TREND ALERT - PEP HEMS

Peplums have been everywhere for the past few seasons, and although I can't deny that they are so chic and glam, they just aren't for me. For my frame I do have quite wide hips and I'm not in a rush to draw attention to them, don't want no thunder thighs on the loose now do we?

But there is an updated version of Peplum that is slowly filtering through, which is much more my bag - it's the PEP HEM. The Pep Hem is just the peplum but lower, instead going around the bottom hem of a skirt or dress, or around a dropped waist, instead of being just above the hip. The reason I love it so much is that they perfectly balance out broad shoulders and hips, creating quite the slimming effect, while putting the figure into proportion.

So, as nice as I am, I am sharing with you some of my favourite Pep Hem dresses so you can get ahead of the fashion pack and pick up one of these fab little numbers.

So which one is your favourite - I'm seriously pining for the squirrel print number from Topshop, it is so adorable!

Hope your weekend has been fantabulous!

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

CARTOON STYLING!

I am a bit of a big kid at heart and immature humor is sure to have me giggling like a naughty school girl, so it is probably no surprise that I am addicted to the likes of Family Guy, American Dad, The Simpsons etc. Well a weird thought popped into my head, some of the poor women and girls in these cartoons have been wearing the same outfits for over a decade - poor Marge Simpson has been wearing that lime tube dress for over 21 years.

Now I know cartoons are not real (except Spongebob of course, that's a rather riveting documentary series), but those poor girls, forced to wear the same outdated outfit for the remainder of their lives (on television) - yes they never age, but they are never on-trend either. So I have took it upon myself, to restyle my animated chums in a more up-to-date fashion, while being aware of their unique signature style.

First up is the long-suffering Meg Griffin from Family Guy - ridiculed for her looks, both in school and within he own family, the poor girl is desperate for a makeover to give her that much needed confidence boost.

Top, H&M; Moto Baxter Jeans, Topshop; Pieces Knitted Hat, New Look; 0703 Frames Black, Cutler and Gross; White Plaque Skinny Belt, River Island; Dear Diary Lipcreme, Mac; Cream Metallic Hidden Wedge Hi-tops, Blink @ New Look.

Next up is Hayley Smith from American Dad - unfortunately her hippy chick look was dated way before the series started. A sexy firecracker like Hayley, should have a hot look that she can take to the drum circle, but also to the club at night!

Knot Front Shirt, Topshop; Blue Flared Jeans, New Look; Mix Bows Headband, Dorothy Perkins; American Peace Necklace, Punky Pins; Volcano Flatform Sandals, ASOS; Ying Yang Skinny Belt, Topshop; Cream Puff in Fairy Cake, Collection 2000; Belly Bar, Argos.

And finally we have the ultimate cartoon siren, Marge Simpson - The woman deserves a new wardrobe, 21 years in the same dress, dealing with a buffoon of a husband, senile father-in-law and probably the scampiest of all scamps, Bart Simpson. So I have updated Marge's look to the a glam evening look, for the night out she so desperately needs!

Lime Bandeau Maxi Dress, Miss Selfridge; Necklace, H&M; CJG Stud Peeptoe Court Shoes, Topshop.

So what do you think of my restyle of these cartoon lovelies?
I may make it a regular feature if you guys think it's a good idea, if you do please give me some suggestions on which to restyle next and I shall share the love for you in the next edition

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

DON'T WAIT UP!

I'm completely running out of outfit posts - I work from home as a freelance writer, so most of the time I'm tramping it up in my pyjamas or sporting a rather shameful pair of joggers! But at least I can say I do try to make the effort when I head out - I don't want you guys thinking I am a horrible slob (although on a Sunday evening that is exactly what I am).

So anywhere this is what I wore out to a simple lunch out followed by a little bit shopping - I was testing out the hippy look with this neckerchief (worn as a headband) that my boyfriend bought me from Topman (he didn't know what it was but thought I could make use of it, pretty sweet huh?)

Printed Tank, Miss Selfridge - similar here.
Skinny Jeans, Primark - similar here.
Pixie Boots, Ebay - similar here.
Neckerchief (as headband), Topman - similar here.
Studded Bag, Thrifted - similar here.
Cassette Necklace, Punky Pins - same here.

Have any of you guys been trying out any new styles that aren't your norm?

I could also do with some suggestions of what to wear to a wedding party - I'm totally stumped, the last wedding I went to I felt unbelievably overdressed, which led to a rather strange woman following me to the toilet and saying I looked like I belonged in Closer magazine - I wasn't sure if that was a compliment or not!

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

PERSONAL STYLE - A 5 YEAR RETROSPECTVE

Personal style posts are a big part of the fashion bloggers repertoire - it give the chance to inspire or be inspired by other budding fashionista's. But, you do tend to see only the bloggers most recent look, which has probably been inspired by current trends, so its rare that you see a fashion disaster.

