just the normal evening wear ones - or the plain Girls Aloud ones, but these bejewelled (Nadine) and silver tipped (Nicola) versions are really pretty and seen as they were just £1 each in Home Bargains I thought, why the heck not!

I'm off to bed now, and after updating I'm sure I'll sleep much better. Plus I have a good book to curl up with. Hope everyone is well and enjoying the sunshine.

Click Refresh

2011-04-02T16:22:00.001+01:00

Before...& after

Ever feel like you need a re-fresh? Yeah me too.

My hair had spiralled to a pathetic natural *shudder* colour, which left me feeling just as washed out, that can only ever mean one thing - time to visit the hairdresser.

I went for ginger again, but an even intenser colour this time. I've kept it longer on top and had the back and sides shaved to a 6, which is about perfect as far as I'm concerned, I just need to fight the fade now. I've had 'Directions' suggested to me by my hairdresser as a good colour re-boost for when it starts to fade. Until then I'll be trying not to wash my hair everyday, washing in cooler water and using products designed to halt the fading process. Let me know if you've got any tips or have tried 'Directions'?

In other, ground breaking news, I joined the gym yesterday. I've got the fella to join as well for moral support, so here begins the fitness regime. I'm sort of excited to get fit and also apprehensive, got to suck it up though, right?

Off out partying tonight so I'm off to tidy the house, clean the car & make myself presentable - hope everyone else is having good weekends.

What I Wore: The Marble Dress

2011-03-27T18:29:00.000+01:00

An outfit from last weekend - I had a fairly rare night out, so got to dressed up, which is always fun. As you can see here my hair was on the major fade - and is somewhere between red and strawberry blonde. I have had it redone this week so will post a pic soon to show you the new colour soon.

In the meantime here is a quick What I Wore:
♥ Marble dress, River Island. You might remember it from this post, when I got the dress at Christmas. I really like the shoulder pads and it has a little cutout keyhole piece at the top of the back too which is quite sweet. I think the patterned front and plain back are quite flattering - which I need ATM because I am not exercising, but eating lots of bad things.
♥ Holey leggings. I have no idea where I bought these from, they were tights but were too short so I cut the feet off them to make them into leggings, they go with lots of my 'night out' outfits so it was a good decision!
♥ Carvela Kurt Geiger shoes. My most favourite shoes ever, they were a very generous gift.
♥ Long feathered earring. I normally wear just one with a large stud in the other ear, like I've done here. My sister bought me these earrings Christmas before last and they still remain a fave.

I went away on a work press trip with the fella this weekend to the Cotswold's, it was lovely - I just lay around and ate lots, my kind of weekend! Now I am back in my mouse house.

If you follow my Twitter you may have seen me mention the fact that I have at least one (probably more) mouse/mice in my house. James spotted one the other night, the day after I came face to face with one. I called it Jeremy. For all I know it could actually be a Jemima, to be honest I didn't ask. I was all for the humane traps, but James bought poison, so far the greedy buggers have eaten 200g worth, which makes me think Jeremy has friends. I don't like that we are using poison as my Mum & Dad's last cat died of poison because someone was laying it outside, but we are only laying it inside, so hopefully it won't harm any other animals. I just know how destructive they can be... Anyone else had similar problems & can offer advice?

So that is what is going on with me - exciting eh?! Hope you've had good (pest free) weekends!

What I Wore: Spots & Clocks

2011-03-20T17:49:00.001Z

I've been a bad blogger of late, haven't I? Sorry all this house stuff plus a bad cold has been keeping me busy!

A friend from work left last month so had a delayed leaving do where a load of people met up for a drink. Weirdly there were more past employees than current ones in attendance.

I popped a temporary colour on my hair as it is looking very faded out at the moment, I love the colour it gives (Rusk, Scream Orange Blast) but it lasts only a couple of washes. So for a night out it is great but I'm looking for something that gives more long lasting vibrancy. I'm getting my hair re-done soon so fingers crossed!

Enough of the chat, here are the details (it is a bit of a Primarni special)...
♥ Polka dot top, Primark. I love this top because I think the shoulder pads and detail help balance my pear-shaped figure. I always get compliments on it too :)
♥ Velvet skater skirt, Primark. I bought this in the Chritmas sale, you may remember it from here, and for just £3 I can't complain!
♥ London tights, Henry Holland. I love my Big Ben tights, I laddered the first pair so these were my replacements!
♥ Gold boots, Irregular Choice. I got these from TK Maxx a couple of years back for the bargain price of £30.

On Friday I organised red-wig day at work for Comic Relief. It was really good fun as the team I work on made a really big effort - which was lovely. We raised a decent amount of money, and it was fun having long hair to swish, even if it was just for a day!

Swish, and pout

Did anyone else get up to any fun fundraisng last week?

Oops, I did it again...

2011-03-13T21:15:00.001Z

I've had a very busy week, but before I get down to that, here is a fly-by of some items I've bought lately. Someone recently told me you shouldn't buy clothes unless you want it madly or need it badly. Here are some wanted madly purchases...

I saw this really cute top in River Island last week, and I've been keeping my eyes peeled for some strong injections of colour for my wardrobe as most things tend to be black, grey, white or navy. Luckily I had a credit note left over from Christmas which paid for this. I think this looks good on with my ginger hair and I'll be wearing it with a longer top underneath - no one needs to see my belly!

Also a couple of weeks ago, when I was shopping for that wedding outfit, I fell for these palazzo pants, also from River Island, and also bought with that credit note. They are really long so I have to wear big heels with them, but they've already had a few outings, for both work and play. They are super comfy too, and I think, despite the busy pattern, quite flattering. Annoyingly after buying these I saw them featured in a couple of magazines so I'm expecting to see lots of people wearing the same ones!

The scarf though, was pure indulgence. I was shopping for a birthday present for my friend in Accessorize and got distracted. I LOVE my scarves and normally tie them around my head, and the combination of the beautiful central pattern, the leopard-print edgy and the fact it is silk, meant it was perfect to add to my collection. At just 16-quid though, I think it was worth it.

Lovely thing yes, but sadly I'm going to have to curb my shopping gene as I, along with James, am about to make one rather large purchase...our first house! After renting for four years we'll finally be stepping on to the property ladder, and I can't wait. We've had our offer accepted and all the wheels are in (fast) motion, so fingers crossed - soon I'll be moving!

My parents and sister came to stay this weekend, to see the house and they liked it, which is good. Hopefully next time they come to visit it will be to help us with the big move.

How has everyone elses weekends been? Any recent house-buyers who'd like to offer some advice? Any thrifty sorts who've got ideas as to how I can curb my shopping habit now I'll have a mortgage to pay?

What I Wore: Superhero-Stylee

2011-03-06T19:23:00.002Z

Just a quickie tonight. I wore this for work last week as I couldn't wait to wear my new Tee from my man. Plus you get a ridiculous superhero-pose/face thrown in for free. I'm good to you.

