Winter Sale shopping

It’s easy to get caught up in the buying frenzy in the post Christmas sales. Some people get a rush just from the crowds in the store and the pushing and grabbing.

Remember there are many sale bargains and unique designs to be found online that are not available on the high. So for the real bargains that will set you apart from the crowd, shop online.

This Cydwoq - Ridge Sandal from http://www.lastfootwear.com is reduced from £164.99 to: £75.00


This Sabrina Sailor Pant by Kelly B is available at www.nimli.com for US$99 reduced from US$200. Made of bamboo denim, these indigo sailor pants are both fashionable and eco-friendly. Back leg seams, self covered button, and wide leg.

If you are hitting the high street for the January sales there here are 10 tips on shopping sensibly

1.Set yourself a budget and stick to it

2.Identify your wardrobe needs i.e. do you need basics like pullovers, jumpers, jackets, winter coat etc. It’s a great time to get a new coat or boots. Although it is a winter sale include purchases that you can use year round like your crisp white shirt, jeans, tee-shirts etc

3.Stick to buying the clothes that will flatter your shape and size. At the same time look for unique items of clothing etc.

4.Variate your colour scheme, try colours you usually shy away from

5.Every item of clothing you select does not have to immediately match up with another item from the same store

6.If the lines are too long for fitting as they usually are then take two sizes and try at home in the comfort of your bedroom but ensure that there is a return period on all items that you are taking. Most importantly return what does not flatter.

7.For stores with closing down sales don’t assume that everything is dirt cheap and that you must peruse the shelves until you find something. Move on to another store.

8.Store discounts vary so start with your store choices with the bigger discounts if you wait a week or so other stores discount their merchandise even further to as much as 70%. Expand your shopping radius and browse in stores you have never ventured in before.

9.Fight the feeling that you are missing out if you do not hit the sales immediately

10.The woman with a keen fashion sense can always find great additions to her wardrobe.

Polkadot Fashion

photo from http://fabsugar.com/

Nothing makes a fashion statement quite like polkadots. The best thing is ... it never seems to go out of style. It is one of those classical pieces like your argyle sweater or tartan wear which can be worn time and time again. Polka dots are funky and trendy all at the same time and can be very versatile in the variation of colours used to form the polka dots. As you can see below, polkadot fashion is no longer only your dalmatian colours of black and white.



photo from http://fabsugar.com/

If you find polkadot clothing a bit too daring for your fashion sense then go for polkadot accessories like these funky rings from Munique fashions. They say fancy, fun and very feminine and come in several bright and bold colours.



photos from Munique Fashion http://www.thesymphony-life.com

Next time you are out and about,look for a polka dot coat to add to your wardrobe. The best polkadot coats I came across so far,would you believe were in the kiddies section. But I certainly would feel very trendy stepping out in these polkadot designs. Wouldn’t you agree? Let me know if you come across any polka dot coats or polkadot clothing you wish to share with our readers.

photo from http://www.styletots.com


photo from http://www.gymboree.com

Celebrity Colour Analysis

Have you ever thought that wearing some colours makes you feel like a million dollars and other colours make you look the complete opposite? Everyone has a range of colours that look great on them and make their complexion and hair colour really glow.

If you want to really look your best, you need to find out what your colours are and then use this knowledge when shopping for clothes and accessories. You could pay to visit a consultant who will be able to tell you what they are. Alternatively, you can find out which colours really suit you by doing a celebrity colour analysis. A celebrity is likely to have paid a stylist lots of money to analyse and work out which colours make them look stunning on the red carpet. All you need to do is find some pictures of your celebrity in a red carpet dress. Of course everyone is slightly different and you will never really know if a colours suits you unless you try it out.

So which celebrity do you look like?

Brooke Shields

Cynthia Nixon

Terri Hatcher

pictures from http://www.elleuk.com/

If you do not want to wear your colour from head to toe, try wearing a scarf around your neck or a necklace in one of your colours. The colours will reflect on your face and enhance your complexion. If pale pink is one of your colours try this handcrafted leather orchid necklace.

Goodbye 2008 - Legs, Fashion Blogs, Individual Style and Costume Jewellery

As we say farewell to 2008 and welcome to 2009, here is a look back over the fashion and style of 2008.

The year of the leg- 2008 saw just about every type of leg wear to draw attention to the legs from tights in bright colours and patterns, to leather and wetlook leggings and thigh high boots.

Paisley Print Tights by Pamela Mann

The year of the fashion blog - 2008 was the year in which fashion blogging went crazy. So many new fashion blogs started in 2008 including the Munique Fashions blog. Fashion blogs are a great way to find out about the latest styles and trends and get some great fashion and style inspiration.

