The thin line between necessity and compulsion

That line is definitely blurring. 'I want' is more readily becoming 'I need' as I hopelessly try to justify purchasing yet another item of clothing or footwear. Now let's be honest, I don't need any of it, I just want it real bad. And it's pretty despicable of me, what with people starving across the world, desperate for just a mere sip of water. It's not my fault though, shopping is my addiction, pity me, I deserve empathy not criticism. Hey, I worked hard for this stuff, let me enjoy it dammit.

Left: 3 Buckle Boots - Jane Norman
Aptly named like so due to the three buckle feature. Clever huh? These cute stone coloured ankle boots are neutral enough to coordinate with a variety of outfits, particularly palettes of navy, white, cream and beige. They tend to complete my winter look. And the word 'look' here is so totally misleading because all I was referring to was cream winter gear such as a coat and scarf. These beauties are quite delicate, not like your regular tough, hard-wearing boots, and therefore feel rather slinky when worn, and are surprisingly very comfortable - expect a sexy strut.

Right: Heart Print Tweedy Scoop Neck Jumper - Jane Norman
Jumpers are usually pretty frumpy, and like a camera have the tendency to add ten pounds so I generally steer well clear of all things that even remotely resemble such an unflattering garment. This one is not bulky though, and the heart print is too cute to resist, what with hearts being my favourite shape ever, followed closely by stars. This jumper enforces a tweed style, and features contrasting shades of grey in patterns of horizontal jagged lines. Most importantly, the entire piece is decorated with a silver glittery effect which makes it all sparkly and glimmery. That's right, this isn't your ordinary, everyday, run-of-the-mill jumper, this is one snazzy little number. As it has a lot going on and is therefore quite busy, it is best to team it with a more calm and subdued bottom half, like a simple pair of jeans or a plain short skirt.


Left: Lace Bow Tunic - Jane Norman
If you want a black top with a twist then this is your best bet. It incorporates rose patterned sheer lace along its sleeves and on its back so that you can flash a bit of flesh in a demure fashion. This top is fairly long and so can be worn with leggings, and it comes accompanied with a patent belt to nip in the waist for a more womanly hourglass figure.






Right: Leopard Print 2in1 dress - Jane Norman
Figure-hugging doesn't even marginally come close when describing this dress. This is like something out of Kim Kardashian's wardrobe. Do not purchase if you are self-conscious about your body shape because this body-con dress will highlight every lump and bump, even ones that are not there - trust me when I say it is tight, actually it is tighter than tight. However, in the same manner, it clings to every curve, and whilst it is great for hourglass figures who want to flaunt their proportions, it is also perfect for skinny girls who wish to somewhat create a more feminine physique. This dress is very short so there is a lot of skin on display, especially the thigh region, and because it is such a snug fit thighs can appear chunkier than they actually are. All in all it's a very difficult dress to pull off. The combination of the leopard print upper half and the overall short length can make you look pretty tarty and slutty so it is extremely necessary to accessorise it with simple yet elegant items for a more classy finish. Wear with black tights for more streamlined thighs, this also helps you from baring too much and diffuses the revealing nature of the dress. Black heels are a must, any other colour would be probably shift you into the realm of tacky. As with jewellery, it is best to keep pieces to a minimum, and to stick with delicate silver articles. Costume jewellery and gold creates a cheap, vulgar, market stall-like feel when teamed with this garment so are best avoided. This dress can immediately be made more chic by throwing a black blazer or cardigan in the mix, both of which break the intensity of the original item and take a little focus away from it so that it is isn't too strong in an over-the-top way.

