Metallics and colour are big as is chunky.  Chunky jewellery is the way to go this Autumn/Winter and a great way to update different looks in your wardrobe without over spending.  Accessorize is a great place to pick up a couple of bits and bobs that can change a whole look from bib necklaces to cuff bracelets which we will bring you more of over the coming weeks.  For now we thought we’d focus on their ring collection which is quite extensive!  Mix matte and shiny finishes for a more luxurious look.

Black is in so if you are wearing block dark colours add a sneaky pop of colour wearing a chunky bright ring or two and don’t worry if they don’t exactly match, remember, the peasant look is in!  Don’t be afraid to ring stack, the more you can fit on those fingers the better, more is more this A/W for rings.  Good bye skull rings and hello 70′s.  Lovers of vintage will have fun indulging this trend.

Prices listed below along with expected arrival dates…

Image 1

This collection is due in store next month, September.

(Pyramid from top to bottom from left to right)

Deepi Deco Statement ring €18.90

Crystal Kitty Cat ring €18.90

Boudoir Eclectic Cluster Ring €18.90

Bali Flower ring €14.90

Antique Treasure Ring €18.90

Filigree Claw Set Cocktail Ring €21.50

Vintage Heart Ring Watch €18.90

Metal Pansy ring €7.90

Gypset Ethnic Statement Ring €18.90

Twighlight Perspex Flower ring €18.90

Image 2

We’ll have to wait until November to get our paws on this range.

(From Flower ring on spread out hand)

Parisien Glamour Flower ring €18.90

Pearly Portofino Ring €18.90

Metal Pansy ring €7.90

Mini Flower Stacking Ring €12.50

Curly Crystal Bow ring €12.50

Vintage Heart Ring Watch €18.90

Carved Flower Ring €12.50

Venetian Glamour Pearl Ring €18.90

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The latest campaign news is in from Accessorize and as always we like to share the goss…

Accessorize is excited to announce two new faces for its stunning new Autumn Winter 2010 campaign. Dazzling American beauty, Lily Aldridge and the striking Josefin Hedstrom from Sweden, pose together in the latest trend-driven collections from the London-born brand.

Aldridge, the daughter of British fashion photographer Miles Aldridge and niece of model Saffron Aldridge, is also the long-term girlfriend of Kings of Leon frontman, Caleb Followill.

Paying homage to its British roots, the shoot took place in a North London studio, with Sebastian Kim behind the lens shooting his debut Accessorize campaign. Back at the styling helm for his sixth season with the brand was Vogue Russia’s Simon Robbins; creating a slick cutting-edge story with the inspiring new Accessorize looks.

The Autumn Winter 10 Campaign launches in September with striking shots of Aldridge and Hedstrom taking on the ‘Gypset’ persona with layers of shiny gold ethnic jewellery and rich sumptuous coloured bags.

As winter unfolds, scenes of catwalk-inspired knits are unveiled. Multiple scarves are draped around bare shoulders with important chullo hats and cheeky earmuffs contrasting with big curly locks.

In the run-up to Christmas, the campaign’s iconic ‘Marie Antoinette’ shot is released, emphasising an essential look for the season; lace, pearls and statement corsages. For the festive season, the girls go vamp with smoky temptress eyes and side slicked hair. With their figures hugged by animal printed stoles posing as dresses, bold metallic party bags are clutched with delicate hands decorated in knock-out cocktail rings.

There is so much more to see from this collection which we’ll feed you over the coming weeks.  Working from the first image down here’s a list of arrival times and prices for those shown here:

Image 1

Arriving in November

From top bracelet down to finger tips!

