5 Accessories I'm Loving This Autumn | GUEST POST

September has just about arrived. Although it still feels a little early, we're already seeing countless exhibitions of autumn style. A lot of the focus this time of year tends to surround extensive lists of clothing items and ideas for totally transformed wardrobes. But if you're like me, you don't actually go out and revamp your entire closet every time the temperature changes! A few new clothing items here and there will suffice for keeping up with the trends. What I really enjoy instead is making sure I'm up on the latest accessories. These are the smaller, more affordable pieces that can bring a look together, and which tend to change more from season to season anyway!

With that said, here are some of the accessories I'm loving for the autumn of 2015.

Sculptural Jewellery

I wasn't entirely sure what the term "sculptural jewellery" referred to until I started seeing it mentioned among the season's trends, and now I can't get enough of it. Style.com has a number of examples of this type of jewellery from designers including Kenzo, Eddie Borgo, and others. The basic idea is that each item is like a piece of art, generally featuring bent and shaped metals that resemble small, wearable sculptures.

Spray-On Boots

This is the term Marie Claire used to define what looks to be a pretty popular trend for the coming autumn and winter seasons: skin-tight, thigh-high boots. Versace, Christian Dior, and others were mentioned in conjunction with the movement, which includes various colours and designs printed onto boots that almost double as leggings. It may not be the most comfortable accessory idea for 2015, but it's a fun look.

Ladies' Loafers

Sticking with footwear, and moving to a more comfortable option, I can't get enough of the ladies' loafers that seem so prominent on the runways this year. Lyst called them "the chosen flats for fall" and it's no wonder they're taking over given the various ways in which we're seeing them dressed up and down. More casual versions include simple boat shoe-style loafers that work like sandal alternatives, and for dressing up we're even seeing heeled ladies' loafers making the rounds.

Opera Gloves

This is another trend pointed out by Marie Claire, and it is essentially the upper-body version of the spray-on boot idea. Opera-length gloves have been spotted on various runways from a slew of different designers this season. While they can appear almost costume-like, there's something undeniably fun about them for the autumn. Given that these gloves tend to be fairly light and thin, they're also a perfect option for comfort as the weather cools but isn't necessarily "cold."

Collar Bows

There have been a lot of bows and ribbons tied around collars on the AW runways, and I love the way Popsugar defined the trend: "a hint of femininity in your workplace wardrobe." Moving from the carefree, fun styles of summer into the stiffer and colder looks that so often arrive with autumn, it's easy to end up with outfits that look slightly uptight. Any sort of ribbon or bow tied around a collar is a great way to keep things fun and feminine.

With these five enjoyable and affordable accessory ideas, you can liven up your autumn wardrobe without even getting into new garments. Have fun putting together some new looks!

Beyoncé Heat Rush : FRAGRANCE

Hello!

"it's understandable that I've only got about 1/2-1/3 of it left, right?"

Just as I leave the house, I spitz on some perfume. Recently it has been the same perfume I go for when I don't really have much time and it's all 'go-go-go!' chaos. The perfume I received as a gift last Christmas (2013) and now realise how much of it I've actually used. A 100ml bottle of Beyoncé Heat Rush is that perfume.

"The scent is very warm and reminds me of being by a toasty fire"

Nevertheless, the perfume is an Eau de Toilette, so being it not as strong as an Eau de Parfum, I guess it's okay to spritz twice more as you usually would, meaning it's understandable that I've only got about 1/2-1/3 of it left, right? Right???!

"They say Queen Beyoncé can do no wrong"

Fine, I guess that doesn't really justify anything, but the real reason is: the fragrance. It's such a forgiving scent. Something that reminds me of the autumn/winter season, whereas Marc Jacobs Daisy Delight is probably my summer go-to. The scent is very warm and reminds me of being by a toasty fire - definitely agree with the 'Heat' name it has been given. 

"it has been the same perfume I go for when I don't really have much time and it's all 'go-go-go!' "

They say Queen Beyoncé can do no wrong - a great line of fragrances, a nice bottle and a scent like this, I guess this is yet another area she has excelled in! Would I say it's my favourite scent of all time? No. However, it is still a go-to fragrance.

