MISSGUIDED - AUTUMN/WINTER 2012

Well it's been a bit of a Missguided week on Fashion, Well Done and it just has to continue as I fell in love when I saw the online retailers Autumn/Winter 2012 collection on Look. The collection  is Missguided first foray into designing, so the pieces are totally unique to the brand and feature luxurious sequins, edgy sheers and plenty of glitz and glam. It's Missguided at its best, the tough rock chic touches have me drooling at my keyboard - the edgy little black dresses are rocking my world and sure to cause some turmoil to my bank account.

So anyway, here are my favourite pieces of the Autumn/Winter 2012 collection from Missguided, you can see the full line on Look, here.

I so want the leather sleeve mac and the black leatherette dress - Missguided seems to have just been rooting around in my brain, designing the pieces that are sure to bankrupt me by Christmas...at least I will be one well-dressed tramp!

Which are your fave pieces from this fab collection?

Gems x

TREND ALERT - URBAN REBEL

Not being a particularly girly girl, I was getting so bored of feminine florals and overly pretty pastels, I was pretty pleased when more edgy influences were making their way onto the high street. It's time for the Urban Rebel to take on the girly little princess - it's about tough leathers, crosses and plenty of hardware embellishments, think skulls, stud spikes and rivets.

I have already firmly dipped my toe into this trend, I'm currently awaiting on the delivery of a pair of fake leather trousers and I already have plenty of hardware jewellery, a pair of studded loafers and a stud embellished jersey dress - I predict there will be many more pieces in my wardrobe throughout the next few months.

I haven't done a little collage for a while, I have been so busy with work that I have been concentrating on outfit posts mostly as they are quicker - just have to put on some clothes and pout about for a few minutes. Well the collage is back with a few Urban Rebel inspired outfits, one to rock during the day and one to work at night....Enjoy!

Day: Earrings, New Look; Spike Shoulder Dress, Glamorous; Spiked Loafers, Matalan; Leather-Sleeve Jacket, H&M; Studded Bag, OASAP; Zebra Socks, Forever21.

Night: Shoulder Stud Tee, Topshop; Imitation Leather Trousers, H&M; Cross Necklace, New Look; Spike Bracelet, Missguided; Chain Strap Bag, Romwe; Studded Wedges, Tribeca Shoes.

What do you think of this trend? And how fabulous are those wedges from Tribeca Shoes - I wish I never discovered them, I want about 20 pairs!

Have you guys been enjoying the Olympic action? Yesterday I was so proud of the Team GB Mens Gymnastic Team - they did awesome winning a bronze medal!

Gems x

I'M ARMED!

I'm one of those girls that doesn't wear a lot of jewellery, it is all just a little bit too girly for me - it makes me feel too feminine I think and my inner tomboy rebels. But my mind is swaying a little bit with the emergence of stacked bracelets - it takes away the overly ladylike feel of jewellery and gives it a tougher edge, which is something I can get on board with (if I can get said bracelets to stay on my matchstick wrists that is).

Image Courtesy of Refinery29

I love how heavily stacking bracelets can transform a pair of jeans and a simple white tee into a statement outfit that is uniquely you thanks to you combination of bracelets and bangles. I have styled you up a few looks to show you what I mean - the first is something that I would definitely go for, ripped jeans, slubby tee, pair of leopard flats and tons of tough, punky jewellery.

Spike Stretch Bracelet, OASAP; Multi-level Spike Bracelet, Romwe; Gold Tone Spike Bangles, River Island; Gold & Cream Spike Bracelet, Matalan.
Curve Hem Tank, Topshop; Ripped Denim Turn Up Jean, New Look; Rivet Embellished Flats, OASAP.
Verna Studded Rubber Bracelet, Missguided; Cross on Chord Bracelet, Topshop; Peace Charm Bracelet, Tesco; Silver Cuff; H&M; Studded Wrap Bracelet, New Look.

The second look I went for was just a little bit boho, with kick-flare jeans, simple cropped tee and lots of boho, hippy chic arm candy...It's not something I would usually go for, but I have to admit that I love it, once my self imposed spending ban ends on my birthday (6th of July peeps, just a week to go), I am going to go bangle bonkers!

