Bonfire night is over, which means now it’s basically Christmas. And we all know what the festive period entails… SPARKLE. Yes, the party season is soon to be in full swing so it’s time to get the gladrags out and cover ourselves head to toe in glitter. This month I’ve compiled my list to include some statement looks that will be the centrepiece at any winter party, as well as a few essentials that are on my own Christmas list (lets hope I’ve made it on the nice list this year).
Archive by Alexa
THE WADE VELVET BOOT (sold out) | THE ELLAND SHIRT | THE MERRION DRESS | THE HEADROW JUMPER (all M&S)
The second round of collaboration between fashion guru Alexa Chung and high street brand Marks & Spencers is out on the shelves (eek!). This line embodies the luxe, dreamy elegance of festive nights out, with crushed velvet fabrics and silk shirts galore.
Loafers
LUCY SNAFFLE LOAFER | KENDALL LEATHER BUCKLE LOAFER (both Topshop)
Loafers are the ultimate autumn / winter shoe. An alternative to boots; they’re as classy as heels (without the pain) and as comfy as slippers (but acceptable to wear in public). Their masculine vibes mean they toughen up any outfit and suit that sleek, boyish style. I’m hoping to snap up the black pair (above left) in the Black Friday sales…
Travel Bug
RENZO BARREL LUGGAGE BAG BY ELLESSE (Topshop)
Despite my low funds and hefty workload, I always seem to be off somewhere different each weekend (and I don’t pack light). Every time I go away for a short break it’s a toss up between lugging a suitcase or bringing five canvas tote bags stuffed with clothes, shoes and God knows what other unnecessary items I think I’ll need. So, my one solution is a bulky, sturdy travel bag (this Ellesse one is already on my Christmas list)!
Glitter Tops
Anything shiny = Christmas. Therefore anything shiny goes. I’ve seen so many amazing glittery tops around that are getting me excited for festive partying. They easily liven up a pair of jeans for a night out (or just wear in the daytime if you really like glitter, like me). Here’s my top picks:
1: GLAMOROUS VELVET HIGH NECK TOP (ASOS)
2: LIGHT BEFORE DARK LIQUID T-SHIRT (UO)
3: ALICIA METALLIC ROLL SLEEVE T-SHIRT (Boohoo)
4: OLIVIA METALLIC OVERSIZED PLUNGE T-SHIRT (Boohoo)
Goof Proof Brows
GOOF PROOF EYEBROW PENCIL (Benefit)
I am not blessed in the brow department, nor am I an expert at make-up. So anything that makes it that little bit easier is an instant yes from me (especially anything labelled ‘goof proof.’) In normal circumstances I’m not a fan of Benefit make-up, but I got this brow pencil as a freebie and was very impressed with the look. Sadly I’ve now run out and at £18.50 it’s not a luxury I can afford until Santa comes, so I’m sticking with my slightly cheaper Rimmel alternative.
The party trousers
LIGHT BEFORE DARK SILVER SHIMMER PALAZZO TROUSERS (UO)
I think that these trousers speak for themselves – I know what I’ll be wearing this New Year’s Eve. ‘Nuff said.
Festive fragrances
FROSTED SPRUCE (John Lewis) | WINTER (Next)
A bit of a boring one – but I’ve been after a reed diffuser for a while to freshen up my uni room, and they’d make fab stocking fillers (I’m not hinting I promise…) Next do a nice selection which is cheaper (and more to my purse’s liking) than some of the premium sets out there, and John Lewis’ own collection is reasonable too.
Vinyl of the month – Trick (Jamie T)
TRICK (Amazon)
Jamie T’s fourth album is a funky, down to earth collection of songs that are just pretty cool really. Those bob-your-head-along, belt-out-when-you’re-drunk tunes with the witty lyrics that he’s got down to a… T. I like Power over men and Joan of Arc, along with my possible favourite, Tescoland.
Until next month,
Peace x
LILY ROSE KING 