Oriental Resin Bangles set of 2 €12.50

Luxury Boudoir Multi Bangles set of 7 €24.90

Crystal Sparkle Gem Ring €12.50

Boudoir Eclectic Cluster ring €18.90

Rosey Posey Embroidered Bag €43

Image 2

Arriving in September

Girl on the left wears:

Swirl print scarf (on head) €14.90

Plain Stole in Fuschia (on head) €27.90

Mini Casablanca Enamel Crest Earring €8.90

Belly Dancer Metal Necklace €23.50

Skinny Extra long Rope Necklace €12.50

Gypset Bead Long Rope €12.50

Gypsey Mix Multi Bangles set of 6 (blue) €14.90

Denim Zip Jeggings €43

Faux Suede Cross Body Bag €39

Folk Floral Embroidered Tote €62

Plain Gold Bangle €7.90

Heritage Mixed multi bangles set of 7 (gold) €18.90

Embossed Gold Bangle €7.90

Vintage Heart Ring Watch €18.90

Filigree Claw Set Cocktail Ring €21.50

Girl to the right wears:

Paisley Kashmiri Jaquard Stole (on head) €34

Textured Scales Chandelier Earring €12.50

Gypset Eclectic Floral Square Scarf (at neck) €27.90

Antique Treasure Ring €18.90

Dehli Mix Eclectic Bangle set of 7 (arm on bag side) €14.90

Heritage Mixed Multi Bangles Set of 7 (arm on bag side) €18.90

Zip Front Slouchy Hobo Bag €43

Vintage Buckle Belt €23.50

Crystal Kitty Car Ring €18.90

Indian Bangles set of 12 €5.90

Ethnic Bone Bangle €9.90

Image 3

In stores this October

Girl to the left wears:

Chunky Lurex Cable Chullo Hat €27.90

Heart & Check Scarf €29.90

Wide Cable & Honeycomb Scarf €27.90

Reverse Knit & Cable Long Cut off Glove €21.50

Pretty Snowflake Opaque tights €14.90

Joss Suedette Cross Body Bag €49

Boudoir Heart Fairisle Scarf €29.90

… and the girl on the right:

Snowflake Stripe Earmuff €24.90

Monochrome Heart Fairisle Scarf €29.90

Reverse Knit & Cable Scarf €27.90

Spot & Stripe Fairisle tights €18.90

Faux Fur Trim Fairisle Slipper Boot €29.90

Faux Fur Flapover Cross Body Bag €54

Monochrome Heart Fairisle Long Cut off Glove €21.50

Image 4

Arriving in November, bring it on!

Called the Pink Story, from top left – clockwise

Pearl & Bow Elegant Alice €8.90

Organza pretty flower clip €9.90

Glitter Rose Salon Clip €8.90

New Silky Jasmine Flower Clip €9.90

Ballerina Corsage Bando €12.50

20’s Glitzy Flower Bando €9.90

Paisley Diamante Feather Clip €26.50

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Make a Statement…

The Statement Necklace continues to be a big hit this season following last years popularity. These dramatic necklaces featured on the runway this year with Lanvin displaying some beautiful pieces. Recently, celebs such as Ashley Olsen, Mischa Barton and Olivia Palermo have been spotted with these oversized accessories dangling around their necks.

Roberta Freymann by Olivia Palermo.

Olivia Palermo is rarely seen without her signature bib necklace. While not everyone is drawn to her character in The City, fashion followers certainly admire her style. She is now designing a range of her own statement pieces for New York designer Roberta Freymann. The line is called Roberta Freymann by Olivia Palermo with prices ranging from €150 to €250.

The Statement necklace is an easy to wear trend for any occasion. It is a great way to liven up your everyday outfit and add a bit of fun to your look! Above -  all Topshop L-R, €27, €36, €60, below, €24, €20.

Using the necklace as the key accessory of your ensemble, styling requires very little effort. The best outfit to wear is something simple, neutral in colour with unfussy patterns. The bib necklace looks best with an understated one toned top, dress, or t-shirt. It is important not too overdo other accessories as they may distract the attention from the main piece.

If you’re strapped for cash, improvise the look yourself by layering a few smaller necklaces together to make an impact – just make sure they work well together!  Above Lipsy, €12, €18, €20.

