Clothes designers can’t always be strong in every area of clothing that they design and right now, the area to shop, with the strongest fashion impact is in the accessories department.

At the moment, more is definitely more and that means that our wardrobes are in for a huge transformation with the purchase of just a few items.

If you want a fast-track to an updated wardrobe for winter, then check out some accessories with the highest impact that you can add to your collection.

Sculptural Earrings

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Big earrings are the new avocado on toast - big, fun earrings don’t need to cost a fortune.

It can be easy to get carried away with the size and colours, so try and choose something that you know you will be pleased to still see and use in a year or so.

Whilst small and dainty earrings had their time in 2017, 2018 has seen accessories go back to bold. 2019 is set to see earrings become much more minimalist and modern - think geometric and sculptural shapes in gold and silver.

Whether you pair with a black roll neck or a high-power work suit, a pair of earrings is sure to add to any outfit.

Diamanté Shoes

If you can’t help but enjoy something with a little bit of sparkle, then your wardrobe is sure to benefit from a dazzling pair of diamante shoes.

Crystals, gemstones and diamanté can all be found studded onto some of this seasons biggest shoe trends, from stiletto heels to encrusted diamanté thigh high boots. There’s no shortage of shoes that have been transformed with a few jewels.

A great way to add some style to a basic jeans and jumper combo, you need a pair of sparkly shoes in your wardrobe this winter.

Unusual Handbag


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Whilst a classic black tote is ideal for work, you don’t want to just have one style of handbag as you go from the weekdays to weekends or days to evenings.

Bag designers are currently having a lot of fun, from unusual fabrics, such as velvet and suede, to fun details like chain handles and sequins, there is no bag which is too 'out there'.

If you are having trouble finding a bag that is both weird and wonderful (and within your price range) then have a browse through your local charity or vintage stores - they’re sure to have plenty of budget-friendly options for you to choose from.

'Extra' Makeup


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Thanks to festivals and the resurgence of 80's and 90's fashion, makeup has had a complete transformation over the past few years. Trends were once simple and elegant, but now more is better.

Glitter makeup features heavily in most makeup looks, whether it’s across your eyelids, in your brows or used as a highlighter. Neon and gold are also really popular, with contrasting colours spread across your eyelids, cheekbones and lips.

'Snake' Into The New Year

Snake print is one of those things that doesn’t look different when expensive or affordable. When the pattern is in a neutral shade, you’re sure to find a pair of boots or a shirt which will last way beyond the initial trend.

If you’re looking for a pair of snakeskin print boots, then a 90's heels and toe shape is the perfect style and possibly the most sophisticated item of clothing you’ll find on the high street this winter.

Written By: Natalie Wilson

Summer is quickly becoming a distant memory, and the weather is reminding us daily that it is time to ditch the summer wardrobe and say hello to a new season of fashion, cosy nights in and an abundance of chocolate.

Although it can often be difficult getting into the swing of things after a seemingly endless summer, particularly when it comes to transforming your wardrobe from bikinis to jumpers. No need to stress, you’re top 2018 Winter trends are coming your way making your Christmas that little bit easier!

Boots


Photograph source: Pexels.com

Photograph source: Pexels.com

We all know Winter wouldn’t be Winter without a great pair of boots (or three) and it’s no secret that Alexander McQueen’s Winter boot collection is breath-taking. The collection hosts an array of gorgeous styles ranging from chunky ankle boots to sexy leather thigh-highs. Or nod to the 60's with the beautifully elegant leather mid-calf length boots with a round toe and block heel.

Luckily, such pieces haven’t gone a miss, and high-street retail has brought out their own interpretation of boots, saving you a whole load of money this Winter.

Pair your thigh-highs with an oversized knit for a cute yet effortless look which is often modelled by Ariana Grande. Or if the thought of bare legs is making your shiver, you can wear with jeans or tights. In the Style is a great place to look for affordable boots that are inspired by the catwalk.

