Collaborative / Partnered Post - 4 Trendy Gift Ideas for the Fashion Lover

My name is Louise and I have a confession to make - We're only 3 days into September, and today I bought my first Christmas present. It's never too early to get organised, and to start thinking about presents, be that for Christmas, or for any birthday or for any other occasion.

Getting a gift for your loved one can be challenging if you don’t plan ahead or know what they like; It's all too easy to just go down the generic toiletry set or gift card, instead of getting them something they would really appreciate. Thankfully, if your friend or loved one is a fashion lover, it can make things a little bit easier, and there are lots of things at all price points that you can buy to add a little of interest to their existing wardrobe, whilst at the same time showing them much you care about them.

Whilst it's scarily true that around one-third of women would rather buy something new once they've worn it once or twice, if you gift a friend or a family member a piece of jewellery, an accessory or an item of clothing no matter what the price point, then they'll more than likely hang on to it, because it came from you and it will remind them of your relationship, and the good times that you've shared.
So if you’re thinking already thinking about gifts from Christmas, birthday's or any other occasion, then here are a few classic, and on trend suggestions to fit all budgets, and most relationships.

1. A Personalised Necklace

When it comes to buying a gift for someone who loves fashion, then a necklace is usually a pretty good choice. You don't need a size, just a vague idea of what type of jewellery your recipient likes. Whilst they go in and out of fashion, one great way to show the fashion enthusiast in your life that you’re thinking about them is by gifting them a personalised necklace.When it comes to fashion There is nobody more stylish than the character of Carrie from Sex In The City, and something she was famous for was her name necklace. You can get name necklaces in all sorts of materials from precious metals, to wood and acrylic at prices to suit all budgets and if you're lucky enough to have a common name, you can sometimes buy them straight off the peg. A classic buy something you can wear all of the time, and people will never have an excuse for not remembering your name!

If you're buying a present for a child, or if you don't like the idea of sharing your name with everyone that you meet, then you could go for an initial pendant. I obsessed with anything with my initial on and I have it on everything from cushions to lightening, wall art and coasters, as well as numerous initial jewellery pieces including earrings and necklaces. Again they come at all different price points, it super easy to buy cheaper pieces, and again you can get initial pendants in all different types of material and styles.

Pick something in a style that they like and it could be something that could literally wear every day, not matter what the occasion, and it’ll also remind them that they’re extra special, and who doesn't want to think that x

2. Fashion Rings

Now this one requires just a little bit more thought, as for the majority of rings you do need to have an idea of a size, but if you know that, and again roughly what your recipient likes, the world is your oyster. From dainty fashion rings, to statement cocktail rings, precious metal, and gemstones, there are rings to suit all tastes, this versatile gift comes in so many different colours and styles, hopefully making it easy for you to choose one that reflects your loved one’s personality. If you want to go beyond fashion rings, and you want a more investment type piece for that special person in your life then you can try a gold Irish Claddagh ring. These traditional rings are a great way to symbolise the friendship, love, or bond you share, with their signature heart surrounded by two hearts, and they can aren't just for women either. They’re also ideal for special occasions or to just express how you feel about your loved one x

3. Slouchy Beanies

Looking out of the window at dull and grey skies today, it hard to believe that we're supposedly going to be having a heatwave next week. Whether we like it or not though autumn is on its way, and whilst I love summer and warmth, there is something about autumn that I love, I love the freshness of the air, and I love digging out my cosy jumpers, scarves, and hats.

I really wish I looked better in hats but I'm just not one of those effortlessly cool people that can wear anything on their heads and still look amazing. As much as I've persevered with berets and the likes, I'm probably a beanie girl. Beanies are a great gift for fashion enthusiasts because they serve several purposes. Aside from adding a casual touch to your overall look, beanies also help keep you warm during the cold weather and are also great for protecting or covering your hair if you’re not having the best hair day.
Like most of the items on the list beanies come at loads of different price points, and you can get them in a huge variety of colours, knits and style, ranging from super soft cashmere, to man made fibres, and do you know what's good about that, You can build your own little collection of multi coloured hats, and beanies, so that you can coordinate them with loads of different outfits.