Alternatively, check out some of the more affordable bib necklaces from Topshop, Lipsy and Asos.  Below Asos, €15, €23, €38.

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Today’s pick happens to be one favoured by style goddess Alexa Chung.  Alexa has been pictured several times over the years wearing Mawi jewellery thus enhancing it’s credibility and desirability immensely!  (Have a look at the blog on Mawi‘s site should you pay it a visit)

We’ve picked from Mawi for Asos today but you can also pick up this range on net-a-porter.  We found it hard to choose just one so we didn’t!  Starting with the beautifully unique chest plate embellished necklace which is on grosgrain rope, this is a real statement piece and comes in either a gold or silver finish – priced at €41.68.  Following that we picked out this gem stone single box chain bangle with detailed embellishment.  This bangle comes in gold, silver or a really edgy gunmetal grey/black all with a high shine finish.  They’ve other great standout pieces including a black box cuff style bangle.  The bangle below comes in well priced at €51,79.

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Yes, it’s true we have had a nosey at Karen Millen’s 2010 collection and let’s just say we weren’t disappointed, but a little surprised as the collection is different to their usual style in that most of it is very wearable!  There seems to be a more relaxed approach to the designs yet they are still elegantly tailored and the main theme – layering! We here at wow.ie are fans of Karen Millen but not all their previous collections have been as wearable as their latest.  Anyway, you can make up your own mind after reading through our review starting with neutrals, a key trend this season…

The New Neutrals

Cool, calm neutrals from bone and oyster to dove grey and charcoal, take centre stage this season and I for one adore them (having recently purchased four light and dark grey tops!!). A relaxed silhouette dominates, from beautifully cut fluid trousers in jersey or silky Cupro to a seductively draped light suede jacket, none of which are excessively tailored. Separates are key and versatile; the palest grey silk top is decorated with delicate ruffles (€99), the new trench coat (€325) a must have this season is cut in a subtle ombred, while their cocktail dresses are finished with embellished jeweled shoulders.  Embellished clothing has been around for a while so root out any pieces from the back of your wardrobe as we sense it’s not going to go on forever! The grey tailored trousers are priced at €140 and the leopard shoe boot at €199, with animal prints being another wardrobe staple for the season.

Sports Luxe

Alexander Wang lead the charge on this almost football meets fashion look with all the high street stores opting for their own take on the new ‘Sports Wear’ look. See our previous post on Track Pants for more on this trend. KM have given sporty pieces a luxe make-over; the parka is reworked in fine grey knit, classic tees are softened up with feminine drapery and the classic biker jacket is reimagined in soft blonde washed leathers. Body-con continues this spring with sporty bandage dresses in white or cobalt blue so put down the burger and get exercising! Pictured above is a slightly more palatable take on the sports trend – washed leather gilet €325, draped jersey dress €175 and metallic cage sandals at €199.

Underwear as Outerwear

Another trend we recently wrote about, see here for more on this look. Underwear becomes outerwear as lingerie and corsetry details appear in elegant tops and dresses.  Remember there is a fine line between carrying this look successfully and looking like an extra from Pretty Woman! A sculpted black jumpsuit and form-fitting dress are cut with corsetry details along side peek-a-boo chiffon panels. Vintage slips inspire a nude silk halter-top trimmed with delicate lace. Beautiful French lace is cut into a delicate jacket to dress up or down, or into feminine dresses with seductive drape details.  Should your budget be tight invest in some lace from the likes of Murphy Sheehy (back of Powerscourt Town House or Dun Laoghaire), and have it sown on to a fitted jacket or worked on a silk top or tee. Crepe jersey jumpsuit, €199 – leopard shoe boot also €199.

Monochrome Mantra

Black and white provides some of the season’s most graphic combinations; we found a sharply-cut body con dress with origami fold neckline comes in strong monochromatic stripes. A tailored gingham dress has a softly voluminous skirt which has such a flirty feel, while crisp white shirts are cut with drape and ruche details. A black and white oversized clutch or white leather bags with tassels or fringe continue the monochrome theme and will sit with so many looks in your wardrobe so you can justify the investment! To recreate the look the tailored cropped jacket €250, Metallic jacquard skirt €125 and stacked bangles gladiator sandal €175.

