Walking in a Winter Wonderland!

As opposed to my conventional style of blogging, I've decided to write a post about my fantastical experience when visiting Hyde Parks Winter Wonderland. With 1 day left before Christmas day, I paid a visit to the very festive park this year and took a merriment of pics that I thought I could share with you just in time. 

Despite the cold weather and blustery winds, I made the most of the experience whilst sipping on some cinnamon spiced mulled wine and a range of velvety chocolate delights! London's Winter Wonderland has an abundance of market stalls, food and fun rides available for all visitors, and with the entrance to the park being free, it was a totally magnificent experience where I felt like I was sharing in on all Christmas celebrations alongside thousands of other Yuletide lovers! Everything here is larger than life, as the whole park has been transformed into this magical kingdom filled with festive fun and cheer. And if you haven't been before, its worth paying a visit to this year or the next!

Take a look at some of my exclusive pics from Winter Wonderland below :) 

If you're looking to purchase some fine bespoke jewellery pieces, then this Winter Wonderland stall may just be the best place for you! It has an absolute variety of earrings, necklaces and rings crafted with precious stones and designs at a highly affordable price. Everyone loves a bit of last minute Christmas shopping, and with a merriment of jewellery pieces available you can still pick up a gift or two. Whatever you precious gemstone or favourite design, the Winter Wonderland is the place to go!

The moment you begin walking the vast array of market stalls, you can't help but stop and admire these beautiful scarves. Worn predominately as fashion scarves as opposed to winter warming essentials, these hand croatia pieces will make a fabulous fashion statement anytime of the year. I'm particularly fond of the red scarf, which would look fabulous with a little black dress! A real treat to bargain for when you get two for a mere £25.00!

No market stall is officially complete without the essential winter warmers, and these fabulous designs capture ones attention from a distance. Hats and scarves available in a range of bright and beautiful colours can really work to add a little bit of colour to your winter wardrobe! From gorgeous leopard prints, floral designs and fur fabrics - this market stall has everything to keep you snug and warm this Christmas! I couldn't help but treat myself to a classic winter hat too. 

Some amazing treats and delicacies made using fresh ingredients also make for the perfect gift for many families and friends. I bought myself a selection of the coconut cream bakes and chocolate brownies, which will add to the festive dinner this Christmas. Going that extra mile and adding a few more food options for your guests never fails to impress!

The Star Tavern is the best place to get your alcoholic beverages from and the place to shake a leg to! The Star Tavern has been transformed into a life size pub, and with festive music playing around you can't help but get your groove on. If you're looking to sit down for a short while, the Star Tavern is the place to head to! It breaks up the whole experience perfectly - without making you feel overworked before the experience is over!

One of the biggest German Cafe's has been put together to tantalise your tastebuds! From fresh pastries, hot dogs and freshly prepared German desserts, there are an abundance of German delights available under this roof! A highly popular eatery!

How adorable are these Christmas decorations?! These are the perfect kind of gifts that would make the perfect kind of stocking fillers. Filled with delicious handmade chocolate, I particularly like the decorated robin to the left, it's just so miniature and cute! 

If you prefer getting involved in some fun activities, then you could always head to this stall where a mountain of prizes are waiting to be won!  From large stuffed bears, to small stuffed toys, the chances of winning a prize at this stall are extremely high! Go on, it's Christmas! 

Ending the night by visiting Winter Wonderland's very own ice rink was indeed a high octane experience I won't forget! As carols and other festive musical numbers were being played live, myself and many other skating-lovers really felt a part of the Christmas spirit on the ice rink. It's one of the most beautiful outdoor setups I have seen, and whilst my skating skills still need brushing up a little, Winter Wonderland will be an experience I will remember for a long time to come!

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL! MAY YOU ALL HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY FILLED WITH LOTS OF JOY AND MISTLETOE! LOVE, KIN X

Get the celebrity look for less: The casual edit!

Every now and again we turn to some of the most coveted celebrities for a little inspiration to help us revamp our wardrobe! From LA to London, these three celebrities have recently been snapped in their all time favourite 'comfy casual' looks whilst out and about the city streets! If you too are looking for some inspiration just in time for Christmas, then take a look at how you too can achieve your favourite celebrities casual look for less! 