Admittedly a beanie the most exciting of gift but it's useful and get the style and colour right, and your friend or relative, could be wearing it every day for the next few months, which is a super nice feeling for any present giver.

4. Jeans

Now the last thing on this little list is another one where your going to need to know your recipient pretty well but get this gift right and they'll love you forever!

Aside from joggers and leggings, jeans are a great must-have for any wardrobe. They've gone in and out of style but in the end the classics will always win out. I don't need to tell you how to style a pair of jeans but they are the perfect partner for so many different fashion pieces, including jackets, crop tops, and like what I'm wearing in the picture, a plain t-shirt, or even with what I'm wearing today - a lightweight jumper. Jeans come in various colours and styles, whether baggy, skinny, mom, straight legged, or boot flare, so you can choose the perfect pair depending on your fashion lover’s preferences. It’s best to be sure of their size beforehand, and if in doubt ask them, it's so hard to find the perfect pair of jeans, and if they've already found them, then you know what to do, buy them a pair that you know they love, in the right size, and you know that they'll wear them forever and a day, and if you want to be really generous you could also team them up with a nice belt.

I know a couple of these items are only for people who you know very well, but there are so many different fashion and accessory pieces out there that make fabulous gifts for the fashion lover in your life, my own personal favourites are jewellery of any type, both light and heavyweight scarves, cute socks, gloves, and hair accessories. Whatever you choose - think about what your buying and the person you're buying it for, don't buy for buying sake. try and buy them something you know they'll love, not everything has to be expensive to be cherished, and if in doubt ask them! Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? Let me know in the comments x

*Collaborative / Partnered Post

Collaborative / Partnered Post - Winter Fashion Staples*

Although by UK standards, the weather is pretty mild at the moment, we all know that it won't last, and that winter is almost certainly on its way. Whether you’re heading out to work, hitting the last of the sales, or meeting your friends, more often than not at the moment, you're probably thinking that staying indoors in your onesie is a better option than heading out into cold. Alas life doesn't stop in the winter months and nesting indoors isn't an option for most people, so think about your wardrobe, your outfits and your accessories, and with a little bit of thought you can not only still feel warm and cosy, but you can also look stylish, and put together. even when you don't feel it

So if you're one of those people who likes to hibernate when the mercury plummets, here are a few fashion staples, that will help you face whatever the winter has to throw at you.

Footwear

Footwear can make or break an outfit in more ways one, and whilst letting your beautiful summer shoes spend the season in your wardrobe can be painful, pretty wedges, and sandals, just don't cut the mustard when it comes to everyday winter fashion. Whilst I own a gorgeous pair from Emilio Pucci, let's be honest, wellies are rarely a fashion statement, and whilst they are super practical for the ice and snow, chunky walking boots don't exactly scream style either but if you need them you need them - keep them for the extreme days, and for the days when you want to stay safe and warm, but you don't want to look as though you want to trek up Everest, then boots are your best friend. I love boots and there are so many different types on the market to suit any purpose and any occasion from funky snow boots, to knee highs, and the classic Chelsea boot, to Uggs, Emu's and sheepskin boots, that are perfect for cold, dry days. You can never have too many pairs of shoes, and in my opinion the same applies to boots - the more the merrier.

Jumpers

I think I've mentioned it before but I'm very much an Autumn / Winter girl when it comes to fashion, and one of the reasons why is that I love knitwear. Let’s be honest here, who doesn't love a woolly jumper, especially in the winter months. As much as I love my Christmas jumpers though, it's time to say goodbye for another year and it’s time to embrace something a little more conventional as January comes around. To look and feel great, check out some women’s knitwear that keeps you warm and can fight away the chill of those winter days. Again there are so many different styles to choose from from huge chunky knits, to finer, fitted pieces for layering, embellished pieces for occasion wear, and of course the must have, over sized, boyfriend knit. Jumpers don't have to be dowdy and boring, keeping warm, and looking smart, and put together, can go hand in hand.

