Category: Shoes

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Bargain Hunt: The best of the summer sales under €30

by E, posted in Accessories, Blogging, Fashion, Festival Fashion, Lingerie, Online Shopping, S/S 17 Fashion, Sales, Shoes, Shopping, Skirts, Spring/Summer 17 Fashion, Spring/Summer Fashion, Style, Swimwear, swimwear, Thrifty Fashion

Summer sale season is here and as I’m pretty much confined to the house, I’m fighting the urge to spend all my money online.

I think shopping the sales online often beats trawling through shops that are busy at the best of times and complete pandemonium during sale (e.g. Zara).

While you can’t try things on, have you ever faced changing rooms during sale? Not a pretty sight! These are some of my favourite items from the summer sales and everything is under €30.

Missguided

One item which caught my eye (and that of many stylish Instagrammers) is this white denim buckled skirt.

It’s reduced from €44 to €22 and would be perfect for a sun holiday abroad. I’ve ordered this and it still hasn’t arrived … beginning to think it is lost! Anyway I’ll keep you posted on the fit.

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White denim buckle skirt. Pic: Missguided.com

 

I’m equally taken with the light blue version which is now €27, reduced from €44. (I have no idea why the blue one is €5 more btw).  It also comes in navy and black, for those of you who prefer a darker hue.

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Blue denim buckled skirt

Asos

If you’re heading to a festival this year, then hit up Asos’s sale before you go. The Asos sale is the perfect place to get yourself a festival bargain like these cut-out shorts.

 

Cut-out denim shorts. Pic: Asos.com

Featuring a funky lolly pop applique on the back, they’re bound to keep you feeling summery even if it’s chucking it down in Stradbally/Marlay Park/delete as appropriate.

These come in at €28/£21. I’m sure I don’t need to remind regular readers but buy in sterling from Asos, click here to find out why.

Another festival-worthy pick are these cute lilac shorts reduced from €37 to €26 – just don’t get them filthy!

PS- Asos don’t have a sale banner or sale section on their site anymore but these items are still available and reduced- you just have to search by description.

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Lilac mom fit shorts. Pic: Asos.com

New Look

One spring trend I absolutely loved was chinoiserie/ jacquard prints. I’m on the lookout for a backpack in this print and can’t decide between these two New Look beauties.

 

Floral backpack. Pic: NewLook.com
Mini backpack.Pic: NewLook.com

The larger one is now €20, reduced from €29.99 and the cute mini one is €17, reduced from €24.99.

PLT

I spotted these unusual pink cracked vinyl trousers over on PLT and I think they are awesome. They don’t look like something you would find on PLT and are a real statement piece. €20, reduced from €39.

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Another deadly PLT bargain is this bright pink swimsuit which is quite similar to Kylie J’s infamous Body Glove swimsuit. Reduced from €25 to €11.

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Zara

Now away from the crazy colours to a classic black bargain from Zara. This cute little dress with lace-up sleeves is now €29.99 down from €49.95.

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Black dress with lace-up sleeves. Pic: Zara.com

And how about this denim and gingham skirt for only €9.99??

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Denim and gingham mini skirt. Pic: Zara.com

Bershka

I recently bought these cute espadrilles in the Bershka sale, although I can only wear the left one at the moment. Reduced from €19.99 to €9.99.

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Bershka espadrilles. Pic: Bershka.com

 

Another great Bershka bargain is this bleached denim jacket reduced from €39.99 to €17.99. (I need to stop talking about festivals now… I’m so jealous I can’t go to Longitude!)

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River Island

River Island always has adorable PJ’s and underwear but they can be pricey. Embrace your inner Ariel with this adorable seashell detail bra and briefs. These are both about a third of the original price with the bra reduced from €22 to €8 and the knickers down from €17 to €4.

Pic: RiverIsland.com

 

I’m also loving this tropical palm print underwear set, again the bra is €8 and briefs €4 – Penneys prices!

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Palm print underwear set. Pic: River Island.com

Hope you guys enjoyed this bargain-busting post – I love hunting down bargains to share with you!

I’m off to flex my debit card, so leave me a comment below and let me know if you liked any of the items I featured.

PS- this is not a sponsored post.

I often post bargains I find over on my Facebook page, so if you want to see more of the same give it a like. You can find me here on Instagram and Twitter would love to connect with other Irish bloggers on there. Thanks for reading as always and I’ll be back soon with a new post – possibly a festival one, watch this space.