JESSICA ALBA - CASUAL FESTIVITY

Jessica Alba never fails to impress her fans with her immaculate sense of fashion. Even when wearing the casual look she puts together a rather stylish and chic look that nevertheless makes her stand apart from the crowd. The casual festivity look is all about playing around with your favourite Christmas knitwear, paired together with your favourite boots. There is no better time of the year to be wearing this look, so make sure you get your hands on a similar look from high street stores!

1. RIVER ISLAND: BLACK HIGH WAISTED ZIP LEGGINGS - £25.00

2. MANGO: GREY FANCY CHECK SHIRT - £25.00

3. RIVER ISLAND: BLACK QUILTED BIKER BOOTS - £45.00

4: ASOS.COM: MINKPINK LOVE AESTHETICS ROUND SUNGLASSES - £43.00

5. BOOHOO.COM: ALIA KNIT REINDEER CARDIGAN - £24.00

NICOLE SCHERZINGER - CASUAL BLACK GLORY

Working the very popular 'all black everything' look, Nicole was spotted wearing this gorgeous fur trim-line jacket with a stylish pair of loafers. Carrying off the black and glorious casual look does appear just as striking as it does effortless. On a cold night out walking the London-lit streets this Christmas, why not wear a similar look? And remember, a fur trim jacket isn't just something you have to wear this season, but will be a wardrobe staple for years to come. You can't do without it!

1. MANGO: SUPERFIT BLACK SLIM JEANS - £24.00

2. RIVER ISLAND: BLACK QUILTED BELTED PEPLUM TOP - £28.00

3. PULL AND BEAR: BLACK LOAFERS WITH PIPING DETAIL - £20.00

4. TOPSHOP: WARREN FLAT SUNGLASSES - £20.00

5. ARMANI: WOMENS SHEARLING JACKET WITH FUR DETAIL - £335.00

RITA ORA - CASUAL LEATHER LOVE

The casual leather love look is an all time favourite for many fashionista's, since leather clothing is forever distinguishing itself above the rest. Rita Ora too can be described as a true leather lover, and has been snapped wearing a very chic pair of leather leggings with a rock-chick leather biker jacket. This is a great look to wear both in the day and evening because it carries with it a sense of casualness as much as it does sophistication. Change the flats for a pair of heels in the evening - and you are ready for that Christmas party!

1. TOPSHOP: TEXTURED LEATHER LOOK LEGGINGS - £27.00

2. TOPSHOP: BLACK V FRONT NECK VEST - £24.00

3. TOPSHOP: WHITE SCOOP NECK VEST - £24.00

4. MANGO: VELVET POINTED SLIPPER SHOES - £40.00

5. NINA RICCI: FASHION BLACK TINTED SUNGLASSES - £52.00

6. TOPSHOP: SUEDE PANELLED LEATHER BIKER JACKET - £220.00

Whichever celebrities sense of style you may prefer, there's every reason for you to be inspired and treat yourself to one of your all time favourite looks! It is Christmas after all, we deserve to treat ourselves too! 

A very happy Dressmas - The Christmas Party Edit

It's the perfect time of the year to wear the most stylish and befitting cocktail dresses in time for a very special Christmas get-together or the good old work Christmas party. The festive season is indeed upon us, and dressing for all sorts of party occasions leaves us women searching for our all time favourite party dress! For many working ladies, it can take a number of hours or even a number of days searching for that one particular dress that we would truly love to wear. However, often we can make such a decision in haste and choose a dress that can be rather unflattering! 

Whatever your worst case scenario maybe, it's time to make a note of all those dresses that are making heads turn this season. Post December 13th classic Christmas jumper day, its time to revel in all our glory and find the perfect party dress to wear in time for that good old Christmas party! 

