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As the days grow longer and the weather grows warmer, swimwear trends are slowly edging their way to the forefront of the fashion scene. Like any other in-vogue fashion trend, popular swimsuit design changes from year to year. You can root through your closet for last year’s classic style, but if you want to fill your summer wardrobe with eye-catching bikinis and chic one-pieces, you have to keep up with the current cuts and styles.

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Thankfully, swimwear fashion debuts early. In fact, Miami Swim Week premiered some of the top runway trends in swimsuit fashion that will be all over the beach this year. Here are some of the best styles you should be looking out for, inspired by runway designs.

High-Cut Legs

Although high-cut legs are not a new trend in swimwear fashion, they are a particularly flattering one. Falling higher on the hips, this style elongates your legs and lengthens your entire figure. They can appear in high-waisted or low-rise bottoms, but either way, they are particularly complimentary on almost any body type.

This season, high-cut legs will become especially prominent. You’ll see them paired with a high-rise waistband and a skimpy cut, creating a look that extends your figure while simultaneously drawing attention to your backside. 

Retro

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Trends are nothing if not cyclical, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that retro styles continuously work their way in and out of popular fashion. This season, retro is back again, primarily featuring styles that evoke 80’s and 90’s fashion. Sporty tankinis, ruching along the bodice, and vivid prints and neon colours will be prominent by the seaside. Polka dots and zippered details will be especially popular, along with suits that feature a little more coverage. Accessorized correctly, you could even pull off many of these timeless styles as a trendy streetwear outfit., you could even pull off many of these timeless styles as a trendy streetwear outfit.

Animal Print

Animal prints have been bringing their wild but neutral look to the runway for several seasons, and it doesn’t appear that they’ll be stopping any time soon. At the same time, animal rights are of the utmost importance in the current climate, so faux fabrics are the new norm. Thankfully, genuine animal skin isn’t a concern when it comes to your swimwear, allowing you to embrace this stylish look without a hint of guilt.

Classic leopard print and sleek snake print will be popular choices for trendy bikinis and one-pieces as a way of bringing flashy, animalistic flair to your day at the beach. A printed top or bottom can be paired with an article in a solid colour for a wholly sophisticated look.

Knotted Details

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Basic women’s designer swimwear doesn’t cut it anymore this season. While a sleek, no-frills look used to the height of fashion, swimwear trends are moving towards more intricate designs. Knotted details and elaborate ties are taking over the swimwear scene. Minimalism is out, embellishments that allow the suit to double as a top are in.

Stringy ties that wrap around your body multiple times are a particularly popular way to embrace this trend. If you still veer towards a simpler style, knotted waistbands and decorative ties can also allow you to add this style to your wardrobe. Either way, this season’s trends are moving towards showy adornments, rather than the austere style that was so prevalent in the past.

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Embrace the swimwear trend that resonates with your everyday sense of style, find a cut that hugs your body shape perfectly, and go out and rock it confidently!

With Christmas literally days away, and very few shopping hours left until the big day, the race is on to complete the seemingly never ending list of friends and family we need to buy for.

If you have yet to buy something for the men in your list, we are here to help!

From socks to watches, Jacamo has plenty of gifts to choose from, and with ‘three for two’ on stocking fillers, and next day delivery available, there is still time to shop online!

Comfy And Cosy


Picture from Jacamo.com

Who doesn’t love lounging around in pyjamas this time of year!

This ‘man of steel’ lounging set will keep him looking cool but staying warm this winter.

You could even splash out and treat him to a warm fleecy dressing gown, and slippers to really go that extra mile!

Grooming


Picture from Jacamo.com

If its skin and hair care he enjoys, then look no further than this L’Oreal Men Ultimate Grooming Set with everything he needs to stay looking and smelling sharp this season. A great gift to satisfy all of his male grooming needs.
There are also smaller sets available which are great as stocking fillers!

Clothing


Picture from Jacamo.com

There is plenty of top named brand clothing available at Jacamo, and if sizes and styles of Jeans available seem like a bit of a minefield, the handy fit guide can help you decide!