Edel

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Flat shoe frolics

by E, posted in Accessories, Fashion, Irish Bloggers, Online Shopping, Shoes, Spring/Summer 17 Fashion, Spring/Summer Fashion, Style, Thrifty Fashion

I’m currently laid up with a broken ankle after an accident involving a seven-foot fall off a ladder onto concrete. This was followed by a 13 hour wait in A & E and a five day wait for surgery to put me back together.

But I’ll stop the “woe-is-me” diatribe now… I’m very lucky that it wasn’t a lot worse!

The day before my accident, I was enjoying myself browsing summer shoes in town.

From sliders to espadrilles to trainers, there are so many cute flat shoes available at the moment. So although I won’t be wearing two shoes for quite some time, here’s a post on summer shoes for all you lucky people with two working ankles.

Espadrilles

Espadrilles are Spanish for summer (maybe that’s not true) and they are always a staple in my summer wardrobe.

Penneys have some really nice espadrilles right now in gingham, denim and tropical prints.

However, I tried on a denim pair and my normal size didn’t fit right or feel very comfortable. If you are looking for long-lasting espadrilles, maybe give Penneys a miss.

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Tropical print and gingham espadrilles. Pic: Primark.com

Asos shoes are generally good quality and I love these black espadrilles scattered with tiny plastic flowers.

At €56, they are pricey but check out my online shopping hacks post for tips on getting a discount.

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Embellished espadrilles. Pic: Asos.com

Asos stock Soludos espadrilles which are one of my favourite summer shoe brands.

You can even buy two packs of Asos’ own brand espadrilles from Asos if you really really love your espadrilles!

You can buy espadrilles with a slight wedge for a bit of height or lace-up styles but I like the simple slip-on flat style the best.

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Soludos denim espadrilles. Pic: C21.com

For the perfect summer holiday espadrilles it has to be this pair from Bershka.

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Bershka espadrilles. Pic: Bershka.com

I love the nautical stripes and adorable gold design, I can almost see myself strolling the sands of Biarritz in them. Life consists of hopping on crutches and lying down right now…

Runners

I love finding comfy runners in cute summery shades, the day before my accident I bought pastel blue suede trainers from Penneys.

The material makes them look more expensive than their very purse-friendly price tag of €15. They are also available in pink.

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Several pairs of runners caught my eye in Penneys including this holographic silver pair, also only €15.

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Silver trainers. Pic: Primark.com

If I said “denim shoes”, you’d probably reply with “Get the fuck out” but bear with me. Denim shoes are having a moment. Take these cute embellished runners from Missguided, for example.

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Embroidered denim runners. Pic: Missguided.com

They are also available in white and I’m a big fan. Embellishment isn’t just for jackets, you know!

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White embellished trainers. Pic: Missguided.com

Sliders

Sliders are absolutely HUGE this summer, there is no escaping them.

I’m not sold on all the fluffy styles that seem to be very popular but there are some that I do like.

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Fluffy sliders from the River Island High Summer press day

I know for a fact my amazing orthopaedic surgeon would wince at these silver backless sliders and I probably won’t be wearing them any time soon but how cute are they?

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Silver frill sliders. Pic: Bershka.com

I also like these white ones featuring a lip design from Missguided.

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White sliders with lips. Pic: Missguided.com

If you aren’t already following O-Mighty/OmWeekend on Insta, then you need to get following, their denim sliders are UNREAL.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTwYKrRDXgF/?taken-by=omweekend

They also have adorable satin sliders in oriental prints, one of this summer’s biggest trends.

Frill details and western-style buckles are really popular slider trends this summer.

Sandals

I personally don’t like flip-flops very much and will always go for a pair of sandals where possible.

I know this post is already overloaded with denim shoes but I love these denim bow Miss KG sandals from Topshop.

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Denim cork sandals. Pic: Topshop.com

 To be honest, most of these sandals are just pimped slides.

Mango have an amazing range of summer slides and sandals this year, check out these lilac slip-on beauts with frayed details and these flower applique sandals.

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Lilac slip on shoes. Pic: Mango.com
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Floral sandals. Pic: Mango.com

It’s hard to finish this post because there are so many gorgeous shoes I would love to include in it!

For now, stylish footwear (and any kind of style) will be taking a back seat in my life. I’m currently hobbling around in a giant orthopaedic boot, taking precarious showers perched on a stool and taking an assortment of painkillers everywhere I go.

Hope you all enjoyed this post, leave me a comment below and let me know.

Thanks for reading and if you would like to follow me on social media,  check out my Instagram, Twitter and Facebook page here.