The Understated Look is for those ladies who are looking to make a party-impression in a rather simplistic manner. Achieving the understated look serves to imply a sense of subtlety in your style, without over-doing it. And can work to make you feel rather glamorous thanks to a minimalistic design or effortless cut. If you're looking for an understated dress then look no further, because here's the very best of them to choose from:

1. WAREHOUSE: EMBELLISHED CUFF DRESS - £80.00

Add a pair of strappy heels and a pair of delicate silver earrings to elongate your neckline, this dress will make a magnificent impression in the simplest of form. It's all in the cuffs!

2. MISS SELFRIDGE: SILVER HIGH NECK JACQUARD DRESS - £58.00

Keeping the colours neutral, the simple cut and jacquard design will do most of the talking. All you need is a simple pair of heels to finish off the look.

3. WAREHOUSE: BLACK HIGH NECK PLEATED HEM DRESS - £55.00

The little black dress never fails to impress whatever the occasion and will look fabulous for any Christmas party too. Love the hem detail, so dainty and pretty.

4. RIVER ISLAND: BLACK GEOMETRIC PANEL PENCIL DRESS - £45.00

Show off the best of your assets in this crisp geometric panel dress. So simple and stylish, yet equally elegant. Great to wear any time of the year!

5. WAREHOUSE: BONDED LACE PANEL DRESS - £30.00

We all love a little bit of red in time for Christmas, and this beautiful lace dress will make a fabulously festive impression without any need for embellishments.

6. LITTLE MISTRESS: SEQUIN WAIST FIT AND FLARE DRESS - £42.00

If you're not looking for a body-hugging dress then why not opt to wear this fit and flare? A beautiful chiffon dress with minor details around the waist - love it!

7. TOPSHOP: VELVET BODYCON DRESS - £34.00

The plain velvet bodycon dress has to be one of the most understated dresses this season, but equally the most trendiest. Calling all fashionista's, this is the perfect dress for you!

8. TED BAKER: EVVIE STRUCTURED WAIST DRESS - £139.00

A classic cadbury purple peplum dress serves to make a rather sensual and elegant impression. Nothing is overstated, while the structured waist works to give it that extra ounce of opulence. 

Now as for the Overstated Look, these ladies are leaning towards purchasing a dress that serves to make a rather loud and cheerful impression. After all, it is Christmas, and as much as it is the time to be merry, it is a time to rejoice in wearing some of the most quirky and somewhat exaggerated dresses that add to the much needed drama to the party! Here's the best of them for you to choose from:

1. WAREHOUSE: LEATHER AND FEATHER DRESS - £160.00

When wanting to make a real impact this Christmas, a feast of feathers can work wonders! This dress is a truly glamourous must have for all ladies wanting to shake a leg or two on the dance floor.

2. MISS SELFRIDGE: EMBELLISHED HIGH NECK DRESS - £80.00

This red roulette dress embellished in a real classic design will look beautiful with a dainty pair of court shoes. A real head-turner and classy Christmas dress.

3. MISS SELFRIDGE: PETITE BEAD BODY DRESS - £49.00

Any amount of intricate beads and sequins intertwined in a detailed fashion will always create an overstated impression. All that glitz and glamour is perfect for this festive time of the year!

4. H&M: BURGUNDY SEQUINNED DRESS - £30.00

A shoulder-less bodycon dress may not appear to be the most overstated dress, but it is by far one of the most unique designs that shows off a real sense of sensuality. 

5. OASIS: RED SEQUIN BODYCON DRESS - £68.00

An all-over sequinned dress is one of the most stylish of dresses to wear this festive season. It's incredibly detailed and will make you feel like a true dime - it's worth it. 

6. MISS SELFRIDGE: ALL OVER EMBELLISHED MAXI DRESS - £195.00

Who said maxi dresses were only for the summer? This maxi dress speaks otherwise and if you're wanting to get that sensual look with a real Great Gatbsy feel then this is the maxi for you!

7. MISS SELFRIDGE: EMBELLISHED KIARA BODYCON - £92.00

I've always been a real fan of the classic nude and white dress for Christmas! This dress is one of my favourites - a real white Christmas treat to adorn yourself in, and a true party must have.

