You've Got Sale!

Firstly: hope you all had the best Christmas ever! 

However, as of tomorrow, my friends, Christmas 2012 will be all over and we'll be gearing up for the dawn of the New Year.

Of course, my obligatory New Years Resolutions shall be posted, but in the meantime I thought i'd get straight to the point...

SALES.

I remember the days when I would wake up on Boxing Day morning with a feeling of great emptiness, nothing but a number of selection boxes to keep the post-Christmas depression at bay. Those days, however, have been replaced by my frantically patrolling the stores for some fabulous sale bargains... I love a discount, me.

However, I must admit that I am a bit prone to senseless sale buys. My train of thought tends to go something like this:

"Ooh, this feathered skirt is half price- Zara you devils! That'll go perfectly with... Something... Maybe... I'll take it... Blue or pink?.. BOTH!" 

I lose my mind when faced with a whopping discount, all reason goes out the window and I come home laden with bags, all of which amount to nothing more than : "Ah well, at least it was cheap..."

However, I shall try and be more sensible this year, and so shall you! Here are my tips for savvy sale shopping this Boxing Day, trend appropriate, of course. 

Images from Catwalking: Alexander Wang SS13, Victoria Beckham SS13, Felder Felder SS13

Images from Catwalking: Mulberry SS13,  Haider Ackermann SS13, Balenciaga SS13 

Images from Catwalking: Dries Van Noten S/S13, Valentino S/S 13, Balenciaga S/S13

Images from Catwalking: Valentino SS13, Balenciaga SS13, Isabel Marant SS13

Disguise Mince Pie Thighs!

If you can't overindulge at Christmas, when can you?

I must put my hands up and say that I have actually not eaten many mince pies this year- two mini ones to be precise- but I do feel like I am about to gain a stone in Christmas weight... I mainly blame the Champagne cocktails and mum's irresistible Christmas cake and trifle.

Christmas is a very tricky time for those who are struggling with weight, but i'm trying my best to cope! However, if worst comes to worst, I will just gain that almost inevitable seasonal weight and then have to detox- green tea in one hand, gym pass in the other.

In the mean time, though, I bring you some lovely wintry outfits that conceal a multitude of festive foodie sins. 

Nothing beats an oversized jumper with some slim fit jeans and a brilliant pair of ankle boots... It's universally flattering and makes you look every bit as slim as you are in your summertime prime.

It's not time to detox, yet, so let's enjoy the party season while we can.

Pass me the Elderflower Edinburgh gin!

1. Dark Wash Jeggings from Abercrombie and Fitch- the ultimate jeans. I'll have a pair in every colour, please? (£68)
2. This Jack Wills jumper (£69.50) is so wonderfully snug and, when worn oversized and slouchy, this is the perfect way to hide a less-than-washboard stomach (who, moi?)
3. The best way to spend Boxing Day? Hidden away under lots of layers watching Love Actually and eating Quality Streets. This super soft faux-fur gilet from Topshop is super toasty and rather forgiving (£55)
4. Let's talk diversion tactics! This studded leopard print bowling bag from Zara (£49.99) is at the top of my post-Christmas wishlist, and with rather good reason. Such a bold, stylish bag will distract from the pre-detox pounds.
5. MUST. STAY. ALWAY. FROM. THE. KOOPLES. SALE. Please, someone, stop me from buying these tidy little ankle boots. They are reduced to £185 in the sale.  

1. These slouchy ripped boyfriend jeans from Moto at Topshop (the Lacey jeans- £40) are ultra forgiving and the perfect way to disguise mince pie thighs! I'll take a couple of pairs...
2. Slip on a cosy cardigan (River Island, £40) and cocoon yourself in the knowledge that you've got a good few months before bikini season...
* shudder *
3. Where have all the good men gone?.. Need a post Christmas hero that isn't of the Cadbury's variety, well you aren't alone. Send out a message loud and clear with this ultra cool beaded t-shirt from Markus Lupfer (£140)
4. These are biker boots and then some. Balance out the soft pieces with these edgy studded Zara boots (£129)
5. Got a few spare Christmas pennies going?.. Indulge in some new season Mulberry like this glossy Cecily tote (£1100) which adds a polished finish to any outfit... It would also act as a marvellous diversion from my Champagne-enduced bloat (yes, i'm pretty much Bridget Jones)