Left: Military Double Layer Dress - Jane Norman
Last of the military as it finally makes an exit, it did seem to linger around persistently for a while there. This dress is vey kind on the figure, the black is naturally slimming, and the pleated tulip skirt is loose around the waist/stomach vicinity so if your problem areas lie around here then they are easily disguised. The gold military tab buttons jazz up what would be a fairly ordinary dress. Take the cue on how to accessorise from here - think gold - gold coin jewellery is most ideal. Animal prints also compliment this outfit well, fuse into the look via adornments like hoop earrings and chunky bangles, or for a less subtle feel splash out with a bag or pair of heels that feature the said pattern. You'll find that leopard print ankle boots are very hot at the moment.


Right: Ribbon Trim Jumper - Jane Norman
Stunning red colour. This knitted jumper has a gorgeous satin ribbon ingrained within the front which makes for a very unique feature. It has an extremely high neckline so find a means through which to exhibit a little skin elsewhere otherwise you will look pretty nun-like all covered head to toe. I wear mine with a short grey pleated skirt.






Left: Rose Print Belted Cardi - Jane Norman
A short light grey cardigan embellished with a dark grey rose print makes for a very feminine and versatile piece indeed. It has a thin patent bow belt which helps to cinch the waist, and utilises gorgeous twinkly buttons for a touch of sparkle. The short length is ideal as it ends at the smallest part of the waist thus highlighting this area. This cardigan enhances monotone outfits but also has the ability to tone down loud outfits as well - see what I mean by versatile? It bodes well with dresses and tops alike - see what I mean by versatile?!


Right: Shaggy Knit Scarf - Jane Norman
What I call my Santa beard scarf. It is heavily fringed and ultra long, believe me, it goes on for miles but is effortlessly stylish. This winter accessory has kept me warm and cosy yet fashionable at the same time.










Left: Shell and Faux Pearl Flower Necklace - Jane Norman
Herein lies the danger of online shopping. No, I don't mean credit card fraud and such, I mean misrepresentation, as in the product varying in reality from how it was shown on screen. Serves my lazy-ass right eh. This necklace appeared much larger on the website but to my disappointment was absolutely tiny when it arrived. I'm not keen on jewellery that requires a magnifying glass to be acknowledged you see. I was drawn to the delicate, romantic quality of the pendant but it is nowhere near as pretty as it looks in the image - photographic trickery and general all round propaganda I say! Hmmm, methinks it is going to be palmed off as a gift to some poor, unfortunate soul.

Right: Black Denier 120 Opaque Tights - Topshop
Perfect winter tights. Not because they are woolly or anything, but because they are pretty high on the denier scale which means legs are not visible to the naked eye. Okay, let's get this straight, I don't mean that you put them on and your legs become invisible, no, these are not magically powered tights. What I mean is that the body of the leg can be seen but no skin is on display. Clear? I love these because they allow me to continue wearing my favourite dresses and mini skirts well into winter without them looking season inappropriate. Plus if you're having a lazy day or running late these gems can let you get away with not shaving your pins - result!

Left: All Over Hearts Tulle Tights - Topshop
I decided to venture into the patterned tights domain. Don't get me wrong, nothing beats opaque tights but sometimes there is an urge to spice it up a little. These cute sheer pair are designed with vertical lines of little hearts, and as we all know, I love all things heart shaped. You can spruce up a plain-ish outfit with these, or even team them with more formal work attire because they are absolutely adorable and inoffensive, that is if your workplace doesn't enforce a strict dress code that's anti patterned hoisery.




Right: Lace Back Sheer Tights - Topshop
These kinky pair are sheer at the front and have a lace pattern that runs vertically along the back from the side of each leg so that they are of a semi plain-semi patterned composition. They tend to work well with a variety of outfits because they are not overtly adventurous or risky.




Left: Corset Back Opaque Tights - Topshop
First and foremost, boy are these tights comfortable - just like the denier 120 pair. Whereas the others are quite stockings-like in the sense that they are mega tight, these are all stretchy and cushy. This does not detract from the fact that they are also very sexy, the sheer corset panel that streams along the back gives them a racy burlesque quality. Apologies for the pretty useless pic - if you squint and focus mega hard you can see a jaggedy line at the back, this is where the said corset design takes place.



