Friday, 31 October 2008

RIP-OFF - $300 Carrier Bag


Doesn't look much different than your average cheap shop carrier bag, but this one has a bit of a hefty price tag. $310 to be precise. Now I get that they are trying to make a bit of a statement here, and to be fair, with plastic bags under scrutiny we may not be seeing so many of them about. But $300 to look like you shop in the pound store. No thanks.

And if the blue and white is not your style, why not try the classic black version. Another $310 down the drain.bag no no
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Thursday, 30 October 2008

NO NO - Fur crying out loud


This is a Halloween outfit Morticia Adams would envy. Black, figure hugging and oh so sexy; I just love the style. But there is one huge downside (besides the price) and that is the 100% real fur detailing.

fur no no fashion dress designer
Is there really any reason why designers continue to use fur on garments when there are such good fake alternatives to be had. Perhaps it is to keep the price high and retain some exclusivity, but personally I see nothing desirable about draping fur round my neck and I am sure many people agree.

So are you fur, or against?

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PAMPER - Bath Time Heaven From Raw Gaia


Bath Time Heaven is a luxurious gift set, created by Raw Gaia to give you one of the most pampering bath time experiences ever.

Imagine relaxing in a chocolate orange bath, your face smothered with raw chocolate face pack, then lathering up with sensuous rose geranium soap and finishing with a delicious raw chocolate melting in your mouth… mmm!

Bath Time Heaven is a real pampering treat for yourself and will give your body and face the gentle and living nourishment they truly deserve. It is also a great gift to give to a loved one, best friend, mother, daughter or in fact anyone you think deserves a treat!

I have tried these products and they really are amazing. They smell divine and leave skin feeling smooth and nourished. Sign me up!

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Wednesday, 29 October 2008

TIPS - Reader Recommended Products

The best way to choose a new beauty product is on recommendation from a satisfied customer. I asked my readers to tell me their favourites and here are some treats to relax you from Davida, 23 from Oxford.

True Grace 'As it Should be' Candle - £18


These seem to last forever and come in lots of yummy scents. They are beautifully packaged in a lovely cream box and the candle itself is in a decorated frosted glass. I recommend sea breeze or grapefruit although they do come in 40 fragrances so there are plenty to choose from.

Taylor of London Calming Lavender Ice Cologne Stick

Don't let the posh name fool you into thinking this costs a bomb - you can get it from Superdrug! it's a perfume stick that relaxes you. I don't wear it in the daytime (Chanel would never forgive me) but it's great to use before you go to bed. A fantastic accompaniment to the above.

Bath and Body Works Sleep Pillow Mist - $10

A friend got me this from America and it is amazing for those sleepless nights. Mine is lavender and Chamomile and came in a set with bubble bath and body lotion which are all really lovely. They also stock a travel range. I strongly recommend this product especially if you have trouble sleeping or are going away from home.

Bsq London Lime and Clary Sage Perfume - £9.95

I wish this was 'smellovision' and then you could smell how lovely this is. It's a light, summery scent but is a good handbag perfume as it's perfect for layering over other perfumes. The 50ml bottle is art deco style and comes from Boots. It smells as good as it looks on your dressing table.

Do you have a recommendation? Email jenny@thestylepa.com

Tuesday, 28 October 2008

WEBSITE - Rocks to Riches

shoes accessories sparkleshoes accessories sparkle


Are your favourite most comfortable pair of shoes just getting a bit dull and shabby? Maybe what they need is a swish makeover.

Rocks to Riches can embellish your shoes and accessories with dazzling Swarovski crystals meaning you get a designer look at an affordable price. It does not matter if your item is new, worn or vintage, Rocks to Riches can help.

This service is perfect for brides looking for a really special shoe that doesn't blow the wedding budget. There are also items for sale like this pretty embellished bow. I am a magpie for sparkle and this website is full of it.

Monday, 27 October 2008

MOVIE - The Secret Life of Bees Trailer


Watch the trailer for The Secret Life of Bees. Dakota Fanning, Alicia Keys and Paul Bettany lead an all-star cast in this uplifting version of the best selling book - In UK Cinemas 5th December. This movie is a moving tale of sisterhood set in 1960's South Carolina.

If you can't wait that long, you can always get the book from Amazon.com. It would make a great Christmas Present.