8. MISS SELFRIDGE: GOLD SHIMMER MAXI DRESS - £49.00

This is a maxi worth bargaining for in time for a very formal Christmas event! It's glamourous, sophisticated and ever so festive - it reveals sheer Christmas opulence!

Remember to get your favourite party dress in time and do remember to work the understated or overstated look without endorsing both! There is nothing worse than looking like a Christmas tree! Here's wishing you a very Happy Dressmas this year!

All time favourite beauty must haves - Xmas Edit

I've been meaning to blog about this for a while and given the colder days and nights we are all experiencing there couldn't be any better time to write about this! Taking care of your hair and skin is extremely important during the colder months of the year, and a serious lack of attention can lead to all sorts of skin and hair care blues! 

You're more than likely to have come across a familiar post or article somewhere or the other, but the number of women that continue to pay little attention to the benefits of beauty care is horrifying! I've listed down five products that I have personally endorsed to see me through the big freeze. Now majority of these beauty products I have in fact used on several occasions and they are products I cannot simply do without. One or two others, however, are fairly new products I have scouted from the high street, and are truly wonderful finds! Check out my exclusive review below: 

The best of beauty care and expert advice...

(From left to right)

1. THE HUT.COM: MOROCCAN OIL HAIR TREATMENT - £32.00

I was first introduced to Moroccan Oil over a year ago when my hair was in desperate need of TLC! After using this moisturising hair product on a regular weekly basis throughout the winter, I can honestly say that it has worked wonders. During the colder months it's important to keep those brittle split ends at bay and tame those tresses with a much needed natural extract that can serve to revitalise the hair shaft and bring back the hairs natural shine! Moroccan Oil is a must purchase for any woman suffering from far too many 'bad hair days'. Use on weekly basis post washing your locks and you will see and feel a magnificent difference. 

2. THE HUT.COM: BURT'S BEES LIP GLOSS TUBE IN NECTAR NUDE - £7.99

Without fail, I am a victim of chapped lips in light of Christmas! I never seem to understand why, as I carry numerous lip-balms and glosses with me to keep my lips somewhat moisturised. But the true benefits of nurturing and reviving my chapped lips are with thanks to Burt's Bee's nectar nude lip-gloss. Burt's Bees is a brand-name I have grown up using it, and my lips cannot seriously do without them. Within a couple of hours of applying a pea-size amount of the gloss my lips feel truly nourished! The perks of using this tube is that it lasts forever! I've had my tube for over six months now, and it continues to protect my luscious lips. A beauty product no handbag should be without.

3. SEPHORA.COM: SOAP AND GLORY HAND FOOD CREAM - £7.33

From chill blains to dry skin, keeping your hands soft and supple is extremely crucial. There is nothing worse than leaving your hands deprived of moisture and the longer you leave them in such ways, your dry skin woes exacerbates. I've been using Soap and Glory hand food cream for almost a year now and applying it every morning keeps my hands hydrated throughout the day. I don't necessarily feel like I need to apply the cream on my hands more than once a day, and it truly smells divine! Keeping my hands moisturised with Soap and Glory is hardly a chore. I do love this product.

4. HOUSE OF FRASER: CLARINS PERFECTING EYE-LIFTING SERUM - £37.00

While tea-bags and cooling cucumbers are believed to play a vital role in eradicating under-eye bags, Clarins perfecting serum not only works to help improve dark circles but clears away morning puffiness. I rarely get puffy eyes, but when my eyes are feeling rather tired and dreary I always use Clarins serum. I've only been using this product for roughly two months now and I've noticed a significant difference. I tend to use it every morning to bring back that much needed spring, but also have started applying it because I've finally realised the importance of protecting this particular area of the skin. Since the skin is incredibly thin under the eyes, extra attention is very much needed. Don't ignore the problem!