Jacamo has a great range of winter coats and jackets to choose from, and with returns up to 15th January, you can’t go wrong buying him a coat to keep him warm this winter!

Technology

Picture from Jacamo.com

If it’s tech he is into, then with loads of deals available there is plenty to choose from, like this 2-in-one laptop/tablet, with plenty going on inside!
If that’s not his thing, then who could resist a virtual reality gaming pack. With stunning visuals, 3D audio and intuitive controls from PlayStation, this will appeal to the boy inside every man!

And For The Man Who Has It All...


Picture from Jacamo.com

There are plenty of novel and quirky gift ideas available, like this pack of 6 vinyl coasters. Guaranteed to be a conversation starter in any home!

Whatever gifts or stacking fillers you are still on the hunt for, check out Jacamo.co.uk for a wide range of choice and ideas.

Happy Shopping!

After what felt like an endless summer, the autumn and winter fashion season is well underway. Velvet comes in and out of fashion each winter, but this year it is getting serious.

There are many reasons why you should be loving this classic winter fabric - it can be dressed up, styled down, looks great on accessories and is also perfect for the festive season.

Adding a splash of velvet to your look can instantly transform it and make it feel so much more romantic and glamorous without being too over the top.

For a more casual look, pair the velvet element with trainers, chunky, glamorous jewellery and statement bags.

The material is super cosy and warm, which is perfect for winter.

There are so many ways to style and shop velvet this season, from chic velvet sets to long robes.

Here are some simple ways you can wear the velvet trend this winter.

Rich Colours


Picture: unsplash.com

Velvet fashion is perhaps the most elegant and sophisticated when in rich jewel tones, but that isn’t to say that you shouldn’t find some lighter tones which are chic as well!

If you are ever in doubt when it comes to wearing velvet, stick to the deeper and darker shades. They are going to be your safest option if you don’t want to get it wrong.

Black velvet is a classic go-to, but don’t be afraid to play with the jewel tone department - think emerald greens, deep blues and bold reds.

Seek The Smooth Velvet


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It’s very easy to find pieces made from crushed velvet, but you should always be wary. It is easy for even the most expensive designs to look cheap if the velvet is crinkled and ruffled, so look for smooth velvet which speaks to you and your styles.

It is easy to differentiate when you are looking at different velvet designs as the right fabric will feel and look great. By pairing together the right jewel shades with smooth velvet pieces, you will create the perfect basis to start your search.

If you don’t want to add a velvet piece to the main bulk of your wardrobe, take a look at investing in some velvet shoes. They’re sure to add a splash of style to whatever you are wearing.

Add It To Your Professional Wardrobe

Suits or blazers made from plush fabric may sound a little strange, but it can make for a great look. If you opt for a velvet blazer paired with a silk top, then you’ll have two extremely luscious fabrics next to one another, giving a rich and luxurious style.

Velvet fashion is also wearable as other pieces of outerwear. Coats are a great piece to invest in if you don’t want to wear velvet throughout the day and it is one of the most luxurious and striking iterations of velvet you can add to your wardrobe. It’s easy to style, as you can wear it over pretty much any style of outfit without having to worry about it overpowering anything.

Wearing A Velvet Dress

You may find that a velvet dress is one thing you are missing from your wardrobe, especially during the winter.

Velvet dresses are seen at their most feminine when styled on the runway, as they can show just how versatile the fabric can be.

You can go playful and short with dresses which contain velvet ruffles or you can even go more luxurious with velvet making up the body of the dress. Either way, velvet adds so much to even the most standard of dresses which come in similar styles or designs.

If you do wear a velvet dress, let that be the main star of your look. You don’t need to worry too much about accessorising a velvet dress as the fabric speaks for itself. Simply add a pair of complementary shoes, a simple bag and maybe a piece of jewellery and you’re ready to go no matter the time of year.

Accessorise


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Whilst velvet chokers have been in style for a while now, this winter is the perfect time to add to your velvet accessory collection. Velvet scarfs look amazing with even the simplest of outfits, especially if you are looking for ways to stay warm and stylish this winter.

One of the best velvet accessories you will be able to find is a handbag. A lot of the top designers and fashion houses have recently focused a lot of work on velvet handbag designs and styles, so you’re sure to find your dream bag in no time if you have a browse around.