What I wore:
♥ Wonderwoman T-shirt, bought for me by my boy, I loves it.
♥ Mini skirt, from H&M. Denim in colour, but not in material. I wear this skirt loads, it goes with everything and is a good length.
♥ Ankle boots, you can't really see them, but they are beyond high and seriously sexy.
♥ Red cardi, trusty number from good old Primarni.
♥ Belt, vintage, used to be my mum's, circa the 80s.
♥ Glasses, Jasper Conran, 'cos I'm quite blind without them.

I'm loving that Mac have a Wonderwoman range out atm, has anyone tried it? I might investigate, make up, t-shirt, all I need now is long blue locks, a smokin' bod and superpowers.

Short and sweet tonight because I'm in the middle of cooking a roast dinner, I'm quite domesticated, don't-cha-know. Going to paint my nails and watch the final part of South Riding on the box then an early night. Hope everyone else has had good weekends?

An Anniversary

2011-03-05T22:25:00.000Z

Hello!

James and I, looking like a pair of moomins

Had a busy couple of weeks so just trying to get my life organised - while I do that here is a recent update, I celebrated being with my fella, James, for six years.
We met at university and were friends for more than a year before we got together. We've been through a lot together, including spending a year living 200 miles apart. We've now lived together for four years and are house hunting to buy our first home.

We had a couple of days in the Lake District to chill out. Because our anniversary and Valentines fell really close together we just got each other a couple of presents for valentines and went out for a meal for our anniversary. James bought me...

Pressies!

This very cool wonder woman T-shirt and cute little hearts shopper bag! I also got some flowers and choccies. Happy girl!

While we were in the Lakes I visited Lakeland (the plastics/kitchen place) and oh-my-God, kitchen heaven! A world of things I never knew I needed until I saw them. Picked up some new piping nozzles and bags. I also bought a giant cupcake mould from Hobbycraft, who I never realised did so much cake making stuff.

I really wanted to bake an anniversary cake for James, but I had some serious problems, the

top half of the cake would not play ball. I did two attempts at the top half before I ran out of ingredients, so we ended up with a piped buttercream top...slightly sickly, but edible.

The finished product, slightly eaten...

Normal service will be resumed shortly.

What I Wore: To The Wedding

2011-02-26T20:25:00.001Z

I told you a little while ago that I went to the hen party of my first friend to get married, Kate - well the wedding was last week. I had a real nightmare deciding on an outfit for the wedding I actually bought three dresses before I settled on this black number. I had a bit of a fashion melt down, the first dress, short enough to make the vicar blush, the second, so tight I wouldn't be able to eat a mouthful of wedding cake and finally this dress, that, well, was the same colour as the bridesmaids' dresses. Breaking the eternal wedding guest rule, but thankfully I got permission (via a frantic phone call) from the bride to wear black.

Anyhows, here is the breakdown;
♥ Black buttoned dress, H! by Henry Holland at Debenhams. The winning dress in a flattering 50s style cut.
♥ Black cardi, H&M
♥ Leopard print belt, New Look. I bought this to match my headpiece.
♥ Headpiece - made by me, separate flowers from H&M and widow's lace from local fabric shop.
♥ Aeroplane necklace, Eclectic Eccentricity, I bought this a couple of years ago - but it is still one of my faves.
♥ Shoes, Carvela.

The wedding itself was wonderful - I went with my fella and my parents as the bride is a family friend. Kate looked beautiful, wearing a fitted dress with black accessories. She even did her own hair and make up in a gorgeous vintage style - all pin curls and red lippy - I think she looked perfect!

The lovely bride & groom

Me & my boy, James

What I really like about the wedding is that the couple & family did a lot of the details themselves, menus, order of service, place cards, favours, table decorations etc. It made everything really personal. It was a great day, and I wish the couple a long and happy life together!

Anyone else been to any weddings recently or have any coming up? I'd love to know what you wore/ are planning to wear.

A guest sailor

2011-02-23T21:15:00.000Z

Aye aye shipmates!

I've been away for a few days, six to be precise, and fabulousa it was too, but more of that in a forth coming post. A thousand apologises for the absence.

In the time I've been away the lovely Ella at Belle Vintage (amazing online vintage shoppe) has posted my guest post on her site, which includes a smattering of nautical fashion, including my collage as above. So sail on over there and have a look!

Got lots to get done this week including catching up on my blog reading - what have I missed folks?

Beauty Fix: Mini Straighteners

2011-02-15T18:46:00.001Z

Hello y'all!

Today I've been trying these gorgeous mini straighteners...

Cute eh? And leopard print, even better. These straighteners have kindly been sent to me by beauty tools website The Beauty Works for testing. The Beauty Works sell everything from facial toning gadgets to heated eyelash curlers, and of course hair straighteners.

Having short hair my GHDs don't get as much use as they once did, the poor little things. However after one day of clean hair, on day two, running straighteners through can often tackle the wilds of my cropped style.

They heat up to an impressive 200 degrees C, and have ceramic plates. I can testify to their heat, I burnt my finger on them this morning! They certainly did the job of calming down the frizz for a quick fix, just use a squirt of protection spray on your barnet you should be good to go.

I really like these and I will be using them for when I'm travelling definitely. I've not tried curling my hair with them yet, if it works I'll get quite I tight curl because of the size, which would be really good - I'll let you know how I get on.

Oh, and did I mention they are only £9.99. That is surely a bargain in anyone's book.

Big Bloggerversary: Winner Revealed!

2011-02-13T20:52:00.001Z

Thank you to everyone who entered my big bloggerversary competition!

Little pile'o entries

I wrote on the entrants names (plus extras for those who tweeted) onto while paper, snipped them up, folded and closed my eyes to pluck the lucky winner - scientific eh?!

And the winner is...

Fashion Junkie! It was actually your extra Twitter entry that won you the loot (that is what the little 'T' means). Congratulations! I know for a fact that Chloe from Fashion Junkie has been following my blog for a quite some time and she always leaves me lovely comments - so it will give me great pleasure sending you your bag of goodies. Please email me with your postal address to thefashionbandit@gmail.com.

Thanks again for all your entries folks and commiserations to those who didn't win this time, don't worry I'll host some more giveaways in the not so distant future :)

Ch-ch-change

2011-02-06T20:23:00.000Z

Yesterday morning

I mentioned yesterday that I was planning a hair over-haul as I was hating my purple rinse and feeling crappy, so this is what I had done...

Yesterday afternoon

I asked for Nicola Robert, of Girl's Aloud fame, red. This isn't really the shade I was aiming for. I wanted it a bit lighter than this, and a bit less fiery. With so many people going various shades of red I really wanted to stay away from pillar-box red, so although it isn't exactly what I had planned, I think it ticks the box. Still getting used to it, but I think I'm pleased with it. I've had it shaved at the sides and the back again (number 5 if you must know), so it is a bit shorter than last-time. As my hair dresser said, my hair grows like weeds, so by the time I'm next there it will be super long again, that is unless I take the clippers to it myself. It wouldn't be the first time...

So guys, honestly what do you think? Are there now colours I can't wear? Any fellow red-heads want to give me some tips? I've got to debut this bad-boy at work tomorrow, so I'm expecting a barrage of ginge jokes! Anyone else been temped to go to the red-side?