Right: Flock Rose Sheer Tights - Topshop
These are bolder than the rest. They are sheer with a darker rose pattern decorated all over, and therefore have a somewhat tattoo feel about them. Wear with a short skirt or dress so that the gorgeous design that runs through them can be fully appreciated. Absolutely beautiful and alluring, plus they feel very graceful. I totally recommend them.




Left: Boudoir Tulle Tights - Topshop
A little trickier to pull off. They have a dominant pink chain detailing that runs vertically in lines alongside columns of faint dots (image fails to showcase this pattern well) - it is this pink design that is overpowering, and so these pair of tights must be teamed with something more devoid of colour, stick with darker skirts or dresses here otherwise these tights can look fairly tacky.



Oh and in further shopping news, I am not impressed with River Island. I ordered a few bits from their website, three weeks flew by without the purchased items arriving, despite them claiming that the parcel had been dispatched and what not. I couldn't track it online via the delivery service either, something about it not being available or details not being registered, so I sent them an email and completed the contact form on their website, another five days passed before I received a response, and it was only a standard one at that - that they had been inundated with enquiries about missing parcels due to the adverse weather conditions over the busy Christmas period, blah, blah, blah, and that they would take another three to five working days for a more personalised response. Their more personalised response was that they were looking into the issue and that I could call their customer service helpline instead. Cheers River Island, very helpful and informative, big thumbs up. I tried calling their customer services but they had reduced the enquiry hours from nine-five to ten-four which meant it was impossible to call during the working week (because I'm at work silly, that's why), and when I eventually managed to call within the reduced time period, well they just completely ignored me, I didn't get an answer at all, it just rang and rang and then cut off. Grrrr! At this stage I was absolutely fuming and had to resort to sending a fairly mean email, which I was not very pleased about and felt slightly guilty about afterwards, but hey, it did the trick, within a few minutes I received two replies, that's right, not one, two - one informing me that the parcel had been lost by the courier service, and the other acknowledging me of a refund like I had demanded. I also received a further weird-ass email, something about the items being dispatched again, made no sense to me at all. Anyway so because of all that aggro I just want to say that River Island, your customer service is pants, it sucks, big time, fix up, pronto.

Phew, sorry for the definitive rant but thanks all the same for listening folks!

Shopping Fever

I am crazed and hyperventilating like some teenybopper at a Justin Bieber concert. What's the occassion? Oh, just that moment when you log on to your favourite shopping site and are greeted by a 'just arrived' section, it gets me excited enough to orgasm.

The following are all from Freemans, who should by the way acknowledge all the promotion I am single-handedly accomplishing for them - discounts and freebies would not go amiss you Freemans bigwig types.

Left: AJC Faux Leather Jacket - A sexy accessory with a trendy edge that completes most outfits. Cold November weather has only permitted me to sport this once so far, but even on that meager of a moment I was overcome with compliments from a variety of people who eyed up this jacket with awe, and quite possibly envy. The colour is cognac, a more fancy and creative way of saying tan, and is therefore neutral enough to compliment most clothing coordinations, just because it is outerwear other than of a black, cream or white nature doesn't mean it should be avoided or feared. The jacket has a fur collar, fake of course, which is not a conventional feature of leather jackets but makes the item more unique and fashionable, whilst lending it a winter feel. Those that are not all that keen on fur will be glad to learn that this collar is indeed removable.

Right: AJC Pack of 2 Denim Leggings - It took me while to embrace leggings but now I feel it's time to try the denim version of this lycra phenomenon. Bring it on, I'm ready for it. These aren't quite your regular jeggings - they are not as tight fitting. The material is actually a cross between that of denim and leggings which means they are rather thick and heavy. Think of them as a pair of comfortable, elasticated skinny jeans really. They are a great buy for those who are petrified of jeggings and its slim fit qualities yet still yearn for the fashion trend all the same. Plus you get two different colours in the pack. Sorted.