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Sunday, 26 October 2008

NEWS - Sarah Palin's Designer Wardrobe to be Donated?

politics fashion celebrity wardrobePhoto Credit: Roger H. Goun on Flickr.com

It was recently revealed that Sarah Palin's election race wardrobe had cost a massive $150,000. More than most hockey mum's would ever dream to spend. This did not go down well with the public so it seems a recovery statement has been issued.

"All of the clothes purchased by the RNC (not the campaign) will be donated," the RNC's campaign spokeswoman, Marie Comella, tells WWD. "The RNC purchased the items, continues to own them and will donate them at the conclusion of the campaign." Courtesy of Vogue.co.uk

Was it worth it? Check out the pictures of Palin's campaign wardrobe.

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CELEBRITY - Christina's Sexy Sci-Fi Look

Photo Credit: Hollywood Tuna

Christina Aguilera has always been the master of reinvention and this latest photo shoot for her greatest hits album sees her as a sci-fi babe. I wonder if we will all be copying the Barbarella look next year. The film is getting a remake for 2009 possibly starring Rose McGowan. Big hair is definitely a trend worth following.

What do you think of Christina's latest look?

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PRINT - Light as a Feather


Feather Print by The Style PA

A great print in fashion right now is feathers. Alexander McQueen, Just Cavalli and Gharani Strok have all taken inspiration from our feathered friends when putting together recent collections and this has filtered on to the high street.

Go for peacock hues for opulence, brights and neons for casual wear and monochrome for a classic look. There are also a whole host of feather accessories if you want to take the theme to the next level. Here are some stores to try...

Cheap as Chips: ASOS.com
A la Carte: Karen Millen
The Ritz: Alex Monroe

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Saturday, 25 October 2008

TIPS - Dressing for a Promotion

dressing for a promotionPhoto Credit: dharma communications on Flickr.com

Dress codes vary in different organisations when it comes to your work wear. However, there are some rules which it is still good to follow if you want to project a really professional persona and get that promotion.

Faux Pas 1. Wrinkled clothes.

Avoid creased clothes by only buying ones that pass the scrunch test. When you are in the changing room, squeeze the material of the garment in your hand. If it creases you may as well choose something else. It also saves on ironing, which I think life is far too short for.

Faux Pas 2. Being unprepared.

You might think to yourself that it doesn't matter if you make the effort today as you don't have any important meetings planned. Big mistake! That day might just be the day that something unplanned happens and you won't be dressed for it. An important client, a one to one with the boss or a news crew at the office. Dress for the day you might have and you will spare yourself unnecessary embarrassment when the plan gets changed at the last minute.

Faux Pas 3. Dressing for the job you have.

You may have a junior position at the moment, but you are probably aiming for a more senior one. Don't dress like the assistant, dress like the boss. It will not only give you confidence, but will show other people that you mean business.

Faux Pas 4. Chintz.

Fussy florals and pretty patterns might be perfect for a summer BBQ but not so much for the office. It can make you look mumsy and unprofessional. Go for classic and tailored rather than fussy and floaty. Some people say that if the pattern is appropriate for a man's tie then it will work for you in a business setting.

Faux Pas 5. Morning perfection.

Some people walk into the office looking immaculate, but over the course of the day get more and more disheveled. Keep a scaled down version of your make up kit including a hair brush and perfume for touch ups throughout the day. Always check you appearance before heading to a meeting or presentation. After all, the last thing you want is for everyone to be distracted by the spinach in your teeth.

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SHOPPING - Brits Love Web Shopping

Photo Credit: bdebaca

Online shopping is more popular in the UK than it is in the US and a reported one third of people are planning to do most of this Christmas' shopping on the web. One of the reasons for this is consumers feel online customer service is better than the high street and with the credit crunch hitting shoppers, they want the best deal possible.

More than 11 million Britons are now shopping online at least twice a week, new research suggests, with clothing, books, CDs and DVDs among our favourite items, while more than 1.3 million of us are logging on every day to purchase goods and services.

The poll of more than 3,000 Brits shows that being able to shop any time of the day or night, price and convenience are the biggest motivations for shopping online.

The study – commissioned to launch Shopzilla.co.uk’s first ever UK Circle of Excellence Awards also suggests that Britons are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their online shopping habits with most of us willing to spend time surfing around for the best deals and services.

Scott Macon, Managing Director for Shopzilla Europe, said: “This survey shows that Britons are among the world’s keenest online shoppers and that they are becoming more and more sophisticated. While price and convenience are still key motivators for shopping online, people also want to know more about the online retailers they are purchasing from.