Coats


Photograph source: Pexels.com

Being cold is not an option this year, as an over-spill of coats from the runway take over the high street in an abundance of styles, you are sure to find one that suits you! A particularly popular trend this Winter is the shearling jacket that has originated from the Stone Age where sheepskin was used to protect and insulate. Almost 2.5 million years later, this historical classic has made it onto the 2018 runway, being interpreted by a range of designers in a host of different styles including; leather, denim, suede and bomber, all combined with essences of Shearling. A piece we cannot ignore is by Giorgio Armani which contained a mix of brown suede and leather giving the jacket texture and detail, costing a total of £2900.

If that’s too hard to swallow, the high-streets have brought out a range of heavy-duty faux shearling jackets that look good enough for the runway at totally affordable prices making it a worthwhile investment this Winter. This smart sophisticated jacket looks super cute worn causally with a pair of jeans, a t-shirt and some casual shoes, adding an essence of boldness and grunge to a ‘made no effort’ outfit.

Alternatively, a statement coat is a perfect way to effortlessly add a pop of colour and texture to a neutral or black outfit, making you look like you are fresh off the runway. Oversized bomber jackets are super on trend this season as well as faux fur and long trench coats. The options are endless, and each are a great way of making a statement as well as staying warm and comfortable this Winter.

Home Comforts


Photograph source: Pexels.com

Fashion doesn’t always have to leave the house, particularly during the cold festive months of Winter. Keeping up with Winter trends begins at home.

Although it may not seem obvious, sleeping trends are a thing and are becoming increasingly popular, particularly on the high-street. Women's sleepwear is a forever expanding category and is being payed more attention to in the fashion industry with an abundance of styles to choose from. You can now find over 1000 sleepwear styles online making the perfect necessity for a cosy night in, or a great stocking filler for your loved ones. A popular sleepwear style this year is the traditional shirt and trouser set that you can find in an array of different colours and fabrics.

Oversized Sweatshirts

This trend is a definite favourite as it offers comfort and warmth as well as a cute and effortless look that you can wear with anything. You can find these sweaters anywhere, from Primark to Urban Outfitters depending on your budget. A top trick is to look in the men’s section for that perfect oversized fit. Pair your sweater with some thigh-high or ankle boots or some Mum jeans and trainers for that super cute 90's skater look. If you want to dress this look up, then switch the sweatshirt for a chunky knit. The best knitwear on the high-street this Winter is embracing bright colours to inject the dark weather with a pop of vibrancy. You can find affordable pieces like this in River Island, Primark and Topshop.

Written by: Poppy Jones

You should never hoard clothes or keep items that you no longer wear or like.

Are you looking for the best place to shop for the most technically-designed outwear?

BE YOUR OWN SUCCESS, a mantra by which Irish jewellery designer Melissa Curry has lived, from the beginning of her career in Paris in 1998 to her success now.

Launching her first collection at the Leclaireur in Paris, followed by an invitation to show at Paris Fashion week in 1999, to her successful partnership with Virgin Airlines. A partnership which has seen her gold BYOS bar as the 10th best seller in the Virgin Atlantic Retail Therapy Magazine - 2016. Her success has seen her pieces being worn by the Royals, and the former First Lady, Michelle Obama.

Image Source: byosmelissacurry.com

Image Source: melissacurry.com

Each and every piece in her collection has a timeless elegance and a playful mix of texture and colour to it. Making it a dream to wear for women who love to add colour and texture to their everyday outfits.

Drawing inspiration from life, culture and world events, she designs each piece as something personal, for her the designer as well as the wearer. It is this personal connection that adds a sense of vibrancy and beauty to each piece.

Image Source: melissacurry.com

Image Source: melissacurry.com

She wants women to feel that, they are the driving force behind their own success and that, when you put on one of her bracelets, earring or necklaces, that you are empowered to be yourself and to build on your own success.

"It’s about being you, knowing what makes you tick, what makes your heart work, what makes your mind work, and embodying that.” -Melissa Curry

Find and shop her collection today at www.melissacurry.com

Creative Industries Minister Margot James will today announce a cash boost to turbocharge the UK’s international trade in the creative industries.

With AW18 well-established now on the high street, the new season has brought with it a host of new trends.