Edel

Thrift Alert: Dublin’s best charity shops

by E, posted in Accessories, Blogging, charity shops, Consumerism, Designers, Fashion, Irish Bloggers, Shoes, Thrifty Fashion

There’s nothing better than getting your fashion fix while also doing a good deed. For years I’ve shopped in charity shops and am still amazed by the bargains. We’re talking brand new items with tags on, designer and leather handbags and beautiful vintage clothing.

Enable Ireland

This is one of my favourite charity shops with branches in Phibsborough, George’s Street, Capel Street, Camden Street, Finglas and Thomas Street. Enable Ireland have a good selection of items from workwear to children’s clothes and shoes. 100% of their profits go to funding disability services.

My best recent bargain from there has to be these black patent loafers which were brand new with a €70 sticker but sold for just €20. For more of my Enable Ireland bargains, check out my Charity Shopping Haul post.

I also found this lovely brand new Missguided playsuit in Enable Ireland’s Phibsborough branch. I got so many compliments when I wore this and it was only €4!

Irish Cancer Society

The Irish Cancer Society shops tend to be quite small but I always enjoy browsing around. I’ve found some good stuff in their Rathmines, Phibsborough and Capel Street shops. The Rathmines one is the most attractive and in general Rathmines charity shops tend to be of a very high calibre!

Oxfam (George’s St)

Oxfam have several stores around Dublin but their George’s Street store is the jewel in the crown. They have both ladieswear and menswear, vintage and a dedicated bridal section with many brand new and designer wedding dresses from sizes 6-22. Brides on a budget, look no further! Oxfam’s profits go to alleviating poverty in third world countries.

I bought these black leather shorts for about €4 in their Stephen’s Green store.

Another gorgeous bargain was this Versace-esque silky bomber.

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Scarf print bomber jacket, Oxfam.

St. Vincent de Paul

SVP are dedicated to helping those living in dire poverty in Ireland and assist thousands each year. Their George’s Street store is a must visit for any thrift shop maven. I’ve seen Versace and Moschino items here and they even have their their own vintage line.

I bought this oversized denim jacket and this cropped red shirt in their Phibsborough branch. (These are both Penneys items but I was on a strict budget at the time!) The jacket was brand new with tags, €8 and the shirt was about €4.

 

Respect (Stoneybatter)

And now for one slightly off the beaten track, the Respect shop in Stoneybatter is one of the most amazing charity shops I’ve ever been in. It looks quite unassuming but is one of the best for a genuine bargain. Among the items I’ve bought there include a black leather DKNY backpack for €6, a €2 Longchamps bag and a red leather American Apparel skirt for €10. I’ve also picked up some great vintage belts here. Respect support people with intellectual disabilities so it’s a really worthy cause.

Macro Shop, Macro Community Centre (North King’s Street)

I love shopping here as the Macro centre gives back to the local community. It also pays to shop here in winter, I recently found real Levi’s cut-offs and a red suede effect H&M skirt for €2 each! Their community centre provides services such as free legal aid, citizen’s information and advocacy to the local residents.

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I later found this skirt for €2!

There are other second hand shops around such as the Second Abbey on Abbey Street which has an incredible selection of clothes, homewares and bric a brac. In some senses, it’s more of a museum!

In general, I prefer to shop in a registered charity shop where possible. That way, you can be sure your purchases or donations always go to a genuine charity. If you want to detox your wardrobe, these shops always welcome donations of clean clothing and shoes.

Do you shop in charity shops? Leave me a comment and let me know if I’ve missed any good ones. Hope you all had a good new year and enjoyed this post.

Thanks for reading as always and don’t forget to check out my Instagram, Twitter and Facebook page here.

Edel

 

 

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Bargain Bonanza: My Sale Shopping Picks

by E, posted in 90s, A/W 16 Fashion, Accessories, autumn/winter fashion, Blogging, Christmas, Fashion, Irish Bloggers, Online Shopping, Sales, Shoes, Shopping, Trends, Winter Fashion

There’s only one cure for the post-Christmas blues: online shopping and hot whiskey. 😛 I’m currently lying in bed feeling very sick and sorry for myself so what better time to browse the best sale bargains?

Missguided is offering up to 75% off sale items. FYI if you have a holiday booked, their swimwear is massively reduced right now. Go forth and shop…

They also have some gorgeous dresses in sale, from causal slip dresses to more glamorous styles. New Year’s Eve outfit dilemmas sorted!

This 2-in 1 leopard camisole dress is reduced from €37.50 to €18.75, great for casual wear.