A final touch of the whole package - the bottle is pretty affordable too. Retailing at £35 for a 100ml EDT, yet you can get it for good £12.61 on Amazon (LINK) so it won't break the bank!

Tell me, what's your go-to fragrance? 

January 2015 Calendar: Free Printable

Hello!

"Cute, festive and somewhat cosy - it'll also look great on your wall!"

Is it snowing yet? Well, it's not in England and considering its January, a little snow would be just right! Putting that aside, can you believe it's 2015 already? Whether you're planning on getting on that health bandwagon, want to be a more organised person and do well in your studies or just want to continue being the awesome person that you are, a calendar will help you schedule for an amazing year ahead. So, here you are, on behalf of me (BerryBloomXO), a free downloadable calendar! 

Click HERE to Download

Well, what's January without a little snow? (Come on weather, get it right!) if you want to relate your monthly calendars to the season, this is one for you. Cute, festive and somewhat cosy - it'll also look great on your wall! 

Click HERE to Download

This one is great for something less festive and that doesn't remind us how weird the weather can be!

I hope you have a fabulous new year, wishing you all the best for it!
Tell me: What's your favourite thing about January?

The Cutest Wellies Ever: POTW

Hello! 

"they lack the cheesy quality that wellies often have"

With the rain pouring down, it's not fun wearing suede shoes (reference to this post, these shoes are ruined now :( ). So to keep it appropriate for the weather, it was time to go out and buy new shoes. A reason to shop? Yes, please!

" Perfect for this time of year, a colour that will go with everything and at £10, you can't go wrong! "

Already being a fan of wellies meant these were something I'd buy - but the ultimate reason why I went for them is because they lack the cheesy quality that wellies often have. At the same time, the bow adds a girly touch without making the shoe look tacky. Another positive about them, is that the short, ankle-bootie height means these are so easy to put on and take off - who really wants to spend 10 minutes putting shoes on?!

"keep it appropriate for the weather"

Overall, a great find from none other than Primark. I swear, I rarely go there but when I do, there is always something that catches my eye! Perfect for this time of year, a colour that will go with everything and at £10, you can't go wrong!

Are you a fan of wellies?

Christmas Inspiration Board

Hello!

"They say a picture is worth a 1,000 words, well here's 12, 000 for you! "

Sometimes it's nice to get a little push in the right direction - this is exactly what inspiration boards are for! Now that it's Christmas in 27 days, the push is needed now more than ever! 

"it's Christmas in 27 days"

From decor, nail colours, socks, chestnuts and snow... it's all in here. They say a picture is worth a 1,000 words, well here's 12, 000 for you! 

What makes you most excited for Christmas? 

source: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12

Decor Haul: Hanging Ball Lights

Hello!

"bringing that warm fall glow into the room... the kind that warms your heart"

With this cooler weather, it reminds us Christmas is coming - 78 days, people! Christmas is all about beautiful lights, tree decorations, christmas wreaths and snow - although all of this can't be achieved yet, we can bring some lights early. Trust me, they really give a warm vibe (yes, pun intended!). 

"The lights in these last for about 10 years,"

There are so many different shapes, hearts, stars, even flowers that you can choose from on Blaze-On.com (which is where these are from) but these round ones are perfect. They work year round, are neither more feminine or masculine, and suit in any room... they're currently surrounding the noticeboard in the study. 

"many different shapes, hearts, stars, even flowers that you can choose from"

The colour is a off-white, almost yellow - bringing that warm fall/winter glow into the room, you know the kind that warms your heart? Yes, it's that kind!

"They work year round...and suit in any room"

Although the packaging is gorgeous, there was a dent in one of the balls :(. I'm sure they would exchange the box for another, but you can't really see the dent when they're up and running. The lights in these last for about 10 years, so no need to worry about changing them.

The most important part about Blaze On is their ethics, which is great about buying from them - click here for more.

As well as lighting up your life (there's another pun!) through the balls, you can also choose a candle. This is the pretty one that came with the box! How gorgeous?!

Let me know how you have decorated for this season?

Autumn Inspiration Board

Hello! 

"it is OFFICIALLY Fall.. even though we've been on about it for a while now on BBXO!"

As of last Monday, it is OFFICIALLY Fall.. even though we've been on about it for a while now on BBXO! We can finally feel the air being crisper when we woke up in the morning, with the sun rising at a later time everyday and the days getting shorter - yep, it's autumn!