Left: Angeleye Lace Double Layer Dress - This white dress is traditional of the romantic style, with its delicate lace, and corsage embellishments. It's feminine and verging on the loose side, giving it a cute and carefree feel. I am always wary of white because it is harsh and unforgiving, what with its tendency to add pounds to your figure, and loose dresses either make you look pregnant or wide so when I first clocked eyes on this garment I wasn't too thrilled - at first glance it looked like a definite case of double no-no. However when I tried it on I was pleasantly surprised, it just looked so pwetty. Plus it made me feel all dainty and graceful. It also has an effortless quality to it. Yes, I admit the fitting is not snug enough for me but I can just add a belt to the waist area for a little shape and structure. Emphasise the romantic mood of this dress with like-minded accessories - pearls are ideal as are all things flower related, like flower rings and flower hair adornments. Colours should be kept soft, subtle and subdued, think white, cream, peach and pale pink here.

Right: Closet Beaded Shift Dress - Has a multi-coloured beaded neckline, an autumn-like print and a tulip style skirt. I refer to it as my 'peacock dress', no elaborate or intricate reason, simply because the colours remind me of the beautiful, iridescent creature. The dress itself has a lot going on so it is best to keep the rest of your look simple and minimal, nothing too bold or clashing.




Left: Disney Believe Pendant - Disney couture, especially the jewellery has been a big hit amongst the celebs who have not been shy to flash this cute and oh so current brand. I heart all things Disney, I mean what's not to love, it's magical, enchanting and fun. Tinkerbell is my fave character followed closely by Ariel and Princess Jasmine, so when I spotted this Tinkerbell necklace I didn't hesitate to make it mine. It's charming, adorable and the true essence of Disney.

Right: Disney Minnie Loves Mickey Tote - More Disney! I already have a Minnie Mouse tote from Eurodisney in Paris but I still couldn't resist this delightful bag. I mean look at it, can you find the heart to just walk away from it?




Left: Lascana Leggings - These are no ordinary leggings folks, these are jeggings in their purest form. Comprising of an excellent fit, consider them your second skin, surprisingly this doesn't immediately mean that they are uncomfortable, far from it actually. Maximise with a long top and a pair of boots to achieve a casual yet trendy look.


Right: Laura Scott Bootcut Jeans - I am a girly girl, I would pick a dress or skirt over a pair of jeans any day, I don't care too much for jeans, maybe because trying to find even just an okay pair is by no means an easy feat. Yes, I could quite easily renounce jeans. I tell no lie, I have actually been in the process of seeking just one pair of your regular, run-of-the-mill jeans for well over a few years now, nothing encrusted with diamond or Swarovski crystals, nothing intricately embroidered or sequined, nothing made from leather or snakeskin, just a regular, run-of-the-mill jeans, it's tough though, they are either too low-rise, creating a number of problems such as the muffin top and the builder's bum syndrome, or are too lengthy for my short stature, or too tight, making even breathing problematic, or too loose, which means you have to keep pulling them up with the added bonus that they transform you into Miss No Booty. All I want is a pair that hugs my shape but also allows my respiratory system to function effectively. This pair is a-okay, nothing special but certainly better than most I have tried over my last few jeans-deprived years. They are not skin-tight but still attempt to flatter the figure, and the cut is very boots friendly. My one gripe is the back pockets, they seem to be placed too far down, making the ass area look slightly odd. Higher pockets next time please Laura Scott.

Left: Laura Scott Peep Toe Ankle Boots - These not only have a trendy peep toe design but also display cut-outs on the sides, and are comfortable enough to strut around in, or defeat villains in if that is your line of profession. The decorative studs lend it a rock chick quality. They look fantastic teamed with a short dress or skirt.