Scarves

A winter spent without a warm, fluffy scarf is a miserable (and cold) one, and there’s still time to get your hands on some fashionable neck wear if you’re struggling to get through those winter days. I love all different types of scarves, from fine, to chunky and they are something that I wear all year round, but when it comes to winter scarves, the rule is the thicker and comfier the better, so shop around to find something that you love and something that will work for you. Once you find something that is just right, you won’t want to take it off, even inside the house!

Hats

OK, so most of us are pretty divided about hats. You may put one on and think wow, this is definitely not a look for me. I have to say I'm not a hat person but like red lipstick I do believe that there is a hat out there for everyone, and that if you look hard enough you will find a winter hat that looks perfect, and keeps your ears warm as you head out for some January fun. Woolly hats come in many different shapes and sizes, and you’re sure to find something that suits your needs and the shape of your face perfectly, so don’t give up, and don't be afraid to try something new, be it a beret, a hat that looks like a pandas face, or even a giant bobble hat, your perfect winter hat is out there somewhere.

Coats

It goes without saying that you’re not going to head out into the winter air without a perfect coat to keep you warm - if you don't have a decent coat then you may as well stay indoors. As any coat fanatic will know, there are plenty of different styles out there, from puffer coats to their wool counterparts. If you live in a rainy area, aka the UK, then waterproof coats are probably the way to go. A good coat can often be an investment purchase, so think about when you're going to wear it, and the type of weather that you going to wear it in. I personally love a waterproof storm coat, you can get a waterproof outer with a hood, and usually inside you have either a zip off, shorter padded jacket or a fleece jacket that can be worn separately, they are usually a little bit more expensive but with so many ways to wear them depending on the conditions they are well worth the extra investment.

So, if you’re looking for some winter wardrobe staples, then keep these things in mind. Fashion doesn’t have to be compromised in the name of warmth, so shop around, buy wisely, and you'll have some classic pieces that you can bring out winter after winter. What are your winter fashion staples and must haves? Let me know in the comments and make sure your following me on Instagram in the next few weeks to see some of my own personal winter fashion staples x

*Collaborative / Partnered Post

Another Small Primark Haul - Clothes, Jewellery And More

Although we all seem to be shopping for other people at the moment, it's important to treat yourself every now and then. I wouldn't go as far as to see I believe in the one for you, one for me philosophy but at this time of year we need to show ourselves a little bit of love. I don't need an excuse to go shopping but I've been in Primark quite a few times lately picking up the odd pressie and it goes without saying that I picked up a few things for myself.

These carnival style LED lights have been one of the big home trend of 2015, and it's a trend that I've loved. I never managed to get my hands on the Primark star but after a lot of searching I managed to get my hands on this Love sign.

This was just £12 and I think it's well worth the money. It's made of an off white coated metal, and it goes perfectly with the white star that I got  a little from 24Studio (you can see a picture of it here). I'm not quite sure where I'm going to put it yet but the fact that it's battery operated gives me a few different options.

Primark has some gorgeous clothes in at the moment, and I'm currently lusting after their long line knitted waist coats, and their sparkly party wear, but sometimes you just need to say NO and show a little bit of restraint. Despite wanting to buy half the store when it came to clothing I only bought two jumpers.

Okay I didn't really need another Christmas jumper but look Gingerbread people, how could I resist, especially when it was reduced from to just £7.90. It's got a nice thickness to it and I love the applique button eyes and the pom poms on the hat.

From a happy Christmas jumper to something plain, and a bit uninteresting in comparison.

I'm going to be honest with I picked this up and put it down twice, before taking the risk and leaving it on the rail. The trouble was I couldn't stop thinking about it so next time I went to Primark I headed straight for it and luckily they had one left in my size.

This is a very lightweight, soft, oversized black jumper that's longer at the back than it is at the front. Initially it looks quite boring at first glance but look at it more closely and you all sorts of different design details. It actually has a ruched crossover detail at the front. It looks nothing on the hanger but it's one of those tops that just looks right. It is quite sheer so you need to wear something underneath it but it looks great as a layering piece over leggings or skinny jeans. It was tagged at £9 but when I got to the till it was just £8 - a complete bargain for something I know I will get a lot of wear out of.