1. Another sale hit from The Kooples, I adore this slick Oxblood woolen cape. It will certainly hide a multitude of sins! £220.50 on sale- i'll be keeping my eyes peeled for further reductions.
2. Nothing beats a simple cream knit, i'd buy this one several sizes too big. It's £35 from Miss Selfridge.
3. My favourite high street jeans are the super-skinny stretchy Leigh jeans from Topshop. This simple dark denim pair is super slimming and just £38.
3. Ooh la la, did someone say Mulberry? Well, they were wrong. This warm tan handbag with gleaming gold hardware is a snip at £70 from ASOS. Yum.
5. Ankle boots are my one true love, and these new season burgundy buckle boots from Office are a new favourite of mine. The stacked heel lengthens legs while the cut out detail makes them a great partner to flirty minis come spring! (£85)
6. Alex Monroe jewellery is the cutest, and this fox charm bracelet is delicate and sure to attract many an admiring glance. (£135)

1. Alas, yet another pair of killer skinny jeans, this time from Hollister. These have a perfect stretch and the dark wash is slimming. I find they make my bum look a million times better as well, at £40 they are certainly cheaper than a trip to Harley Street!
2. This cutesy Wildfox sweater, embroidered with "I'll Keep You Warm" in shimmery bronze sequins will cover you up without looking even remotely boring. I absolutely love this sweater (£150)
3. I have two faux-fur scarves from Zara that I wear religiously, primarily because they are super cosy and also very forgiving when i'm feeling a little less than body confident. Though my lovely fur stoles have sold out, this cool snood from Topshop is silky soft and a lovely toffee hue (£25)
4. Another day, another ankle boot. These buckled Topshop black booties have a chunky heel which balances out slightly shapely legs. (£110)
5. Et Voila! You could balloon up ten dress sizes and it still wouldn't matter with a Celine Luggage Mini on your arm. I don't even know how much this Cream Python offering is- I don't doubt that it is too much for me to even comprehend- but I love it, and always shall.  

Gift Guide: The Good Time Girl

Leaving it to the last minute? So are the majority of us, don't worry.

Christmas has come upon us all rather suddenly, hasn't it? And now you may be ready to join the majority of the United Kingdom in trawling the high streets hunting for "ANYTHING" to buy for friends/family etc.

If you're still stuck, check out this year's gift guides on the blog including : 

* The Sweet Tooth

* The Gym Bunny 

* The Goth Girl

* The Glitter Girl

* The Cosy Cutie

* The Romantic

And, last but not least, the Good Time Girl!

Who? The Good Time Girl is the life and soul of the party, the girl who everyone counts on to light up a room, the girl who never says no to a night out and the girl who knows that life is for living! 

What does she love? She loves to have fun, first and foremost!

Where does she shop? Topshop for party dresses, Nails Inc for fabulous nail art, Urban Outfitters for fun bits and bobs and Dannijo for sparkling jewellery. 

1. This little embellished romper from Topshop is a cool £200, but it is the ideal gift for the belle of the ball.
2. I love Wildfox tees for Christmas presents, and this Young Hearts Run Free tee is £68
3. I adore this little sparkly 'Glitterball' iPad case from Kate Spade- so sweet and fun ! $80
4. Girls With Class Don't Need A Glass- this hip flask is great for any good time girl. £12 at Urban Outfitters or 2 for £15
5. Time does indeed fly when you're having fun, so do something thoughtful this Christmas and give her this Urban Outfitters photo album, full of pictures from the time of your life- £18, exclusive online.
6. Speaking of fun, how gorgeous is this bottle of Absolut Unique Edition vodka? The perfect gift, each one of these pop-art bottles is different, and what crazy girl doesn't love some crisp, clean Absolut vodka? £21.50 from Harvey Nichols and Selfridges
7. I think that Philosophy bath shower gels make for the best presents- and this Senorita Margarita hit is a bit of a cult classic. It smells zingy, fresh and fun, £14.
8. I love Nails Inc polishes, and I think that their Couture service is just fabulous for a quirky Christmas gift. You can get it done in a few stores, or order online, and choose a pretty topper, your favourite colour and personalise the label to suit the giftee. I opted for this zingy neon coral topped with a gold sparkly lid, this combination would set you back £20.
9. This hot pink postmans lock organiser from Mulberry is simply a gorgeous present, and any lady would be lucky to have it! £295 from Mulberry stores. 
10. These fabulously sparkly crystal drop earrings from River Island are the perfect accompaniment to any show-stopping little sequin dress, £10.
11. This stuff smells just divine! This Bliss 'Berry Bubbly' set of Raspberry Champagne bubble bath and body butter smells fruity and sweet and is the perfect pre or post party pampering routine, £29.
12. I absolutely love this stunning cuff by Dannijo. You can buy it as a set with several cool bracelets in what The Man Repeller Leandra Medine calls the Wanderlust Arm Party for $595, or you can stick to this bold but sophisticated Smyson cuff at $420.
13. Last but not least, keep chilly hands at bay with these fun Hi 5 mittens from Kate Spade- I love them ! $47.00 on sale.