“Web shoppers in the UK are savvy and although this research shows they are enjoying the online shopping experience, it is clear they will not put up with poor website performance and after-sales service.

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Tuesday, 21 October 2008

COMPETITION - Getlippy.com Photography Contest

get lippy fashion website photographyFancy yourself as a bit of a photographer? Getlippy.com have launched their 'Get Gorgeous, Go Out, Get Snapping' competition.

Head over to GetLippy.com and upload your photos for a chance to win a goodie bag and the overall winner will get their mitts on a brand new digital camera. You don't need to be an expert, just dig around in your past snapshots from nights out and you might just have the winning image. The categories for the competition are:

  • Most glam girls
  • Best pout
  • Worst dressed
  • Whats inside your make up bag
  • Best celebrity lookalike
  • Hottest bartender
  • Cutest photo
  • Most random photo
  • Best I love getlippy.com photo
  • The most amount of people in a small place
For more info visit www.getlippy.com, also full of style, beauty and celebrity gossip.

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BARGAIN - Knitted Boots for less

I featured knitted Ugg boots on the blog a couple of months ago. Now firstly I must say that I am not a fan of these boots at all, but everyone seems to be searching for them, so my conclusion is that other people like them. It is only right therefore that I let you know about a cut price copy of those designer knitted Ugg boots that will save you over £100.


Linzi Shoes are selling their version for just £20 and they can be worn rolled up or down. If the credit crunch is hitting you hard, you can at least still have cosy feet without shelling out over £125 for the Ugg branded boots. Just don't try and dress them up; these are more a comfort option than a style choice. Click here to buy.

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Sunday, 19 October 2008

BAG - Alphabet Tote Bags

accessories bag tote
I am a literary lover. You can't keep me from a good crossword. Perhaps that is why I think these alphabet bags are great and why part of me wants to just buy the whole alphabet and stick them on the wall. That would be pretty awesome. But in all seriousness, a cotton tote is an everyday essential; we should all carry one in our handbag. These bags allow you to add something personal such as your own initials, or why not buy two as a gift for a friend.

accessories bag tote
Get yours at www.alphabetbags.com. They cost £10 each and have been stitched in the UK.

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Saturday, 18 October 2008

TREND - Nautical + Military = Admiral

The admiral look was bound to happen in the end. This trend is nautical with more of a military feel and much more grown up. Think sophisticated 'captain of the ship' with brass detailing and nothing too childish. A great military coat will last you the whole season (and no doubt a few years as this trend always comes back).

I love this trend because it is smart and really wearable. There is no danger of looking like a toddler in a sailor outfit with the strong shapes and features and practical colours.

DRESS - On Trend Frock from Mango


I love this dress by Mango. The colour has a warm seventies feel to it and that isn't the only trend it has covered. One shoulder, bubble hem and bows all feature within the garment too. Bubble hems are really flattering and although the weather is cooling down a lot, I am told that baring the shoulders is THE look for autumn/winter.

Toughen up the pretty dress with a cropped leather jacket. To keep things cute and sexy I love this jewelled, leopard print, chain handled bag. Wedges are back in again which is a relief as they are much easier to walk in than those towering heels!

Friday, 17 October 2008

BARGAIN - £5 Pink Leather Purse

pink purse bargain


You will have to be quick to get this one before its gone. ASOS have reduced this bright purse from £18 to just £5 in their current sale so it really is your chance to grab a bargain. It is just the right size as if you are like me, you have plenty of cards to stuff inside your purse.

Made from 60% real leather it would be a stylish addition to any handbag... in fact I think I am going to by mine right now!

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Thursday, 16 October 2008

OFFER - Super Saver Delivery at Amazon



Amazon has announced a significant reduction in the minimum purchase value for Super Saver Delivery, their FREE delivery programme. You now only need to add £5 worth of eligible items to your basket to get free delivery. That’s a two-thirds reduction from the previous minimum of £15. And best of all, it is just in time for Christmas shopping.

During these times of financial turmoil, little gestures like this are a big help to customers.

visit www.amazon.co.uk/supersaverdelivery for more information.

Sunday, 12 October 2008

HOLIDAY - I'm off to Devon

The Style PA is having a week off! Much deserved I can tell you, work has been very busy and I will be glad of the change of scenery down in South Devon. I fully intend to get out into the countryside and do some sightseeing (perhaps some shopping too as it would be entirely rude not to).