Hot Tropical Colour

Vibrant cobalt blue, coral and sunshine yellow add pops of bold uplifting colour to KM’s collection this season. Abstract digital prints give summer dresses a cool, futuristic feel while a taffeta trench in dazzling chartreuse is spring’s ultimate eye-catching cover-up. DVF did a very similar dress to this last season which I just missed out on buying during BT‘s sale, I won’t miss out on this one! Kaleidoscope print dress €199, gladiator sandal as before.

Accessories

The gladiator (no, it’s not going anywhere!), gets an update with studding, metallic finishes or sparkling crystal embellishment. Bags continue the soft and slouchy aesthetic of the main collection with oversized super-soft leather bags in primary brights, cool neutrals or chic leopard prints. Fringing, tassles and circle cut-outs in leather add texture to day bags while bangles embellished with glittering crystals provide the perfect finishing bling! You can always count on Karen Millen for footwear, my weakness being their boots.

So now you have a round up of KM’s 2010 collection, let us know if you take a closer look…

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It really is red carpet season so we thought why not get in on the act and scour the high street for the best there is – should you be lucky enough to need it!  We were pleasantly surprised by the choice and rather frustrated at having to trim down our selection but lets hope we have saved the best.

February is after all awards month in Ireland! With the Jameson Film Festival kicking off on the 18th February, the Meteor Music Awards on the 19th February and the I.F.T.A.’s (Irish Film and Television Awards) on the 20th February, red carpets are set to showcase some serious dresses and accessories. We wanted to show you how to achieve the look from high street stores, that won’t break the bank! To whet your appetite, wow.ie have put together a selection of evening dresses and accessories to highlight this seasons hottest looks suitable for many occasions including the red carpet, 21st’s and black-tie weddings.

To begin our high street hit list was Monsoon.  Our first find was not too dissimilar to Nicole Kidman‘s Prada dress which she wore to the Grammys, minus the ruffle neck detailing! Blue was also a popular colour at the Grammys with Fergie opting for a stunning short Emilio Pucci dress, Taylor Swift in a full length Kaufman Franco ‘glitter-tastic’ dress and Miley Cyrus in a short Herve Leger by Max Azria dress teamed with gladiator heels.  Our Monsoon favourites (top) are all well priced, from left – Allepo dress €280, Westbourne Maxi Dress €305, Kalahari Dress €310 and finally the Annabelle Dress at €250.

Our second store of choice for awards attire had to be Karen Millen!  The first dress from Karen Millen has a hint of Carrie Underwood‘s Grammy dress and the last dress was taking lead from Givenchy‘s use of lace, a big ‘boudoir’ trend this season. We also saw a kaleidoscope of colour at Couture week in Paris last month with Valentino leading the charge. Also bare in mind that animal prints are STILL in.  From left here’s what we’ve listed from Karen Millen – Cream Graphic Sequin dress €235, Blue Zebra print strapless dress €199, Kaleidoscope dress €199 and the beautiful lace dress €235.

Our final hit was Coast – where else!  I will admit to being nervous when it comes to shopping at Coast with the nagging thought that most of the other guests will probably have visited the store on their quest to find a dress.  However they probably do dresses better than anyone else on the high street so we couldn’t resist.  We uncovered every type of dress but decided with a busy month of red carpet events to go with the full length options. Again from left, Blue Symphony dress €205, second dress is the same as the first dress except we preferred it in the pink (a big colour this season), Harmony Maxi dress €325, Anise Maxi dress €250 and the Zola Beaded Maxi dress at €250.