Gift Guide: The Romantic

Christmas is, undoubtedly, a time to spend with loved ones, and if you're lucky enough to be all loved up this Christmas, then you'll no doubt be hunting for the perfect gift for your special somebody.

 And, as a much as i'm sure a lovey-dovey Christmas is beautiful, I must admit that I don't really envy you- buying the perfect present is a total nightmare.

In saying that, though, I simply must put my hands up and say that it is even harder for the boys. We're a picky lot, us ladies, and the worst part is that when men feel defeated and deflated after a good few hours of trawling the department stores, they will simply march to the lingerie department and buy some'it there. 

STOP. Read this first. Underwear is not as simple as "Ooft, that looked fit on Miranda Kerr so my girlfriend will look equally amazing in this hot pink lace corset with nipple tassels and suspenders."

Shopping for lingerie is a bit of a tricky one, but Marks & Spencer are reaching out a helping hand to you lost souls, with a lingerie buying guide on their website. This little godsend goes alongside their gorgeous collection of beautifully crafted, understated underwear (shop it here) that any lady would welcome with open arms on Christmas day.

You can read it here, but here are a few of my own little tips to ease you in... 

1. PICK THE RIGHT RED

For some reason, you guys seem particularly drawn to bright red lingerie, but you have to be careful. The wrong red is tacky, tomato bright and, more likely than not, cheap and nasty satin. Pick something a rich, black cherry shade with subtle lace detailing like this featured Rosie Huntington-Whiteley for Autograph set in Ruby... I just received this set and I think I am a little bit in love, it is decadent but still demure enough for everyday wear, and it fits like a dream.

2. KEEP IT SIMPLE 

It's all too easy to go a bit OTT when browsing the lingerie department, but you need to remember that this is a gift for her, not you. She is probably more drawn to pretty and feminine lingerie, so think about what she likes to wear rather than what you like her to wear.

3. ALWAYS GET THE RIGHT SIZE 

This is an obvious one, but a tricky one at that. She will not be grateful to unwrap a luxurious silken bra on Christmas morning, only to find that it does not fit. That will almost certainly have you in the bad books. Make sure it's the right size before you buy. Always.

1. This black lace set by Autograph at Marks and Spencer is sexy but still flattering and sophisticated: the balconette bra is a favourite of mine as it elongates the neck and boosts a smaller bust. The bra is £27.50 and the matching french knickers are £17.50.

2. A little champagne goes a long way, and is the perfect little extra for your lovely lady this Christmas. This Oudinot Rose champagne from Marks and Spencer is £28... It's also deliciously indulgent.

3. Light up her world with this heavenly candle by Diptyque. Nothing is more romantic than candle light and this delectable scented offering by Parisian favourite Diptyque has a heady and sensual Jasmine aroma that she will simply adore.

4. Give your girlfriend the gift of relaxation with this Jo Malone bath oil in seductive Pomegranate Noir. The scent is powerful and darkly luxurious and leaves skin soft and supple £52

5. My pick has to be this Rosie for Autograph set in Ruby. The rich dark red is glossy and festive, but still sophisticated and elegant. This underwear is the perfect balance of sexy and wearable. The bra is reduced to £18 and the matching knickers are reduced to £10.

6. My favourite set also comes in a number of other pretty colourways, including this soft oyster pink. Peachy pink lingerie is feminine but still sexy, and will always be a hit.

