How To Wear The Velvet Trend During Winter
After what felt like an endless summer, the autumn and winter fashion season is well underway. Velvet comes in and out of fashion each winter, but this year it is getting serious.
There are many reasons why you should be loving this classic winter fabric - it can be dressed up, styled down, looks great on accessories and is also perfect for the festive season.
Adding a splash of velvet to your look can instantly transform it and make it feel so much more romantic and glamorous without being too over the top.
For a more casual look, pair the velvet element with trainers, chunky, glamorous jewellery and statement bags.
The material is super cosy and warm, which is perfect for winter.
There are so many ways to style and shop velvet this season, from chic velvet sets to long robes.
Here are some simple ways you can wear the velvet trend this winter.
Rich Colours
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Velvet fashion is perhaps the most elegant and sophisticated when in rich jewel tones, but that isn’t to say that you shouldn’t find some lighter tones which are chic as well!
If you are ever in doubt when it comes to wearing velvet, stick to the deeper and darker shades. They are going to be your safest option if you don’t want to get it wrong.
Black velvet is a classic go-to, but don’t be afraid to play with the jewel tone department - think emerald greens, deep blues and bold reds.
Seek The Smooth Velvet
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It’s very easy to find pieces made from crushed velvet, but you should always be wary. It is easy for even the most expensive designs to look cheap if the velvet is crinkled and ruffled, so look for smooth velvet which speaks to you and your styles.
It is easy to differentiate when you are looking at different velvet designs as the right fabric will feel and look great. By pairing together the right jewel shades with smooth velvet pieces, you will create the perfect basis to start your search.
If you don’t want to add a velvet piece to the main bulk of your wardrobe, take a look at investing in some velvet shoes. They’re sure to add a splash of style to whatever you are wearing.
Add It To Your Professional Wardrobe
Suits or blazers made from plush fabric may sound a little strange, but it can make for a great look. If you opt for a velvet blazer paired with a silk top, then you’ll have two extremely luscious fabrics next to one another, giving a rich and luxurious style.
Velvet fashion is also wearable as other pieces of outerwear. Coats are a great piece to invest in if you don’t want to wear velvet throughout the day and it is one of the most luxurious and striking iterations of velvet you can add to your wardrobe. It’s easy to style, as you can wear it over pretty much any style of outfit without having to worry about it overpowering anything.
Wearing A Velvet Dress
You may find that a velvet dress is one thing you are missing from your wardrobe, especially during the winter.
Velvet dresses are seen at their most feminine when styled on the runway, as they can show just how versatile the fabric can be.
You can go playful and short with dresses which contain velvet ruffles or you can even go more luxurious with velvet making up the body of the dress. Either way, velvet adds so much to even the most standard of dresses which come in similar styles or designs.
If you do wear a velvet dress, let that be the main star of your look. You don’t need to worry too much about accessorising a velvet dress as the fabric speaks for itself. Simply add a pair of complementary shoes, a simple bag and maybe a piece of jewellery and you’re ready to go no matter the time of year.
Accessorise
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Whilst velvet chokers have been in style for a while now, this winter is the perfect time to add to your velvet accessory collection. Velvet scarfs look amazing with even the simplest of outfits, especially if you are looking for ways to stay warm and stylish this winter.
One of the best velvet accessories you will be able to find is a handbag. A lot of the top designers and fashion houses have recently focused a lot of work on velvet handbag designs and styles, so you’re sure to find your dream bag in no time if you have a browse around.
If you don’t want to go that bold, why not start off your velvet collection in the comfort of your own home? There are plenty of women's sleepwear sets that come with velvet styles, so you can see if you like the style and feel of the material before you invest in something a little more daring.
Plus, they’re warm to get cosy in over the winter!
It’s extremely easy to add velvet into your everyday looks, and you’ll find just how well even just a splash of velvet can completely transform your outfit from day to night.
Velvet is a winter trend which everyone should get behind.
Written by Natalie Wilson
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The Perfect Purses for Autumn & Winter
For many, autumn and winter are a new chance to swap out those summer and spring styles for cold weather classics, like fuzzy sweaters, knit hats, and purses that complement your seasonal attire. It’s time to start off fresh again, and breathe some life into your wardrobe! Don’t throw away all your old bags, but adding some new classics to your closet for the new season will help make it easy to create the wardrobe looks you wait all year long to show off! Here are a few purse styles and shapes that will help you upgrade your collection from old to new again - without completely modifying your current collection.
Micro-mini
Minimising is in and with these micro minis all you need is your phone, credit card, and a lip gloss for the perfect night out. This is ideal for those cocktail dress nights out on the town, where you don’t want to lug around your regular mini bag.