If you don’t want to go that bold, why not start off your velvet collection in the comfort of your own home? There are plenty of women's sleepwear sets that come with velvet styles, so you can see if you like the style and feel of the material before you invest in something a little more daring.

Plus, they’re warm to get cosy in over the winter!

It’s extremely easy to add velvet into your everyday looks, and you’ll find just how well even just a splash of velvet can completely transform your outfit from day to night.

Velvet is a winter trend which everyone should get behind.

Written by Natalie Wilson

As 2018 comes to a close (gasp), I think back to what has or what can make me more productive and inspired as a business owner and creative. The list is long and is still being written; but fear not, I have my top six that I selected for your enjoyment (hopefully) and gift-search ideas. Enjoy!

Therapy Big Ideas Soft Bound Notebook (£10)

Picture source: www.houseoffraser.co.uk

For those creative ideas or business plans that are yet to be realised, why not write them down? I have found that some of my greatest ideas were written on paper, not on a tablet or phone. Interesting, right? But for what it's worth, why not get a cute notepad that gives you reason to create new ideas in the new year?

Bobble Insulate Water Bottle (£21.99)

Picture source: www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Drink water hot or cool in Bobble's cute insulate bottle- such a good money-saver! And you can keep beverages hot for up to 12 hours. It is eco-friendly and durable, with a double-wall vacuum insulated stainless steel which is BPA free.

Biba Bag For Life (£8)

Picture source: www.houseoffraser.co.uk

100% organic cotton tote, for your every day use. Do away with countless plastic bags and contribute to saving the environment. Also, think of all the pennies you could save in just 6 months when you shop with a Bag for Life.

Kiehls Glow Formula Skin Hydrator (£30)

Picture source:www.houseoffraser.co.uk

This antioxidant-rich moisturiser hydrates skin and boosts its radiant look. Don't let the winter's harshness get to your skin!

Urbanista Seattle Wireless Headphones (£99.99)

Picture source: www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Compatible with Android, IOS and Windows, these sleek and comfortable wireless headphones are a dream grab for anyone on the go. If the stylish design isn't enough to draw you in, how about the fact that you can manage both your music and phones calls?

Linea Etched Copper Box Range (£22)

Picture source:www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Both stylish and practical! We know so many things can be stored digitally these days, but for those precious things that clutter your home or work space, these boxes are great. Boxes come in different sizes.

Visit www.houseoffraser.co.uk for all items.

What are your favourite items this season?

Written by: Keji Ewuosho

Clothes designers can’t always be strong in every area of clothing that they design and right now, the area to shop, with the strongest fashion impact is in the accessories department.

At the moment, more is definitely more and that means that our wardrobes are in for a huge transformation with the purchase of just a few items.

If you want a fast-track to an updated wardrobe for winter, then check out some accessories with the highest impact that you can add to your collection.

Sculptural Earrings

Picture: Unsplash.com

Big earrings are the new avocado on toast - big, fun earrings don’t need to cost a fortune.

It can be easy to get carried away with the size and colours, so try and choose something that you know you will be pleased to still see and use in a year or so.

Whilst small and dainty earrings had their time in 2017, 2018 has seen accessories go back to bold. 2019 is set to see earrings become much more minimalist and modern - think geometric and sculptural shapes in gold and silver.

Whether you pair with a black roll neck or a high-power work suit, a pair of earrings is sure to add to any outfit.

Diamanté Shoes

If you can’t help but enjoy something with a little bit of sparkle, then your wardrobe is sure to benefit from a dazzling pair of diamante shoes.

Crystals, gemstones and diamanté can all be found studded onto some of this seasons biggest shoe trends, from stiletto heels to encrusted diamanté thigh high boots. There’s no shortage of shoes that have been transformed with a few jewels.

A great way to add some style to a basic jeans and jumper combo, you need a pair of sparkly shoes in your wardrobe this winter.

Unusual Handbag


Picture: Unsplash.com

Whilst a classic black tote is ideal for work, you don’t want to just have one style of handbag as you go from the weekdays to weekends or days to evenings.

