Latest Fashion Trends | Vanity Claire

So I was sitting in my living room earlier and speculated aloud “I’m not sure what to blog about tonight”. Our housemate Katherine (aka The Bonus Jonas) piped up with “How about ‘Why I Am Ugly And Shouldn’t Have a Blog’?”

I KNOW. This is what I have to deal with on a daily basis.

Anyway, I decided NOT to write on the topic of why I am ugly and shouldn’t have a blog, and instead decided to share my latest eBay wishlist with y’all. Like the voyeur that I am I’ve been perving on loads on eBay lately. All of the above cost under £20 and that atlas watch is a mere £1.24!

What do you all think of this wishlist? What are you loving on eBay lately?

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ClaireMarch 31, 2014

March Haul: New Look and Primark

Oh hey, didn’t see you there.

You might have read my holiday wishlist post the other day, and well, I may have gone a bit wild on the shopping side of things on Saturday. In fact, I should never have been let loose on the Bullring. I was like a maniac and I’m pretty sure at least one shop assistant ran away in fear.

Anywho, while I didn’t get everything on my wishlist, I did get some absolutely lovely pieces that I may or may not sleep with and/or stroke at night. In happiness. And yeah I’ll say it. Love.

Primark Crotchet Skater Dress (£5)

New Look Neon Print Shift Dress (19.99)

New Look Floral Shorts (£14.99)

New Look Dogstooth Crop Top (£12.99)

Primark Turquoise Embossed Skater Skirt (£8)

Primark Nude Sandals (£4), Primark Nude Vanity Bag (£5), Primark Brown Backpack, Primark Holographic Clutch Bag (£8), New Look White Chunky Sandals (£24.99), Primark Headbands (£2.50)

Anywho you lovely ladies, hope you have enjoyed this little haul post! If you have a haul post to share, stick it in the comments so that Claire and I can have a massive pervy look.

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ClaireMarch 28, 2014

South Africa: My Holiday Wishlist

Something very exciting but slightly alarming is happening in approximately 2 weeks. I’m flying out to South Africa for 2 and a bit weeks, ready to hit the beaches, hit the braais and potentially hit myself in the head when I forget to put suncream on.

For those of you who don’t know, I was born in South Africa and lived there until I was 11. I still have lots of lovely family out there, so I’m as excited to see them as I am to see some elephants. As I was lucky enough to get quite a bit of time off work, I’ll be taking this route here:

Starting off in Johannesburg, I’m flying to Port Elizabeth where I have lots of friends and family. After that, I’ll be driving to East London where my grandma lives and after that I’ll be driving to Cape Town, with a little stop in Knysna. Safe to say, it’s going to be absolutely knackering but also HUGELY amazing. I’m super looking forward to it.

What I am not looking forward to, is bloody holiday shopping. Partly because I can’t stop eating cake at the moment, and partly because I actually haven’t done anything yet. I know. I leave in 2 weeks and I haven’t got a pretty sundress to my name. Help.

I’m off to the shops tomorrow to pick up a few bits and bobs, so I thought I’d put together a little wish list of things I want. HOWEVER. I desperately need your opinions before tomorrow (everyone loves a deadline) so I don’t end up looking like a lunatic when I see my long lost family.

All from Primark’s SS14 Collection (check it out on Instyle here)

All from River Island

All from New Look

These are just a starting point, but I have literally no idea whatsoever about what to get! If you girls know of anywhere that’s doing good holiday stuff at the moment, please PLEASE PLEASE let me know!

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ClaireMarch 20, 2014

Topshop x Adidas Originals: How to Wear

I don’t know about you, but I definitely thought that the varsity trend had had its day, and died a death with the Topshop ’86’ jerseys of last year. But it seems I’m wrong and that sports luxe is hanging around for yet another season, with Topshop today releasing their brand new collaboration with Adidas Originals.

The Originals range has always been the more fashionable side to Adidas, with the trefoil tees, running shorts and tracksuit tops popping up in vintage stores all over the place last year as a more authentic alternative to the sports trend. Now they’ve all had a full fashion makeover with the help of Topshop, who have incorporated new prints and luxe materials into its 18-piece collection.