What I Wore: The First Hen

2011-02-05T13:26:00.001Z

Sup people?!

A big thanks to everyone who entered my competition - I'll be drawing the very lucky winner later today :) Thank you for all the sweet comments about my last post re:my gran's coat too, it was lovely to hear about some other people's treasured hand-me-downs.

On to today's post:
This is what I wore to my friend's hen party. I can't actually believe it, my first friend is getting married. This is a whole new era of my life, wedding season. I guess I'm coming into the age where everyone starts settling down, buying houses, getting married and I suppose eventually...having babies. Cripes.

Anyhow my chum Kate will be the first one of all my friends to walk the aisle, so we had to see her off at a hen party! It was a very civilized affair, but it was in Liverpool so we all got dolled up - which is always fun. I've been feeling pretty crappy at the moment, a bit of a confidence crash really, not sure why. I'm not looking for sympathy, but it might explain why my hair is getting a drastic overhaul later today.

Anyhoos, what I wore:
♥Long-sleeved sparkle dress, Topshop. Got this in a sale over a year ago to wear to my sister's 21st. Was worried about wearing it again recently as I thought 'everyone has seen that loads' but I think it looks totally different without the long blonde hair!
♥ Henry Holland Chain Suspender Tights. Were on my Xmas wish list, and my wish was granted!
♥Leopard earrings. You might recognise these from this post, they were a Christmas present, I love the damn 80s-ness of these!

My hair is sooo long now (long for me) and you'll notice my hair has faded loads since I had it done purple before Christmas, it looks like a completely different colour! Lately I've been wearing it as above - curled and hairsprayed to oblivion - whenever I've gone out! Can't wait to get it sorted later today. Looking forward to chillaxed weekend otherwise. What about you guys?

Something special

2011-01-31T20:18:00.000Z

A few weeks ago my gran told me how she was picking my eight-year-old cousin up from school when she overheard some of the mums chatting about a fur coat. As the group drooled over one of their collective's outer-wear the mum in question revealed that the coat she was wearing had belonged to her auntie.

This got my gran thinking, because she had a fur coat hanging in her wardrobe that she hadn't worn for some 30 years. She dug it out, and offered it to me. This beautiful coat was bought for my gran by my grandad in 1967. It cost £40. In in 1967, this was an expensive coat!

It is an Astrakhan and mink coat - make by a french company called Astro-fur. Inside the label it reads: "This is a luxury garment and is not intended for everyday use". My gran tells me she only used to wear it when she went 'clubbing' with my grandad!

The coat fits me perfectly - and I am so in love with it. I feel very lucky that my gran has kept and given to me, such a lovely item. I never met my Grandad as he died when my mum was in her teens, if my calculations are right, just three years after buying this coat for my gran. Even more so, this makes it very special and I'll be looking after it with the up most care.

Anyone else have a special item passed down from a parent or grandparent?

P.S. If you like my leopard print hairband make sure you have entered my competition, because I also bought one just the same to add to the huge bundle of prizes I'm giving away!

Big Bloggerversary Competition

2011-01-27T10:00:00.014Z

Hello lovely people - I've been teasing you all month about something special coming to the blog - and here it is, a massive bloggerversary giveaway. That is right, one lucky reader is going to win £60 worth of gorgeous loot!

I really wanted my competition to reflect this blog and the style I showcase here, so I hope you'll like the look of these amazing prizes...

The prizes:

♥ A beautiful bead and diamante collar necklace from Accessorize. This stunning necklace has been kindly donated by Accessorize for this very competition! I worked with Accessorize earlier this year and styled up some pretty new products on the blog.

♥ Five funky pairs of on-trend tights from Charnos. These fabulous patterned tights have kindly been donated by Charnos for this competition! I was a tights tester for Charnos last year and got to cast my critical eye over lots of their lovely wares.

♥ Soap & Glory Sexy Mother Plucker lip gloss, Scrub Your Nose in it face scrub and shower puff. I blogged about my love for Soap & Glory, and these brand new goodies were kindly donated for the competition...by me ;)

♥ I've also added into the prize pot: a funky leopard print bow headband, because I also bought one for myself and it is so cute, plus one of the special offer Nails Inc nail varnishes from Boots, because I got some for myself in the offer last year and they are gorgeous colours.

How to enter…

You must be a follower of Fashion Bandit: Fashionista in Training with either Google Connect or Bloglovin’ (if you are not already following – what are you waiting for!), then just leave me a comment below this post telling me how you follow.

For another entry tweet about this competition with a link to this post (Please also include ‘@Fashion_Bandit’ in your tweet so I can find it).

And yes, you can enter twice, giving you even better chance of winning – hurrah!

The competition closes at 11pm GMT on Thursday 3^rd February, at which point I’ll randomly choose a lucky winner.

Good luck!

Bloggerversary!

2011-01-26T11:00:00.000Z

Happy birthday to my little blog, which is one today!

It has been an interesting first year of my blog, I feel like I have learn lots and still have much more to learn. I have also met some cool people. I started this blog as a way to share my love of fashion, and also to keep a sort of style diary for myself. After spending the previous year as a committed Flickr user, I wanted a new challenge and this was it.

Here is my year...

January 2010

I started the blog and confessed my love of cheap shoes. An addiction I still harbour.

February 2010

TK Maxx kindly asked me to take part in their Sport Relief bloggers challenge where I had to style up a charity Tee and win the adoration of Facebookers, sadly I was up against a seasoned blogger with an army of followers - at the time I had three - needless to say I didn't win, but it was fun and I found some cool people to follow in the process. In February I also became at Charnos tights tester which was fantastic because not only did they supply me with lots of funky tights, but I got to write about them too.

March 2010

Was probably my most exciting month, as Henry Holland chose my face to be one of just a small number of girls' pictures to appear on a limited edition bag and scarf in the H! by Henry Holland range at Debenhams. Safe to say I almost pee'd my pants when I found out. The coolest thing to happen to me. Ever.

April 2010

I modelled for a very cool photographer friend of mine, when he wanted to do some portrait shots for his portfolio. I enjoyed playing model for the day and also styled both my hair and makeup and the other model's, which was amazing.

May 2010

A big month for me, I went for the chop, and had my 24 inch long hair snipped into a very short crop. It was something I'd been dying to do for sometime and I'm still glad I worked up the courage to do it, everyone was really supportive, so thank you!

June 2010

I had to deal with my first nasty comment. Some bloggers might have disagreed with the way I handled it, but it was the only way I could face coming back to my blog: to tackle it head on. I like to think it gave me courage to continue doing my blog, the way I wanted to do it and not to give in to pressure.

July 2010

I confessed a dirty secret. We all have them, and mine was a disgusting beauty confession. I'm still trying hard not to sin in this area of my life!

August 2010

I got into my grove with What I Wore posts and even had a go a customising a tee - which has become a statement piece in my wardrobe, you've got to love a bargain DIY piece.

September 2010

In September I got asked by the lovely Accessorize to road test some of their beautiful new season pieces and got to play dress up with lots of really pretty things. A week later and I had worked seven sexy accessories into my outfits - much fun and much What I Wore posting!