Right: Laura Scott Print Top - This 'never too late to be a rockstar' t-shirt just screams attitude, and the black and white graphics create a striking print. For true rockstar chic combine this top with a short black skirt, tights of either a patterned or lace variety, and a pair of black gladiator heels or sexy ankle boots. Throw in a studded leather cuff to execute the look.



Left: Laura Scott Sequin Dress - Available in black, blue or silver, this party dress is a great buy considering that the ultimate party season is hovering just around the corner. The front of it is furnished in entirety with little sequins, I know sometimes an all over sequined dress can look cheap and tacky but this one is très swanky and stylish with a snazzy fit. For a more practical and versatile evening look, tone down the feel of the dress with black accessories, even a blazer like in the image. Jazz up with silver if you are in a more celebratory mood.

Right: Lipsy Full Mesh Skirt - Believe them when they say it's full because they tell no lie. It can triple the size of your bottom half so steer clear if you are already well-endowed in this area. Cream with a layered effect and pleats, and a black satin bow waistband, this gorgeous skirt has a ballerina feel to it, and resonates of the ultra feminine romantic trend. Fuse with a hugging black top to streamline the figure and create a silhouette, and add a long pearl necklace to heighten the look.


Left: Pinstripe Blazer - I have surrendered to the idea of blazers as a fashionable alternative to a cardigan or jacket. No longer just associated with power dressing and office attire, celebs have transformed this scary item of clothing into something more adaptable and wearable. This pinstripe vesion is a little longer than I would have liked but is extremely versatile - it is smart enough for work but can easily be converted into something more trendy when combined with either a dress or a pair of jeans. The blazer is pretty loose so make sure the rest of your attire is fairly fitted - a head to toe baggy look is not attractive.

Right: Shiny Leggings - I already have a pair of wet look leggings but decided it was time to expand the empire. Comfortable yet skin-tight, these are not for the timid or figure-conscious. Regular leggings are so common these days, so stand out in pair of shiny ones like these instead.


Left: True Decadence Pearl Belted Dress - Another piece that depicts the delicate romantic style well. Cream with a frilled neckline, this dress is sheer, loose and short so make sure you wear a camisole or slip underneath to prevent flashing your underwear to unsuspecting passers-by because it really is that see-through. The pearl belt lends the dress a distinctive feel whilst also providing it with an elegant quality. Wear this sensual dress with tights or as a top over jeans, and team with gentle accessories, nothing vibrant or overpowering.

High Street Stroll

I spy with my very normal sized eye a lot of Autumn knitwear. And okay, so I'm not an ardent devotee of knitwear in all its varied glory, I would like to be but jumpers and the like just make me look four months pregnant which would be perfectly okay if I were indeed four months pregnant but I am most certainly not four months pregnant so I am going to abstain from such garments, think this winter will be all about layers and cardigans - cardigans rock! I mean, there are such pretty knitwear pieces available, with belts don't you know, so you can cinch your waist and thus avoid the four month pregnant look but even so, they are chunky and short sleeved which inevitably means you still look two dress sizes bigger whilst your poor arms shiver themselves crazy. Besides I just don't get short sleeved jumpers, what's the point, if I'm buying a jumper I expect sleeves, and no, that's not diva behaviour at all, it's not like I'm asking for my dressing room to be specially painted white with candles and flowers in the same theme, or demanding that my assistant pick out only blue M&Ms for me to devour, I only want sleeves dammit!

Here's me avoiding knitwear like cracks in the pavement:

Right: Pleat Front Brace Skirt - Jane Norman
Excuse the miniscule image, it was the only visual at my disposal. If you are slightly timid of braces, like myself, these can actually be detached or casually flung down so fear not. I know nautical has already left the building but I still could not resist this cute skirt. Perfect for those monochrome madness moments.

Left: Black Spotted Puffball Skirt - Miss Selfridge
Simply gorgeous. A 1950s puffball skirt style instantly made cutting-edge with the patent belt. The polka dots are subtle but lend a very elegant and feminine touch. Looks absolutely awesome combined with my polka dot vest.