5. THE BODYSHOP: SEAWEED PORE CLEANSING EXFOLIATOR - £9.16

I absolutely adore the Seaweed collection at the Bodyshop and continue to use their products on a daily basis. The seaweed pore cleanser, however, remains on the essential list this Christmas! From dry skin to an oily tea zone, the harsh cold weather can do serious damage to the outer layer of the skin and can even clog up those pores with lethal bacteria. Exfoliating the skin every two days will always remove dead skin cells from the surface and serves to help you get through any weather mishaps. Protecting the skin by way of exfoliating has really helped me to create a real winter glow on my face and keep dry skin at bay. Given its a natural plant extract too, you can never go wrong! Make a regime out of it and radiate your way through Christmas!

Wear it Pink this Christmas!

Every year I am out and about Christmas shopping, I always feast my eyes on the latest and hottest colours that are making waves this festive season. Admist the merriment of reds, cranberry's and burgundies nestles the most gorgeous knitwear in a splash of pink! I remember when I first saw the colour pink hit high-street stores about three years ago, and I thought of it making quite a ghastly appearance, since it had nothing of the sort to do with Christmas. But the more and more I see of it re-appear year after year, I've seemed to have finally embraced Christmas in an all new different shade of pink! 'Out' with the conventional stream of Christmas colours, and 'in' with a party-licious pink, Christmas is just getting more and more colourful and equally fashionable!

Now I know there's like a dozen different festive jumpers out there, but for me, there's only one particular festive jumper that stands apart - the pink one!!! You may not necessarily want one just in time for Christmas, and if you're like me and are looking to get wear out of it more than once a year, then there's a real variety out there up for grabs! I prefer the rosy side of the softer pink jumpers as opposed to the bold and bright magenta's and fuchsia's...take a look below...

All pinked up for Christmas and beyond...

1. JUICY COUTURE: VELOUR JUMPER IN PINK - £90.00

2. TOPSHOP: KNITTED FLUFFY ANGORA JUMPER - £67.00

3. MISS SELFRIGE: DEAR SANTA CHRISTMAS JUMPER IN PINK - £23.00

4. MISS SELFRIDGE: PINK REINDEER CHRISTMAS JUMPER - £22.00

How to wear it pink...

My favourite pink cable knit is this Ralph Lauren jumper below that I have grown to love! I don't prefer to over-do it with the pink and think the colour of the jumper is enough to make a pink-tastic statement. 

Alongside the light pink cable knit jumper, I've gone for black skinny jeans and a gorgeous pair of winter warming ankle boots in black. You can never go wrong with a pair of black boots and jeans, and adding a splash of colour really works to bring the whole look together. I haven't quite mastered the art of a #selfie for this look, but when I do, I will sure post up my images! 

After a very 'pink' post, I hope you do go out and get yourself a little pink treat to wear this Christmas too. Or why not gift someone with their favourite knit in an all new pink! There is so so much pink out there, get your hands on the best of the best before it's too late!

Steal the celebrity look for less - How to wear the winter coat!

Layering up this winter is all about finding a stylish coat to complete your look, and if you haven't quite found the perfect winter coat yet then why not take some winter warming inspiration from some of the most talked about and stylish celebrities below. With a variety of vibrant shaded coats available, such as the scarlet red skater coat to a pea-green oversized coat, I've picked out those neutral shaded coats that will look fabulous with anything and will never go out of fashion! Go steal their looks for less!

STEAL ALEXA'S PEACOAT LOOK FOR LESS...

1. MISS SELFRIDGE: HIGH WAIST VELVET LEGGINGS - £21.00

2. PULL AND BEAR: NAVY PRINT SWEATSHIRT - £20.00

3. DUNE: PEOPARD ANKLE BOOTS, LEOPEARD - £79.00

4. MANGO: SHEARLING COLLAR WOOL-BLEND PEACOAT - £120.00

A stylish peacoat with a shearling collar paired with those leopard print ankle boots do work well together as an off-duty look. This gorgeous peacoat will look sensual with absolutely anything, from a casual skater skirt to a classic pair of jeggings - a must have just in time for Christmas.

STEAL MYLEENE'S CAMEL COAT LOOK FOR LESS...