Global Fast Fashion Retailer QUIZ Introduces Third Collaboration With ITVBe’s The Only Way Is Essex.

Street-wear is a movement and trend that is heavily and rapidly changing the fashion industry.

Image Source - Unspash

These days, if you’re not an influencer, chances are you have at least one in your life. It’s a pretty tempting and interesting hobby that can turn into a lucrative job. That’s why so many stylish people, people who love to travel, those who know how to write or are amazing makeup artists have turned their focus from something else and opted for a career change. So, if you want to show appreciation for the person who is always giving you fashion and lifestyle advice, give them something related to their job. If you’re feeling lost, that’s totally okay.

We’ve got you covered with the ultimate gift, so you never make a mistake again. After all, a bad gift is worse than no gift at all.

If You’re Feeling Generous

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Those amazing photos they post don’t just come out of thin air. There is a lot of equipment and editing involved, so make sure to subtly enquire how happy the person is with their camera or lens. If they express dissatisfaction, do a little research and find the best camera for their needs and get it for them. You have no idea how much this will mean to them. Seriously, the camera is crucial for their job, and they will love you forever for this gift.

If You Want To Be Practical

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Influencers are constantly glued to their phones. They either post stories, IGTV videos and even Instagram posts. No wonder their phone’s battery life is so short and everywhere they go they look for a place to ‘plug in’. Well, if you want to lend your influencer a helping hand, you will get them the strongest power bank there is. This way, they can safely scroll, post, answer messages and check their comments without worrying about running out of ‘juice’. You will be seen as a real life-saver.

If You’re Not Fashion Or Beauty-savvy

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It’s completely normal that you don’t know what the hottest bag or shoe or even makeup brand is this season. You’re not the one checking out every fashion show and following all the fashion Instagram accounts – you’re pardoned. Therefore, if you want to do something nice but are completely clueless, simply get your influencer a memorable prepaid Visa card. This way, you’re not giving them money per se, you’re giving a kind of a gift card, which has a lot more warmth to it. By doing this, you’re giving them the chance to buy what they have been craving and not something you randomly picked out. Don’t get us wrong, you may have great taste, but they are influencers for a reason; they are rarely impressed, but they definitely will be by this savvy move.

If You’re A Genius

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You may not know this, or perhaps you even do, but influencers love a good #flatlay photo. They work very hard to set up each detail that will wind up on Instagram, so one of the things you can do is get them a yearly subscription to Vogue magazine. It doesn’t seem like the most creative gift, but trust us, sometimes a cover page of Vogue can save an entire pic. You will be the hero who saves #flatlay, and more than that, you will show that you are actually interested in what the person in your life does and loves.

If It’s Staring You In The Face

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Let’s face it, every influencer loves a designer something. It can be a wallet, a bag, a belt with the brand’s logo or even a pair of shoes. When it comes to designer goods, especially accessories, there is essentially no way you can do it wrong. A Gucci or a Carolina Herrera belt will make her scream with happiness, and if your budget allows you, check out some of the trendiest bags of the season and snag one of them. She will literally be the happiest girl on the planet. We promise you this.

Everything Newest

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In order to get this one, you would have to be obsessed with makeup, and you’re probably not. That is why we are here.

You see, influencers are supposed to have all the new makeup launches first, and if yours isn’t already on PR lists, she has to snag them herself. This is where you come in. One of the newest things all beauty gurus are buzzing about is the Cherry collection by Urban Decay. This is a great gift, especially for fall and winter as all the colors are very warm and season-appropriate. Then, there are tons of new releases from one of the hottest brands of the day – Fenty Beauty. You can get her the new Gloss Bomb in shimmering pearl, one of the new Stunna lip paints and the Diamond Bomb highlighter. She has to show off her look using only the newest products, so surprise her with the knowledge you have on makeup and grab these goodies. Don’t worry, we won’t tell we gave you the skinny.

Shopping for an influencer can be difficult, but that’s why you have us. Hopefully, we have you covered for the next couple of birthdays and important anniversaries. Good luck, shop smart!