The year of individual style - 2008 was the year that individual style became uber fashionable. Ladies no longer want to follow the latest trend but wear their own unique style by picking and choosing from the latest trends, mixing designer and high street clothing with vintage and showing their personality by accessorising with individual accessories and handmade jewellery.

This handcrafted leather handbag is an original and unique design. A great way to accessorise a casual outfit such as jeans and a jumper.

The year of the costume jewellery - Costume jewellery is now a key element of many designer collections. In 2008 there has also been the emergence of many new jewellery designers. Jewellery is no longer something just chosen to compliment an outfit, new innovative pieces are a key style statement in their own right.




This Sunny meadows glass choker is a great way to show off your individual style. It is handcrafted in glass and silver which means that no two pieces are ever the same.

Wearable Art and Your Wardrobe

Accessorize your wardrobe with wearable art and create drama with your everyday look. I have always admired the wit and imagination of designers who transform everyday items into wearable art. Wearable art according to Wikipedia refers to individually designed pieces of (usually) hand-made clothing or jewelry created as fine or expressive art. There is a lot of interest today in recycling and so we see lots of wearable art coming from this eco drive to recycle. I have seen stunning jewellery by Mana Bernandes made from:

-recycled PET bottles
-phone cards
-hair pins (see "Clasp" necklace above by Mana Bernandes)
-elevator buttons
-tooth picks (see "Fan" necklacebelow)
-acetate
-old wire
-and the list goes on.


Wearing jewellery pieces that are artistic masterpieces will certainly get you noticed as most pieces are individually designed and handcrafted. I like to call them conversational pieces as people will strike up a conversation with you which starts "where did you get that". Many persons are usually intrigued by the use of everyday material to create fashion. The last time I wore my hairpin necklace; a perfect stranger approached me and asked "are those hairpins?" She has since become a friend for life. So it turns out to be a good way of meeting people as well.

Wearable art comes in all shapes and sizes and takes its inspiration from many aspects of nature. Some designers use non-fiber materials such as leather, plastic sheeting, metals, etc. to create truly unimaginable, breathtaking and lifelike works of art.


As always, it is a matter of choice when selecting jewellery accessories for your wardrobe. You can go for jewellery that is fashioned after a flora and fauna theme where designers for example produce lifelike interpretations of nature.



Look for ethnic and exotic jewellery pieces including brooches in:

-Copper and Brass
-Stone
-Clay
-Glass
-Silver

A banana leaf in copper and brass in the form of an earring or pendant or orchid brooches made from leather are just a few examples. The more lifelike they look the more they will create intrigue and interest.


Most recently I came across a leather necklace in the shape of a hibiscus flower widely grown in the Caribbean shown below.


This necklace draped delicately around the neck and created a soft dramatic impact. Alternatively you can opt for the more abstract or eclectic pieces that are simple and eye-catching like this orchid brooch below.

Accessorizing your wardrobe with wearable art does not only mean jewellery accessories but also includes belts, handbags, scarves, hats etc. Again look for accessories where designers have imaginatively transformed an everyday item into a work of art. Texture also becomes important. Look for bags for example which:

-combines leather with other materials such as goatskin, crochet, studs
-has an unusual shape
-uses leather with an embossed background or coloured leather
-has an unusual handle
-has a bold pattern

Look for elegant and timeless handcrafted accessories that you can use time and time again.

Even if they are a bit more expensive than traditional jewellery just think that if you paid £50 for a piece of wearable art and was able to use it 25 times then the cost per wear is £2. More importantly you will have it for years to come providing it is a well made quality piece.

Then again can you put a price on the pride of wearing it and the compliments and attention you receive...priceless.

Top 10 Must Haves for your Winter Break Vacation

Many of us eagerly await our winter break vacation to get out of the cold and into the warm Caribbean or Mediterranean sunshine. Whatever your tropical destination, here are a few tips on some essentials to take along with you on your winter break.

1. Sunscreen
Be mindful of the dangers of over-exposure to the sun. Use a high quality skin protection sunscreen. Look for a sunscreen that:

- has a SPF factor of at least 30 and still enables you to gain a suntan safely
- is gentle on the skin
- is water resistant
- retains SPF after 40 minutes of activity in the water
- contains natural ingredients that will moisturize the skin
- has an after sun dual action
- acts as a natural insect repellent

2. Aloe Vera Gelly
If you do manage to get too much sun and your sunscreen does not have an after sun dual action then ensure you carry a tube of aloe vera gelly Aloe Vera Gelly has been known to relieve burns & blisters, sunburn, insect bites & stings. Look for one that contains a high percentage of stabilized aloe vera gel like Forever Living.

3. Mosquito Repellent
If you find a sunscreen which acts as a natural insect repellent great!!! Should you have to buy one separately, select one that is gentle on the skin and has moisturizing properties.