Right: Purple Heart Necklace and Studded Bangle - Touch at Pearsons
Charming accessories that would flatter any purple infused outfit. And heart pendants are just my favourite, actually anything heart shaped does it for me really, it's my most cherished shape ever! Although, one does wonder - hearts - are they a shape, are they an organ - that is the true question.

Left: Shawl Collar Tie Belt Cardigan - Jane Norman
Okay, fair enough, it does qualify as knitwear yet at the same time if you were reading this post attentively you would have gathered that cardigans are in fact exempt from the whole knitwear ban. So there. Can't really claim that there is anything unique or special about this item, it is just your run-of-the-mill charcoal cardigan. I like it though, and because I purchased it recently it is sufficient reason enough for it to be plastered on this post. So there!

Also in further shopping related news, I have discovered Glitz4Girlz - great pieces of hair jewellery to masquerade my ghastly fringe. If you are not deterred by the name of the site, which admittedly seems very much directed at those of a single digit age, and are patient enough to sift through the tacky merchandise, you shall find some great bits here, I should know for I have almost bought half of all there is on offer.

Apologies for the brief and oh so very lazy post - am going to play the 'writer's block' card here!

My name is Jasmine, and I am a shoeaholic

Retail therapy: the most effective therapy known to man, and one that I can personally vouch for. But what does one do when they have no money in the bank and no credit card on hand? Nope, not resort to theft or hustle up a sugar daddy, those that have a little ounce of morality catalogue shop. It's like put in on the tab darling.

Yes, I know, I wasn't supposed to buy any more shoes but I rebelled and went on a massive, spiralling out of control shoe binge. In my defence, new shoes are an excellent cure for the blues.

Left: Timeless Velvet Stud Peeptoe Courts - Freemans
I still can't quite resist purple, it's amazing to think that prior to last year, when the colour was officially discovered, it rarely featured in my wardrobe, before last year purple barely existed in my world and now I wear it practically every other day. These towering heels may look a tad scary and intimidating but are surprisingly comfortable and mega easy to strut around in, even after a few Tequila shots. You have my word, in fact take my whole sentence. Plus they work wonders on your legs, think supermodel-esque pins here. The statement stud feature provides a unique and sexy element so it is probably best to keep the rest of your outfit rather low-key but with a splash of purple somewhere in order to compliment the footwear. They look fab teamed with blue denim, and by denim I mean jeans and not any other denim creation. For the record, I don't actually own any denim other than jeans and neither should you - just giving you the heads up folks.

Right: Laura Scott Peep Toe Ankle Boots - Freemans
I have pretty much been a late bloomer when it has come to boots, partially because I prefer my open high heeled shoes as they are more sultry and feminine, and partially because my feet resent being confined. And boots just don't go well with party dresses. But winter strongly demands for more foot coverage, and what with leaves falling off trees and such I believe it is time to invest in boots - great adorned with tights and leggings as I have discovered. These studded suede ankle gems are amay-zing, and the peeptoe factor makes them more contemporary and fashionable, and also allows one with the opportunity to flash a toe or two to tease those with a foot fetish. They complete a short dress and black tights combo.

Left: Laura Scott Sandals - Freemans
A little wooden if you know what I mean but its earthy tones flatter similar coloured oufits. The marble-type stone design is very pretty and distinctive. I like to team them with my short, beige-y shirt dress and leopard print accessories. Or with my gorgeous ethnic scarf dress which is conveniently made of the same hues.

Right: Andrea Conti Peep Toe Shoes - Freemans
Yay, more purple! I like! And what's more is that there's a diamanté buckle at the forefront AND sequins - how much more glitz could a gal honestly wish for? I have truly been spoilt here with this extraordinary handiwork. These shoes are so delicate looking that I am actually afraid to wear them, besides they look so pretty on my bedroom shelf.