7. Another hit of jasmine comes from this ridiculously indulgent Tom Ford Private Blend fragrance in Jasmine Rouge. It smells seductive, sensual and richly opulent. A heady floral with a woody note, a little goes a long way and this £135 bottle will look fabulous in any boudoir.

8. All I want for Christmas is a man who is happy to buy me Agent Provocateur lingerie until it is coming out my ears. This little Selena set is beyond hot- I absolutely adore it. The bra is a cool £110 and the matching knickers are £96.

9. If you fancy buying something a little more pretty, then this Rosie for Autograph teddy in oyster pink silk is just stunning. It is flattering but still exudes glamour. This lovely piece is £45.

10. I absolutely adore Mimi Holliday by Damaris, and always keep my eyes peeled for it in post-Christmas sales, but if you're lady friend is an innocent one, then stick to this crisp cream set. The bra is just £45 and the matching lace knickers are £39.

11. Last but not least, if all else fails, buy 'er some chocolate. These passion fruit flavoured salted caramels by Artisan du Chocolat are so moreish that I could just eat them all day. Perfect with champagne. These are £13.45

Jingle and Mingle

1. Candy Cane minty lip gloss by Philosophy
2. Once Bitten Twice Shy t-shirt £90 by Markus Lupfer
3. My favourite super-skinny jeans from Topshop £38
4. Wonderful rich crimson lipstick from Topshop (in Hazard) £8
5. The cutest little ring ever by Alex Monroe £180
6. I simply adore these Jingle Bell Dolly heels from Charlotte Olympia £625
7. This Gagarin cuff at ATELIER-TO-GO is such a lovely piece by Lara Bohinc £680

1. These Topshop Leigh jeans in bone are my latest purchase and I simply can't wait to wear them! £38
2. This Love ring by Zoe & Morgan is just adorable £99
3. This Céline Dion tee from Browns is brilliant- and a bargain! £30
4. Another fabulous pair of heels from Charlotte Olympia, these Kiss Me Dolly heels will have them lining up under the mistletoe! £625
5. I love this NARS lipstick in Jungle Fever- a classic pillarbox red that is so very festive
6. Layer up your lipstick with this almost patent Paul & Joe Lip Lacquer in 09 - the perfect present
7. Finish off the look with a gorgeously luscious chain-detail clutch from my beloved Zara £79.99  

Gift Guide: Sweet Tooth

So, in a stark contrast with my previous gift guide (ahem, here) I bring you something a little sweeter.

A lot sweeter, actually!

Terrifyingly, the average person puts on a maahooosive five pounds around Christmas, but who can blame us when there are so many gorgeous treats around?! It really is rather difficult to stay in those size 8 skinny jeans when faced with a selection box and copious glasses of champagne... Lord help me!

Anyway, there are very few girls- or, indeed, boys- who would not thank you for something sweet on Christmas day so here are a few suggestions that are sweeter than honey.

Who? The sweet tooth is pretty much any boy or girl who goes gaga at the thought of a big bag of fudge or weak at the knees when faced with the Selfridges food hall (me? of course not...)

What does a sweet tooth love? Chocolate, biscuits, cup cakes, marshmallows, meringues, baking, sweet smelling goodies, gummy sweets, macaroons, cocktails- if it's sweet, they shall take it. 

Aah, easy peasy, so what's out there this Christmas?!

1. Hotel Chocolat The Yule Buche Collection (with slate) £25
2. The Biscuiteers Little Shoes Tin £30
3. Lily Vanilli's Sweet Tooth Cookbook £8 from Amazon
4. Black Cherry Candy Cane 99p each at Mrs Kibbles
5. Salted Caramel Drinking Chocolate £6.50 by Artisan du Chocolat
6. Laura Mercier Creme Brulee Candle £29
7. Art of Mallow Salted Caramellow Marshmallows (available here- such lovely flavours!) £2.75
8. Individual Alternative Mince Pie by Hotel Chocolate- so tasty!
9. Gingerbread Cookies white chocolate fusion bar £3 at Artisan du Chocolat
10. Harvey Nichols "Fashionista" hamper- £75 (contains chocolate toffee, chocolate and nut biscuits, red berry tea bags, Baci di Nama chocolate hazelnut biscuits, marzipan fruits, wild flower honey, pink grapefruit marmalade and sauvignon blanc)
11. Fauchon Macaroons and Champagne gift set €37

Gift Guide: The Gym Bunny

All I want for Christmas is abs.