Dress sorted but look far from complete without accessories. This is such an integral part to having a complete and polished look, plus it’s a way you can add a pop of colour or ‘craziness’ to an otherwise simple or block colour dress i.e. the old reliable LBD!  If the budget is tight pick up an inexpensive dress and invest in good accessories that can be worn again and again with both day wear or evening wear.  We’ve mentioned Irish designer Ali Nash before, great  jewellery that’s not mass produced and something a little different. (Check out our previous post on Ali Nash here or her site alinash.com) Ali will also create a bespoke piece if you have something particular in mind which would add to the sense of glamour.  Failing that we’ve picked out some of the best on offer through the high street and again we were not disappointed.

Let’s start from top and work our way down!  Earrings, love them or hate them they are a must have accessory this season.  We’ve chosen accessories mostly from Accessorize.  These colours will go with any dress so you should get to wear them again and again. From left – Pearly Chandelier €20, Show Stopping Chandelier €24 and the Teardrop Earring for €20.  All well priced.

We were sticking with Accessorize for accessories but we couldn’t resist adding a twist with these necklaces from Friis at BT2.  They will had an edge to which ever dress you choose.  The first would sit so well with the pink Symphony dress from Coast where as the other two will give an 80′s funky finish to any dress, and then work with a tank top or tee and skinny jeans for casual wear.

If you don’t have an assistant or make-up artist on hand you will be lowered to carrying your own handbag!  We’ve discovered three absolute gems at Accessorize with our favourtie being the bow detail bag in the middle.  Who needs Gina when you can ‘bag’ (sorry, couldn’t resist) yourself a Sparkly Clutch for €51! Our pick, the Babylon Bow Clutch, is an amazing €42 and the Chainmail Clutch, €42.

You have almost completed your look, the finishing touches are the Mega Bling Bracelet €30.50 and/or the Pearly Queen Bangle at €27.  Add to that an obnoxiously large ring and you will fit in on any red carpet.  Rihanna is always spotted wearing large costume rings, our choice from Accessorize, the Keepsake Ring is a bargain at only €25.50!  There you are fully kitted out, now you just need the invite!

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Wow.ie have always been big fans of Irish jewellery designer Ali Nash, so it came as no surprise to us when Ali was announced as Dun Laoghaire Rathdown’s Female Entrepreneur of the Year.

Ali set up her label in 2004 creating distinctive handcrafted jewellery.  Ali’s collections include necklaces, bracelets and earrings which she designs and makes from her Dun Laoghaire based studio.

The designer uses precious and semi precious gems with antique beads all adorned with gold filled and vermeil chains and charms.  Ali travels the globe to source these unique beads mainly from Paris, Central America, India and Asia.  If you are a vintage fan you’ll probably love her designs plus they are all limited editions. Ali’s pieces can be bought through her own website alinash.com or selected galleries and boutiques which are listed on her site.

Well done Ali, it was well deserved.

From top Cobalt blue and honey jade necklace – €125, Green flourite and weaved vermeil bead bracelet – €100, Tibetian jade and chain bracelet -€90, Pink opal and aventurine earrings – €60.

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It’s round two for top British jewellery designer Stephen Webster, as he relaunches the now infamous mosquito ring aimed to raise money for ‘Malaria No More’.

Stephen Webster is jewellery designer to the stars, not only does he have Christina Aguilera modeling in his campaigns, but Johnny Depp and Kate Moss are huge fans.  Not to mention, the mosquito ring has been spotted on the likes of Victoria Beckham and Erin O’Connor.

For those of you like me, fans of gorgeous chunky jewellery… this is definitely one stocking-filler you do not want to miss out on.  Not only is it uniquely gorgeous, but you’ll be doing your bit for charity too.  Each ring sold will buy up to 10 life-saving mosquito nets in Africa, protecting as many as 20 people for five years!

The ring is rodium plated with crystal wings and is available only online at asos.com from today, 1st December.  But, be quick, this is an extremely limited edition, with only 300 available, so to save lives and wear a beautiful creation by jewellery mastermind Stephen Webster log on asap!