Having never been one for Pinterest boards, believe me I've tried but never kept it up for long, this is a different way of doing the same thing. So, here's for fall inspiration:

"finally feel the air being crisper when we woke up in the morning"

Things that spring to mind: Fuzzy Socks, Hot Drinks, Roasted Chestnuts, Grey/Darker Nail Shades, Candles, Acorns, PUMPKINS! :D

What springs to your mind when you think of Fall? 

TREND: Mid-Length Hair

Hello! 

"you're about to see the result of the big chop!"

Hair trends are forever changing in the world of today - from the oh-so colourful rainbow colour phase (which some say is still going strong) to the ever-lasting ombré... well, there's now more to the list of hair trends and you're about to see the result of the big chop!

With the likes of Taylor Swift, Kim K and Ciara undergoing the snip, how could we miss it?!

source 1 2 3
"it's a lot easier for the women themselves!"

The chop has made the ladies look a lot more fun, with a chilled vibe. I love how healthy their hair looks and I'm sure it's a lot easier for the women themselves!

source 1 2 3
 "isn't too short that you can't do much"

It's nice that the cut isn't too short that you can't do much in terms of hair-styles, yet not too long, either!

Summer generally calls for short hair - yet this time, A/W 2014 is calling for it, too!

Would you go for the chop this season - Why?

Relaxing or Sick Day Must-Haves (ft. Firmoo)

Hello!

Cough. Sneeze. Tired.
It's that time of year. We're either sick with the flu, or just have the January blues where we wish it could be summer (unless you live in Australia or something, then you must be having a nice time!)….

This calls for a must-haves list for the days we want to stay in bed. Let me tell you, it's okay to not be doing things every second of the day. It's okay to have a less productive day, sometimes. Now - lets relax!


1. Snuggle

Snuggle up with your cosiest blanket on your sofa/couch. If you feel REALLY lazy, then just stay in bed - all is good! I love my pink rose blanket. I got it last year and it has come so much in handy during the cold months. I actually like it when my room is cold and I'm snuggled up in this!


2. Make Some Hot Cocoa

What is the cold without hot cocoa? Or a mug of coffee or tea. I love me some Chai Tea Latte, too! This makes you feel instantly better as the warmth makes your body warmer and you're left with a lovely taste in your mouth!


3. Ease off the Contacts!

I know when you go out and have glasses, you might prefer your contact lenses - but on relaxing days it may be time to give your eyes a rest and pull out the glasses. I got mine from Firmoo who have a range of designs you can choose from. These have a lovely tortoise design on the side of the frame. I love how fashionable these look, how intelligent you look (and feel) and how comfortably they fit! Also, I love that they aren't the typical rectangle as I find everyone and their mother has them! This is slightly different yet still has that chic touch. You can customise the glasses to be tinted, polarised and of course have the lens matched to your prescription - the website is super easy to use and delivery is great. You also get 2 cases and an eye-glass cloth. I really do recommend them. Oh, and if that wasn't enough, you can even try on the glasses online with a cool picture thing where you virtually have them on to see which glasses design fits you! AND you get your first pair free! Click here to see.

4. Watch some Flicks

We all know that watching our favourite shows, movies or even YouTube stars can brighten up our day and make you feel better! I love to have a catch up Pretty Little Liars day or something! It's a lot of fun and a great way to wind down! If you're feeling like having more of a movie night then that's good too - the other day I watched 'Now You See Me' and it's a really good movie!


5. Take a Bath

I love taking baths as they're so relaxing. Also, using luxurious products make your skin feel lovely and  you look and feel great! Maybe take in a book with you to pass the time while you soak!


6. Light a Candle

I could NOT miss this one out! Ahh even thinking about Candles makes me feel happy!


That's it for my must-haves for a relaxing day! If you're ill right now, I hope you get well soon - and if you just need a relaxing day.. just relax ;)
What are your Relaxing/Sick day must-haves, leave a comment?!

Clothing Haul: Shopping the sales!

Hello!

Deals. Sales. Offers.
That's all that is seen on shop windows right now! Being a shop-a-holic, one cannot entirely resist these amazing opportunities, so why not make the best of it?