October 2010

Not only did I get to see the result of my Henry Holland win, but I also showed you an amazing vintage dress I bought for just £2. Bargain-tastic.

November 2010

I confessed my personal fashion rules, some people agreed with me, some did not. I also completely freaked out about the blog. I feared I was unloved, yes a complete blogging taboo...I admitted I wanted people to read this blog. The shock, the horror.

December 2010

Not only did I embark on a mega posting marathon, with my fashion advent calendar, but I also said bye-bye to the blonde. After being many shades of blonde for the best part of four years I decided to go purple, and you guys seemed to like it because it was my most commented on post! It has now faded and I have lilac hair...eh, you win some you lose some.

That was my blogging year. I'd like to thanks all my followers for your comments and your support.

A special thank you goes to Kelly of Hair advice and all things nice, Ella of BelleVintage, Jo of Music, Fashion, Clutter and the mystery lady from Heart Shaped Bruise : you lovely ladies have been my most loyal commenters and I'd like you to know I appreciate you!♥

Tomorrow I have a special giveaway launching on the blog to celebrate my bloggerversary and it features two of the wonderful companies that have supported my blog and are mentioned above...exciting stuff! Stay tuned!

Still trying to nail it

2011-01-23T20:25:00.001Z

Hello folks - thought I'd share some nail art with you from recently. I'm still getting the hang of it, painting details on the right hand is rather my weak point!

Top to bottom: Weather Symbols, Rock and Roll, Minty Leopard (on my sister!) and Slightly Studded.

I've really been enjoying playing with nail art again at the minute, going to be trying lots more WAH! inspired designs over the next few weeks so I'll post more pictures of my attempts. Has anyone tried the Model's Own nail art pens? Are they any good?

I've had a super hectic weekend in London celebrating a friend's birthday and then catching up with another friend on my way home. It was lovely - but I really don't like going into London, I hate the tube, and the sheer volume of people, oh and the fact everything is so bloody expensive! So back at home now and substantially poorer. What had everyone else done with their weekends?

Keep your eyes peeled - something fun will be on the blog later this week...

What I Wore: The January Blues

2011-01-17T18:39:00.002Z

It would be fair to say I've got the January blues. Perhaps two weeks off work, most of which I spent catching up with family and friends up north, then having to return to normality and the town where I now live -sadly not-so populated by loved ones- hit me hard. But thankfully I've got lots of pretty things (read: clothes) to keep me amused. So here is a recent What I Wore, on a blue January a work day.

The deets:

♥ 'A' letter locket, Urban Outfitters. This was one of my Christmas presents, from my friend Freya, which I've worn loads already.

♥ Long cardigan, Zara. This black cardi makes a regular appearance in my posts, as does its sister, in navy blue, you just can't go wrong with a long cardi.

♥ Leather gloves, M&S. I did have red leather gloves prior to Christmas but they were battered, so these were a present from my Gran!

♥ Long scarf, River Island. this was actually a Christmas present from a year ago from my BF's brother - he buys good presents!

♥ Leather jacket, River Island. Probably one the best items I have ever bought. It cost me £60 (reduced from £120) the Boxing Day sale in River Island about four years ago, best £60 I ever spent as I wear it most days.

♥ Leopard print tights. Can't even remember where these are from, but I love my animal print so why not on tights too?

♥ Fringed boots, Topshop. I think these were £80 about three years ago, again a very trusty leather item, they come out every winter.

♥ Trapper hat, TK Maxx. You might recognise this from my Christmas blog post, as this was a present from my Mum & Dad, it is so warm!

♥ Grey ribbed dress, H&M. I bought this in the pre-Christmas sales for just £7, it is great for layering up, I know I'm going to wear it lots.

♥ Chain necklace, Diva, Miss Selfridge. Again, yet another Christmas present as featured in my present post, this time from my sister - who also has good taste!

Lots of exciting things coming up over the next couple of weeks, including the birthday of my blog, a giveaway, plans for the future and more What I Wores. Until then, I've got lots of blog reading to catch up on....

From the Sale Rail

2011-01-12T18:47:00.003Z

I love a sale as much as the next girl. Actually probably a bit more than the next girl! I adore a bargain and am more than happy getting stuck into a sale rail, needless to say, January is often a big shopping month for me. I am still tight on the clothes fund, but I had a bit of Christmas money, so here is what I bought...

Top £2, Primark (was £5)
Dress £5, Primark (was £9)
Velvet skirt £3, Primark (was £7)

I'm not (too) ashamed to admit I love Primark all year round, but at sale time it is normally one of the places I really can't be bothered with. Primark on a normal day is like shopping in a sale frenzy. This time I left it until most of the sale was gone, which meant although I probably missed some of the best bargains, it also meant there was less to have to look through. I call it lazy sale shopping. Very happy with my finds though. The dress and top will be perfect for work and the skirt is in this season's must have fabric, velvet.

Blouse £15, Miss Selfridge (was £29)

Knuckleduster leaves £4.50, Miss Selfridge (was £9)

Knuckleduster skulls £4, Miss Selfridge (was £8)

In stark contrast to Primark Miss Selfridge's sale was possibly the most organised sale I have ever been to. It made sale shopping easy and a joy, even if the shirt wasn't quite as bargainous as I might have hoped, I think this is a good piece for the summer, until then I'll be layering it up. Loving my knuckleduster rings at the moment so these beauties will be added to my little collection.

Dress £15, River Island (was £39.99)

Checked shirt £15, River Island (was £35)

The River Island sale is always one of my favourite, unfortunately I was stuck at my parents when the sale started and the nearest RI was the size of a postage stamp. I still managed to find this gorgeous dress, which looks much better on (I promise), and was actually bought for me by my sister as a replacement present as a jumper she got me didn't fit. The shirt is possibly my most worn sale purchase so far, the picture doesn't really do it justice, but it looks great either open or tied at the bottom and I bought it a couple of sizes bigger so it is nice and baggy.

Striped skirt £10, H&M (was £19.99)

By the time I got to H&M there wasn't much left, but I did find this sweet skirt, which is a lovely shape and even though it has horizontal stripes, it is quite flattering. I like that it is nautical, a trend that rears its head every summer.

Henry Holland Tights £3.99 each, TK Maxx (were £12 each)

From last season, but you know I love me some Henry Holland. 'nuff said, cheers TK Maxx!

What did everyone else buy in the sales? Any really good ones? What about disappointments?

A Belated Christmas Catch Up: Mega Post

2011-01-08T19:17:00.000Z

Happy new year all!

I've missed you. Sorry about my absence, from Christmas Eve to just five days ago I was in full Christmas-time swing, jetting off around the country, catching up with my relatives and friends. It was bloody marvellous. And it feels like a million years ago!

On Christmas Eve I travelled with my fella, James, to visit his parents, just an hour away. We spent Christmas day and boxing day there, eating lots of lovely food, exchanging presents and playing games, it was lovely.
On the 27th I got the train some couple of hundred miles to visit my family up north. Caught up with all my family, lots more food and pressies and then had massive catch ups with all my friends. James met me there on New Years eve (he'd worked all week) so he decided to stay in and watch Jools Holland with my mum and dad while I partied with the girls. I came back on Monday and have been in work all week - I feel totally wiped!