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Leopard print 2-in-1 dress. Pic: Missguided.com

This black cold shoulder dress is a new twist on the classic slip dress. It’s reduced from €42 to €16.80.

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Black slip dress with white t-shirt. Pic: Missguided.com

For a New Year’s outfit, I love this Balmain-esque floral red dress.

It has all the Balmain details with zip front and black piping but has a more affordable price tag! This was €105 but now just €42.

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Red floral zip through dress. Pic: Misguided.com

Asos is offering up 50% off sale items. Among the shoes I’m lusting after are these own brand silver loafers, €16, reduced from €27.

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Silver loafers. Pic: Asos.com

Another own brand bargain are these studded black flats. At only €22 now, they will be ideal for spring. They were €38 full price.

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Studded black ballet flats. Pic: Asos.com

Daisy Street is one of my favourite footwear brands available on Asos, they have amazing statement ankle boots including these two-tone snakeskin beauties. These are reduced from €47 to €27.33.

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Two tone snakeprint ankle boots.

I’m a big fan of Zara jeans as they are quite hard-wearing and a good fit. They have lots funky styles in sale from grungy paint-spattered jeggings to pink mom fit jeans.

These are all reduced from €29.95 to €19.95. Word of advice, Zara tends to stagger their reductions so these may go down further in price if you can wait.

Fray hem jeans. Pic: Zara.com
Pink mom fit jeans. Pic: Zara.com
Grey paint spattered jegging. Pic: Zara.com

Denim-lovers will also appreciate these Zara shirts. These are reduced to €39.99 from €49.95. Still relatively pricey but may be reduced further.

Grey denim shirt. Pic: Zara.com
Denim shirt with floral embroidery. Pic: Zara.com

Pretty Little Thing is offering up to 50% off sale items at the moment.

They have some beautiful sequin playsuits and dresses if you’re looking for a little sparkle this New Year’s.

Premium sequin dress PLT. Was €70, now €42. Pic: Prettylittlething.com
Green sequin playsuit. Was €42, now €16.80. Pic: PrettyLittlething.com

One thing to note about PLT’s sale is that an item may be reduced in one colour but not in another.

For example, the sequin playsuit is reduced from €42 to €16.80 in green, silver and gold but a multi-colour version is still full-price. The premium sequin dress is reduced from €70 to €42.

They also have statement bombers and cute accessories like this chain detail bag and multi-colour scarf. The purple bomber is now 50% off (was €49, now €24), the scarf is €8.40 (was €11.25) and the bag €21 down from €31.

Purple sequin bomber. Pic: PrettyLittleThing.com
Multi colour check scarf. Pic: PrettyLittleThing.com
Chain detail handbag. Pic: PrettyLittleThing.com

River Island have some great discounts on winter coats at the moment. The cream puffer is half price at €60 and both the brown and pink coats are marked down from €95 to €45.

Brown swing coat with faux fur collar. Pic: RiverIsland.com
Pink overcoat. Pic: RiverIsland.com
Cream puffy jacket. Pic: River Island.com

For sale shopping tips, check out my previous post and for online sale shopping hacks and discounts click here. I’ve rounded up some of the prices as decimal points frustrate me. 😛

Remember to check the returns policy, it will save you a lot of hassle. I recently attempted returning a full-price choker to Forever 21 only to find they don’t accept returns on jewellery.

It was in perfect condition, still in packaging and the receipt was in date! *shakes fist*

I hope you all had a good Christmas and have a lovely New Year also. Do you love or loathe sale shopping? Leave me a comment below.

PS- these are all my personal choices, I didn’t receive any payment or incentive to promote these brands. Thanks for reading as always and don’t forget to check out my Instagram, Twitter and Facebook page here.

Edel

Wrapping up warm:OOTD at Dublin Zoo

by E, posted in A/W 16 Fashion, Accessories, autumn/winter fashion, Blogging, Christmas, Fashion, Irish Bloggers, Jackets, Online Shopping, Outerwear, Shoes, Shopping, Style, Thrift Shopping, Trends, Warm Clothing, Winter Fashion

What’s the only thing better than clothes? Why clothes and cute animals of course!

A trip to Dublin Zoo in December calls for a practical and warm outfit. Some colour co-ordination is vital also of course.

You may have seen this pink jacket with fur collar in my previous posts and on my social media. I’ve been obsessing about it for so long and finally bought it in Asos’s Black Friday sale.