Gold Peace Sign Cuff, River Island; Thread Wrap Bracelet, Miss Selfridge; Gold Love Bangles, River Island.
Button Crop Top, Topshop; Firetrap Blue Jenni Flare Jeans, New Look; Vintage Openwork Wrapped Wedges; OASAP.
Floral Printed Bracelet, Romwe; Leather Woven Bangle Pack, River Island; Sequinned Bangles, New Look.

What do you think of the stacked bracelet trend? Do you love it as much as me?

In the spirit of trying new things, I couldn't let you go without showing you a picture of my first ever Creepers - awesome online brand OASAP kindly credited my account with $10 so they went straight towards an amazing pair of their creepers. I went for the Casual Leopard Lace-up Creepers in the stunning green shade, I seriously can't wait for them to arrive - thank you OASAP, expect an outfit post soon!

Gorgeous OASAP Creepers.

I hope all my UK friends survived the storms yesterday - it was scary huh?

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Gems x

PRIMARK - AUTUMN/WINTER 2012

Most of you will probably know that I am a huge Primark (or Primarni as I call it) fan - yes there is a huge debate going on at the minute about disposable fashion, which results in more and more clothing ending up on landfills. But I promise I do take unwanted clothing to charity shops, I have sold some clothing on a car boot sale, and anything too tatty for anyone else gets torn up into dusters (it is a habit I picked up from my mam).

So if you are mindful about not sending clothing to landfills and you are responsible with sustainable fashion (charity shops, swapping with friends, DIY's to update) then you have my permission to go crazy when the Primark Autumn/Winter 2012 collection hit stores, although you will have to wrestle me to some of the finer pieces - I may be skinny but I'm damn scrappy too!

The seasonal line is stunning, full of gorgeous tailoring, masculine silhouettes, intense prints and killer shoes and accessories. I have picked out my favourite pieces for your consideration, and I warn you, do not get between me and the Wedge Hi-tops or the Park Coat.

The prints and colours are just fantastic aren't they? Primark are upping their game season after season, which is great as it allows the less well fashionista's (like me) get a taster of the season's hottest trends.

Check out the full collection at Look Magazine online, here and let me know what you think?

What pieces will you be racing to pick up?

Gems x

REMEMBER KICKERS!

 *This is a sponsored post*
I remember in my teenage years being taken to get my new shoes for that year and I would always choose a pair of Kickers, they lasted really well since I have a tendency to stomp around - for someone who is barely 8 stone soaking wet, I am very heavy on my feet. I have to say I am loving the new collection, their styles certainly have updated with the times, while keeping that certain 'chunky' appeal they are so well known for - I am seriously tempted by the Metta Low Leather Boots, I mean how good would they look with a ditzy floral dress?

What are your shoes saying about you?

It is a truth universally acknowledged that you can tell a great deal about someone from the shoes they wear. In some respects it’s definitely true, and certain items of footwear – such as ballet shoes or ice skates – have a very specific customer base.

Some of my faves from the current women's line
L-R: Kick Emboss Leather Boots; Metta Low Leather Boots; Kick Hi Fold Boots

If your shoes could talk…

Subconsciously, we all make some of these judgements about people on a regular basis – regardless of whether we base them on their choice of footwear or not. This means that others are probably doing the same to us, and also suggests that it is possible to influence how other people see us by simply changing our footwear.

Have a look at your shoes right now! Objectively speaking, what do those shoes say about you? Do they say busy mum or hardworking professional? Are they sporty, glamorous or comfortable?

…What would they say?

So, now that you are aware of the influence your shoes can have, you need to think about what it is you want them to say about you. If you want to project a fun and carefree image, then try a pair of Kickers. If you want to seem laid back and relaxed, then flip-flops or sandals will do the trick – although pairing these with socks will say something else entirely. 