As you know, I am currently sans camera so I've been waiting for various friends and members of family to email me some festive snaps to show you. Sadly only my mum has got round to it yet, so I only have got my hands on a couple of photos.

Above:

Me and James

My sister Hannah, cousin Tom, me and cousin Sam

I got totally spoilt over Christmas and got lots of lovely presents, so thought I'd show you some of my faves...

Books:

♥ I Love Your Style, style manual, from my friend Freya. Fabulous fashion book about different looks and styles.

♥ Collins Complete Garden Manual, from my Mum & Dad. If you didn't know, I'm a bit green fingered. I grew some veggies last year and hope, with the help of this book, I'll be able to grow some more this summer.

♥ Sex And The City 2, from James's parents. I know the film was not everyone's cup of tea, but it is my guilty pleasure, and what I love is this book catalogues every single one of Carrie's outfits from the film.

♥ In Vogue, from my friend Steph. This beautiful book charts the history of Vogue, its rise to fame and shows lots of covers dating right back to the 1900s, amaze!

♥ Polka-dot umbrella, from my boss. She knows my style, this super cute umbrella is perfect!

♥ Bracelet hooks, from my friend Gemma. She knows how much jewellery I own, I just need somewhere to hang this sweet little hook.

♥ Fairisle waistcoat, from my Gran. She bought this from a boutique and had no idea on buying it, that it is sort of reversible. I say 'sort of' because you don't actually reverse it, you turn it upside down, the collar flips over and instantly instead of a black cardi with a white pattern, it becomes a white cardi with a black pattern. Too cool.

♥ H&M jumper, from James' parents. Warm, snuggly, goes with everything.

♥ Henry Holland chain suspender tights, from my Mum & Dad. I've wanted these for so long! They also got me the Henry Holland London city tights I've been coveting. And I laddered them the first time I wore them. I really hate myself. Gutted doesn't even come close.

♥ Trapper hat, from my Mum & Dad. Wanted one for ages, but not a brown one. 'Cos I don't like brown, innit. This one is perfecto.

I did very well on the jewellery front...

♥ Skull earrings, from my Mum & Dad. I used to have some skull earrings, then I lost one. But these are even nicer.

♥ Vintage earrings, from my Mum & Dad. They bought these for me went we went to an antiques place just before Christmas. I'll be visiting that place again, there was so much good stuff! Love these because they are so unusual.

♥ Leopard earrings, from James' brother. If you look back a this post you'll see I asked Santa for some just like this. Happy girl!

♥ Silver coloured necklace, from my Mum & Dad. Love this, the photo doesn't really do it justice. Expect to see to see it in a What I Wore post soon!

♥ 'A' necklace, from my friend Freya. So pretty! I believe this is from Urban Outfitters. I'll be layering this up with other necklaces, it looks good worn with...

♥ Multi chained necklace, from my sister, Han. I think this is from Miss Selfridge and if you look at the second picture of me above, you'll see I'm wearing it, on the day I got it!

I'm a very happy girl! What did everyone else get for Christmas? I'm looking forward to catching up on some blog reading tomorrow. Expect more posts very soon, including my sales purchases, new years plans and a What I Wore.

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 24

2010-12-24T08:55:00.000Z

Morning all!

It is the very last day of my Fashion Advent Calendar, so I thought I'd choose something you'd be likely to wear tomorrow...

These lovely fairisle slipper boost look rather toasty, don't they? They are £32.50 from The White Stuff (the brand, not the snow - I'm sure we've all had more than enough of that!). I really like the fairisle design and also that they look like they have a half decent sole on them. I can imagine wearing these Christmas morning!

I really hope you've enjoyed my fashion advent calendar over the past 24 days, there has been everything from coats and dresses through to woolly hats, underwear and shoes, I hope you found some inspiration - perhaps you might spot one of these things in the sales over the next couple of weeks - please let me know if you do, because I'll be the first in queue!

Is everyone else now sorted for Christmas? I feel like I've still got loads to do. I'm working this morning, then I've got to tidy the house, bake two cakes, pack my bag and visit my friend. We are spending Christmas at my BF's parents, but I'll be back home boxing day night, only to travel 'home' to my family on the 27th. It is going to be a hectic one.

I promised a picture of my Christmas tree some weeks ago, so it seems only right I show it you today...

I don't use tinsel, but the more old-fashioned way of tying ribbon on the ends of the branches. We got an artificial tree for the first time this year as a money saving exercise, but I still think it looks rather handsome.

Wishing you all a very merry Christmas, wherever you are!

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 23

2010-12-23T19:34:00.000Z

Day 23 of my Fashion Advent Calendar, and we are on the home stretch now aren't we folks?

Something warm and sparkly...

I like this Rare circle sequined jumper, which is £39, because not only does it look cosy, but it is dressy too - bonus points! What will you all be wearing over the Christmas period - party frocks planned?

I've just got tomorrow morning of work to go then I'm off for ten days, I can't bloomin' wait. What are all your plans? Shortie tonight - I've got things to be a doing!

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 22...and some music

2010-12-22T19:15:00.000Z

Day 22 of my Fashion Advent Calendar. It's gonna be a short but sweet one today...I had a migraine this morning, so looking at this screen is making my eyes want to explode.

This evening something for your fella to unwrap ;)

Sexy eh? This tuxedo body is £35 from Ann Summers, and I think it would look just as good out of the bedroom, perhaps with some hareem pants and some big chained jewellery like (dare I say it...) Cher Lloyd, or even better with some Henry Holland patterned tights, like my new style crush, the fierce Jessie J. What do you mean you don't know who Jessie J is? Shame on you. Watch the video below for some inspiration...I love this song.

Over and out.

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 21

2010-12-21T20:14:00.000Z

Day 21 of my infamous Fashion Advent Calendar.

I've noticed, I've hardly posted any accessories in this mammoth fashion run-down. Going to fix that, pronto...

Now this is what I call a belt. Imagine it over a white shirt that's tucked into a high-waisted mini...mmmm! This 'Tux' belt is a reasonable £24.99 from, one of my very favourite shops, River Island. I love statement belts like this, I like the fact you can wear them with a really 'nothing' outfit and it makes it into something really special. I'm all for special.

I'd tell you about my day, but I've already done that below. Damn, that is what you get for posting twice in an evening. I've just got too much to say today obviously.

Oh, and I'd just like to say a big ALOHA! to a few new followers that have come to play and also thank you all for the lovely comments you guys and gals leave, I read (and love) every single one ♥.

What I Wore: Frozen raspberries

2010-12-21T19:31:00.000Z

Here is a little What I Wore for you, an outfit that makes me look a bit like a frozen raspberry.

Was snowed in yesterday but luckily my fella gave me a lift to work today so that was good. I still wrapped up warm though, because my office is renowned for its low temperatures!