4. Lip Balm
Your lip balm should provide protection in hot and cold climates. It should moisturize your lips as well as have some remedial effect on cold soars.



5. SwimwearAs sexy as you want!!!!! Though bear in mind your body shape and find swimwear that flatters.
- try a tankini if you do not feel you have the body for a bikini
- choose swimwear that gives you the support you need and will not sag in the pool or beach.
- ensure that your bathing suit fits well and is comfortable so as to avoid pulling and adjusting every minute.
- take along two pairs of swimsuits as no one likes to put on a wet swimsuit if it hasn’t had time to dry out in your room from your last splash.


6. Flip Flops
Essential wear for the poolside or beach. Find a pair that offers arch support.






7. Sun glasses


Sun glasses with ultra violet eye protection is a must. According to Mayo Clinic Ophthalmologist, Dennis Robertson, M.D. “UV radiation from the sun can damage not only the skin of your eyelids but also the clear outer parts of the eye — the cornea and conjunctiva. UV exposure also contributes to the development of certain types of cataracts. When you’re choosing sunglasses, look for UV protection details on product labels. Choose sunglasses that block at least 99 percent of UVB rays and at least 95 percent of UVA rays. This level of UV protection is in accordance with guidelines established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Skip sunglasses that are labeled "cosmetic" and those that don't offer details on UV protection.”


8. Beach Bag
A large beach bag is essential for carrying your stuff to the beach or pool. Choose one that will not dirty easily or can easily dust off as you will be resting this on the floor and sand. A bag with a clasp or zip is handy so that your contents are not exposed when not in use and persons cannot easily reach into your bag without permission. Ensure the beach bag you select is roomy enough to carry the above mentioned essentials as well as your towel, books and other essentials you may wish to take with you.

9. Cotton Tops/Blouses/Skirts/Shorts
Cotton clothing in the form of tops, blouses, skirts, shorts are absolute essentials for hot climates as the fabric allows your skin to breathe. Include some long sleeved light cotton tops to protect your skin in the sun when on those shopping trips or walking expeditions. Skirts and sarong are highly practical for warm temperatures especially when frequenting the beaches and pools. Much easier to take off and put on and would provide ventilation for your legs.

10. Camera
Most of us have cell phones with the technology to take pictures. Bear in mind that card capacity is sometimes limited on some of these phones and you may not have the opportunity to download and create space on your card. Carry an alternative camera to ensure you capture those unforgettable moments. Remember to include batteries on your list.

Enjoy the warmth and sunshine and protect your skin. A holiday in the sun can soon turn to a nightmare when you are nursing burns instead of enjoying the sights.

New Years Eve Party Wear

Deciding what to wear for that New Years Eve Party is easier than you think. Narrow your search by first determining the dress code for the evening. Is it a formal New Years Eve Ball? Or is it a semi formal or casual affair? Once you have identified the dress code, realistically decide how much you are prepared to spend on dress/clothes, shoes, accessories etc.

Knowing the type of outfit you are looking for and your budget will narrow your search and save you time.

For a formal dinner party you want a dress that will make you feel special and offers the additional feature of comfort especially if you intend to eat and enjoy yourself. Go for luxury fabrics like satin and stunning looks like elaborate sleeves with embellished detail. Or if you really want to think out of box and be eco friendly at the same time try this Maxi Dress by Ecoskin.


You will feel amazing in this Lodestone Maxi Dress by EcoSkin. This dress has off the shoulder sleeves and waist sash. The waist sash adds rich texture to this simply elegantly draped gown which is loose enough to allow for comfortable eating. Made in USA, of bamboo. Team up with Munique's rock crystal bracelet for a dazzler of a night.


Alternatively go for this
satin wrap dress with Chiffon waist tie by Amanda Wakeley.

For the more casual look, step out in true bohemian style in this printed tunic dress from Savoir

Accessorize this tunic dress with this Bali Girl Bracelet from Munique Fashions.


Compliment these looks with the perfect Apaca Wool Wraps in brown or black to keep you warm.

Umm!!! Bodylicious

Hydrate your skin this winter with this emollient Vintage Body Spa Whipped Shea Butter.

Made with unrefined, fair trade shea butter that is whipped together for almost an hour with grapeseed and jojoba oils and Vitamin E to create an intense, hydrating experience your body will love. Sounds delicious enough to eat.

Crisp White Shirt

A crisp white shirt is a must have in every woman's wardrobe. This adorable tunic style crisp white blouse pleating front, back and at sleeve hem will work well under most pullovers during winter and is a great taylored look to be worn year round. A perfect addition to your wardrobe.

This Fin Pleated Blouse is made of 100% Organic Cottonfiller so it does its bit for the environment too.