The British weather is known for its unpredictability but this week has been gloriously sunny. Lets just hope that things stay that way or those rather unattractive pac-a-macs in the boot of my car may get their debut.

I will be taking lots of photos and should have plenty to talk about when I get back. Watch this space.

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THOUGHT - Must Wear More Perfume...

perfume bottlesPhoto Credit: kateyay on Flickr.com

I decided something today, almost like a new years resolution but without the new year. From today I am going to make a concerted effort to wear more perfume. Hardly life changing you might say, but nice smells make me happy so it could be.

The sense of smell is the sense most strongly linked to feelings and emotion. That is why we get sentimental when we smell a scent from our childhood, or from a great holiday we fondly remember.

I want to be one of those women that breezes past leaving a gorgeous scent in her wake. That people think to themselves, oooh she smells nice. I want that to be me, and to be fair I have the necessary resources, 14 full sized bottles on the go at the moment, as well as countless mini bottles and samples that are rattling around in my hand bag and office drawer.

I even put on perfume before I go to sleep at night. It helps me drift off, and makes me feel cosy. I don't know what exactly it is, but Coco Chanel got what I mean, and I am told that Marylin Monroe wore Chanel No 5 to bed too.

It is reported that there are a lot of carcinogens in perfume and that they can actually be very bad for people with asthma and skin complaints. Anyone have problems wearing perfume?

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Saturday, 11 October 2008

TREND - Going for, Going for Gold



The party season will soon begin and our outfits need to compete with the tinsel and fairy lights. Gold is the perfect metallic hue to brighten up winter evenings. Throw in a few sequins and people will be dazzled especially if you opt for a dress like the one pictured above, Kate Moss would be proud. The look can be carried through to the daytime too as shown in the example above. Just go for bold gold accessories and you can't go wrong.

If your budget stretches and you really want to stop traffic then this gorgeous coat (below) is for you. The belted trench styling is a complete classic, but the gold gives it something really special. I want it!



Or how about something for your hair; bows are great for adding an extra something to an outfit and I just love these pretty fabric bows from Topshop.

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Thursday, 9 October 2008

BLOG - Alright Tit by Lisa Lynch



You may already be aware that October is breast cancer awareness month and I always feel hopeful by the sheer amount of support that breast cancer charities receive. The cause is a great one, but understanding more about the disease and those who suffer is also a valuable lesson. That is why I am bringing to your attention the blog of Lisa Lynch, a 28 year old living with Breast Cancer.

Her words are inspiring and her attitude refreshing. Each post touches on the day to day struggles and hopes, laughter and tears, and pure determination for normality that she has. After reading the blog, you will be smiling. Even through the hardest bits, Lisa finds a humourous way to approach the situation and that you have to admire. And while, of course, it isn't all giggles, there is something really uplifting about the blog. If it helps us to better understand the position many women are in and helps raise awareness then it is worth every second she spends writing.

Tuesday, 7 October 2008

THOUGHT - Perfume, Watches and Sequin Boleros

magazinesPhoto Credit: zαxεr on Flickr.com

Is it me or have we reached that time of year again already? The first sign of festivity is that my magazine pages are filled with adverts for perfume and watches. In fact I almost feel as if I am only allowed to get a watch or perfume for Christmas and I can't because that is what I got last year!

perfumePhoto Credit: Darwin Bell on Flickr.com

And must every Festive fashion special have in excess of 4 sequin boleros. I am all for the sparkle, but these come out year after year and quite frankly I am bored of them. Give me some other way to shine and shimmer at the Christmas party please. I am thinking gold and bronze for my frolics this Xmas.

Realistically though it is not a bad idea to get thinking about presents for your favourite people, and it wouldn't hurt to make a list of what you are hoping to get yourself. In fact it would be a good idea for everyone to come up with some suggestions so I can post a definitive 'buy her this' list for you to link to your significant others.

So what are you hoping to get in your stocking this year?

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Sunday, 5 October 2008

BARGAIN - Pearl Star Brooch


Most of us love a good bargain, and here is one I discovered on my travels. This gorgeous brooch is a tiny £8.99, that is less than most high street stores would charge and this one is prettier in my opinion. Stick it on the collar of a jacket and embrace the ladylike chic! This website is great if you are planning a wedding too with a whole host of great favour ideas.