1. WHISTLES ISLA MINIMAL OVERCOAT, CAMEL - £220.00

2. JOHN LEWIS: OVERSIZED COWEL NECK SWEATSHIRT - £55.00

3. PULL AND BEAR: BLACK SKINNY JEANS WITH ZIPS - £20.00

4. ASOS: ROUND SUNGLASSES WITH MIX BRIDGE DETAIL - £13.00

5. FOREVER 21: LAID BACK BOWLER HAT - £9.00

6. TOPSHOP: VIBRANT BALLERINAS - £15.00

I have always been a fan of the camel coat, and absolutely love Myleene's! I tried to search for a similar style - knee length and casually buttoned. And then I found this stunning minimal overcoat that looks just as good. Nothing is overdone and its classic tailoring is what makes this autumnal coat highly desirable. Go on, I know you want it!

STEAL KIM'S OVERSIZED BLACK COAT LOOK...

1. PULL AND BEAR: RIPPED BOYFRIEND JEANS - £30.00

2. TOPSHOP: SCOOP NECK WHITE VEST - £24.00

3. ZARA: SUEDE LEATHER HIGH HEEL COURT SHOES - £61.00

4. TOPSHOP: THROW ON BLACK SIDE SPLIT COAT - £92.00

Black is an untimely colour that never fails to do justice. Kim wears it safe and completes her look with this stylish oversized coat, and if you're looking to add an extra bit of length to your coat then why not go for a similar style - available at Topshop! It's casually chic and equally elegant that you can't go wrong. Add on a classy pair of court heels, and you are ready to work your stylish winter look!

Happy coat hunting!

Black Friday Bargains and Beyond...

So it's that time of the year again when America celebrate Thanks-giving and take off the Friday to start their festive shopping in time for Christmas! Now, although it may not be granted as a national holiday here in the UK, British retail and online stores nevertheless revel in the glory of 'Black-Friday', and give us shopaholics the opportunity to pick up some of the hottest bargains in true American style too! Some of the most luxury designers including French Connection and London's Oxygen Boutique have slashed their garments to almost half price, while online retailers including ASOS and Very.com have also churned up some 'hot' bargains, that you cannot simply resist! 

I've been taking a look online at those 'buoyant British bargains' up for grabs, and after picking my favourite items, I thought it would be worthwhile to share with you the best of the best bargains that you should take advantage of. Remember, if any of the products below do tickle your fancy then do purchase them in time - before the sale ends, of course! Majority of these online deals are available till Monday 2nd December 2013...so get shopping!

ASOS.COM - 30% OFF, OFFER ENDS 1ST DEC 2013

1. 47 BRAND NEW YORK YANKEES SWEATSHIRT 
Can work with practically anything - casual, stylish and comfy! A must-have.
WAS £55.00 & NOW £41.00

2. MICHAEL KORS RUNWAY GOLD AND TORTOISESHELL WATCH 
A real bargain to take advantage of, a timeless piece at an affordable price!
WAS £229.00 & NOW £183.00

3. Y.A.S Y.A.S. BRAID SWEATSHIRT WITH KNOT DETAIL 
Love the cut-work detail around the shoulders, rather chic and trendy.
WAS £48.00 & NOW £36.00

4. 3 PACK TRIANGLE RING SET
Contemporary and elegant, these triangle rings would look great anytime of the day.
WAS 8.00 & NOW £6.00

FRENCH CONNECTION - MEGA SALE ENDS 2ND DEC 2013

1. FRENCH CONNECTION DAWN DRAPE DRESS
Elongate your body with this gorgeous and sensual drape dress, what a bargain! 
WAS £97.00 & NOW £29.10

2. FLUFF KNITS CROP CARDIGAN 
You can never have enough fluffy knits this season, equally dainty and chic.
WAS £75.00 & NOW £22.50

3. MANHATTAN JERSEY BLOCK DRESS
One of the best finds at French Connection is this midi block dress, love it!
WAS £60.00 & NOW £30.00

4. WHITE DRAPE SUIT JACKET
A classic drape suit jacket in white, perfect during the cold and spring seasons.
WAS 75.00 & NOW £45.00

