Perfect Parka

I've been after a parka for the last two winters, but never found one I really liked (and couldn't afford the £60+ they usually are). But finally, I found one! And in Primark! It was a bargain £27, the perfect colour, with multiple pockets and lined with lovely soft sheepskin in the hood. I thought as it was so cheap it might not be the best quality, but it kept me lovely and warm on my way to work at 6.30 am 

DIY: deco phone case

When it comes to covers and cases for phones/ iPods/ Kindles, I'm still like a five year old- I want the glitteriest, most extreme and tacky thing I can get my hands on. I saw some amazing decoden phone cases when I was in Bangkok, but they were pretty expensive. I also love making things so thought I may as well have a go myself. And here's how it turned out...

It's becoming easier to get supplies in England- just search for decoden or kawaii on ebay. Here's the two sellers I got my bits from- http://stores.ebay.co.uk/candycrystaldesigns and http://stores.ebay.co.uk/theembellishmentshop

Outfit: Military inspired

When military style came back in this season, I quite liked it at first. But now I'm getting sick of seeing camo print everywhere. I do like the colour palette of the trend as it's perfect for autumn winter, but I didn't want to fall slave to the print. I featured this dress in a 'What's in my basket' post a few weeks ago, and finally ordered it. 

I like how it's still in the military style, but a little bit different. I went up a size as I know Boohoo stuff can come up a bit small because of the clingy fabrics they use, and it's a great fit. I'm a massive fan of the midi length too.

Are you a fan of the military trend?

NOTD: leopard

Now it was Gem Fatale's leopard nail tutorial that first got me into nail art about two years ago. I've been out of inspiration recently for nails so thought I'd return to a tried and tested design. 

Colours used were my current favourite, Essie Sand Tropez, and Models own Nude Beige, which was free with last week's More magazine

Pretty understated for me, but I like how the nude colours make leopard print more chic

NOTD: princess

Was bored last night, so decided to finally have a go with the millions of gems I have in my stash. Not the neatest, but not bad for a first attempt. I've called these princess nails as the little gold and pink gems make me feel like my nails are wearing a little tiara :p

The base coat is Essie's Sand Tropez which I LOVE- not usually one for nudes, but this has made me start wanting more.

Style Crush: Kristen Stewart's style overhaul

Whether you're a Twi-hard, or still believe K-Stew is a 'Trampire' you cannot deny the phenomenal change in her wardrobe recently. Before, Kristen was more likely to be seen in battered converse, with greasy hair and wearing Robert Pattinson's hand me downs. But for all the recent promotion and premieres she has been really pushing the boat out. Though she looks fantastic, I'm also slightly cynical that this restyle is mainly to further drive publicity for the final instalment of the Twilight films, as she's never been hesitant to state her complete lack of interest in fashion.

A very risque look for the normally conservative Kristen at the LA premiere.

Stunning Zuhair Murad jumpsuit- I want it!

Amazing Elie Saab gown at the Berlin Premiere

All photos from contactmusic.com and cocoperez.com

My best charity shop/ vintage finds

I used to do a lot more charity/ vintage shopping, but these days I don't really have the time. The area I live isn't brilliant for great finds either. However, over the years I've picked up a few things that I was very smug about, and all were a bargain. 

1. Tiger Dress

This is my newest and probably one of my favourite finds. Found in a little vintage boutique in Siam Square, Bangkok, for 250 Baht...which equates to five English pounds. Yes, a velvet and lurex, beautifully printed and well fitting dress for a FIVER. Some people may hate it and think its too OTT but I think its perfect for the Christmas party season.

Look at how beautifully it's printed!

2. Jacket

This was originally a knee length dress that didn't really fit, but I saw its potential and brought it home with me to turn into a light weight jacket. I love the lacy sleeves and big pearl buttons. Think this was £5 as well.

3. Blouse

I'm cheating a bit including this one, as it wasn't something I purchased, but something stolen off my mother. This is Dorothy Perkins (would you believe it??) from about 10-15 years ago- I am allowed to class it as vintage? With the oversized collar and sleeve cuffs I think it certainly has a vintage feel to it. 

 4. Top

 Another gem picked up abroad. This was bought from a vintage shop in LA which blew my mind, everything in there was amazing without being ridiculously expensive. This was a little pricier than the rest, but still good value for all the sequinned loveliness- it was about $20= £12 which isn't too bad. 

5 & 6. Bags

Both of these were bought in a little charity shop I used to go to all the time in Newbury. Takes quite a while to get over there so I haven't been for a while, but when I do, I usually manage to pick something up. Both of them were £4