This is a fact.

However, some lucky little duckies already have abs, chiselled ones at that, and such ladies are known as Gym Bunnies.

So while they may appear to have everything, these fitness freaks need Christmas treats too.

Who? The gym bunny is the sort of girl who is all about health and fitness. It's in the name, really. While she could well spend every waking moment down the gym, she could also simply be a yoga fan or even a bit of a health food fanatic! This is one lady who wont need to detox post-Christmas, that's for sure!

What does she love? While it may be tempting to renew her gym membership, or buy her some trainers or some'it, be a little creative yeah? These presents are all treats which any fitness fan would go weak at the knees for- particularly that Wildfox set- I. NEED. THE. CROP. TOP.

So where shall I head for my little gym bunny?!

1. WILDFOX "I Need Coffee" Crop Top $50 at Dolls Kill and Trousers £90 on the Wildfox site
2. Elemental Herbology SOS Circulation Serum £27 here - dying to try this!
3. North Face E-Tip Gloves £30 - touch screen gloves for freezing fingers
4. I Am Off To The Gym tote bag at Not On The High Street £30
5. GO TO THE GYM Cushion (spotted on Pinterest, but buy here for $89)
6. New Generation iPad Nano £129
7. Stella McCartney for Adidas CLIMAPROOF Running Shorts £50
8. David Kirsch's Abs and Arms at Space NK £20
9. Bounce Balls Coconut and Macadamia Protein Bliss around £2.50 each- my favourite high protein snack
10. Yoga Fan Practise-A-Day Guide at Sweaty Betty here £15
11. Nip + Fab Tummy Fix Daily Ab Gel here £19.25

Champagne Toasting, Chestnuts Roasting

TIS THE SEASON TO DRINK BOLLY!

... And Moet, of course!

I felt that with December in swing, i'd do a little Christmassy post to get you in the mood.

the lovely Christmas tree at Chelsea's favourite hotspot

I have to admit that I am not overly familiar with the Chelsea area, but at Christmas I do find that the Kings Road really does flourish, and the real jewel in the crown has to be The Bluebird.

A former garage, The Bluebird bar, shop and restaurant is a little bit of a Chelsea institution- and, for you MIC fiends, it is a permanent fixture on your screens.

is there anything quite so festive?

 
Having dropped by The Bluebird a couple of times over summer, I was rather excited when I received an invite to the launch party of their Winter Pop-Up bar, sponsored by Moet et Chandon.

These are dangerous words when you are as obsessed with the sparkly stuff as I am.

constant top-ups of Moet are dangerous- you have been warned

The charming Winter bar stands in front of the Bluebird bar and shop quite some way up the Kings Road, and is open from the 26th November through to the 3rd of January.

With twinkly fairy lights, candles and plenty of drinks to warm your cockles, this really is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exercising your credit card.

these little baby burgers were beyond delicious- perhaps my favourite canape, fabulously indulgent!

In London there really are some fantastic festive events going on, but it's the little details that set pop-up events like this apart- they even give you toasty red blankets when the evening turns particularly icy!

At the launch party I treated myself to far too many canapes including these tangy mini burgers, crispy whitebait, zingy prawn and avocado spoons and creamy mushroom croquettes, all washed down with far too many glasses of Moet. 

With chestnuts roasting on an open fire, a heated outdoor area and some lovely bar snacks on offer, I really would recommend The Bluebird for a little Christmas treat.

More details here!

Dapper Darlings

1. Slick Black Jacket from The Kooples £340
2. Chain and Bead Clutch from Zara £49.99
3. Sequin Skinny Trousers from Reiss £99
4. Céline tee from Farfetch- currently sold out, but if you're desperate, check THIS out.
5. Stunning chain detail heels from Zara £69.99

I know that the party season is not the easiest time when it comes to fashion- so many parties/events, such little time ! It's a hard life, isn't it?

Anyway, I thought i'd put together a few little posts about some killer evening looks with a little bit of a difference. First up, we have something for the more sophisticated sort.

If you're bored of the old LBD, then a two piece suit could be just the thing for you.