Here are the deets...
♥ Primark rose jeans - I know you've seen them before, but they sort of match my hair now. Colour matching hair and outfits has become a bit of a habit with the new hair. Not sure this is a good thing. Mental note: branch out into wearing other colours beyond pink/purple.
♥ Raspberry Tee - Topshop, yep, that colour again.
♥ Stripe snood - my trusty friend, warm and stylish. From River Island, if my memory serves.
♥ Long cardi - this is a fail-safe from Zara, I like the fact it covers my ample behind. Simples.
♥ Military boots - because I didn't want to slip over on the ice and break an arm/leg/face.

I know I've been updating in a rather crazed matter of late (one or more posts a day), I bet you wonder what has hit you?! It is just my Fashion Advent Calendar has taken over the blog like an all-consuming monster. After Christmas eve it will calm down a bit, but there will still be frequent updates, but I'm think maybe three times a week, instead of seven+? Thoughts?

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 20

2010-12-20T18:01:00.000Z

Day 20, and I've been snowed in all day :(

So something cheerful I think...

This very pretty printed dress has a sweet beaded collar (although it is hard to tell in this pic!) and is £59 from Very.co.uk. I really like the unusual print, which would look great with some plain tights, and a pair of flats, Parisian-chic style!

I've been stuck at home today thanks to Mr snow, my car is about as useful as a push-bike in these conditions. Luckily I've had access to my work emails, but beyond that it has been rather frustrating, especially as we have more snow scheduled...

Plus my boy is stranded with a flat tyre. Amazatron.

How is everyone else? Anyone snowed in like me, or have you managed to dig yourselves out of your houses?

What I Wore: When I started a Lookbook...

2010-12-19T21:41:00.002Z

My first look, from last week, pre-crazy hair ;)

What I wore:
♥ Next flared jeans
♥ H&M black vest
♥ Vintage red shirt
♥ Zara black cardi
♥ Headscarf, Topshop
♥ New Look brogues (Although you can't see them!)

Oh, and you can find my Lookbook here, big thanks to the gorgeous Belle Vintage for bringing my attention to the site, a new toy for both of us! Anyone else on Lookbook?

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 19...and snow!

2010-12-19T19:15:00.000Z

It is a very snowy, day 19 of my fashion advent calendar.

And I've got something suitably warm for you today...

This afternoon I could have done with this cosy Soul Cal cable knit hood scarf thingamajig, which is £26.99 from Republic. But then again most of us could have done with one of these, non? I've seen quite a few of these hood/scarf crossbreeds around this year and I really like them. The pom poms on this equal extra brownie points in my book.

As I said yesterday, I was meant to be going on a night out last night, needless to say I didn't because of all the snow, here in Buckinghamshire we've had about 6 or 7 inches. So today I had a nice long lie-in before my fella and I went for a walk around our village in the snow...

That is us, in the snow.

I was fully kitted up, leggings, thermal long-sleeved top, jeans, jumper, two pairs of socks, two pairs of gloves, scarf, ski-jacket, snow boots and woolly hat. OTT, maybe, but I despise being cold.

After our walk we visited a pub down the road from us that has just reopened after a major refurbishment. It now looks amazing and we had a delicious lunch of sausage and onion butties and chips. Afterwards we returned home and watched a Muppet Christmas Carol, and now I'm cooking us a roast dinner. A pretty wonderful day!

My boss was meant to fly to Australia today for Christmas and her flight has been cancelled which is horrible. I know it has caused lots of people major travel problems. I'm a bit worried about getting to work tomorrow. My car is certainly not built for this sort of weather, being little and rear-wheel drive, just look at the poor thing...

Can you see the icicles having off the underneath?! Unsurprisingly I won't be driving it to work tomorrow unless all the snow happens to melt overnight. Hopefully my friend will be coming to pick me up in her more snowy-road-worthy car...fingers crossed.

Stay safe and warm you lot!

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 18

2010-12-18T19:48:00.000Z

Day 18 of my fashion advent calendar.

And if I was being sensible I'd show you some snow boots...

Yep. Not feeling that sensible. Actually I'm in a rotton mood as I was meant to be out partying tonight and the bloody snow has stopped me. I bought a new dress and everything. If I was going out, I could only dream of wearing this gorgeous Idol leather boobtube dress with stud detail, which is £79.99 at New Look. I LOVE this dress, sexy and slick, it is the sort of dress I could see Gaga or Beyonce in.

Still miserable about my ONLY night out for Christmas being cancelled, so going to go have a bath with some of the fabulous Soap & Glory products I bought yesterday. Has the snow scuppered anyone else's plans?

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 17...plus a Beauty Bargain

2010-12-17T20:50:00.000Z

Day 17 of my fashion advent calendar - lovely fashion items every day in December, right up 'til Christmas!

You guys bored of this yet? Don't worry, just seven more days to go!

Today (although, admittedly a little later than I anticipated) I bring you something panto inspired...

Don't these look just like something the Wicked Witch of the West or the Evil Queen would wear? Camp, yes. But at the same time rather badass. These 'Twine Fine' shoes are £88 from Office, and I think they are rather lush, but I would hazard-a-guess that they hurt like hell too. Pain is beauty and all that.

On to other things, it is a Friday, woop! And just a week until the big fella in the red suit does his thing, woop! Just five days of work left for me before some proper time off (at a quick tally, I get ten beautiful days), which I'm really looking forward to. One of the girls, who is really lovely, is leaving work and we had the idea to get her this...

It is the gift of the week this weekend at Boots, and this cute tote 'Pink Big' contains £60's worth of Soap & Glory products for (shhhhh...) just £25! I am a massive S&G fan so I not only got one for my friend as part of her team leaving present, but also bought one for me. Naughty, I know. But a deal like this is too good to miss, even if it is the week before Christmas, it will save me money in the long run as three of these products I buy regularly, and would normally set me back around the £25-mark for the three.

The reusable tote contains...

♥ Clean On Me: A creamy clarifying sower gel. I've never used this before, but the promise of a 'built-in' body lotion sound like my idea of heaven.

♥ The Righteous Butter: A super softening shea butter moisturiser. I love this product, not only does it smell amazing but is nice an gentle on delicate little flowers like myself.

♥ Flake Away: (with my favourite tag line, 'It might be fine if her friends are flaky, but a lady's legs should never be') This sugar scrub is the business. End of.

♥ Girligo: A spray-on body moisturising mist. Never tried this one before, but it smells just like The Righteous Butter, so I guess this is the light version for girls-on-the-go!

♥ Glad Hair Day: An ultra-shine daily shampoo. Looking forward to giving this a go, it smells fruity fresh and promises to be kind to coloured hair.

♥ The Breakfast Scrub: Another body scrub, this actually smells good enough to eat and contains oat, shea butter and sugar.

♥ Scrub Your Nose In It: A pore-cleaning face scrub, that can be used as a mask as well. I'll be interested to see whether this helps clear up my currently blemish-ridden skin.

♥ Super Colour Sexy Mother Pucker: A lip plumping gloss, in Pink Apricot. I've tried the XXXL version of Sexy Mother Pucker and to be frank, it was so powerful my lips almost fell off. I'm hoping the 'tingle' will be a little milder on this one. Pretty colour, though.