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Of course I had to pair with some Penneys accessories. Well half this outfit is Penneys actually…

My  khaki green hat has a pink rose embroidered on the side which matched my coat and bag perfectly. As for the houndstooth scarf, about 2/3 of the female population own this by now… If you’re reading this, you too are probably wearing it!

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Both the hat and scarf are from Penneys and were €5 each. My trusty tote bag is from Bershka and usually doubles up as a shopping bag. However for a day like this, a rucksack is a better choice. This one hurt my arms dragging it around all day!

To complete the outfit I’m wearing black push-up jeans from Bershka which were €5.99 in sale and fit like a glove.

I find myself wearing these simple white runners from Penneys almost everyday. They are a great basic item that go with every outfit and if you squint a bit they could be Stan Smiths…. 😛

The outfit was perfect for the cold weather and kept me cosy while we strolled around. I hadn’t been to the zoo since primary school (despite the fact I live within 10 mins walk!) and I really enjoyed it.

I actually had my Christmas jumper on underneath this outfit but it was way too cold to show it off! Which is a shame as I consider it quite stylish.

Winter is actually a good time to visit the zoo as it’s not crowded and there are no school tours! That didn’t deter some very excited children from banging on a glass pane at a bewildered gorilla though…

Here are just a few of the gorgeous animals we saw from and you may find them a lot more interesting than my outfit! 😛

orangutangs

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I may have developed somewhat of a fixation with monkeys during this trip but how cute are this little troop just chilling by the lake?!

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The zoo has an amazing array of creatures from orangutans to okapis and everything in between.

The zoo farm is a small section with all the regular farmyard animals, such as goats and cows. Here I embarrassed myself by mistaking a pig for a Shetland pony and a statue of a sheep for a donkey! I think I need to get my eyes tested…

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After the zoo excursion, I headed out to a friend’s birthday in House. Here’s my #OOTN for good measure! I’m wearing a halterneck top with beaded fringing from a charity shop, black leather pants from H&M and my holographic shoes from Missguided.

This may be my final post before Christmas so just hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and thanks for your support throughout the year.

For more zoo photos and possibly some OOTDs, check out my Instagram. Don’t forget you can follow me on Twitter and keep up with the blog on Facebook here. Thanks so much for reading and feel free to leave me a comment below.

Edel

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What to wear to a Christmas party: Festive Fashion Edit

by E, posted in A/W 16 Fashion, Accessories, autumn/winter fashion, Blogging, Design, Fashion, Online Shopping, Shoes, Shopping, Skirts, Style, Trends

Sick of all your dresses?  Contemplating wearing a Christmas jumper to the work do instead? Never fear, I have some Christmas outfit inspiration for you! And it’s not just dresses…

Sparkle always looks great at Christmas whether you choose a glittery accessory or a little sequin number. Glitter, sequins and embellishment are practically a requirement at this time of the year.

Folkster.com always have gorgeous glittery dresses in stock, ideal for a festive celebration.

These pink glittery shoes from Bershka add some festive cheer to any outfit. If you can’t afford to buy an entire new outfit for a Christmas party, these are only €29.99. A new statement accessory is great way to liven up an old outfit.

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Pink glitter shoes. Pic: Bershka.com

Christmas parties are synonymous with donning your best frock but a skirt and top combo can be equally glamorous. These sequin skirts from Pretty Little Thing are festive and fun.

Silver sequin skirt. Pic: Pretty Little Thing.com
Blue sequin skirt. Pic: Pretty Little Thing.com

Metallics also look great at Christmas like this patent silver mini from Bershka. This is a fitted skirt so a bodysuit is the best option for underneath.

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Silver miniskirt. Pic: Bershka.com

If you don’t like short skirts or glitzy dresses don’t feel pressured to wear one just for the Christmas party. Wear whatever you feel most confident in whether that’s a playsuit, jumpsuit, culottes or jeans and a top.

Longer skirts can be equally pretty like this sequined midi with tassel details from Zara. It has a side split but is not overly revealing.

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Black sequin dress. Pic: Zara.com

These gorgeous emerald green culottes from Bershka are a lovely satin material and are a loose fit.

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Green satin culottes. Pic: Bershka.com

This perfect party top would look great with jeans, black trousers or culottes.

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Blue strappy sequin top. Pic: Zara.com

Culotte jumpsuits have been hugely popular this year and this rich burgundy one from Missguided is beautiful.

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Burgundy culotte jumpsuit. Pic: Missguided.com

Missguided have come up trumps with this simple but elegant green cowl neck dress for €37.50.

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Green cowl neck dress. Pic: Missguided.com

They also have some fab dresses on sale right now. The black velvet and red bodycon dresses below are just €13.50 each!  The metallic plunge neck  one is just €22.50.