Can't forget the boys!
L-R: Nevermind Men's Slip on Boat Shoes; Kick Chunk Men's Boots;Mani Men's lace Up Shoes

 If you are attending a serious business meeting or job interview, think about how you would like to come across. Pick your shoes accordingly and build the rest of your outfit around them. You’ll be amazed how easy this is to do, and how easily selecting appropriate footwear for a pivotal event can give you the confidence boost you need. After all, your shoes speak volumes about who you are. All you need to do is make sure that they’re saying the right things.

Did any of you guys have Kickers? Or maybe you already have a pair?

By the way my guest post for Country Girl Does Norfolk is live now, so please check it out here.

And finally before I go, don't forget to enter my Very First Giveaway, that is open internationally!

Gems x Gems x

NEWCASTLE FASHION WEEK - BARBOUR SPRING/SUMMER 2012

London, Paris, Milan and New York amongst others, are quaking in their designer boots as Newcastle Fashion Week is back - woo hoo! There is a host of events occurring all over Newcastle until the 3rd of June so make sure you check out the website, to make sure you won't have to kick yourself for the rest of the year for missing something fabulous.

I'm glad I managed to drag myself into Newcastle at midday on Sunday to catch the Barbour Spring/Summer 2012 collection, shown on the catwalk in glorious sunshine - although I did feel a bit sorry for the lovely girls in their wellies - their feet must have been on fire. The spectators were given the an extra cooling treat though with male models working the crowd with their Barbour umbrellas and specially designer Barbour T-shirts, which are being sold exclusively through Fenwick to raise Cash for Kids.

Introduced by Gok Wan's legendary right-hand woman, Brix Smith-Smart and her super cute Barbour-sporting pooch Gladys, the collection featured a gorgeous range of light weather proof jackets the South Sheilds brand is so well renowned for, as well as, quirky printed tees and fine knitwear accessorised with elbow patches. The looks were finished off with hair from Gary Hedley and make-up from Benefit.

All photos taken terribly by me with help from Mr Well Done...

 So what do you think of the collection from Barbour? I am drooling over the white belted jacket!
There were so many stylish chicas in the crowd I felt quite trampish in my maxi skirt and tee, but anyway here is what I was wearing, an outfit post will follow soon!

Has anyone else out there caught any of Newcastle Fashion Week? I really wanted to see the final year show tomorrow at the Baltic but I have celebrations for my Dad's birthday, but I will be checking out the fun times in Eldon square on Thurs, before I go and see the first showing of Prometheus at r minutes past midnight!

Gems x

BEST OF THE MET BALL

This week saw one of the world's biggest fashion event - the annual Met Costume Institute Gala, which took place on the 7th May at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art. Equivalent to The Oscars in the fashion world, the theme of this year's event was Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations, so the pressure was on to get it right on the red carpet.

Well it pleases me to say that many thrived under the pressure, with some of the attendees literally knocked my socks off, seriously they are on the other side off the room and my feet are getting cold. Unfortunately, as with any event where it's important to get it right, there were some who pushed the boundaries way to far, ending up on the boundaries of crazy town, which had be reaching for the blindfold...be prepared, at the end of this post there will be some of these epic misses, with the fashion police unable to help you, so view at your own risk.

Anyhoo, lets get to the red carpet pictures and my top ten hit in the style stakes...

Number 10 - Scarlett Johannson in Dolce & Gabbana

Scarlet's creamy skin is the perfect accompaniment to this one of a kind beaded blush dress - particularly love the voluminous tulle of the fish-tail skirt, it is so Old-Hollywood Glamour.

Number 9 - Marion Coillard in Dior Haute Couture

Pulling off the sheer trend to absolute perfection, Marion is absolutely glowing in this deep purple number - I'm loving the bling details, this dress is so good the poor woman in the background in the boring white number is hanging her head in shame.

Number 8 - Solange Knowles in Rachel Roy

 

Solange was showing her sister how it was done (who was unimpressive in an overly fussy Givenchy Haute Couture gown by Riccardo Tisc) in a vibrant sunflower yellow gown with on trend pleplum detailing - I love how she has kept her make-up natural, topping off her look with her trademark afro.