Left: Andrea Conti Ankle Boots - Freemans
Having now been acquainted with boots, and not one to do anything by halves, I decided that it was absolutely necessary that I had a pair of brown boots to set off the winter palette of neutral colours. They totally suit the white, cream and brown tones related with the freezing season soon to be bestowed upon us. And they look perfect with blue jeans. Plus the stud design is so in at the moment.

Right: Oli Diamanté Cluster
Shoes - Freemans and
Below: Clarks Diamanté Shoes - Freemans

I am a colour kinda girl, therefore black is almost always last on my list. Furthermore, I always struggle to find a decent pair of black shoes. Same goes for a LBD. And by decent I mean something quite outstanding and not regular. Most black shoes (and ickle black dresses) are, sorry to say, rather dull, unimaginative, and *gasp*, same-ish. Think Davina McCall and Jennifer Aniston here. Both of whom could do with injecting a little colour in their lives, away with predicatability people I say. Yes, I know both these shoes are almost a step away from being the same pair of shoes, not quite twins but siblings of all black diamanté shoes, however I really could not decide between the two, and when one cannot decide between the two they should pick both. Yes, it's an extravagant option but reduces much stress, and we all know stress causes spots, and spots are evil. Along with bananas, beans and Satan. Both options are glamorous and a damn sight of an awesome companion for any party outfit.

... and then there were a few basic purchases involved too, what I would class as wardrobe essentials...

Right: Laura Scott Button Cardigan - Freemans
It's so damn difficult to buy a normal, regular cardigan. No, I don't want the cropped variety, and I certainly don't want the long, knitted types either - I just want a normal, regular cardigan dammit, with actual sleeves that end at my wrists, and something that doesn't drag across the floor and nearly trip me over in the process. I feel rather like Goldilocks, you know, like "this cardigan is too short"... "this cardigan is too long"... "ahhh, this Laura Scott Button Cardigan is just right". The sleeves are still a few centimetres short, and hey, it's not like I have giant Stretch Armstrong arms or anything, in fact my arms are quite diminutive really but this cardigan will do. It will do so much that I bought in in both black and red. And I like the crystal-type jewel buttons, they jazz up what would initially have been a very normal, regular cardigan. And yes, I know that's exactly what I had originally wanted but still - jazzing up is always much appreciated.

Left: Aniston studded cardigan - Freemans
I was fairly hesistant and unsure of this item, the material seemed a bit - sorry for being slightly snobbish - cheap looking, and it's grey. Not that there is anything really wrong with grey, except that I'm just not a huge fan of grey, it's a bit bland, not exciting enough for me, not that I expect it to take me for a motorbike ride or skydiving or anything, it's just a little dull. But hey, guess what, I just lurrrrrrve this cardigan, much emphasised by the extensive use of 'r' don't you know. The studded feature gives it a little edge, making it way more hip than all other cardigans, and all the other cardigans so want to be like this one but they can't because they don't have studs, so hah all you other cardigans, you are not quite as cool as my Aniston studded cardigan, in your face cardigan population. Also, it has a very slight waterfall aspect to it which means you can tie the ends and hey presto, it's transformed into a cropped version of itself. How versatile eh. And I have just realised that grey is like such a cool colour, it's kinda like a darker white, and like a lighter black, like totally awesome dude. But the best thing about it is that it can be paired with almost anything - grey rocks! It looks best with a monochrome look or with jeans but like I just said, it goes with practically anything, I particulary prefer it teamed with my navy dresses - add black tights and the studded Laura Scott Peep Toe Ankle boots from above, and it's a killer look.

