Fashion Archives - Page 3 of 9

The perfect everyday handbag

August 22, 2019 by Mandy

I think it’s probably fair to say that most girls have a bag in their wardrobe that they would consider their everyday bag. It’s the bag you carry daily when commuting to work, take into town when shopping and use when having a casual lunch with friends. It’s a bag you’ve used and abused and simply taken for granted so it needs to be good quality, comfortable and practical.

Eventually though it will undoubtedly need replacing, so what should you consider before making your purchase? This is a handbag that will be your daily companion so it’s worth taking a little time to consider what your perfect everyday bag needs to be.

What size works for you

Well first of all this is a bag that you will take to work and go shopping with so it needs to be a reasonable size. If you’re anything like me, I often go on a shopping trip and forget to take a carrier bag, so a larger bag can work out to be quite useful. When commuting to work you may sometimes want to carry a packed lunch for instance, a change of shoes if you do a lot of walking or a tablet or another device. Having said that, it doesn’t want to be so big that it’s awkward or uncomfortable to carry. It’s also important take your own stature into the equation. What works for one person may not work for another.

Suit your style

There are two obvious styles that stand out that would be up for the task and that is the shoulder bag and the tote shopper. Overall the shoulder bag would be the most comfortable to carry. If the shoulder bag is your preference then just think about whether you would prefer structured or unstructured as there are fors and against for both. A structured bag looks smarter but slightly harder to carry and a slouchy hobo is more comfortable but the down side is that smaller items can get a little lost at the bottom.

The tote shopper is a good practical choice but can get a little tiring to carry in your hand or on your forearm over a period of time. A good compromise is to choose a tote shopper with longer handles to allow you to carry it over the shoulder.

Another option to consider if it’s more for work is a messenger bag. This is definitely a smart alternative and will even allow you to carry it cross body which is especially useful on busy commuter trains.

The quality is very important

This is a bag that you are going to use on a daily basis. It’s going to be picked up plonked down, bashed against surfaces and carried around in all weathers. It is important then to make sure it’s well made and of good quality. If you buy cheap, you buy twice is a saying that most people only appreciate once they’ve fallen into this common consumer trap.

Bags can be made from all sorts of materials such as plastic, faux leather, nylon and fabric but for a bag that will be in regular use it really has to be made with good quality leather.

As you know handbags are made all over the world especially the Far East. However, it is Italy that has the enviable reputation of making the best quality handbags you can buy. They are handmade by artisans using traditional skills that have passed down through the generations. The leathers that they use are of the highest quality and are normally tanned with vegetable dyes which is not only environmentally friendly it also gives the leather a unique depth of colour.

Speaking of Colour

For an everyday bag, most women would choose a classic colour such as brown, black or dark blue. However, you may be tempted to choose a statement colour but before you do, just consider that this a general bag that you will be using with all sorts of outfits.

As this bag will be a daily companion, it really is worth considering these point before making your purchase.

Written by Penny

Step Up Your Shoe Game: The Best Shoe Trends of 2019

July 25, 2019 by Mandy

Shoe trends in 2019 are all about fun. Classic styles get a makeover, while closet staples need updating and refreshing.

The good news is that there is definitely something for everyone – and something for every mood.

So, clear a space in your wardrobe, and make way for sandal trends that feature your beautifully manicured summer feet!

Architectural Fun

By far and away the most interesting talking point is architectural heels, also known as sculptural heels. As with the best in construction engineering, form meets function. We’re not pretending for a moment that these creations are ideal for walking those city blocks or the best thing to take on a hiking trip.

Far from it! The whole point (pardon the pun) of architectural sandals is that they surprise and delight. And if wearing something sassy to complement your stylish outfit to garden parties, lunches and dinners is what you’re after, look no further.

Soulful White

Just as having a little black number is an essential part of a well-heeled wardrobe, a splash of white is a great staple for fresh summer days. More particularly, white soles are in.