Ladies Ski Wear - Look Stylish on the Slopes

If you are lucky enough to be going skiing this Christmas or new year, you want to keep really warm with the latest ladies ski wear. Whilst warmth is your number one concern when skiing, you will probably also want to look stylish.

In order to keep warm layer your clothes starting with a base layer and finishing with waterproof layer such as salopettes and a ski jacket. Ski wear makes use of the latest fabrics and technology to ensure that you stay warm and dry as blue with cold is certainly not a stylish look.

This Roxy Ski wear jacket and pants are perfect for those who like to get noticed. The really stylish spotted pants are perfectly complimented by the red jacket with a matching green lining and you will certainly be seen in the snow in this ski wear.

Roxy Ladies Spot Pants

Roxy Ski Jacket

This base layer and hoody top will keep you really warm and stylish on the inside allowing you to really enjoy yourself on the slopes.

Animal skiwear base layer pant

Animal reversible hoody

As a large amount of heat is lost from your head in cold weather, it is important to keep it warm with a hat. This Roxy ski wear beanie hat is both practical and stylish and will keep you toastie warm.

Roxy skiwear beanie hat

Skiing this Christmas

When skiiing this Christmas, look after your face and lips with Aloe Sunscreen and Aloe Lips - two absolute essential must haves for your ski trip.

Aloe Sunscreen helps to soothe, lubricate, moisturise and protect the skin against sunlight and wind. It is unique in having Stabilised Aloe Vera Gel as its prime ingredient to minimise the effects of drying, flaking and burning caused by exposure to sunlight and wind, and helps to restore the skin's moisture balance.

Aloe Sunscreen is SPF 30 with a silky smooth waterproof formula that retains SPF for 40 minutes in water. With the renowned effects of Aloe Vera, it is an excellent aftersun lotion too, effective for cooling and soothing tired, exposed skin and it acts as a natural insect repellant.

Aloe Lips offers the same soothing properties to lips and provides protection even in the most extreme weather conditions. Whether you are skiing or sunbathing, picnicking by the river or barbecuing in the garden, keep Aloe Lips handy. It's ideal for emergencies, such as stings and bites or minor cuts and burns, and its compact size makes it so easy to keep in your handbag or first aid kit.

Don't leave home without them.

Give back to your skin

Rejuvenate and moisturise your skin like never before with this Sonya Skin Care collection. This collection's formulation of ingredients including Aloe Vera, Fruit Extracts, White Tea and superior moisturisers give back to your skin.

The Sonya Skin Care collection contains five fundamental elements for cleansing, moisturizing, and maintaining over all skin health and appearance.

Aloe Purifying Cleanser, Aloe Deep-Cleansing Exfoliator, Aloe Refreshing Toner, Aloe Nourishing Serum and Aloe Balancing Cream work together to leave your skin looking fresh and radiant. Indulge in this five-step process, and treat your skin to the luxury it deserves!

The Great Beauty Kits To Give This Season

Beauty kits are a great gift idea for make up lovers this holiday
season because all of their beauty items are in one place. Sephora and
Smashbox offers some cute and affordable makeup kits that make great
gifts for around $30.

Sephora - Too Faced Naughty or Nice Collection

This is a cute kit that allows you to choosebetween a "naughty" or "nice" look. You can use the "naughty" palette when you want to embrace your sexy side and the "nice" palette when you want a more demure look. Included in this collection are a variety of lip glosses and eye shadows, and if you're familiar with Sephora you
know about how committed they are to delivering quality products. This
kit goes for $29.50 on their site sephora.com


Sephora - Too Faced World Domination Tour All Access Backstage Beauty Collection

The title is a mouthful, but this kit looks really cute and might just become the center of attention in your bathroom. This kit is jam packed with enough make up to make you look and feel like a star. It includes Eight Eye Shadows, Duo Bronzer, Face Illuminator, Six Lip Glosses, Brow Powder, Eyeliner Cake, and Blush. As
an added bonus, when you open the box it actually plays the dance of
the Sugar Plum Fairy and the box can also be used as a jewelry kit. You
can find it on sephora.com for $34.


Sephora - Laura Geller Smoke Signals Kit

 If you want to achieve the smoky eye look, this kit is perfect for you. It includes a marble eye shadow duo, powder pencil, nude lipstick, and creamy black mascara. The great thing about this kit is the products stay fresh even after you wear them for a while. You can find it for $32 on sephora.com


Smashbox - Haute Couture

 This kit includes everything to bring out the fabulousness in your face. It includes Soft Lights pressed powder, rosy blush, eye shadow, moisturizing lip gloss and a lip pencil. Two of the great things about this kit is the blush
is oil-free and the lip gloss doesn't feel greasy. You can buy this
product for $29.90 on qvc.com


Looks great with Designer Clothing, visit Designer Clothes Online for discounted brand new designer clothes for men and women.