But it is important to remember that we have all had them - none of us in this world are perfect and if it takes a few catastrophes for you to find your own personal style then so be it. I have certainly had my fair share of fashion fumbles - I went through a period of sporting hair bunches (in my 20's) that made me look like a Cocker Spaniel (in the words of a friend); I once wore a bright pink nightie with a picture of a cat as a t-shirt; and lets not mention the thick black eyeliner, it looked like I was a drag queen who had got into a fight...Ah Gemma, what were you thinking.

Well anyway, I have been scrolling the depths of Facebook today, looking back on the changes to my personal style and thought why not share the retrospective in personal style with my blogger friends...I even remember where most of the stuff was from...how sad!

2007

Super smiley in 2007
Left: Bershka, Leather jacket, H&M necklace, Hair courtesey of being dragged through a bush.
Right: Ralph Lauren glasses, H&M earrings and metallic scarf worn as shrug

The bunch phase begins and the dreaded duck-mouth pout
Left: Bershka printed tee, Topshop jeans.
Right: Truffle Shuffle Back to the Future tee, Topshop necklace

2008

All wrapped up in winter with some standard leopard print
Ralph Lauren glasses, H&M earring and leopard print scarf, Triple S leather jacket

Red hair phase, and more of those awful bunches.
Hat from ASOS

Slight punk/rock chick phase complete with way too much eyeliner, and a shoot for a university prospectus
Top Left: H&M belt and t-shirt, Replay jeans
Bottom Far Left: Punky Pins gun earrings
Bottom Left: Amplified 'Frankie Says Relax' tee
Right: Besrka leather jacket, Primark tee, H&M belt, New Look jeans

Making friend with a wooden penguin and rudolph
Left: H&M leopard cardigan and bag, Truffle Shuffle 'Ghostbusters' tee, Fornarina jeans, TK Maxx trainers.
Right: Triple S leather jacket, Primark checked shirt

Frocking up!
Left: New Look dress, Primark belt, Punky Pins 'Gems' necklace.
Middle: George@ASDA dress, Vintage silver locket
Right: New Look dress and necklace

2010

Dainty Dresses
Left: Next scarf, Primark dress and headband, Triple S leather jacket.
Middle: Ravi London Dress, Primark necklace
Right: Discount store dress, Punky Pins 'Gems' necklace.

Here comes the sun.
Left:Topshop jacket, H&M tee, New Look jeans, Primark sunnies.
Middle: Discount store peacock print dress
Right: Firetrap maxi dress

A dramatic new haircut - I think I want my pixie crop back...should I?

2011

Look at that view - river doesnt look to bad either :)
Next scarf, Topshop jacket, Internationale cardigan, George @ ASDA dress.

Look sat that pasty skin - well not directly at it, that could be dangerous.
Left: Matalan Dress
Middle: H&M dress, Primark sunnies and bag.
Right: Miso @ Republic dress

 

Pretty as a picture!
Bershka leather jacket, Gifted fingerless gloves

Galavanting around london
Tesco cardigan, Matalan jumper dress, Primark sunnies

2012

Follow the link if you want to see more of my personal style from this year

See you don't have to always get it right, as long as your comfortable in who you are, what does it matter what anyone else thinks anyway.

I would love to see some personal style retrospectives form my fellow bloggers...have you had the fashion police knocking at your door?

Have a great weekend!

Gems

CHECK ON CHECKS

Last weekend I went out for a lovely Saturday lunch for some warming Mexican Tapas on a rainy day. Is anyone else insanely sick of the rain yet - it can be glorious sunshine outside, but in the five minutes it took me to decide I'm gonna get some fresh air, the sky has gone grey and it's raining up a storm. And don't get me started on the wind - it makes having an umbrella pointless, and results in any wonderful style and beauty look you have put together, look a soggy mess once you reach your destination.

Anyway, before I rant you into a boredom induced coma, here's what I wore.

 

Checked Trench Coat, New Look
Nautical Style Scarf, H&M
Royal Blue Jeans, Dorothy Perkins
Converse Hi-top Sneakers
Slogan Tank with PU Trim, Miss Selfridge
Open Checked Shirt and Belt, H&M
Headband, Primark
Necklace and Rings, H&MNYC Spring Street polish; Collection 2000, Sherbert Lemon

And I couldn't leave you without showing you a picture of the incredible food from the fabulous Las Iguanas, and the good news is, they have plenty of locations throughout the UK - so to say something incredibly cheesy, get some spice in your life.

Nachos, Pear and Brie Salad, Jumbo Pawns, Calamari and Tostadas, there was also some glorious Chorizo in there too.

So how have you all been spending your weekend, where have you been going and what have you been wearing?

And to all my little lovelies down under I hope you had a fantastic Mothers Day!

Gems x

MY BEDROOM DOOR - MAY 2012

As some of those who read my blog will know, I don't have a wardrobe...I know a girl who loves fashion, not having a wardrobe seems a bit strange, but due to space issues, it just isn't an option for me right now. But don't cry for me, I have found a way around it - I hang all my favourite pieces of the month on the back of my door where I get to see them all the time...Result.