Black is such a practical colour when it comes to clothing and accessories, it with absolutely everything, and it's a real wardrobe essential. I already have black gloves, scarves, and hats but I didn't have a black snood, in fact I didn't even own a snood. They are so practical though you can use them as a scarf, and you can pull them up and use them over your head. This one is just in a plain black, soft touch knit and it was just £2.

That was it for clothing, home wear and accessories, but I did buy a few jewellery pieces, including this necklace.

You can't see this piece too well unfortunately, but this necklace is from the newish Opia Rose range. Rose gold is so popular at the moment and if you can't afford the real thing this line gives you the look without the price tag. It's a lovely copper tone and this plaque necklace was just £2.

I love both delicate necklaces and chunky pieces, but at the moment I'm in a delicate, layering piece phase. This thin gold, tone chain features a small gold tone disc, which is embossed with a small gold heart. It was reduced to just 50p.

Something that I love but that I don't wear often enough is rings. During my university years I was one of those girls that wore a ring on every finger but these days rings are for high days and holidays. That needs to change though and in 2016 one of my aims is to wear a lot more of my jewellery and to work my way through my extensive ring collection. So starting as I mean to go on, I couldn't resist adding a few pieces.

This one is just a chunky gold tone, geometric band which is set with a large grey, marble effect acrylic stone. This one was just £1.50.

The other ring that I got was a little bit more expensive at £2.50 but you are getting real semi precious stones. I'm a huge sucker for Tigers Eye, and this gold tone, double band effect ring, contains both a round Tigers Eye stone and an almost Planet Earth like, cloudy blue stone with could be Sodalite. They also do a matching necklace and some matching earrings, which I may have bought Mummy Lou for Christmas :)

The final thing that I got in Primark was something else that would be great for gifting -  Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Lip Balm

These individual twist up balms are just £1.50 but they also have a couple of gift sets in store. I'm not 100% sure about how good this will be for the lips, but it such a sweet taste, it could definitely help with those chocolate and sweet cravings.

So that was my latest little Primark haul, as I say they have a lot of good stuff in at the moment, including lots of gifting options and of course lots of things to treat yourself with. I've made a little video to accompany this haul so don't forget to take a peek and subscribe to my channel x



Thanks for reading and hopefully watching and I'll see you soon with more posts and more videos x

A Little Primark Haul And A Video

Last week I braved the half term hoards and headed to the Metro Centre for a little shopping trip with Mummy Lou. Thankfully we went early enough to avoid the worst of the crowds but Primark predictably was crammed.

I didn't buy a lot in Primark and in fact I had one of those frustrating visits that you get every now and then. Lots of things caught my eye but the size selection was awful, pretty much everything I picked up was only available in size 8 or a size 12! It was so disheartening and it certainly does nothing for your self confidence :( It always seems to be the same when the schools or off so I'm planning to a return trip next week, when hopefully I'll have a bit more luck size wise

Enough of the whinging though I still managed to pick up a few things - I only got one real clothing item though which was this jumper

I love polo and roll necks at this time of year, and this burgundy, wine coloured number was only £6. It came in a few different colours, and the skinny rib knit is really stretchy. It's warm enough on it's own but it will also made a great layering piece under either a cardigan, a poncho or a cape.

Sticking with winter warmers I also picked up some tights. Black opaque tights are a real wardrobe staple for me, and I was stock up when I find some that I like. I normally a George at Asda devotee but I thought I'd give these ones a try. You get a 3 Pack of  80 Denier Black Opaques for just £3.90, they feel soft and quite thick so they were well worth trying.

I had a little look the hats and scarves and although I was pretty tempted by the new tartan scarves I managed to stay strong - Mummy Lou however did not and bought a lovely pale pink, cable knit bobble hat for just £2.50! I couldn't persuade her to model it for me so Jake kindly stepped in :)

How cute is he :) I love his markings and how it looks as though he's wearing a necklace :) Alas us humans don't have built in necklaces so we have to buy them and I couldn't resist this zodiac necklace duo.