♥ Hand Food: A sexy and delish (don't actually eat it!), hand cream. It is essentially the Righteous Butter for hands. Love it.

♥ Off Your Face Wipes: 25 cleansing, toning and smoothing cloths, with a acid-free pore shrinking ingredient.

♥ Giant Super Sudsy Shower Puff.

All-in-all a bit of a bloody bargain. The offer is only on until Monday - so go grab one before they all sell out, would make a great Christmas present for a lucky friend, sister, or mum...or for yourself. ;)

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 16

2010-12-16T10:03:00.006Z

Holla!

Welcome to day 16 of my Fashion Advent Calendar.

Sexy bags-ville...

I think you'll agree, this is one seriously sexy bag. This Limited Collection mock-croc bag is a very fair £29.50 from M&S - and I love it. If I wasn't the sort of girl who uses one bag, pretty much all the time, through sheer laziness, this would be my 'other' bag of choice. Actually scrap that. Yes, sod it, I want this bag. It would look good with my new hair.

Going to complete my Christmas shopping tonight late-night stylee, I'm looking forward to it in my own twisted way. Is everyone else now organised for Christmas?

New Hair: Bye Bye Blondie

2010-12-15T22:10:00.000Z

I've been to the hairdressers this evening...see picture on the left ('scuse the quality, it was taken on my mobile). This picture is me prior to my new styling. When I originally had my hair cut short, back in April, it went from long silver blonde to short silver blonde, and although I've played with several tones, cuts, and even an undercut in my natural colour, the majority has remained blonde!

I've been craving a bit of a change for a while and initially, as I explained yesterday, I fancied going all-out ginger, I have the skin tone for it, but alas a colleague beat me to it. I then thought about an eye-burning Rhianna-red, but everyone, from Cheryl to the girl next door has opted for red. So I went for purple...

I've kept a white slice to funk it up a bit, and gone back to a slight undercut at the sides, leaving some length on top to play around with. I love the fact that if I flick it to the left I have a very asymmetrical-looking cut or I can sweep it to the right for a more mod and (strangely) a shorter looking hair style. When I quiff it up - peek-a-boo blondie! Although these pictures don't demonstrate very well - my hair is a deep purple colour, although the lighting on my landing makes it look quite red, I can assure you it is much less strawberries and cream and a lot more blackcurrant and cream.

Would love to know what you think - do you like my new look or did you prefer it all blonde? Anyone else tempted to try a radical new colour?

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 15

2010-12-15T10:16:00.000Z

Day 15.

Something comfy and chic for you...

This jade 'Jaipur' embroidered cotton tunic is £55 from Monsoon. I could see many a celeb-type wearing this top with trews and a pair of shoe boots. In fact I'll be hunting for some big slouchy tops like like in the post Christmas sales.

Getting my hair cut tonight - it has been 9 1/2 weeks since I last had the barnet spruced! I have literally no idea what I'm going to have done - I'm seriously bored of it at the minute. I did quite fancy going ginger, but then a lady I work with has gone ginger (it is a small team), so I thought maybe Rhianna red, then I went out last weekend and every third person had Rhianna red hair. So who knows what I'll end up with...I'll keep you posted.

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 14

2010-12-14T20:13:00.001Z

Day 14 of my fashion advent calendar, and I don't know about you, but I think it is time for a bargain...

This satin panel dress, believe it or not, is from Primark and...drum roll...is just £17. Now you've picked your jaw up from the floor, yes this is a fab party dress for under £20, and I really think it looks a lot more, at least in this photo.

Sorry it was a wee bit late today. It is a Tuesday, (although I could of swore it was a Monday), and I've had a bit of a crappy day, but luckily had a couple of really lovely people around me who supported me. Please tell your Monday has been better?

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 13

2010-12-13T10:45:00.000Z

Day 13 of this lil' fashion advent calendar and I think it is high time for another pair of gorgeous shoes...

Mmmm, nice eh? These wedge peep-toe shoes are £45 from Next. I have a pair of brogues, but I love the mixture of these three styles, brogue, wedge and peep toe. It sort of shouldn't work, but it does. I imagine wearing these with a very preppy outfit, knee high socks, cute little skirt and blouse. Oh Santa could you squeeze a pair of these in your bag for me?

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 12

2010-12-12T19:05:00.000Z

Day 12 of my fashion advent calendar, we are half way through!

Today brings you a top...

This Love Lipsy heart vest is quite pricey at £25, but its fun print and nice bow detailing caught my eye. With a black mini this would look great for a night out - don't you think?

I went to another Christmas market today - it was a Victorian themed affair, with quite a few people in fancy dress - which was fun. My Mum and Dad bought me some gorgeous earrings from an antique dealers as part of my Christmas present! I've just waved goodbye to my guests so can get my blog back on track...now it is time for XFactor final, and weirdly (after following it all year) I sort of don't care anymore!

Hope you've all had good weekends?

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 11

2010-12-11T21:29:00.000Z

Sup people!

It is day 11 of my fashion advent calendar and I've got a lovely jacket for you...

This 'owl fur' jacket (lets be honest, owls don't have fur, they have feathers, and it isn't really made of anything that previously belonged to an owl), is from the Be Beau range at Matalan and is a bit of a steal at £40. I'm into hairy jackets at the minute. I love my 'fur' jacket, which is leopard print, and I might soon be inheriting a real fur one from my Gran, who said she's pulled it out of her wardrobe for me after hearing some of the mums in the playground -when picking my cousin up from school- talking about wearing vintage fur!

Took my parentals and sister to a Christmas market today, it was rubbish, and the craft fair was more like a jumble sale. A bad jumble sale. One lady was selling bags made out of the 'bum' jeans. Yeah, it was like 1996 all over again. Trying at another Christmas market tomorrow, wish us luck!

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day 10

2010-12-10T20:51:00.004Z

Day 10...it is late due to illness, forgive me oh patient ones.

Accessorises time...

This cute little black satchel bag is £42 from Littlewoods. I have quite a similar bag, which is a bit smaller and has silver trimmings from Topshop. I love little bags like this because they are ideal for slinging over your shoulder on shopping trips - Christmas shopping trips where you need free hands for rummaging and carrying many bags.

In other news - I've got my parents and sister visiting this weekend which should be good - off to a couple of Christmas markets and catch up time. What have you all got planned for the weekend?

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day Nine

2010-12-09T13:07:00.000Z

Day nine of my fashion advent calendar...anyone fancy a party dress?

This Red Herring silver party dress is £60 from Debenhams, it is such a pretty shape and a colour that would suit lots of different skin tones.

An even shorter post today - I'm still sick - in fact I got sent home from work yesterday, so I didn't infect others. I'm going now before I sneeze on my keyboard...

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day Eight

2010-12-08T10:09:00.001Z

Day eight of my fashion advert calendar.

It is cold and icy here, so how about a gorgeous cardi?

Today we have this 'Moda' brocade waterfall cardigan, which is just £18 from George at Asda - you know I love a bargain. It is so chic it would go with just about any outfit, over jeans, a dress, skirt and top, you name it. And that is all I have to say.

