Catch of the Day

I'm loving Red Herring Accessories at the moment! I was in Debenhams in Waterford at the weekend and couldn't resist these pieces, particularly when I saw the little red stickers with 70% off.  Red Herring jewellery first gained my adoration 2 years ago when I bought a stunning piece for an outfit I styled for my sister-in-law (it still pains me that I didn't keep it for myself).  Accessories aside the label also offers footwear, outerwear, occasion and casual wear not forgetting beachwear.  If there isn't a Debenhams near you or you just don't have the time for a visit go to their website now there are lots of Red Herring deals http://www.debenhams.com/

Bracelet was €15.50, I paid €4.65 - Earrings were €12.50, I paid €3.75 - Necklace was €19, I paid €5.70

Play Date

One month has passed since receiving a special thank you gift from Annette Matthews of Shugal for featuring her shoe clips in 24Seven - today I decided it was about time the clips, my shoes and I had some fun.  Seconds later my floor was a sea of shoes but I managed to narrow it down to 3 pairs a pair for each set of clips.  The clips as promised are simple to attach and my feet were completely unaware of their adorned accessories.  I must make this a regular play-date; similar to an afternoon in a shoe shop without the hefty bill at the end.

Shugal Shoe Clips are available to purchase on line and there are a number of stockists in Ireland of which details are given on http://www.shugal.biz

PS Thanks Dylan x (my son the budding photographer)

24Seven Publication 13th July 2010

I haven't posted my 24Seven Publications in over a month - didn't want it to take over my blog as it is a weekly magazine.  Going forward I've decided to only post these images once a month choosing my favourite from the past months features.  To view all of my 24Seven Features check out my Facebook page.

Stamp Approval for Irish Fashion Designers

I have a vague memory of beginning a stamp collection when I was a child.  Little enjoyment was attained so it was a short lived hobby and stamps went completely off my radar (barring the posting of Christmas cards and the odd postcard).  Who'd have foreseen a day when I'd find myself rush excitedly to the Post Office not solely to see their most recent stamps but to take their photo?  On Thursday 15th July An Post launched a collection of 6 Stamps designed by Ger Garland to honour the National and International work of a selection of Irelands Fashion Designers.  The first set celebrates the work of Paul Costelloe, Louise Kennedy and Lainey Keogh while the second set honours John Rocha, Philip Treacy and Orla Kiely.  The stamps look fantastic and the embossed print adds some touchy feely luxury.  Both sets will be stylishly framed and hung with pride in my office as a reminder of our countrys fantastic designers and my pathetic attempt at stamp collecting.  http://www.irishstamps.ie/Shop/c-62-irish-fashion-designers.aspx

Meeting of the Sales

I had my annual meeting with the sales earlier this week as a birthday treat and had an amazing day - did not want to come home!  With my birthday falling midst the summer reductions and having my wallet lined with extra cash (thanks to my loving family) I'd like to think over the years I've become a savvy spender.  Here are my top sale shopping tips to help you

• Review your wardrobe; make note of pieces you don't wear but would love to if you had a top to match or co-ordinating shoes.  Do you have lots of Going Out Clothes but lacking Casuals?  Lots of trousers not enough tops?  Need a new jacket?  Scribble down a small list of items you could buy which will help you wear your existing wardrobe more.

• Plan your shopping trip for an early morning weekday when the shops are quieter. The sale rails and rows of shoes won't be in disarray from crowds of manic shoppers and you won't have to experience the unpleasantness of pushing and shoving.

• Shop ALONE I know it doesn't sound as much fun as a day with the girls but you won't get second opinions or be distracted by what they're looking at.  Plan a separate trip with the girls when you can show off your new purchases.

• Wear comfortable clothes that are easy to change in and out of (again and again).  Normally I wear jeans and a simple top with a light cardigan/jacket over it and comfy wedges.  Avoid wearing bracelets....either they'll snag the clothes when trying on or you'll have to take them off each time.  An across the body bag will leave your hands free for routing and carrying.  Bring some water and chocolate to keep you hydrated and energised (I'll make up any excuse for chocolate breaks)

• Don't purchase anything without first trying it on and looking at yourself from all angles.  If possible it's a good idea to step out of the changing cubicle and take a look at yourself from a distance for a far more flattering and full lenght view.

• Stick to your list - if you must make an impulse buy then treat yourself to some statement jewellery.  You can never have too many accessories.

Happy shopping!!xx