So with the beginning of May, I thought it was about time I dug some of my beloved summery outfits from storage to display on my bedroom door to get me in the mood for the warmer weather ahead. Well it has rained ever since I hung them up there...typical. Hopefully I will get to wear them soon, and for your scrutiny, here are my May favourites.

1.) Pleather Biker Jacket, Matalan.
2.)Tweed Cap, Matalan
3.) Paisley Printed Dress With Sheer Sleeves, Unbranded.
4.) Vest with Pleather Trim, Miss Selfridge
5.) Leopard Print Dresss, H&M
6.)Nautical Jacket (worn here), Triple S
7.) Colour Block Track Jacket, H&M
8.) Metallic Maxi Skirt, Primark
9.) Nude Ruffle Dress, Ravi Famous
10.) Striped Dress, H&M

 

As you can probably tell, May is a little more punkish than April was, with my pleather jacket, leopard print dress and vest with serious attitude. I seriously want to get out in the sun in my little dresses and perhaps even tan up my luminous legs, but it seems I may have to wait a little longer. 

Hopefully next month I won't have to fill my coveted bedroom door slots with thick cosy jumpers!

What items have made it into your favourites this month?

Gems x

TREND ALERT - PYJAMAS

Yes that's right, Pyjamas are set to be one of the hottest trends of the upcoming season, and not for the bedroom, but to actually walk around in public - it gives the phrase "Day to Night Dressing" a whole new meaning. Anyone, who is anyone is rolling straight of of bed onto the red carpet in their finest silk, paisley and ditzy floral jammies.

Rihanna in Emilio Pucci and Eliza Sednaoui in Salvatore Ferragamo

Lou Doillon in Marni for H&M and Charlotte Ronson in her own design.

Caroline Sieber in Louis Vuitton and Stella McCartney in her own design

At first I wasn't sure about the sleepwear for the streets at first, felt a little bit like wearing a bra and knickers for the beach instead of a bikini. But, after doing a little bit of research, the trend has actually grown on me - I may not have the balls to wear a full set of pyjamas out in public, but a girly teddy or even sleepwear inspired pieces may just find their way into my wardrobe.
So anyway, here is how I would wear, or style the trend...

1.) Necklace and Tube Top, H&M; Monochrome Patterned Wide Leg Trousers, New Look'; Shilo Strap Raffia Platforms, Topshop.
2.) Navy Embroidered Kimono, Topshop; Trousers, H&M, Rivet Clutch, Romwe; Patent Fuchsia Pump, Forever 21; Carved Winter Rose Necklace and Octavia Stud Ring, Rock n' Rose
3.) Button Up Bralet and night shorts, Topshop; Leopard High Heel Boots, Romwe; Bow Cut-Out Ring and Bangle, Pretty Little Thing 
4.) Mustard Vest, Miss Selfridge, Gears Silk Like Yellow Harem Pants, Romwe; Platforms, Deichmann.

What do you guys out there think of the pyjama trend, you would roll out of bed and straight out of the front door?

Have a Great Weekend :)

Gems x

TREND ALERT - FESTIVAL!!

While festival season has come to an end for all my Aussie lovelies, it is just set to begin over here in the UK, which means the shops are filling with the most amazing head wear, distressed denim and light summer parkas.

Over the previous few years, festival fashion has become a trend in its own right, no longer being confined to the muddy fields of the British countryside. I won't be attending any festivals myself this summer - one of the benefits of working for yourself means that you are perpetually poor :) - but, I still be rocking the festival style in the concrete jungle taking some inspiration from these Hollywood hotties at California's Coachella Festival.

Diane Kruger, Emma Watson an Kate Bosworth

Kristen Stewart, Dita Von Teese and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

I've took a little crack at styling the festival trend as I would wear it out on the streets (not in the night walker way), so I haven't went over the top on bare leg, animal prints and over-sized hats - the streets of Newcastle are very different from the sweaty, body filled fields of the West Country :)

1.) Denim Blue Cap, H&M; Tie Neck Maxi Dress, Topshop.
2.) Beaded Collar Backless Playsuit, Romwe; Leopard Print Socks, Forever 21; Skull Head Black Flat Shoes, Romwe; Heart Broken Ring and Glitter Cross 2 Finger Ring, Punky Pins.
3.) Soft Feather Earrings and Candy Stripe Gilet, New Look; Pleated Dip Back Skirt, Topshop; Shoes, H&M.
4.) Grecian Disc Headband, New Look; Something Else Splice Strap Dress, General Pants; Biker Wellington Boots, Barratts.
5.) Neon Hart Studded Biker Jacket, General Pants; Mint 90's Print Dress, Miss Selfridge; Backback, Romwe.

So how did I do? What do you guys think of the festival trend?

Gems x