I tend to take horoscopes with a pinch of salt, but characteristically I am a typical Taurus, I'm greedy, jealous and really stubborn, so this set of necklaces were a must have. One fine gold chains, one necklace comes with a gold tone disc with the Taurus zodiac symbol on it, and the other one contains a square, faux marble type pink stone. This necklace set comes in all the star signs and it's just £2, and they also sell the matching earrings.

From jewellery to home wear and as you know I'm a huge fan of Primarks home selection, and it just keeps getting better and better. The Metro Centre store doesn't have the biggest home selection but I usually manage to pick up a few bits and this visit was no exception.

Coat hangers - we all need coat hangers, but I hate the plastic hangers, that you normally get in shops, and as nice as they look padded and wooden hangers are just too bulky. Many moons ago I first discovered these velour covered, slim, non slip hangers on QVC (read my very, very, early post here) - I tried them and I loved them. The clothes stay put, and because of the slim width you can fit more of them in your wardrobe. The one drawback was the price but thankfully though this amazing idea is now available at a more budget friendly price.

You can normally pick up a pack of 3, black or grey ones in Poundland or Poundworld, but if you can get yourself to Primark. They do a wide variety of colours for around £3.80 for a set of 10, however if you have a look in the sale containers you can sometimes pick up a bargain and this set of Primark Home Hang In There 10 Non Slip Hangers was just £2. The pink shades seem to be the only ones that were reduced strangely enough but I was happy to pick up a bargain.

The next thing I got is technically a Christmas decoration but I think you could easily have this little guy out all year round.

This cute ceramic Christmas Reindeer Tea light Holder, was just £1.50 and it even comes with a white, wax tea light x I think he's adorable and he's going to be living in my bedroom. There was also a sweet little Santa option too.

The final two things that I got were both beauty related - I stocked up on my usual Oil Balancing Face wipes, and I picked up another one of these.

I have mixed feelings about these polish remover pots but this P.S. Love Your Nails Nail Polish Twist Pot is pretty good for the £1 price tag. It's quick, it doesn't smell too bad, it's non drying and it takes the polish off with ease. I think that these are a real time saver, and they're great if just mess up the one nail -  you can just remove it without taking off the rest of your polish. I still love my favourite Superdrug remover but this little pot has definitely made it's way into my regular manicure routine.

Not the biggest Primark haul I know but I've picked up a few essentials and a couple of things that I love, so it wasn't all bad. Another trip is definitely on the cards in the near future but in the meantime why not watch the accompanying You Tube video below or you can watch it here x



Have you been to Primark recently? Leave me a comment below and let me know what you got x

Goodies Courtesy Of My Mummy

Well it's my besties birthday today (Happy Birthday Dawn!) - and last night we went to see the new Sex and the City film - well as I keep saying the plans of mice and men - it had sold out for the next 2 and a bit hours so we decided to wander round the shops instead since we both wanted to be home by 11pm :) My mum had given me some money for the cinema so instead I picked up a few bits including this - it was a bit of a fun purchase but I love it which is so strange because I am so not a hat person :)

I also picked up these cute bow earrings I love my bows me :)

We also popped into Boots where the cosmetics are all on 3 for 2 so I got 2 Models Own nail paints in Fuzzy Peach and Lilac Dream, and a Prestige Lash Matrix Mascara as recommended by Take A Break ;) I'll do a review on this at a later date for you x

I also got a couple of magazines - there are some good freebies to be had in the July issues, including a beach bag with Elle (I got the animal print one for my mum), and in Red a Jemma Kidd Make Up School Lipgloss I got 04 Shell.

It wasn't the night I had planned and I'm paying for it now ( insomnia and dizzy spells anyone) but it was a laugh we tested perfumes in Debenhams, and played with make up on the Bare Minerals and Smashbox counters (no make up assistants anywhere in Debenhams - strange), and tried on hats and fascinators - great juvenile girly fun I am sure Carrie and Co would have been proud

Metro Centre Part 2 - Primark

I popped into Primark on Saturday too which was a huge mistake it was crammed !!! Never mind I picked up a few bits :)

Cardigans



PJs




Jeans - just over £7


Gorgeous Checked Shirt


Hat and Scarf



Earrings



Hair Clips


More random purchases soon x