The collection’s been designed with co-ordination firmly in mind, with most of the pieces matching others in the range. However, if you’re not brave enough to go head-to-toe Adidas (ya wimps) then I’ve picked out some other sports luxe pieces from around the web that can be worn alongside the Originals collection.

Vero Moda Flower Printed Joggers
New Look Cameo Rose Baseball Tee
Topshop Bomber Jacket
River Island Crop Sweater
Topshop Marl Running Shorts

Of course, the dreaded 86 jersey had to turn in some form didn’t it?! In general though, I’m happy to see sports luxe sticking around this summer; it means you can eat as much barbecue as you want without worrying about burger bulge AND if you accidentally bump into anyone at the shop when you’re wearing your joggers you can walk away safe in the knowledge that they might be fooled into thinking you were actually being fashionable, rather than just a slob.

What do you all think of the Topshop x Adidas Originals range?

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ClaireMarch 10, 2014

Nicole x Missguided: An Exclusive Preview

It’s no secret that Claire and I are a fan of the occasional girl crush (Iggy Azalia and Nina Nesbitt anyone?). However, it seems that we’ve been leaning more towards the blondes recently, so it’s about time we get some brunettes on our list of girls we wish we looked like.

And what better timing than Missguided’s exciting and huzzah-inducing partnership with Nicole Scherzinger? I think we can all agree that Scherzy is a babe and me and Claire make no secret of our love for Missguided. So lets hit two birds with one stone and give you all an exclusive preview of Scherzy’s new clothing line (Nicole x Missguided) and have a little girl crush on Nicole Scherzy herself.

I’m actually quite a big fan of Nicole x Missguided. While I do love Scherzy herself, I’ve never hugely identified with her style before (i.e. me dressing like a genuine tramp most of the time). But there are definitely some pieces that I really love in the collection. I’ve got a huge eyeball on that white shift dress with the fishnet sleeves, which I think I will be giving to myself as a present. I also really, really like the fishnet crop top. I think even though it’s quite a saucy range (ooo-er), it’s also a classy one. There are a lot of night out dresses/outfits in there, which is pretty gosh darn good, since shops seem to have decided to not let us have social lives by with holding normal evening dresses.

All of the bits in Nicole x Missguided were designed by the lady herself, as well as quite obviously modeled by her too. Missguided are telling us that there are lots more exciting styles to come, so I’m excited to see whether we get some more colours in (unfortunately, blue looks TURRIBLE on me). Of course, keep checking back to Missguided for the official launch – but you can sign up to see the collection if you want to have a perv first hand too.

The prices are also really reasonable, especially since its a partnership with a tip top celeb like Scherzy. Most dresses range from £35-£45, tops are anywhere between £15-£25 and skirts/trousers are around £20-£35. I, for one, think that is brillo. I’ve got a feeling that this celebrity partnership may be a better one than some in recent years (sorry Kate for Topshop, you did not work for me).

But what do you girls think? Do you like what you see so far?

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ClaireMarch 6, 2014

River Island Spring/Summer 2014 Collection: Best Of

Another day, another S/S14 collection to lust over.Now that we’re officially into March, I say it’s officially time we all cast off our scarves and throw our coats in the bin . No, I don’t care if you get frostbite and your nip-nips become razor sharp weapons – winter is over and spring is here, rejoice!

River Island are the latest high street retailer to be flaunting their new season wares all over the internet (you can check out their full S/S14 trends page by clicking that there link) , and below I’ve gathered some of the pieces into the key trends that RI look to be pushing this year. A warning in advance: you may need sunglasses just to look at this lot. One thing River Island has never been is subtle, is it?