Whether the white sole is a wedge, platform or the base for bright colorful sneakers is up to you. White soles feature on many different styles of shoe and have taken on an upbeat mood like never before.

Ultra-bright, Cheeky Sneakers

These are not your gym shoes, but footwear that shout out that you take true pleasure in your leisure time. Multi-colored sneakers are great value since you can combine them with loads of different outfits. Sneakers and skirt combos are also trending by the way – or they will soon if you strut your stuff in them!

Strappy and Nearly Bare

For those who firmly believe that sandals are meant to show off their feet to best advantage, thin straps still top the elegance stakes.

There are flat versions and nautical variations on the strappy shoe theme if you’re the kind of woman who likes to have her feet planted firmly on the ground.

Teva-like Is Tops

The classic Teva sandal has captured the imagination of people everywhere, and new creations by all the major fashion houses give you a wealth of variation.

Free ‘n Easy

The boardwalk, the beach, the getting down to basics and being down-to-earth. This is what Flojos footwear is all about.

This season’s greats include aspects of pretty much all of the sandal and shoe types we’ve already mentioned. You might want to cross over the aisle and check out some of the men’s stuff too, either for that man in your life, or for yourself, for those demanding times when you’re on your feet all day.

Floral and Feminine

Embroidery has made a comeback, and might well be the most interesting of the shoe trends. Texture and depth are achieved in shoes and sandals that say you’re not afraid to dress up from the top of your head right down to your toes.

Embroidery embellishments can be used to dress up or dress down. From casual to ultra-city slick, some of the most famous brands have covered the whole gamut.

Vegan Approved

Hand embroidered shoes are where luxury meets art. Vegans will be excited to know that high fashion includes an amazing collection of fancy footwear even the most principled vegan can enjoy with a free conscience. Let your feet do the talking!

Shoe Trends That Never Die – Platforms

We have observed that it is normally the very short or the very tall who love wearing platforms. Well, apart from a brief period in the 1980s — and who even remembers that, right? — platforms never went out of fashion.

From the moment they were born, they said they were here to stay.

Again, new trends have them embroidered, bright and funky, or in natural, muted shades, as well as the classic white.

You’re spoilt for choice if you’re a platform lover, and if you like buckles too, well, you’ll be in seventh heaven!

Serious Buckling Up

Buckles, buckles, buckles!

No matter whether you tend towards Goth elegance or swing with the showy platform sandal, you’ll be thrilled to know that buckles are trending.

This is great news for women who love their other accessories – handbags and bold belts. You’ve now got thematic cohesion for loads of different outfits.

And you can walk the walk knowing you’re clad in the latest fashion.

Buckle-up for the ride!

Our Best Pick?

Our best pick, although your taste and discernment override ours, natch, is the square-toed blue sandal with their Sophia Loren stiletto-style heels. Designed by Bottega Veneta, they are perfect — day or night — for a Mediterranean holiday, or for any day when you want to look and feel like a film star.

The color is exciting and allows you other adornments, such as anklets and toe rings. What better way to show that you know very well how to put your feet up and enjoy yourself? Imagine a cool cocktail in your hand and you’re good to go!

Diversity and Diversion

Gone are the days where each fashion year restricts you to only a few options. This is the modern world, where diversion embraces diversity.

Nowhere is it more evident than in shoe trends for 2019. You have ample opportunity to show the world just who you are, what you stand for, and wear what makes others stand up and notice.

Women have the freedom to choose. And that freedom extends to their footwear.

If you feel footloose and fancy-free, you can thank all those women who walked before you. Be proud of who you are – and of your footwear. Choose wisely, and you’ll feel that you are at the forefront of something new and exciting.

Who doesn’t want to be there, right?

Read all about other aspects of what today’s women of the world do right here on our blog. We hope you like our round-up of what shoe trends are working for most women this year.

Fall is coming soon, so make the most of the delightful range of fabulous footwear out there. Step out and enjoy!