Bag designers are currently having a lot of fun, from unusual fabrics, such as velvet and suede, to fun details like chain handles and sequins, there is no bag which is too 'out there'.

If you are having trouble finding a bag that is both weird and wonderful (and within your price range) then have a browse through your local charity or vintage stores - they’re sure to have plenty of budget-friendly options for you to choose from.

'Extra' Makeup


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Thanks to festivals and the resurgence of 80's and 90's fashion, makeup has had a complete transformation over the past few years. Trends were once simple and elegant, but now more is better.

Glitter makeup features heavily in most makeup looks, whether it’s across your eyelids, in your brows or used as a highlighter. Neon and gold are also really popular, with contrasting colours spread across your eyelids, cheekbones and lips.

'Snake' Into The New Year

Snake print is one of those things that doesn’t look different when expensive or affordable. When the pattern is in a neutral shade, you’re sure to find a pair of boots or a shirt which will last way beyond the initial trend.

If you’re looking for a pair of snakeskin print boots, then a 90's heels and toe shape is the perfect style and possibly the most sophisticated item of clothing you’ll find on the high street this winter.

Written By: Natalie Wilson

The season of joy and giving is approaching and as every year the struggle to find the right gift for friends and family is once again a nightmare. So, to take the stress away we have compiled a list of stylish gift picks for every Him and Her and the kids. And to make it easier for you we kept it all under one roof, all gift ideas are available at Debenhams online or in-store

HAPPY SHOPPING !!



This sweet tasting Raspberry infused Gin is the perfect gift for the G&T connoisseur.

For the skin care junky a Clarins skin solution set is the ideal gift, and for the makeup enthusiast a makeup blockbuster gift set will offer the ultimate makeup collection that will last all year long.

For the fashion conscious the Jenny Packham - Black embellished diamond velvet bag, will be a flawless edition to her occasion handbag collection.



A bold Rum for a bold man, the Peaky Blinders black spiced Rum! Or, for the beer maker a DIY Beer or Cider making kit.

For the gym junky the Men’s Society gym kit is the ideal essential for his gym bag, and the Hammond and Co. by Patrick Grant - black leather hold-all is perfect gift for the man that loves to travel.



Gifts for the homemaker,the Bosch Tassimo Vivy 2 coffee machine with its sleek space saving design is the ultimate gift for the coffee lover.

The Abigail Ahern multi coloured Leopard embroidered cushion will be a loved edition to the decor obsessed and pair that with a lamp from the MW -Matthew Williamson collection and she and her living room or bedroom will love you forever!

Last but not least the gold metal multi coloured glass lantern will be a great last minute gift or stocking filler.



For the sweet tooth give him or her their own Milkshake maker, and the Alice Scott, Pink and Green Palm Print 'Lunch Goals' Lunchbox for the #instagoals school girl.

For the creator and Lego builder the 'Jurassic World - Blue's Helicopter Pursuit' set, and for the gadget lover you can find a host of geeky gifts - from Smartphone photo printers to smartphone projectors.

Now that everyone else's presents are sorted...its time to make sure Santa knows what you want for yourself this Christmas!

HAPPY HINTING!!!

Summer is quickly becoming a distant memory, and the weather is reminding us daily that it is time to ditch the summer wardrobe and say hello to a new season of fashion, cosy nights in and an abundance of chocolate.

Although it can often be difficult getting into the swing of things after a seemingly endless summer, particularly when it comes to transforming your wardrobe from bikinis to jumpers. No need to stress, you’re top 2018 Winter trends are coming your way making your Christmas that little bit easier!

Boots


Photograph source: Pexels.com

Photograph source: Pexels.com

We all know Winter wouldn’t be Winter without a great pair of boots (or three) and it’s no secret that Alexander McQueen’s Winter boot collection is breath-taking. The collection hosts an array of gorgeous styles ranging from chunky ankle boots to sexy leather thigh-highs. Or nod to the 60's with the beautifully elegant leather mid-calf length boots with a round toe and block heel.

Luckily, such pieces haven’t gone a miss, and high-street retail has brought out their own interpretation of boots, saving you a whole load of money this Winter.