Trend 1: Pink, Pink, Loads of Pinks

There really is no way to escape it, this year truly is all about the colour pink. Whereas other retailers are sticking to pale shades, River Island are embracing each and every tone of pink they can get their filthy fashion hands on. Fuchsia, salmon, dusky, pastel, neon and candyfloss pinks are all getting their time to shine (quite literally in the case of that metallic skirt). Trend 2: Tropical/Psychedelic/Tacky-As-Hell Prints

I struggled with what to call this trend, so figured I would go with the obvious. The amount of print in the new collection is sure to make your eyes bleed as soon as you walk into your local River Island, but after a winter of dark florals and cutesy heart prints, I think it’s actually kind of refreshing. Yes, people might ask you if you’re wearing these items as some sort of joke, but what do they know? Team with your prints with other bold items to really go to town on the look.

Trend 3: Cool Toned Futuristic Space Woman Clothes

Ask yourself, what will fashion-conscious space people of the future wear? Then look above – that is what they will wear. Clean lines and cool metallics feature quite heavily in the new collection, meaning that we can look all futuristic and alien-like but TODAY – which is just great news.

So there we have it. River Island definitely seem to be going quite brave this season, but what do you think?

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ClaireMarch 1, 2014

Currently Watching: eBay Wishlist #4

I’ve recently begun to love eBay again. If I am honest and don’t lie to you great guys and gals, Claire has always been the eBay Queen in our vonderful little friendship. I don’t really have the patience for it and I also feel like bidding is too tense. I remember literally shaking once because I was in a bidding war with some bint who won a BNWT Topshop dress. Scary, scary times.

But because I’m poor and sad, I’ve started to sell stuff on eBay again and have also started browsing for the excellent bargains to be had. Without further ado, here is what is on my eBay watch list at the moment.

1. Chunky Chelsea Boots – I’ve had my eye on these for AGES and even though I know Spring is on the way, I still want them. BEAUTIFUL FOOT THINGS.

2. Floral Tailored Trousers – These are actually Boohoo trousers but are super cheap on eBay – they’re literally so beautiful and I feel like they might not actually make my legs look horrible.

3. Holographic Platform Sandals – I need these. There’s nothing more to be said.

4. 90s Tattoo Choker – I’ve finally decided to embrace the 90s trend properly. Claire has already bought one of these, so now I want one too!

5. Pink Boyfriend Coat – Again, I know it’s nearly spring but I still wear my coats until I really don’t have to anymore – this pink one is so pretty and perfect for Spring!

6. Real Techniques Expert Face Brush – I’ve wanted one of these for so gaaaad daayyym long and this is only a tenner on eBay. Super rude not to.

What do you all think? Anything on your watch lists?

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ClaireFebruary 17, 2014

Matalan Spring/Summer 2014: Collection Preview

Now I don’t know about you chicas, but Matalan is a shop that personally I can usually take or leave. While I know in principle that they sell some decent stuff, I can rarely be bothered to venture inside to actually have a look. I’m not sure if it’s the same in other cities, but here in Coventry the stores are all located on various retail parks that are a bit of an effort to get to, plus once you get inside the carpet smells a bit musty and the fluorescent lights are a bit icky and so I generally end up yelling “nah, CBA!” and skip out again to go into Pets At Home to look at guinea pigs.

But, dear readers, no more – no more I say! Today the Look website has featured a preview of the Matalan S/S14 collection and I have to say, it’s looking pretty good. You can see all of the photos here if you so wish, but here are some of my favourite picks.

Panelled Pencil Skirt, £12
Gold Brogues, £12
Monochrome Swing Dress, £16
Croc Tote Bag, £20
Pleated Midi Skirt, £16
White Brogues, £15

Pink Coat, £40
Slogan Tee, £8
Daisy Print Cami, £6
Ostrich Strap Tote, £20
Mesh Panel Full Skirt, £16

The midi skirts all need to be mine immediately, and the (large) portion of my brain that’s dedicated to my current brogue obsession is working overtime at the sight of these jazzy pairs. Yes, slogan tees are a bit cringe and yes, slogans about fashion are particularly cringe, but there’s still something about that roll-sleeved number that I quite like; I think it would go well tucked into one of the skirts or paired with some leather trousers. Loose fits are set to remain big news this S/S so the cami and swing dress are both bang on trend, and of course any high street shop worth their salt are stocking a version of the pastel pink coat right now. Throw in some statement handbags and we have a collection that would surely convert even the biggest Matalan cynic..?