Silver plunge neck dress. Pic: Missguided.com
Red harness dress. Pic: Missguided.com
Black strappy dress. Pic: Missguided.com

For my own Christmas party, I wore this black dress with floral detail and a deep mesh V neck. I actually bought this dress in Catch for €26 and it’s an exact dupe for one I spotted in River Island a couple of months back.

The only issue I had with this dress was the floral appliques are slightly loose in places and may come off!

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Black dress with floral details
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Floral detail dress River Island. Pic: River Island.com

The only differences are my dress has slightly less floral detail and a lower V neck. The River Island one was about €50-60 as I recall. Both dresses are similar to a Dolce & Gabbana one worn by both Kendall AND Kylie! Who knows, maybe they share clothes too…

Red and green hues, velvet and jewel details are all great for a Christmassy vibe. That said, if you look great in white lace just go for it!

Hope you all enjoyed this post and got some inspiration for a party outfit. Do you like getting dressed up for Christmas?  Leave me a comment below and let me know.

Enjoy the party season and if you have to work over Christmas, you have my sympathies. :/

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Thanks for reading as always and don’t forget to check out my Instagram, Twitter and Facebook page here.

Edel

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Deadly Dupes

by E, posted in A/W 16 Fashion, autumn/winter fashion, Blogging, Fashion, Online Shopping, Shoes, Shopping, Sneakers, Thrift Shopping, Winter Fashion

Calling all trainer fans: Do you love Adidas Originals but don’t have €85 to hand over for one pair of shoes? Do you spend your days salivating over Stan Smiths and Reebok Classics? Here’s how you can get yourself some great dupe runners without breaking the bank.

Ioffer.com is a website which sells replica runners at bargain basement prices. I discovered this site when I saw amazing Adidas Superstar replicas on fellow blogger Jude’s Law Facebok page. You can buy pretty much any kind of runner on this site for a fraction of the price, i.e. Superstars for €16. They also have New Balance, Nike, Converse etc.

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Adidas Superstars. Pic: Ioffer.com

There are lots of different sellers operating on here so be sure to check the feedback regarding each one before buying. I haven’t ordered anything from here yet but I intend to soon.

These are probably manufactured in China so don’t expect next day delivery! The site is quite confusing as it lists all styles as mens/womens and there are a lot of generic descriptions and colours that don’t correspond with pictures etc. It’s like Ebay in the sense that you can make an offer to a seller and leave feedback on purchases.

If you like Stan Smiths, then try Penneys. These lookalikes were just €8, about one tenth of the cost of the real thing! Needless to say, Penney’s shoes won’t last as long but if you are broke, they’re the perfect option.

Stradivarius is another option for Stan Smith lookalikes. I particularly like these perforated styles with heel tab details just like Stan Smiths. These are just under €26 and would look great with jeans.

Pink trainers. Pic: Stradivarius.com
White trainers. Pic: Stradivarius.com

My favourite trainers are Reeboks and I’m loving the gorgeous new colours from gold to pearlized blue. Bershka have gorgeous peachy trainers which are a dead ringer for Reeboks for only €35.99.

bershka-runners
Peach runners. Pic: Bershka.com

 

Missguided.com have a great selection of inexpensive runners. Among the ones I liked best are these gold runners which look like a hybrid of Air Max and Reebok and are only €37.50.

Good news if you’re a broke student, Missguided accept UNIDAYS discount so you can get 30% off all full price items also. These also come in silver and look way more expensive than they are.

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Gold runners. Pic: Missguided.com
Silver runners. Pic:Missguided.com
Silver Air Max. Pic:Pinterest.com

Asos’s own brand shoe collection is always worth checking out, they have lots of dupe styles including metallic toe runners which are just like Adidas Originals.

Hope you’ve all enjoyed this post, if you know anywhere that sells great dupes leave me a comment and let me know. If you love a good dupe, then be sure to check out my post on dupe bags also.

Thanks for reading as always and don’t forget to check out my Instagram, Twitter and Facebook page here.