Right: AJC Vest Top - Freemans and
Below: Laura Scott Stud Neck Top - Freemans

Vest tops are the epitome of casual, and a wardrobe requirement. I find most are either made of flimsy material or are just too plain, these however are pretty perfect as far as vest tops go. The polka dot design on the AJC one means it can be combined with a black or white skirt for a trendy monochrome look. Let's not forget that polka dots were once again fashionable earlier this spring/summer season, and although it may now be autumn it must be remembered that this pattern is a trend that will never truly disappear, it seems to pop up regularly time and time again, and is very easy to wear, making this top a wardrobe investment really. Meanwhile, the embellishments on the Laura Scott top immediately marks it slightly higher up on the food chain than your standard plain black vest top. Wear with grey skinny jeans, the grey cardigan above, a pair of black boots, and lots of attitude for a rock chick look.

Right: Melrose Satin Bow Top - Freemans
What can I say, it's that colour grey again, and we have much established that I'm so feeling grey at the minute. An ordinary top made pretty with a central satin bow feature, it is terrific coupled with a pair of jeans for a laid-back daytime look.

Below: Laura Scott Graphic Jersey Dress - Freemans
Apologies for the lame-ass photographic image, this dress however is absolutely lush. The different shades of grey (yep, grey once more) combined with the black make it very interesting and stylish, and the studded quirks give it an ultra modern and current feel. Is it just me, or is everybody just heavily sprinkling studs on clothing and footwear everywhere? This post alone has had several articles illustrated with these popular metal pieces. It is stud season indeed.

Hair jewellery

Mission: to hunt the high street for pretty hair bling that will a) camouflage my hideous fringe and b) distract from the aforementioned.

Hair accessories at the minute seem to be all about bandos, bow alice bands and corsage type flower clips. Damn. I don't want decorative pieces to adorn my locks, I need purely practical ornaments that can help support my fringe through its challenging growing process.

Left: Triple wire pearl and crystal alice band - Monsoon Accessorize
So beautiful and delicate, bound to take the focus of the dodgy fringe. Slick fringey bits back, carefully place hair band on top and voilà - fringe? What fringe? Very princessy as well. I like.

Right: Triple crystal flower grips - Monsoon Accessorize
A more jazzier version of ordinary hair grips. Perfect for clasping shorter sections to the side.


Left: Crystal flower clip - Monsoon Accessorize
A simply splendid way to fasten annoying strands out of the way.

Below: Pearl and crystal flower hair clips - Claire's Accessories
Bear in mind that it's a shop designed especially for young girls so it is quite rare to find something that an adult woman can sport. Step away from the cheap and cheerful, and there are a few treasures to be discovered.




Below: Crystal hair grips - Claire's Accessories
Another fab find to garnish hair with.








Below: Black lace bando - Claire's Accessories
No, I haven't come over all 1920's flapper girl just yet, am going to improvise with this lace creation and utilise it as a headband to push the fringe back into obscurity.















Left: Ethnic bangle cluster - Next
It's for the wrist, not the hair, just in case you thought I would manage to somehow adapt it to my hair in some weirdly, unique fashion. People are more than welcome to step forward and demonstrate if they possess such an exceptional ability but I choose to accept bangles as they were primarily intended - it's not Vaseline you know! Anyway, I couldn't resist this exquisite mix, it's rather Bohemian and is certain to add an earthy, organic tone to any outfit.



Right: Scoop neck puffball dress - Krisp
I like the dress but I must admit that it's a tricky one to carry off. Pear shapes should probably steer well clear - a white and puffy bottom half is like garlic to a vampire for gals with well-endowed hips and a juicy butt. It, however, is probably ideal for athletic and straight, rectangular body types who seek to create curves. The puffball skirt is rather fussy, you do need to play with it quite a bit in order to settle it down in place but overall it's an individual take on the whole monochrome style. A sexy party dress with a Grecian feel that looks dazzling with silver accessories for an absolutely glitzy look.

And that pretty much sums up my non-event of a shopping trip. Dissapointing and then some. Why is it that you spot so many delicious items online but they fail to exist when you pop into the actual store? Are they just a manufacturing hoax? Hopefully my next shopping adventure will be wildly successful with many delectable gems detected and captured.