Overall I’m really impressed with this range and will definitely be eschewing Pets At Home in favour of Matalan in my next retail park visit. Well, I suppose I can still pop in and see the rabbits afterwards. For their benefit, not mine.

What do you all think of this collection?

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ClaireFebruary 3, 2014

The Best of Topshop Spring/Summer 2014

Why hi there chums,

It’s no secret that Claire and I are ~~massive tramps~~ ~~really poor~~ quite the bargain hunters. There’s nothing we like better than a trip into Primark or scouring eBay for a deal or five. For us, buying things from Topshop has become a distant student loan memory and paying the nice people at British Gas has eaten up our Topshop budget pretty much entirely. Sigh and c’est la vie. If you’re reading, BG, we wouldn’t mind if you cut us a little slack so we could buy some new threads for Saturday night ;).

Nevertheless, I do enjoy having a perv on all of the lovely clothes at Topshop and there are usually at least 5 pieces on my wishlist at any one time. I’ve been hugely excited about some of their ‘New In’ items this month and decided to put together a best of collage to showcase the collection. Huzzah and three cheers for merry England.

I pretty much love all of these things and need them in my tiny pathetic life. I’ve got my eye on the baby pink trend for spring/summer 2014 and I’m super excited to get some Barbie in my life. I’m also loving oversized gemstone jewellery and while this Topshop one isn’t real (it’s only £8.50 after all), it’s absolutely gorgeous. The oversized tee is actually really similar to my Primark printed tshirt I wore in this outfit of the day, but I love buying things that look the same. That is just the way I am.

No surprises that pastels are going to be mega in spring/summer 2014 (when aren’t they) but as I said earlier, I can’t wait to get a load of pink on my body. I’m also excited about the big floral prints that are coming out way (mostly because I am a tacky biatch). I don’t know about you guys, but I will be channelling the jungle in every single way that I can. I love the blue tassel tee too, although I’m not sure about the tassel business. They might grow on me or just make me feel like a lampshade.

So amigos, what do you think? Are you going to be investing in some Topshop key pieces in spring/summer 2014 or saving your hard earned pennies for a Primark splurge?

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ClaireJanuary 16, 2014

Spring/Summer ’14 Key Trend: How to Wear Baby Pink

Hi there you fashionable little so-and-sos. Despite the fact that it’s still very much onesie season and we’re donning our fur coats most days to keep our human flesh all nice and warm, at Stylingo our eyes are now firmly set on Spring/Summer and what we’ll be wearing once the weather sorts its life out. While pastels have been around for what feels like forever now, this season is going to see pastel pink take centre stage ahead of all other shades. This has already started to sneak in through A/W in the form of pale pink coats and that infamous Topshop PVC skirt, but this Spring it’s really going to become a central theme. Put your worries about looking like Barbie, Baby Spice or – shudder – Miss Piggy to one side and embrace the candyfloss joy that this colour can bring.

Why put off til tomorrow what you can buy today though? Here are our favourite baby pink pieces that are currently available on the high street and online, meaning you can get Spring/Summer ready even while your toes fall off from frostbite.

Faux Leather Pencil Skirt – Missguided / Mesh Panel Crop – Missguided

Textured Coat – ASOS / Fluffy Crop Jumper – Boohoo

Ray Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses – ASOS / Clear Clutch With Contrast Purse – ASOS / Iridescent Chunky Chain – New Look / Slipper Shoes: Primark

Some people are likely to shy away from the trend for fear of looking too girly, or perhaps like some sort of human-salmon hybrid. I think the key to wearing the baby pink trend will be to toughen it up. This can be done by teaming it with more grungey pieces like leather skirts and trousers, or by opting for more unusual pink items. Leather, mesh and perspex are all materials that will take baby pink from being too pretty and instead make it contemporary.

What do you all think of the baby pink trend? How do you plan to wear it?

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