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Saturday, 4 October 2008

WANTED - Music Note Skirt


You don't have to listen to Mozart to appreciate the symphony of this skirt. The satin rara ruffle is girly and fun but when dressed up makes for a chic style statement. Especially if you are going to a music event of some kind.

The pink satin is a nod to the Grease Lightening days but so long as you don't wear the 'Pink Ladies' bomber at the same time this will look really 'now'. Wear with patent Mary Janes, black tights and a snug fitting, black top. Stick it on your Christmas list.

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Friday, 3 October 2008

WEBSITE - Shop it to me


I love a bargain, but it is difficult to keep track of what is on sale where, and even more difficult to get there before that 'must have' item has sold out.

Shop it to me is a free service that helps you get one step ahead of the sales and find your favourite brands for less. You can sign up for daily or weekly email notifications that are tailored to your requirements. Even better you only get shown items that are stocked in your size, so no more disappointment in finding the perfect product 3 sizes too small.

Here is a sample sale mail email...

shopping website sales
If you get there quick you will catch the latest competition on the Shop it to me blog. You can win a Lucky gift bag worth $500. Click here to find out more.

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Thursday, 2 October 2008

NAILS - Inkredible New Nail Bar at Selfridges

nail bar
nail bar
nail bar
The hotly anticipated mariannewman:NAILS counter launched exclusively in Selfridges London today!

Following her first career as a forensic scientist Marian Newman joined the nail industry in 1987 with her own salon. Marian has gone on to write training manuals and worked alongside some of the biggest names in the fashion and beauty industries including Givenchy, Vivienne Westwood, Valentino, John Galliano and McQueen.

Marian has created what will be one of the most innovative collections of nail products ever launched - empowering everyone to create a professionally manicured look with ease.

First to launch is the Inkredibles, a range of water based opaque colours in a brush pen. The colours dry in 10-20 seconds ready for the application of ‘Wrapture’; a glossy topcoat that seals the colour.

Marian comments: “For so many years we have struggled with nail polish; applying it with each hand, keeping it neat, waiting for it to dry, chipping it etc. I thought a long time ago there must be an alternative, and I finally think I’ve found it. The Inkredibles range gives you the option to change your colour when it suits (3 times a day if necessary!)”

The Inkredibles range boasts sixteen hues and each colour comes in a set (RRP £22.00) which includes 1x Inkredible Colour, 1x Wrapture colour sealer, 1x Remove Sachet (to take of the sealed colour) and 1x Moisturise Sachet (to clean up any little mistakes).

If only every part of being a woman were that easy!

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Wednesday, 1 October 2008

WEBSITE - Bellapacella.co.uk

accessories website vintage style


I stumbled upon this company at a wedding fair last week, and they may have had a small stand, but it was one of the most eye-catching. The website is a treasure trove of new finds, each product with some element of uniqueness about it. They are great for making sure that you are the only person at the event wearing your accessory and the designs are beautifully kitsch.

Jeanne Pacella designs the products and hails from Chicago, where she was an established lingerie designer. Now she picks up vintage treasures and turns them into gorgeous accessories with a real eclectic feel. For inspiration on how to wear, why not check out the gallery on the website where customers show off their purchases.

There are currently 5 collections and I have chosen my favourite piece from each range below.


accessories website vintage style
Oriental Butterfly Necklace - £70
From Oriental Butterflies - Eastern influence and pretty details.

accessories website vintage style
Small Pearl Bracelet with Lock & Key - £24
From Urban Princess - a mish mash of new and old for true city chic.



accessories website vintage style

Feather Hair Comb - £40
From Stepford Wives- Prim, proper but with a quirky edge.


accessories website vintage style
Jackie 'O' Hat - £72
From Bridesmaid revisited- A sure fire way to make your wedding anything but boring.


accessories website vintage style
Fifi Hat with Pheasant Feather - £78
From FiFi goes to Paris - Cute but sophisticated.

TREND - Circus Chic and Fairground Fun



Folk and bohemian looks are so on trend for the coming season, and the gypsy, circus inspired pieces are must haves already. Look for embellishment and harlequin prints, bold details and check out designers like Mui Mui and Matthew Williamson for pointers.

As for colours, you are looking for reds and oranges mixed with blacks, golds and silvers. If you have a flamboyant personality then this look will not phase you, for anyone a little more conservative then a great harlequin print scarf or bag is enough to update your look.


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