Unique Clutches
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The classic clutch never goes out of style. This autumn and winter, try a clutch that is a little more unique, like a hard plastic acrylic bag or a woven clutch - they make for an artistic touch to any outfit, and are a true statement pieces of their own. You can find simple envelope style cross-body clutches, as well as intricate textured designs. Try pairing these with a casual pair of jeans and blouse to really make it stand out.
Doctor Bag
This old-school look will have you replacing your classic totes with a much cleaner and more professional look. Totally roomy, you’ll love stuffing this bag with all your work and daily necessities! Match this with any office look or your date night apparel for a sophisticated style that’s versatile for your day-to-night lifestyles.
Belted Bags
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You may be thinking fanny pack at the mention of belt bags, but this strappy design is a great autumn accessory, especially when hitting up those outdoor activities and festivals. Out of sight and out of mind, the strap fits snug around your waist when adjusted properly and won’t steal the show away from your outfit. When you’re out and about, pair your belt bag with your favourite leggings and comfy sweater!
Decorative Pouches
Not quite a clutch, and not quite a wrist-let, this combo makes it easy to grab and go. The pouch design is also super flexible, and makes it easy to throw in all sorts of necessities without cramming items in like a puzzle to fit just right. This little bag makes the perfect accessory for those fun dates nights! Whether you’re hitting the local carnival, or go-kart raceway, this flexible bag will look great with your semi-casual attire.
Scarf Strap
Yes, that’s right! A purse with a scarf strap has the combination of fashion and convenience — all in one. The soft strap won’t weigh heavy on your neck and shoulder, and will look creative too! Scarf straps allow more room for creativity, with bold and exciting patterns, and colours that add a little something to your little black dress.
Circle Purse
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Don’t be a square, and hop on board to this vintage comeback! The circle purse usually features a small wrist-let to hold onto, and a convenient snap closure. Circle bags have been massively popular this year, and it’s easy to see why - this retro look will pair great with a short and sassy dress for parties, and bring that old-school design we all dream about!
Lady Bags
Super clean and minimal, this classic purse means business. The sleek look will create a sophisticated style when matched with your office wear, and can easily go from work to happy hour! Dressed up or dressed down, it’s easy to match this feminine look to almost all your wardrobe styles.
Ring Handle Bag
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Switch out your evening clutches for something a little more modern, like the new ring handle bag. This look brings a retro vibe and makes going out more fun when you can let it hang from your wrist, rather than struggling to carry it tucked under your arm all night. This little sidekick will look classy when you match it with your sleek trouser suit outfits.
Bucket Bags
There’s a new modern twist to the traditional bucket bag. These bags keep their structured design, but offer a little more fashion to them with special designs like woven looks to add a little something to your everyday attire. The bucket style makes it easy to carry an assortment of things with you at all times. Whether you’re a mum on-the-go or a busy manager, this is the bag that has all the room you need.
Switch It Up
When you’re getting bored with last cycle’s purses, bags, and clutches, substitute your formerly classic styles with these new remixes.
Written by: Tess DiNapoli
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The Ultimate Gift Guide for the Influencer in Your Life
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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!
Theo & George Everyday Comfortable Style
With sustainability and comfort, as their main focus, the Dublin based brand Theo & George founded by Katie O’Riordan, has fast become the go to for women looking for clothes that are easy to wear and are made to move in. Whether you are looking for something stylish for the office or just for running around with the kids, Theo and George offer a range that will make you feel, live and move better.
The brand sells exclusively online and offers the modern day women a collection of timeless and stylish pieces for every occasion in her busy day. From easy to wear classic t-shirts, to luxurious cashmere all made for everyday wearing. Each and every item is made from high quality ethically sourced materials for premium quality and sustainability.
Here are 5 pieces that has fast become our favourite “must add “ to wardrobe items.
Go through your day with ease and comfort in the soft and lightweight Ebony Square Cashmere Turtleneck paired with the versatile Gretta Wrap Skirt.
Ebony Square Cashmere Turtleneck 264€- Gretta Wrap Skirt 119
Nothing is more versatile then the classic V-neck T-shirt, from running around the city to doing school runs. Their Jill V-neck t-shirt is oversized and super soft for easy movement and comfort all day long. Available in colours white, pink, black ,grey and navy.
Jill V-neck t-shirt - 39€
The easy to slip on Leigh Slip dress is made for easy layering on those cooler days. Pair it with the Sheridan Cashmere Turtleneck for a sleek and sophisticated day look.
The sheer Sheridan Cashmere Turtleneck is lightweight and the perfect layering partner for those days when you just need something easy to slip into. Paired with the Bridget Track pants.
Sheridan Cashmere Turtleneck 129€- Bridget Track pants 99€
The Bridget track pants, available in black and green, with its high waisted elastic band, makes this jogger pants the go to for comfort and style, whether you pair it with trainers of heels for a ultra sport lux look.