ALDO - SAVE 30% ONLINE AND IN STORE, OFFER ENDS 1ST DEC 2013

1. FRITED NAVY COURTS WITH SLIM HEEL
A gorgeous pair of navy courts, so classy and elegant - a real bargain!
WAS 60.00 & NOW £39.98

2. ALDO WESTALL CLUTCH WITH EMBELLISHED DETAIL
I have had my eyes on this clutch for a while, and now it's in the sale, it's mine!
WAS £40.00 & NOW £20.98

3. ALDO BLACK SHERLY BOOTS WITH ZIP DETAIL AND SLIM HEELS
Black ankle boots with a leather skater skirt? Absolutely! Another bargain.
WAS £80.00 & NOW £38.49

4. ALDO UNAYLLE GOLD AND SILVER DROP EARRINGS
Gorgeous pearl drop earrings for that special Christmas dinner - love them.
WAS 18.00 & NOW £10.49

BOOHOO.COM MEGA SALE, OFFER ENDS 2ND DEC 2013

1. AUBREY EMBOSSED VELVET HIGH NECK BODYCON DRESS
Velvet is so hot right now, and with this embossed design I couldn't resist - beautiful.
£18.00

2. PENNY PENGUIN CHRISTMAS JUMPER 
Just in time for Xmas, why not get yourself a festive jumper! I sure have.
£22.00

3. ROSE LUREX SWIRL LEGGINGS IN GREY
I love the design on these leggings, would look great with a pair of black boots!
£12.00

4. CINDERELLA SUEDETTE SLIPPER HEELS
Another pair of black slipper courts that would look great with a midi or pencil skirt. 
£25.00

The Legend and Life of Coco Chanel, by Justine Picardie. A MUST READ!

We've all heard of, or recognise with the Chanel brand as one of the most sought after haute couturier's of the 20th century, and we are aware that it remains one of the most influential fashion houses till date. However, beyond our fascination with the classic little black dress, tweed suit or Chanel No 5 perfume, Chanel's historic roots, or rather, Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel's life experiences, is what makes this brand an increasingly extraordinary and exceedingly aesthetic designer label - emblematic of Chanel's very own experiences...

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to attend the University of Arts in London, where the Editor-in-Chief of Harpers Bazaar, Justine Picardie, spoke about her triumphant research and enigmatic journey into writing about The Legend and Life of Coco Chanel. And it was here I was given a true insight into the chic Parisian designers real life story that awakened a new sense of appreciation for the global fashion brand within me.

Justine spoke of visiting various historic archives and shared her experiences of having the opportunity to stay within Chanel's very own home; described as a dwelling preserved and imbued with Chanel's presence and a place where she could sit and write extracts of the biography. Being the first English writer to research and write into the life of Chanel over an extensive number of years, Justine spoke with immense confidence, passion and integrity about Chanel's livelihood that you couldn't help but feel equally intrigued yet inspired. While the brand stands synonymous with all that glitters and shines, the reality of Chanel's life is believed to be that of a harsh one, in which many of her younger years were spent in poverty and in an orphanage in the heart of France. 

A truly inspirational and empowering read...

Without giving too much or too little away, I wanted to write about how much I am throughly enjoying my time reading this book! While the biography has enabled me to gain familiarity and an understanding of Chanel's historic roots, the flawless yet colloquial ways in which Justine has written the book is what draws me to increasingly immerse myself into the narrative. Chanel has been quite rightly defined as a creative artisan, as a beautiful designer, and as a successful business-woman who had the ability to define the modern woman in fashion and effectively inspire and influence designers such Stella McCartney today.

While many films have been previously made about Chanel's life that have shed light on her various romances and personal affairs, The legend and Life of Coco Chanel is truly an apt and meticulous biography, in which Picardie not only writes about Chanel's charming love affairs but equally about Chanel's flair and creativity to master over the fashion world. 

From adapting the Duke's traditional masculine clothes and classic sailor stripes of the 1930's into contemporary women's fashion garments, Chanel lives on as a revolutionary brand name that radically shifted the demure woman of the 20th century into a confident, vivacious woman of the 21st century. 

This is a must read for any fashion enthusiast or lover of the Chanel brand. It's filled with lots of exclusive and exciting pictures too. So purchase yours now online via the link below!