7 Lovely Hijab Accessories You Should Start Using Today

April 6, 2019 by Mandy

Hijabs may be a customary piece of clothing for the religious Muslim woman, but we all know it is more than just that. As a religious clothing, it serves to cover the head and neck regions. Beyond that, though, it serves other aesthetic purposes. A great hijab style adds style and color to your dressing, and elevates your overall appearance.

You can make your hijab even more appealing and striking with the right accessories. Even though some of these accessories are necessary to hold your hijab in place, they can be converted into beautiful fashion statements. And whether you want to appear more funky or classy, there’s always an accessory or two that do you justice.

Decorative Hijab Pins

Hijab pins are a necessary and functional hijab accessory. This is particularly so if your hijab is a little lengthy or your preferred hijab style is complicated, and you want to ensure it all stays together. However, hijab pins come in a variety of designs and colors, and can bring combine functionality with style. There are many different decorative hijab pins in the market today, including stick hijab pins, decorative charm pins, flowered luxury pins, magnetic pins, etc.

Beautiful Hijab Brooches

Like pins, brooches are designed to hold garments together. Because of their style and appeal, brooches are considered a jewelry item, and are often used by both men and women. They are also regularly worn on the chest for decorative effect. If placed – and faced – properly, brooches (including those with chains) can be very pretty on your hijab. Positioning it properly will keep the pins from sight with only the brooch visible.

Stylish Bows

Some of the best hijab styles for Muslim fashionistas involve the use of decorative bows. Bows are sometimes made to include pins; thus, making them both functional and decorative. Mostly, though, they are a colorful addition to your hijab. While some bows come in single colors, most come with multiple color designs and patterns. Some are further accessorized with beautiful stones – or completely designed from these stones – turning them into a beautiful piece of jewelry.

Trendy Hijab Headbands

Headbands are a fashion trend today, even among many who do not wear hijabs. These decorative jewelry pieces come in a ton of different designs and styles, and are an important part of some of the trendy hijab styles of today. Headbands may be beaded or made from ribbons and laces, and are often embellished with decorative crystals. These hijab accessories make for a loud fashion statement when attending parties or events.

Tassels

Tassels can be added to any type of hijab, whether printed or plain. Very much on trend today, tassels are a universal fashion accessory, and can be simple or elaborate. Hijab tassels make for a good everyday wear, but can also be used to weddings, parties and other occasions. Simply style your hijab as it pleases you and let the tassels flow down your chest for a signature look.

Classic Bridal Accessories

Are you getting ready for your special day? If so, you’d definitely be concerned about your looks on that day. This once in a lifetime event needs to be truly special. So, it’s no surprise that you’d want to look your best, with a touch of elegance and royalty. Traditional hijab accessories like the tiara or diamante are sure to make you appear like a princess in all of her glory. They can be pinned to your hijab or bridal veil, making you look stunning and feel confident.

Earrings

More and more women are recognizing the beauty of visible earrings on hijabs. Although hijabs typically cover the ears, you can style your hijab in a way that leaves just enough room for your earrings to be visible. Beautiful earrings – whether you go for gold, silver, long, looped, or tassels – highlight the beauty of the hijab. They also elevate your class and substance. Feel free to flaunt your earrings whether you are going for very formal or casual occasions.

The modern Muslimah is a fashion-conscious woman who knows just the best hijab styles for style and elegance. Hijab accessories are yet another important fashion statement that help you look smart. Take your pick from our favorite hijab accessories above and pair them with your dressing for your own unique style.

Tips on Getting the Right Engagement Ring

March 19, 2019 by anthony

For anyone who is looking to ask that big question to his partner, getting the right ring is one of the most important aspects, not that this will change your partner’s response of course, but if something is worth doing then it is worth doing right. Men and women all over the world propose to each other every day and the majority of them have struggled and worried for many months over getting the choice of ring just right. If you are in this position at the moment and you wish to propose to your partner, here are some tips on getting the perfect ring.