The Karina zip back t-shirt dress is another wardrobe must have with its zip detail at the back. Perfect for a chic and comfortable look.
Karina zip t-shirt dress 149€
Need to see more of Theo & George and their beautifully designed collection, then head on over to www.theoandgeorge.com
Autumn 2018 Fashion Trends You Can Shop Right Now
Even though the fashion month is in full swing, we won’t be seeing those trends ‘come to life’ for months to come, but that’s perfectly fine, as there is an entire universe of fall trends that are just getting their place in the limelight and are just waiting for us to shop and flaunt them. Given how inspired and inspirational, not to mention far from drab and inconspicuous the autumn 2018 trends are, there is no chance you won’t shine and make yourself feel just a little bit better in amazing clothing that spites the autumn, which, let’s face it, can be gloomy sometimes.
There is a plethora of trends, but we have chosen the very best for you, and the best part is, they are now all yours for the picking, so pick away and go dazzle.
You’ll Love It
Whether we’re keen on a particular pattern or not, the runways have a way of making us inclined towards it once we see it on the models. Such is the case with animal print, about which opinions have been heavily divided, but more and more people are giving in to the trend. A statement leopard print coat seems to be all the rage right now, at least according to the street style section, and we have to say, it looks pretty darn classy when worn with neutral colors. However, if this isn’t really your cup of tea, you can always embrace the trend in a more subtle manner, with a pair of leopard print ankle boots for instance, which are enough to elevate an outfit but not as risky as a larger garment, so you don’t run the risk of making a fashion mistake.
Puff It Up
One of the most romantic trends, at least in our opinion, is the puff-sleeve trend that has been spotted on a number of garments, from simple tops to dressy blouses and even amazing autumn dresses. The best part is that, since the jeans plus a dressy top trend has made a low-key comeback, you can feel free to rock your puffy blouse with a pair of mom jeans or any other jeans that do your body justice and feel amazing. The fabrics are usually soft, so you can always put a trench coat over the blouse if it gets chilly and you’ll look amazing and a little ostentatious – in the best way, when you remove the coat.
Check, Please!
The popularity of the grey oversized checked blazer, usually long enough to serve as a tuxedo dress at times, doesn’t seem to be dwindling down. If you haven’t grabbed your version, make sure to hop to it ASAP, because the pattern didn’t only mark the fall season but also has staying power, which makes it a great investment. Aside from that, with the mixture of menswear-inspired garments and those purely feminine, you’re going to need this baby to exude those mixed vibes. And if it remains as popular as it is now, it might just dethrone the mighty trench coat.
In Layering We Believe
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Some are still in mourning over the end of summer, but instead of wallowing, jump on the amazing layering train, which allows you to show your mad mixing and matching skills and lets you unleash your inner fashion persona. There’s no need to say goodbye to dresses, as you can buy women’s dresses online, amazing and affordable ones at that, and practice the art of smart and chic layering. You can rock strappy dresses with shirts underneath and exude those trendy ‘90s vibes, and add a touch of athleisure with a warm and cozy pair of sneakers and cool and trendy polka dot tights. Finish off the look with a luxurious-looking long grey cardigan and bam – you’ve got yourself some layering gold.
A Complete Inevitability
After a close inspection of the street style section of every fashion capital from Oslo to New York and London, the verdict is in, and the white boot trend still remains untouchable. Whether you’ll go for knee-high or the ankle ones is irrelevant, you simply must snag a pair. They have proven not only their chicness, but also their versatility; they’ve been rocked with simple jeans, tracksuits, frilly dresses and power suits. So, it’s time for us to give in and let them elevate our look and mystically blend into each one at the same time. We don’t know how, but these boots have become a complete style chameleon.
Colour-block It
Carolina Herrera may have given away the creative reigns, but she did leave us with one final message – always be elegant and don’t be afraid to play with colour. One of the absolute best looks, one that we presume will be remembered and worn for years to come, is the one featuring a simple crisp white shirt, a ball gown skirt and a wide belt in a contrasting colour. This is a look worthy of the red carpet and meeting the queen, but it is also great for going out or even rocking it at work. We have been reminded, once again, that there is so much beauty in simplicity, even when that simplicity includes colour-blocking. As pieces like these are easy to find, go and find your go-to colours and mix like there’s no tomorrow.
Power Up
Finally, let us not forget about the mighty power suit. Every woman should own one, whether she is a ladyboss or not, because we all deserve to feel and look powerful. There are so many cuts that you can choose from fitted and oversized tailored blazers and wide-leg trousers in checked pattern, pastels or saturated colours, so make sure you pick one out and wear it as often as you can because this is unquestionably the outfit of autumn 2018.
Written by Sophia Smith
Photos Unsplash and Pexels
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