Merry Christmas!

I had a lovely Christmas this year, my first as a blogger, and so I thought I'd share some of the lovely gifts I received with you. 

L-R: Vero Moda Peter Pan collar top// Biba Purse// Paperchase Makeup bag//
Rock n' Rose Cross Necklace// Lacoste Sunglasses 

These are my favourite little bits that my parents got me this year and, I have to admit, that after writing this blog for ten months, my taste in fashion has changed in a number of ways. 

1. I've suddenly become addicted to burgundy. Don't know why, don't know when, but the fact of the matter is that I have an obscene amount of 'red(y)-purple' in my wardrobe. It's sad when you look at your Facebook photos and begin to notice that you wear a colour too much. To be honest, mum loves it - she was used to my former colour palate of grey, navy blue and black, so any more feminine colours are a real hit! 

2. I have a feeling that 'Pat Butcher chic' and I will never part. Just look at that Biba purse (YES, BIBA). Yep, it's fabulous, so fabulous infact that I'm too nervous to use it yet and because of this it's wrapped in tissue paper, hidden in my wardrobe. My penchant for leopard-print has gotten so bad, that my mum picked this for me. I know people say that ugly, or too wild (*laughs), but in my mind, worn sparingly, it's a little glimmer of opulence which can bring sparkle and interest to any dull outfit. 

3. I own more sunglasses than ever before. These gorgeous Lacoste beauties are the latest addition to the collection and were a bargain at £20. They're very Jackie-O and I love them so much that I shall be sporting them even in drizzle. 

The necklace and the makeup bag? Well what can I say except 'bloody lovely!'

Oh and to finish the list of my top presents, I've got to include this little beauty from the boyfriend. He's definitely done well this year, it's even from Not on the High Street so it's a little bit unique. What a charmer he is.

So anyway, hope you're having a great Christmas and hope you all have a wonderful 2013!

Lots of love 

Guest Post on Christmas shopping!

This week the lovely Brooke Samsonite has written a fabulous guest post for me on the importance of finding the right outfit to shop in! Enjoy lovelies!

Brooke Samsonite (@brookesamsonite) is a twenty-something residing in Indianapolis who is inspired by Lifestyle & Entertainment, Home Décor /Home Improvement, Travel, and writing. Having only recently spread her always-fashionable wings and started freelance writing, Brooke loves to blog (over @ Belts & Bangles and Cooks & Travel Books) about her extensive experiences and offer valuable resources to inspire others. 

Choose the Perfect Outfit for a Stress-Free Holiday Shopping Experience

When gearing up for several hours of holiday shopping, worrying about which outfit to wear is probably the last thing you want to do. However, making the wrong clothing choices can turn a fun-filled shopping excursion into an exhausting, dreaded ordeal. Look your best—and stay comfortable—by following a few simple rules.

Avoid Looking Frumpy

You might be headed to the mall, but you don’t need to look like a slob. It’s tempting to throw on a pair of sweatpants and a hoodie, but those choices can actually be counterproductive to your shopping mission. Consumers tend to make better purchasing decisions when they look and feel good. Wearing slouchy, sloppy attire will keep you from feeling your best and may reduce your effectiveness when shopping for the holidays.

Choose Comfortable Shoes

Many people underestimate the amount of time they'll spend holiday shopping. A shopping excursion can easily stretch to a few hours or even the whole day. Although your new cute heels might make a serious fashion statement, your feet will start aching after just a few minutes. Stick to footwear that cushions your soles and provides the support your insoles need. Flat, knee-high riding boots are a great choice, as are a pair of simple ballet flats.

Relaxed Clothing Choices Will Set You At Ease

Although you want to avoid sloppy attire, wearing comfortable clothes to a shopping excursion is a must. If you plan to shop for clothing for yourself, choose an outfit that's easy to take on and off. A casual sweaterdress paired with leggings and boots is on-trend but unfussy. Alternatively, consider jeggings with a relaxed-fit light sweater for a chic but casual statement.

Accessorize to Prevent a Yawn-Inducing Outfit

An easy way to keep your shopping attire from looking too boring is to add fun accessories. A few small pieces won’t detract from your comfort, and they can add some spirit to an otherwise practical outfit. Putting on a chic headband instantly makes you look more polished, while a studded metal bracelet lends a rock ‘n roll edge. To make yourself look put-together, grab a purse that complements the rest of your outfit.

Layer, Layer, Layer

There's nothing worse than getting to the mall for hours of shopping only to realize you’ll soon be sweating bullets in your wool sweater. Layering ensures that you can control your comfort if the mall is too hot or too cold. Pair a ruffled tank top with a colorful cardigan and boyfriend jeans. Adding a scarf allows you to look fashion-forward while staying warm in a chilly mall.

Choosing the wrong clothes to wear to the mall can quickly derail your holiday shopping experience. By sticking to relaxed clothing with practical shoes, you'll maintain the comfort and stamina you need to shop for hours. Figuring out your outfit leaves you free to focus on more important things at hand—such as finding the perfect set of monogrammed kitchen towels for your grandma!

Image from:  http://www.sheknows.com/shopping/articles/977659/can-all-body-types-wear-leggings

Motel Rocks 50% off!

So guys, although I'm on blogging hiatus, I thought I'd share this amazing discount from Motel Rocks with you. As a member of their street team, Motel Rocks send me through loads of exclusive offers for you guys and here's the latest which will definitely get you in the Christmas spirit!

As it says above, the lovely people at Motel Rocks are offering you 50% off their secret sale, which is only open to street team members and their followers!

 CLICK HERE to visit the page listing the selected items with 50% off and remember to enter XMASPREVIEW50 at the checkout to claim your 50% off!

Enjoy guys!