1. Blazer from River Island £40
2. Glitter Heels from Topshop £50
3. Grey Wide Leg Trousers from Reiss £125
4. Cocktail Ring from Accessorize £12
5. Embellished Clutch bag from Topshop £70
6. Delicate embellished top from Miss Selfridge £45

 It doesn't need to be a black tux with a classic white blouse, though, this season ever brand from The Kooples through to River Island have come up with a more party-ready take on this classic look.

Whether you decide to add a touch of glamour with sequinned trousers, or keep it understated with a muted dove grey palette, the suit is always a sexy alternative to a little dress!

1. Multi-Row Cross Pendants from River Island £12
2. Topshop Bralet £32
3. Metallic Bronze Blazer from The Kooples £350
4. Matching Bronze Shorts from The Kooples £150
5. Black Velvet Wedges by Kurt Geiger £220
6. Lovely Stud Detail Clutch by Missguided £22.99

Add a few sparkly accessories and sophisticated shoes to add a feminine touch to a sharp tailored suit. And if you really can't bare to cover up head-to-toe, then try a short suit.

The Kooples have such wonderful tailoring season by season, and for the party season they really have pulled out all the stops with this metallic shorts suit- a real favourite with fashion bloggers and celebrities alike.   

1. Tweed Blazer from Topshop £68
2. Young Hearts Run Free t-shirt by Wildfox £70
3. Tweed Trousers from Topshop £40
4. Gorgeous grey pouch bag from Whistles £55 (great price)
5. Beautiful Violet Heels from Zara £39.99
6. Collar Necklace by Dannijo $445
7. Revlon Nails in Plum Seduction (at Boots) £6.99

Finally, to stop a simple grey or black suit veering into office territory, keep it bright and bold with colour pop accessories and kitsch touches, like a cute Wildfox tee or Markus Lupfer knit.

Ultimately, a suit is smart, clean and sure to make you stand out from the hoards of girls in cutaway body-con dresses. 

Gift Guide 2012: The Cosy Cutie

Hello there ladies and gents, feeling festive yet? If not... Look away, for this post is about to get as festive as Buble's Christmas album (which has been on loop since the 1st of November)...

Following my initial Goth Girl gift guide, this one is for a slightly girlier girl, less about edge, more about choccies and woolies!

Who? She's the easy going girl, whatever you buy her, she'll love it. She's the one who ooh's and aah's at all the latest festive knits, and she loves nothing more than curling up in her pyjamas, hot choc in hand and a bit of Gosling ont telly. 

What does she love? She loves everything about Christmas, to be honest. She is a family girl, and is always smiling and chirpy. She loves gingerbread men, cool fair isle sweaters and everything that is a little bit kitsch. She is also rather partial to a few cheeky eggnog lattes in Starbucks. She is a cosy cutie pie, at the end of the day.

Where does she shop? Everywhere, really, she is not particularly fussy, but she loves Urban Outfitters around Christmas time, and Jack Wills' jammies are her absolute vice. She is crazy for cosy winter warmers and knows that Christmas is the best time to indulge, be that in delectable chocolates from Hotel Chocolat or super sweet marzipan body souffle.

Oh, but, what do I buy her?!...

1. Brrr-illiant hat by Markus Lupfer at Whistles £55
2. Fair Isle leggings from Jack Wills £29.50
3. Gorgeous little mittens by Jack Wills £24.50
4. HILARIOUS Feminist Ryan Gosling book at Urban Outfitters £8.99
5. Incredible "Woodzip" Candle by Popup Paris at Harvey Nichols (literally smells like an open fire!)
6. Little choccy gingerbread men from Hotel Chocolat £6.50
7. The Cookbook collection by Philosophy (the most incredible smelling minis ever!) $30
8. Love sweater at Miss Selfridge £39
9. Cosy fair isle slippers at Accessorize £20
10. Limited edition Christmas sweater by Isabel Marant at Net-A-Porter £350
11. Delectable chocolate honeycomb treats from Artisan du Chocolat £19.95
12. Super soft cream fur snood from River Island £30
13. Smoothie Star body cream from Soap and Glory (it literally smells like marzipan- yum!) £10.50

Secret Santa Saviours #1

All tins $7.99 here

Another of my Christmas posts this year is going to be to help all you girls and boys struggling with that ever difficult secret santa! 

I will be picking out an array of quirky little gifts that won't break the bank and will definitely put you in everyone's good books!