Author of biography and Editor-in-Chief of Harpers Bazaar - Justine Picardie (right), Me - Kiran Devgun (left)

AVAILABLE AT:http://www.amazon.co.uk/Coco-Chanel-The-Legend-Life/dp/0007318995

Dear Santa: My Christmas Wish List!

With officially four weeks left till Christmas, I've got my eyes peeled on those stylish items that I am keen on receiving as gifts this Christmas! I know it may seem like a lot of clothes initially, but it's the best time of the year that I can get my hands on some of my favourite autumnal trends that will see me through to spring 2014! I'm in absolute awe of leather and fur at the moment and these are two items my wish list are not without! Take a look and why not be inspired to create your own christmas wish list too? This may just be the first of many Christmas wish lists to come...Dear Santa...

1. RIVER ISLAND WHITE LONG SLEEVE WRAP SHIRT - £30.00

This classic wrap shirt would go perfect with a pair of denim jeans and a chic pencil skirt. It's one of the most versatile items of clothing no wardrobe must be without and the wrap over style will never go out of fashion!

2. MISS SELFRIDGE: STAR AND HEARTS MIDI RINGS - £8.00

I absolutely love these cute and dainty midi rings from Miss Selfridge and think they make the perfect finger accessory. Midi rings are the talk of the town right now and make a rather quirky and interesting hand statement.

3. RIVER ISLAND: PURPLE CHELSEA FRILL FRONT TOP - £18.00

Let me begin by introducing this garment on my wish list as a real bargain! Sophisticated and feminine, this frilled front top is perfect for a working day or evening dinner for two! 

4. RIVER ISLAND: CREAM FAUX FUR TWIST SNOOD - £30.00

No autumnal wardrobe is complete without the perfect winter warming essentials! This classic cream fur snood makes for the perfect snug and cosy neck warmer to see you through these winter blues!

5. RIVER ISLAND: BLACK PATENT SNAKE ENVELOPE CLUTCH BAG - £25.00

An understated classic black clutch is perfect for those nights out when you don't want to be carrying a tote or satchel! Taken by hand or worn on your shoulder, every lady needs a sensual clutch right?

6. TOPSHOP: MEGA BEADED DRAPE NECKLACE - £56.00

How incredible is this magnificent statement necklace? Topshop is one of the best places to visit right now for the perfect jewellery stocking fillers, and this is by far one of the most captivating pieces!

7. FOREVER 21: ICONIC LOAFERS - £17.00 

I chose red loafers because I think they would work to jazz up a really plain and simple outfit. Adding a little colour to the feet is never a mistake and these attractive pair of iconic loafers can work with a range of outfits. 

8. TOPSHOP: KNITTED ROLL NECK JUMPER - £42.00

This is a particular roll neck jumper that would work perfectly with the mega beaded drape necklace, and this is why I thought it should be on my Christmas wish list too! It's a staple garment for any lady.

9. TOPSHOP: KNITTED NAVY FLUFFY V NECK JUMPER - £56.00

As opposed to going for a festive jumper this season, I'd rather prefer a classic fluffy jumper that I can wear beyond Christmas! Stepping away from the cranberry palette, I also think navy is one of the trendiest colours to wear this fall.

10/1. TOPSHOP: TALL MATTE WETLOOK LEGGINGS - £22.00

We are surrounded by leather wherever we go, and these are the leather leggings that I have got my eyes on! While I do love an elegant leather pencil skirt too, I think a pair of leather leggings do look particularly sassy and chic.

10/2. RIVER ISLAND: DARK RED JACQUARD MOLLY JEGGINGS - £40.00

Engraved with a dainty design in a classic burgundy hue these jeggings can make a real statement, day or night. As opposed to the conventional denim jeans, playing around with different styled trousers really gives that added dimension to your wardrobe. 

While I'd love to have added a few more of my current favourite items to my wish list, I  selected those items that would really impact my current trends! Why not browse the net and see how you could make a fashionable statement this Christmas, and create your own wish list...you never know what Santa may bring!