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The LBD is a must-have in every woman’s wardrobe and a Christmas party winner! The beauty of the LBD is that it can be updated to reflect the season’s biggest trends – all you need is a little inspiration. Littlewoods have sent us a snippet of their many accessories to give your LBD a Christmas party makeover. They are accepting orders up to the 19th December along with free delivery.

Littlewoods Ireland brings us its Top Ten Tips to inspire your Little Black Dress ahead of the Christmas party season:

1. Ditch the fake tan ladies! Leggings are all in this season. Not only do they add a bit of individual style but, they have the added bonus of giving much needed warmth to cold legs on a frosty December night! Go dramatic with Love Label Cut About leggings with cut away sides for an eye catching on trend look. €24

2. A girl can never have too many pairs of shoes and a black dress offers the perfect excuse to go all out with the brightest, highest heels for Christmas 2009! These Love Label Stacey peep toe platform sandals €44 stand out from the crowd! Available in metallic gold with mock lizard effect platform and multi-strap detail they instantly add that Christmas sparkle to your ensemble! And what’s more, they even have a padded in-sock for added comfort making them a must for dance floor divas!

3. A small metallic evening clutch is a great complement to a little black dress adding just a touch of shine for evening. Bags with sequins, beads and other embellishments are also terrific options. We love this South metallic diamante clutch in silver. €24

4. Make a show stopping entrance by teaming your LBD with the sheer luxury of this silver Teatro faux fur coat €119. A fabulous statement piece that will last for years to come.

5. A belt creates a slimming silhouette as well as adding interest to a plain black dress. This season opt for studs or beading with this Vintage style stud elasticated belt. €24

6. For a rock chic vibe, the LBD can take a walk on the wild side with this South leather biker jacket €99, and these Love Label stud detail platform boots €59. Complete the look with these bangles, €19.

7. This season’s key statement jewellery pieces give new life to any LBD. Think sparkle – this gorgeous pearl & diamante cuff is right on trend for Christmas 2009, reduced to €19!

8. Go for romantic, 1940’s Audrey Hepburn Hollywood glamour by wearing your LBD with these Redfoot Dita pumps €44 and this gorgeous pearl necklace and bracelet set €29.

9. Leopard print is back this winter but don’t overdo it! Team your LBD with this Love Label patent leopard print clutch €27, and waist belt set €24.

10. Black is a frame for colour that pops, and this season red is that colour! Team your LBD with these Love Label Lavish frill suede platform shoes €59 in red for ultimate drama with little effort. These shoes also come in purple and blue.

There you have the 10 commandments to dressing up your LBD.  Some of these ideas should get your creative juices flowing.  If any of you are particularly proud of your creations we’d love you to send us a picture for our street style section!

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Her ethos goes like this…”Jewellery is the outfit, clothing is the accessory”…and it’s clear to see why when you wear her jewellery! Much more than just a statement piece, each of her stunning individual and unique items have been carefully selected from around the world personally by Rebecca, with her customers in mind!

Rebeccca Davis first set up her jewellery business online, and after a year of a successful business and happy customers she took a leap into the world of retail and set up shop in the exclusive Westbury Mall in Dublin.  She carries the most eclectic line of jewellery, including her own designs… and with Christmas just around the corner, this little jewellery haven is the perfect place to buy any fashionista a little gem (hint hint).  Prices for large cocktail rings start at only €100, so there is something for everyone’s price range here… you find jewellery in highstreet stores at this price now so it’s so much more special to find something one-off here and support a growing Irish business while you’re at it.

With famous customers like Beyonce, it’s no wonder Rebecca Davis’ jewellery is at the top of its game!  Part of her success has been down to the unique pieces that she sells, and the combination of Irish and International designers.  Rebecca’s pieces have even featured in Sex and the City the movie!

If you’re looking to create that wow factor, Rebecca Davis jewellery should be your one-stop shop and luckily you don’t have to be in Ireland to purchase, she ships overseas too, just check out her website www.rebeccadavis.com.

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