Pair your thigh-highs with an oversized knit for a cute yet effortless look which is often modelled by Ariana Grande. Or if the thought of bare legs is making your shiver, you can wear with jeans or tights. In the Style is a great place to look for affordable boots that are inspired by the catwalk.

Coats


Photograph source: Pexels.com

Being cold is not an option this year, as an over-spill of coats from the runway take over the high street in an abundance of styles, you are sure to find one that suits you! A particularly popular trend this Winter is the shearling jacket that has originated from the Stone Age where sheepskin was used to protect and insulate. Almost 2.5 million years later, this historical classic has made it onto the 2018 runway, being interpreted by a range of designers in a host of different styles including; leather, denim, suede and bomber, all combined with essences of Shearling. A piece we cannot ignore is by Giorgio Armani which contained a mix of brown suede and leather giving the jacket texture and detail, costing a total of £2900.

If that’s too hard to swallow, the high-streets have brought out a range of heavy-duty faux shearling jackets that look good enough for the runway at totally affordable prices making it a worthwhile investment this Winter. This smart sophisticated jacket looks super cute worn causally with a pair of jeans, a t-shirt and some casual shoes, adding an essence of boldness and grunge to a ‘made no effort’ outfit.

Alternatively, a statement coat is a perfect way to effortlessly add a pop of colour and texture to a neutral or black outfit, making you look like you are fresh off the runway. Oversized bomber jackets are super on trend this season as well as faux fur and long trench coats. The options are endless, and each are a great way of making a statement as well as staying warm and comfortable this Winter.

Home Comforts


Photograph source: Pexels.com

Fashion doesn’t always have to leave the house, particularly during the cold festive months of Winter. Keeping up with Winter trends begins at home.

Although it may not seem obvious, sleeping trends are a thing and are becoming increasingly popular, particularly on the high-street. Women's sleepwear is a forever expanding category and is being payed more attention to in the fashion industry with an abundance of styles to choose from. You can now find over 1000 sleepwear styles online making the perfect necessity for a cosy night in, or a great stocking filler for your loved ones. A popular sleepwear style this year is the traditional shirt and trouser set that you can find in an array of different colours and fabrics.

Oversized Sweatshirts

This trend is a definite favourite as it offers comfort and warmth as well as a cute and effortless look that you can wear with anything. You can find these sweaters anywhere, from Primark to Urban Outfitters depending on your budget. A top trick is to look in the men’s section for that perfect oversized fit. Pair your sweater with some thigh-high or ankle boots or some Mum jeans and trainers for that super cute 90's skater look. If you want to dress this look up, then switch the sweatshirt for a chunky knit. The best knitwear on the high-street this Winter is embracing bright colours to inject the dark weather with a pop of vibrancy. You can find affordable pieces like this in River Island, Primark and Topshop.

Written by: Poppy Jones

You should never hoard clothes or keep items that you no longer wear or like.

It’s official – Christmas is just around the corner and the work party season has well and truly arrived!

But how do you dress for a Christmas party if the venue of choice is less than conventional? With bosses choosing quirkier venues to host the festive celebrations, many of us have been left wondering just what on earth to wear.

You can’t go far wrong with the little black dress, but what if your work party requires something a tad more practical? Luckily, River Island have got you covered with this handy guide on how to dress for any office party venue:

Sophisticated Stately Home:


Image source: River Island

If you’re one of the lucky ones, you could be celebrating your work Christmas party in a stately home or castle. Here, you might be greeted with a medieval banquet, take part in some activities or enjoy a ball in your surroundings. Of course, it depends on what’s lined up for you at your party but it’s nice to look the part.

If you’re going to be doing a lot of dancing, you may want to opt for something more comfortable.

Plisse trousers have been on-trend in recent years — they’re comfy and fashionable! This style is perfect for flexibility in movement and keeping your legs covered for the cooler temperatures. Pair with a three-quarter sleeve fitted top or a bardot style crop to complete your look. This style goes great with flat or heeled shoes, so wear what you feel comfortable in. The great thing about these pants too is that they’ve got an elasticated waist (ideal for tucking into a medieval buffet!).