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Loafer Madness

by E, posted in A/W 16 Fashion, autumn/winter fashion, Blogging, Design, Fashion, Irish Bloggers, Shoes, Shopping, Winter Fashion

‘Don’t buy those granny shoes!’ my friend Alice shrieked at me while I was earnestly perusing some loafers in New Look. That was a few years ago and loafers were just another footwear option and it was unusual to find a pair which weren’t black or brown. Thanks to Gucci, they are now an A/W 2016 essential. I still love these ‘granny shoes’ and I’m also still friends with Alice. 😉

https://www.instagram.com/p/BMB-Ch9Alq6/?tagged=gucciloafers&hl=en

The loafer craze started with Gucci’s gorgeous horse bit loafers, the arrival of which left fashionistas foaming at the mouth. Not only did Gucci make loafers cool again, they also introduced new styles, heeled loafers, printed loafers and a rather dubious backless slipper loafer.

The furry slipper style look like something you’d wear to take the bins out but if you like them Shein.com have excellent dupes for under €40!

Gold loafers. Pic: Shein.com
Furry backless loafers. Pic: Shein.com
Floral “Gucci” dupes. Pic: Shein.com

There are loads of great dupes to be found on the high street also. Topshop have an impressive range of loafers this year, with leather loafers for €89 euro and cheaper styles as low as €16!

Classic black loafers are a great investment piece but I can’t help but be drawn to these metallic blue and pink ones. If you’re on a tighter budget Penney’s have excellent dupes in pink and silver for about €11.

Metallic blue loafer. Pic: Topshop.com
Pink loafer. Pic:Topshop.com

If metallics aren’t your thing, these heeled loafers with pearl details also from Topshop are perfect for work or dressed up with frayed hem jeans and a black top.

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Heeled loafers with pearl detail. Pic: Topshop.com

Another amazing dupe comes courtsey of Mango. These gold heeled loafers are just like the Gucci version and just under €60.

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Gold heeled loafer. Pic: Mango.com

Personally I feel the need to invest in at least two pairs, a plain black pair and a patterned pair. Office have a fab brocade pair that I’m lusting after.

Not to mention these beautiful floral jacquard pair from Asos just under €30!

jacquard loafer asos.jpeg
Floral loafers. Pic: Asos.com

The only issue I have with loafers coming into winter is you can’t wear socks with them! The answer? Flesh colour tights or pop socks under jeans. Black tights work well with a skirt or shorts just don’t choose overly thick ones.

New Look have some of the best affordable black loafers around, in leather, suedette and patent styles. In fact these are under €30!

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Black leather loafers. Pic: New Look.com

I don’t know about you but I need some “granny shoes” in my life! What do you think of loafers, would you wear them?  Leave me a comment below and let me know. Thanks for reading as always and don’t forget to check out my Instagram, Twitter and Facebook page here.

 

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The Unwearables: Ski pants, puffer jackets and popper trackies!

by E, posted in 90s, A/W 16 Fashion, autumn/winter fashion, Blogging, Design, Fashion, Jackets, Outerwear, Shoes, Shopping, Trends, Winter Fashion

I don’t know about you but I almost fell off my chair when I saw an article featuring ski pants on Vogue.com! This winter, prepare to see ski pants, puffer jackets and even button up tracksuit pants are making an appearance.

The ladies over at TownMouse CountryMouse Ireland forecasted the ski pants trend sometime ago by the way.

Now I love a good throwback so I’m doing my best to embrace this look.

Anywhere I’ve seen ski pants featured, they’re styled with a heel but I can’t help thinking the skinny styles are still unflattering….and don’t get me started on fashion editorials where the stirrup is wrapped around a heel!

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Black skinny ski pants. Pic: Mango.com

Personally I think they look good in a looser leg with a mule type shoe or with runners in traditional nineties style. They do compliment heeled loafers also.

If you really want to go for the Alps/Aspen look, then you’ll need a giant puffy jacket as well! Take Kenny from South Park as your inspo and you’re on the right track.

I’m normally not a fan of either of puffers or parkas but this season’s ones are cute and girly like this pink River Island one.

This is the ultimate winter jacket, it’s a gorgeous colour, super warm and a great length. I tried it on yesterday and was pleasantly surprised at how nice it was.

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Pink puffer jacket. Pic: River Island.com

It also looks very nice with a pop of pink lipstick! FYI, €120 but I would buy it if I could afford it! (I bought it in the end thanks to Asos’s Black Friday discount 😉

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I love the fluffy collar!

This Balenciaga ad manages to combine both puffer jacket and ski pants-impressed!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BLAQg-sB8iZ/?tagged=pufferjacket

Padded/Puffer jackets look best in a matte material, the shiny ones just look a bit cheap and tacky. Steer clear!