Number 7 - Jessica Alba in Michael Kors

 Usually I would hastily skip over anything with too much gold lame as it was one of the worst things to come out of the '80's but Jessica is dazzling in this exquisitely draped one-shoulder gown. The Grecian goddess topped off her look with scarlet lip, dramatic swept hair and amazing Wilfredo Rosado jewelery.

Number 6 - Elizabeth Banks in Mary Katrantzou
 

It's a look that is sure to divide fashion critics and fans everywhere, but I love the mis-matched patterned peplum skirt and cape style top, it is so interesting and makes Elizabeth's figure look as fantastic as it is without showing off too much skin. The minimalist Louboutin heels Cartier jewels finish the outfit to perfection.

Number 4 - Amber Heard in Zac Posen

  Amber is someone who doesn't usually make it onto my fashion radar, but she is looking stunning in this dusky pink ball gown. The sweetheart neckline shows of her ahem assets beautifully and the structured fit accentuates her womanly curves.

Number 5 - Candice Swanepoel in Rag & Bone

The vibrant Royal blue looks absolutely amazing on the Victoria Secret model - the custom made gown fits like a glove and the sensual sheer panels made sure we saw just enough of her killer legs.

Number 3 - Kate Bosworth in Prada

Kate looks absolutely incredible in her first ever custom gown, Prada have created something really special for the Superman actress. Covered in luxurious ostrich feathers and featuring a low back this fab mini dress was sure to be a head turner - and that deep plum lipstick...kiss me Kate! 

Number 2 - Carey Mulligan in Prada

 

Narrowly missing out on my Number 1 spot, this blinging prom dress is absolutely incredible - if I was in the market for Prada (I may as well be in the market for miracles) this little number would be right at the top of my list. I love how Carey let the dress do all the talking with muted shoes and total lack of accessories, and how about that stunning hair?

Number 1 - Camilla Belle in Ralph Lauren Collection

 How could any other gown be Number 1 than this ultimate stunner from Ralph Lauren, of course it helps that Camilla has a figure to die for. The plunging neckline, the metallic beading, the simple matching accessories and Old Hollywood glam hair and make-up...it all works. Love, love, love.

Of course with such fabulous-ness present on the red carpet, there has to be a trade off! Yes I'm afraid it's that time to discuss the red carpet mishaps...if you don't think you can take it, feel free to stop reading at this point...all the big babies gone? Good...let's get this over with.

Number 5 - Bianca Brandolini in Dolce & Gabbana

No that's not the sun, it's a dress that is causing more glare than the sun - I swear a few of the more anemic looking attendees were flocking around Bianca hoping to get a bit of colour in their faces...don't look for too long

Number 4 - Kirsten Dunst in Rodarte

I really want to like this look because Kirsten was brave enough not to play it safe, going for the classic red carpet gown, but every time I look at it, all I can think is 'grumpy secretary circa 1920's' complete with blah hair. On the plus side...no I can't there's nothing, I hate it!

Number 3 - Christina Ricci in Thakoon

Christina made it on to my worst dressed list as she was on the road to perfection, but then took a detour to bonkers. The black lace and nude silk is gorgeous and the Tiffany diamonds are drool worthy, but what on earth is that giant bow at the back? Its craptacular Christina, sorry...stunning face though!

Number 2 - Sarah Jessica Parker in Valentino 

Sarah seemed to be flying the flag for sustainable fashion by resurrecting her prom dress from the 1980's. The wishy washy print, crumpled fabric and frumpy fit do nothing for Sarah and it is such a shame, because the girl can dress...usually!

Number 1 - Chole Sevigny in Miu Miu

Chloe is someone I always look forward to seeing on the red carpet, because it is either to be amazing or a disaster, unfortunately at the Met Ball it was bad, despite the dress being barely there it still managed to make the svelte star look frumpy and the shoes are boring. What is impressive though is that she managed to time travel to the 1960's to fashion the dress out of a door screen...was that too mean?

Who was your best dressed of the night? And who didn't get it quite right?

Gems x

Photographs courtesy of Glamour.com