Bowling And Drinks:


Image source: River Island

Who doesn’t enjoy showing off their competitive side? If your Christmas party is at a bowling alley, chances are you’ll probably be heading out for a few drinks afterwards, so you need something that’s suitable for scoring a strike and for when you’re drinking cocktails later on.

Comfort is the name of the game here – but you’ll want to keep it stylish, of course. Think on-trend jumpsuits and trousers with a cute top. You’ve probably noticed that ‘80s fashion has been back with a bang this year, and it hasn’t stopped for AW18. It’s all about being bold with your colour palette and really owning it! It’s not often your colleagues get to see you outside of your work-wear so show them your true colours in a bold jumpsuit. Choose one with a chunky belt to create that ‘80s inspired cinched waist and accessorise with statement hoops.

You can’t go far wrong with this summer’s hottest trend – culottes. But there are so many varieties now that they certainly shouldn’t be kept for just one season.

Play it safe with high-waisted black trousers and jazz it up top with a glitter-infused bodysuit or cute crop — pair with a sparkly clutch and your good to go.

Traditional Restaurant Meal:


Image source: River Island

A meal and drinks is the traditional Christmas party format.

A traditional meal in a restaurant is the most common choice of Christmas party format. But, how should you dress for an occasion like this? It can be uncomfortable to eat a roast dinner in a tight bodycon, but you don’t want to be dressed informally for when you hit the bars later on.

If the little black dress just isn’t your thing, you may want to try something a bit more daring. Show off your pins in a midi dress and channel your inner party animal with leopard or snake print (two patterns that are very on-trend this season). Pair with barely-there sandals and a matching bag and your good to go!Of course, with the temperature being on the chilly side in December, you might want to try jeans with an embellished cami top. The covered legs will keep you warm when you’re moving from restaurant to bar and your fancy top will be admired over the dinner table.

This season, it’s all about sequin embellishments and metallic camis — perfect for this years’ festivities.

Party On A Rooftop Terrace:


Image source: River Island

Let’s face it, we all wish summer could last forever. Due to the colder climate of the UK, we don’t get to spend much time outdoors during the autumn and winter so a party on a rooftop makes a nice change!

Rooftop terrace parties give you the chance to really show off your style credentials – think red dresses, sequins or long glittering ball gowns. Why not go all out in a sequin maxi dress? Or pair an accordion skirt with a sequin top. Keep your feet warm in suede heeled ankle boots or a dressy loafer.

Outdoor venues definitely call for a good coat. This season it’s all about faux fur and we’re loving it! Keep it classic in a black or brown waist-length jacket or go big and bold with a coloured fur coat and chunky collar.

If this isn’t your style, you can’t go wrong in a classic leather jacket — match with a cross-body clutch and your outfit is complete.

BE YOUR OWN SUCCESS, a mantra by which Irish jewellery designer Melissa Curry has lived, from the beginning of her career in Paris in 1998 to her success now.

Launching her first collection at the Leclaireur in Paris, followed by an invitation to show at Paris Fashion week in 1999, to her successful partnership with Virgin Airlines. A partnership which has seen her gold BYOS bar as the 10th best seller in the Virgin Atlantic Retail Therapy Magazine - 2016. Her success has seen her pieces being worn by the Royals, and the former First Lady, Michelle Obama.

Image Source: byosmelissacurry.com

Image Source: melissacurry.com

Each and every piece in her collection has a timeless elegance and a playful mix of texture and colour to it. Making it a dream to wear for women who love to add colour and texture to their everyday outfits.

Drawing inspiration from life, culture and world events, she designs each piece as something personal, for her the designer as well as the wearer. It is this personal connection that adds a sense of vibrancy and beauty to each piece.

Image Source: melissacurry.com

Image Source: melissacurry.com

She wants women to feel that, they are the driving force behind their own success and that, when you put on one of her bracelets, earring or necklaces, that you are empowered to be yourself and to build on your own success.

"It’s about being you, knowing what makes you tick, what makes your heart work, what makes your mind work, and embodying that.” -Melissa Curry

Find and shop her collection today at www.melissacurry.com