Homework

First thing is first you are going to need to do a little bit of homework before you even start your search for the right ring. In order to do this you need to snoop around in your partner’s jewelry collection, in order to gain an understanding of what they like already and most importantly, what size ring they are using. It isn’t the end of the world if you get the ring size wrong but getting it right will make everything go much smoother, plus your partner will no doubt want to use it as soon as they have said yes.

Investigation

After you have done your homework you need to reach out to friends and family in order to get more information about which is the best choice. Now it is important to say that you should only pick one or two friends or family members to speak to because the more people who know, the higher the probability is that someone will spill the beans. Deciding whether to look at this range on engagement rings or another will be far easier if you have an ally on your side, who can provide you with some valuable insider information.

Cost

Budgeting can be tricky when it comes to an engagement ring and whilst you will naturally want to spend as much as you possibly can on a ring, it is important that you don’t put your financial security at risk in order to put a smile on your partner’s face. Be very honest with how much you can spend and stick to that figure when you head out shopping, it can be easy to be tempted into spending more than you can afford. Remember that you partner will surely not want you to put yourself under financial pressure because you wanted to get them the perfect ring.

Meaning

When selecting the stones for the ring which you will buy, try to find stones which mean something and which is relative to your relationship. Many precious stones have different meanings behind them and whilst this is not obligatory at all, it does just add that something extra to your purchase and ultimately it will mean more to your partner.

Do your research, plan well, budget smartly and go get that perfect ring which your partner will be overjoyed to see.

The Most Common Fragrance Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

March 11, 2019 by Mandy

The type of fragrance you wear can transform you from the average Joe into someone who people want to be around. When we smell good, we usually feel better too, helping us feel more confident when it comes to socializing, securing a job interview or going on a date. However, there are various fragrance mistakes that many people make, so knowing what to look out for can make all the difference.

Not Created Equally

Firstly, it’s important to note that not every fragrance is created equally. There are 5 fragrance types that you should know about, helping you understand their concentration levels and how long they can last. These are Body Mist (the lowest concentration of them all, typically lasting for around an hour), Cologne (slightly higher in concentration with an average of three hours lasting power), Eau de Toilette (an 8-10% concentration level with four hours lasting power), Eau de Parfum (lasting up to six hours with 10-20% of essential oils), and Parfum (the most expensive of them all, with 16 hours lasting power).

Wide Variety of Scents

Many people believe that there only two types of scents, those that smell great and those that smell bad. However, this is not the case. Fragrances consist of top notes, middle notes, and base notes which all have a variety of layers that can make a huge difference in the aroma of the fragrance. To create various scent combinations, all a fragrance chemist needs to do is play with several notes to come up with a new scent.

Everyone is Different

What works for your friend may not work for you. If a fragrance smells great on one of your pals, it can be easy to think that you will have the same outcome. However, this is where skin chemistry comes into play, which can make a scent smell completely different person to person. The best way to check whether a fragrance smells good on you is to spray it on your skin, wait a couple of minutes and get a good sniff.

Matching Your Personality

The fragrance you wear should match the type of personality you have. If you are free-spirited and go with the flow, you may want to look into scents with notes of vanilla and citrus. For those who are a bit more mysterious, notes of exotic berries and wood may be the perfect option for you. You will be surprised to learn how fragrances can amplify how you come across.

Finding the Perfect Fragrance

You can buy original fragrances for men online at Maple Prime, helping you find your perfect scent. Maple Prime sells a variety of well-loved brands such as Lacoste, Burberry, Givenchy, and Giorgio Armani, giving you plenty of choices. What’s more, the company provides authentic fragrances to suit every kind of budget, meaning you don’t have to spend a fortune to smell great.

You will want to invest in a fragrance that suits your personality and brings out the best in you. Wearing the right fragrance can turn heads for all the right reasons, injecting a bit of confidence and a stride in your step. With so many options to pick from, it’s always best to try out a few fragrances first before picking your signature scent.