First up, i've got these coin tins by American store Blue Q. Unfortunately, the majority are only available in their online store (here), but some can be found in Urban Outfitters for £10. 

They are just the cutest little presents to brighten up someones day, and who doesn't need a place to put those spare pennies? 

We are all saving up for a unicorn after all...

Gift Guide 2012: The Goth Girl

Tis the season to buy presents ladies and gents!

Today marks my first day of Christmas shopping so I thought it high time to unveil my first Christmas 2012 gift guide- The Goth Girl!

I will be posting regular gift guides to let you see the best of what is out there this season, as i'm sure you're aware, there is a lot to choose from!

Stay tuned for my upcoming gift guides:

THE GIRL WHO HAS EVERYTHING

THE FRAGRANCE FIEND

THE POOR LITTLE PRETTY GIRL

THE COSY CUTIE PIE

THE GLITTER GIRLY

THE GOOD TIME GIRL

First up, though, I put together my gift guide for The Goth Girl...

Who? She's the cool girl, the one who knows her MeadhamKirchoff from her Margiela. She's into fashion, art, film and music and is forever flicking through magazines. She is last Christmas' COOL GIRL (see the gift guide here)

What does she love? She loves Givenchy, she adores dark lipstick and Carine Roitfeld. She never slavishly follows trends but she is crazy for a bit of head-to-toe black. She lives for black coffee, cigarettes and neat vodka- she's that kind of cool, sexy girl who is always rather tricky to buy for.

Where does she shop? Oh, if only money were no object for the Goth Girl! She adores Riccardo Tisci's work at Givenchy and Alexander McQueen is another favourite, but she shall make do and mend with Topshop and their fabulous gothic inspired range. She is also a little bit of a sucker for American Apparel and their flowing chiffon skirts and wool floppy hats. This season, though, she would have died for anything by Gucci.

What do I buy her?!...

1. Necklace from Kurt Geiger £55

2. Feather Jacket from Topshop £90

3. Lace Detail Dress by By Malene Birger

4. Print by East End Prints £20

5. Dress by Three Floor Fashion £98

6. Rockstud Shoes by Valentino £600

7. Diary by Smythson £40

8. Agent Provocateur bra £110

9. Prada Large Saffiano Tote £1150

10. Nails Inc Limited Edition Polish £15

11. Diptique Fleur de Bois Candle £55 at Space NK

12. Skull Money Bank £15 at Urban Outfitters

13. Happy Pills Case $8.99 at Miamica

14. Beauty Bag £20 at La La Land Boutique

15. NARS Andy Warhol Gift Set £26

If you have anything else you'd love me to post on, drop a comment below! 

The Prettiest Dresses Are Worn To Be Taken Off...

1. Fur Slouchy Clutch at River Island £55

2. INCREDIBLE Fuschia lace dress at Three Floor Fashion £98 (buy, buy, buuuuuy!)

3. Balenciaga-style studded cuff at Chelsea Doll £11

4. Spike Earrings at Topshop £8.99

5. Incredible studded Zara heels at £79.99

The internet is full of all sorts of wisdom isn't it? Todays blog post nabbed it's title from a little phrase I saw on Facebook this morning and fell in love with.

And this dress by Three Floor Fashion is very much a case in point.

I have been crazy about Three Floor since I spotted their dresses in The Evening Standard (see my initial post here) and there new collection is their strongest yet, in my view.

This hot pink lace dress is just so beautiful and totally belies it's £98 price tag. It is unique, stunning and wonderfully made. I won't tell them it's not McQueen if you don't. Pair with black accessories to tone down the pretty pink lace and add an almost sinister edge. 

Baby, You're A Firework

1. Necklace by ASOS £40
2.Tinsel tassel dress by Topshop £60
3. Black Earrings by River Island £12
4. Tailored black jacket at The Kooples £340
5. Gem clutch at Accessorize £45
6. AH-mazing Topshop wedges at £65

Okay, i'm a magpie, and therefore these Topshop wedges may- just may- have set my little heart all a-flutter.

So, while tomorrow night may be bonfire night, set a few sparks flying yourself by shimmying into this little tinsel dress. Sparkly accessories are an absolute must. 

Far safer than a Catherine wheel as well! 

Christmas Came Early: River Island