Went to my work do last night, which was a lovely, and very civilized affair of dinner at a nice restaurant. I did however spend the whole day feeling like crap as I've come down with a rotten cold - so no pictures from the Christmas do - sorry. Also apologies this post is so short, but the be honest I still feel awful so I'm off to Lemsip it up. I hope none of you have come down with this sudden mega cold - it is no fun!

Peace out.

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day Seven

2010-12-07T11:09:00.003Z

Day seven of my fashion advent calendar, and about time we brought some shoes into the mix I think!

Aren't these lovely? I think thy are unusual enough for me to actually consider purchasing them, and cheap enough that it is a possibility! With large bow-adorned shoes being all the rage this season (Louis Vuitton anyone?) it wasn't a surprise the high street caught on. And unlike the Vuitton pair, buy these and you'll still be able to afford rent, because these bad boys are just £22.99 from Internacionale. Impressive, non?

In other news I've been wrapping Christmas presents all evening and I'm not even a third of the way through which is ever so slightly depressing. Got my work Christmas do tomorrow night - will try to get a picture of my outfit (although minus camera it might have to be a phone pic). It is quite a casual affair - the whole mag team are just going out for a meal to a rather lovely pub. Will still dress up a bit though. Any excuse.

What is everyone else doing for work Christmas parties?

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day Six

2010-12-06T10:30:00.001Z

Day six...yada yada yada...you know how it goes.

Here is something pretty...

In fact this is the party dress from F&F at Tesco, I've been so badly coverting since I first saw this image a couple of months back. In this season's must-have fabric, velvet, and in a really cute skater-style shape what is not to love? The best thing - it is only £25.

I got the tree up yesterday - finally, and it looks so pretty - I'll post a pic soon. Hope everyone else had good weekends!

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day Five

2010-12-05T14:17:00.000Z

Morning...erm, I mean...afternoon, all! Sorry had a late one last night so not been up long. It is day five of my fashion advent calender, if you aren't getting the idea by now you need to reread the last five posts.

In brief: 24 nice fashion items, one every day of December before Christmas. Today, because I'm feeling a little fragile, something comfy...

So today I've gone for this gorgeous Fairisle wrap cardigan, £49 from Littlewoods.com. Yes, I know it is another Fairisle item, but what can I say, I'm in love with this style. I've also been craving some chunky winter knits and this one fits the bill perfectly.

Off to put up the tree now - yeehaaa!

Hope you are all having a great weekend.

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day Four

2010-12-04T11:32:00.001Z

Day four of the fashion advent calendarness. Hot things every day.

It isn't that I'm feeling cold (I am, in case you were wondering) but I've gone for a cosy jumper today...

This Quill Queen Raglan Jumper is £90 from French Connection. This jumper is like my ultimate jumper. It looks vintage, in fact I own jumpers not dissimilar to this, it is nice and long - although it is hard to tell - it looks long enough to wear with leggings, plus it is nicely baggy. Oh and it has sequins, what more do you want?

Off to the sumpermarche in a bit then cleaning the house so that tomorrow we can put up the Xmas decs. Going to try and get in the festive mood if it kills me. Who else is putting up the tree this weekend?

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day Three

2010-12-03T10:16:00.001Z

Hello lovely people!

Today is day three of my fashion advent calendar, where I'll be showing you something stylish you can purchase before C. day.

Today it is aviator time! There have been so many aviator jackets around this season and shearling has trimmed just about everything, bar the tree, because that would be weird. But the below is a slightly different offering, a shearling trimmed waistcoat/gillet.

This 'Rosie' gillet is £35 from the lovely folk at Boohoo.com, I've not shopped on Boohoo for a while but have had some really nice stuff from there in the past. the prices seem to have gone up a bit, but it is really easy to return stuff and there is a wide selection of clothes to choose from. I love the shape of this gillet, it would look great with jeans and boots...plus, if possible, I'd be flicking the back of that big collar up!

Fashion Advent Calendar: Day Two

2010-12-02T10:00:00.001Z

Welcome to the second day of my fashion advent calendar, where I'll be showing you something stylish you can buy before the big 25th.

I've had another freezing day today wearing my gloves in work, we now have little plug in heaters scattered around the office, but wearing many layers is still necessary. Which makes it even odder that I have chosen the below skimpy dress for today's fashion fix...

It is lovely though. Isn't it? This pretty little embellished collared dress is £46 and from ASOS. So cute - I can imagine worn with a cardi, thick tights and flats it would be perfect for tea with the in-laws, with big heels and patterned tights (perhaps hearts?) for drinks with the girls.

The irony is that I'd never wear this myself because it is yellow. Pale hair, pale skin, yellow clothes - I'd look like a someone from The Simpsons. I just look bad in yellow. I do love it though. I would buy this for my sister (who isn't afflicted with the pale skin or hair) if I had more dosh, sorry sis you won't be getting this dress - but it is the thought that counts, right?

This is me

2010-12-01T20:24:00.000Z

For the most part I like to keep my off-line life and my blogging life sort of separate, but I feel like I should open up a little more so here are four things that are consuming my life at the minute.

♥ Work:

As you might know - I write for a regional glossy as the senior features writer, which is a job I love. I get to do a bit of everything, I write fashion, beauty, food, travel, lifestyle, and local features. I get to meet cool people and every day is different. But I've always wanted to write a fashion column. So I was very happy four weeks ago when my own fashion column got the green light to be published in the newspaper based in the same office. I'm loving putting it together every week and it is just as personal as my blog - in some ways probably more so.

♥ Cars:

I am very lucky that when I turned 21 (four yeas ago...shhh!) I got a little car. It was very cute and has never broken down on me, but because it was an old car it has gradually been getting more and more expensive to run - my last MOT cost me more than the car is worth! So with this in mind I decided to start to look for something new. I've been the most excited girl ever this week as I got my new car and it is a sexy little convertible. Major thanks to my parentals for helping me find, and get, my new car. Sure I'll be paying for it for the next four years, but I don't care because it is bloody awesome.

♥ Home:

The boy and I have been thinking about buying our own place, we currently rent and financially it is killing us. Plus we've been together for a hundred years, and he said he won't marry me until we have bought a house. So I would quite like to get on that. Luckily he doesn't read my blog so it is safe to say these things, that is unless one of you track him down and tell him. No? I didn't think so.

♥Camera:

I have no camera, while setting up for a recent What I Wore post it fell off the table while it was turned on. My camera is well and truly screwed. Not sure whether I can claim on my house insurance but it has really annoyed me. What with the new car I'll be paying for for the rest of my twenties I can hardly afford to buy myself a new point & shoot. For the time being I'm borrowing the bf's camera, which I handily bought him for his birthday six months ago. His camera is better than mine, but it also it means I can't just steal it whenever I like, so I'm trying to think up a master plan as to how I can get some dosh to buy a new camera. Anyone want to buy a kidney?*

So that is me and where I'm up to. Feel like you know me a little better? I hope so.

*It is a joke. I don't really want to sell my kidney. Or any other part of my body. Ok?