Slogans add some fun detail like this Topshop one. Oh and the bigger the better or otherwise it’s not a puffer jacket!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BLMDCw0DFcB/?tagged=pufferjacket

We’ve all seen that photo of Kim in her Adidas trackies and bizarre as it is I have to say it’s one of her better outfits. She almost looks semi-comfortable unlike when she’s squeezed herself into nude cycling shorts and sock boots…shudder!

Can they actually make a comeback? Is this a throwback too far?! Where did Kim even find them…in a museum?!

To top off all this, the shoes of the season are clunky heeled loafers. Let that sink in.  Loafers aren’t the prettiest of shoes but they are damn smart! These classic black ones from Zara are one of my favourites this year. They are €49.95.

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Black loafer. Pic: Zara.com

Even if you’re not a massive fan, you have to admit they’re better than mules or flats with ballet laces…and those are your other two choices shoe lovers!

Backless styles are a nightmare, stick to a traditional black embellished loafer or mix it up with these colourful Topshop ones.

Pink loafer. Pic:Topshop.com
Metallic blue loafer. Pic: Topshop.com

To be honest, there are ways to style even the most “unwearable” of trends! The only things I will say an emphatic no to are the aforementioned awful lace-up ballet shoes.

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Pic: Zara.com

Let’s all say it together: NO!

Leave me a comment and let me know what you think of these trends. Thanks as always for reading my blog and don’t forget to check out my Instagram, Twitter and Facebook page here.

Edel

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These boots were made for…talking!

by E, posted in A/W 16 Fashion, Adventure, autumn/winter fashion, Fashion, Irish Bloggers, Online Shopping, Shoes, Winter Fashion

If you love making a statement, then you’ll love these new A/W boots. Plain boring styles are out and loud and proud is in.

Embroidery, snakeskin and embellishment are all hot right now (in the immortal words of Rita Ora).

I have to start with the H & M studio collection, I was attempting to take a sneaky pic of them in College Green when the security guard told me I wasn’t allowed to. Boo!

The Studio footwear collection includes amazing ankle boots in vibrant red and classic brown and black boots with gold fringing.

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Pic: H&M.com

These have a Cuban heel and are a good height. At €159, they are not remotely affordable but they are real leather.

If you follow my blog, then you’ll know I love snakeskin, particularly on shoes. My River Island ones are a cheaper dupe, bought these in a sale for around €35.

They have served me well but I need to get them re-heeled. If I have a good pair of boots or shoes, I’ll get the heel tip or heels replaced.

It can often be more economical than buying several cheap pairs.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKTLOLEBMxV/

There’s also an over the knee version of these but even for me, it might be a bit much.

I normally hate sock boots but these embellished ones pass the test!

I recently read #Girlboss and I had to go check out Nasty Gal‘s latest offerings afterwards.

These black leather cowboy boots with silver buckles are perfection. Currently reduced from €173 to €104.

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Black buckle boots. Pic: NastyGal.com

River Island also has a great Western-inspired ankle boot for €60.

Of course, embroidery is another massive trend this season and there are loads of gorgeous embroidered floral boots for all you boho gals who can’t live without florals. Might be referring to myself here also. 😉

How pretty are these brushed beige suede beauties?! The design is really romantic and reminds me of old-fashioned illustrations. I also like that it’s not covering the entire boot.

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Floral boots, Intentionally Blank €93 at Nasty Gal. Pic: Nasty Gal.com

While Miss Selfridge’s ‘Athena’ boots have been featured everywhere- I love the mix of colours.

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Athena boot. Pic: Miss Selfridge.com

You can now buy Missguided footwear at Schuh and these oriental electric blue boots are exclusive to Schuh. If they don’t have your size in stock, Schuh will order them for you and have them delivered to your house for free! I ordered Missguided holographic stilettos and had them in 2 days.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKbDN8Pgy8P/

Public Desire have given the floral boot a twist with a metallic sheen and perspex heel. PS you can buy them on Asos or on their own site and you can avail of discounts through Unidays.

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Public Desire boots. Pic: Asos.com

There’s a multitude of styles and textures out there, brocade, velvet and metallic.

These vintage Tory Burch boots are my housemates but I had to try them on!

Now I know I haven’t featured very many ‘cheap’ styles in this post- when it comes to footwear you will usually have to pay a bit more if you want them to withstand an Irish winter!

However, one cheap pair I did score were these velvet Mango beauts for €20.

PS big thank you to everyone who voted for my blog in the recent Blog Awards- I really appreciate it.

Thanks as always for reading and don’t forget to check out my Instagram, Twitter and Facebook page here. For even more statement boots, just pop over to my Pinterest page.

Let me know if you like statement boots, leave me a comment below.

 

Edel