Yes, I cracked and went shopping and bought a little more than I needed to… especially right now anyway, after exchanging and receiving gifts… yet, there's no such thing as too much shopping, right?! ...Right?!

Basically, I walked into the store and found that most things were 50% OFF! Half price is amazing for a deal! So I picked up a few pieces that caught my eye...

I bought this denim jacket as a) I don't have one, and b) it was half off! 

I feel like a denim jacket is a staple for the spring and summer months and is on trend practically every year, so obviously it was a must have! 

Next I picked up two of these knit tops which are quite baggy and perfect for this time of year. If you're like me, then you know how easy they are to throw on and look somewhat cute… and be comfortable! I got one in this greyish, brown colour and another in navy blue! 

Next I got this top, which the picture does NOT do it justice! It is honestly so gorgeous is real life! It is red and the sequins and beads on it look stunning! It is more of a dressy top, yet it won't be over the top (no pun intended). It's like a subtle dressy, if you know what I mean! 

Also, I bought this sheer khaki coloured top with gold sequins in the front. Again, I feel the picture makes the top look weird and it's hard to take a snap of it! I felt this was perfect for party-wear. Moreover, this is a total trend right now too - I love sequins because they show how girly I really am! (I even have sequin fluffy socks that I wear at home… but shh…!) 

I then spotted these shoes! I love bows and heels, put them together and I cannot resist! I have way too many shoes with bows on them! 

As for accessories, I bought a navy blue, thick knit scarf which can keep you warm and look cute too! The scarf has tiny bits of glitter woven throughout, which you can kind of see in the second picture with the bracelet on top of it! The Bracelet is made of 'Sparkling Glass' and is very simple yet adds a little extra to any outfit. Being the colour it is, it would also match many outfits! 

So, yes, that was my haul… which is an awful lot of shopping for something uncalled and unplanned for, oh well, you live and you… buy? Oh, who am I kidding?! haha! 

What has been your best bargain? 

Merry Christmas!

Hello!

Today is the day. This day has literally crept upon us this year, and it's time to make the most of it!
So, I hope you have an amazing day full of happiness and laughter!

source

Last Minute Christmas Outfit Ideas

Hello!

It being Christmas day in 1 week, the most wonderful time of the year, it means parties and gatherings and sometimes we just don't know what to wear! On Christmas Day you'll find me in my PJ's - however it's the parties around the christmas and New Years period that I dress up for!
So, to help you out and give you some inspiration for this festive season, I made 3 outfit ideas that are comfortable, cute and easy to pull off for many events!

Links for items: 1, 2, 3 

Knit Cardigans are perfect for the winter - they are snuggly, comfortable and a winter wardrobe staple! I paired that with a cute floral dress and a pair of cute heeled ankle booties which make the outfit a little more dressy yet not over the top! 

This would be great for a casual family get together or switch up the cardigan for a cute blazer for a more going out style! 

 Links for items: 1, 2, 3 

Soft sweaters are so warm, cosy and easy to wear! I also love festive leggings for Christmas time so the red leggings with snowflakes and reindeers on them - if this doesn't scream winter and christmas then I don't know what does! Also, I recently bought tan Uggs which I have been loving wearing with fluffy socks in the weekend so I thought it would work well with this outfit! My feet are always warm and I love them! 

Perfect for very casual get togethers or on Christmas day when you don't want to be worrying about the skirt you're wearing and want to be carefree! 

Links for items: 1, 2, 3 

Finally this look is more for going out to Christmas parties and restaurant invites when you're breaking up for the Christmas holidays. I love Velvet Dresses and this burgundy one looks super cute! I'd pair it with tights, black heeled booties to extend the look of your leg length and add height as well as a statement necklace to make you look even more dressy! 

Perfect for when you want to be a little more dressed up! 

So, tell me - are you one to wear Pajamas on Christmas Day (like I do) or do you dress up? 

Getting into the Xmas Spirit!

Hello!

You may have started to feel festive the day after Halloween, or maybe even the first day of fall - but now it's ALMOST CHRISTMAS!

This advert made me feel all fuzzy and festive inside and I thought I'd share it with you!

Being it the first Christmas Advert I had seen this year, it was bound to make me feel this way! Can you believe there is 8 days until Christmas day?!

What's making you feel super festive?