Hannah Collins

A blog about a little bit of everything and anything from my life.

Tuesday 20 November 2012

My Wish List!

As a girl who loves fashion, I've created a wish list of items, collected over the years of iconic pieces that have caught my eye from famous designers including Vivienne Westwood and Christian Louboutin. Hopefully sometime in the future I will be add these beautiful designs to my wardrobe.

                                          The Shoes

Daffodile black platform shoes, £635.00


French footwear designer Christian Louboutin is most recognised for the red platformed sole which makes his style iconic. This versatile daffodile style is designed with kid leather and a 160mm heel, which will put you heads above the rest in the style stakes. Ideal for a stylish day look, make the shoes the statement and keep the rest of the style neutral. Or opt for a fitted bodycon style dress and team with a black leather clutch bag, to make you red carpet fabulous.
From the first time I slipped my foot in the smooth elegant design of the Louboutin, I have been hooked with this designer and hope my shoe dream will come true.

                                           The Handbag

Classic Orb Coconut Bag Black, £745.00





 
British designer Vivienne Westwood is most iconic for the classic orb design on her products. This leather bag is designed with a crocodile skin effect and finished with the golden orb on the outside with a classic grey scribble Orb lining. I love the versality of this product, the black colour design will go with any outfit whether day or night and is the perfect size to carry all your daily essentials. It is my must have handbag on my wish list.

                                      The Earrings



Tiffany solitaire diamond earrings, £870





 
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend and these22 carat diamond earrings are too die for. These diamond sparklers are at the top of my wish list, a bit of bling brightens up your style and this classic design would never fade. Tiffany & Co. are famous for their exquisite jewellery designs and since I spotted the design in New York a couple of years ago, I’ve always dreamed of owning these diamonds.  






Images sourced from: http://eu.christianlouboutin.com/uk_en/shop/women/daffodile-kid-8.html

http://www.viviennewestwood.co.uk/shop/womens-accessories/bags/classic-orb-coconut-bag-black-5779-14724/

http://www.tiffany.co.uk/Shopping/Item.aspx?sku=GRP00432





We Will Rock You Theatre Review

 
We Will Rock You is a west-end jukebox musical based on the songs of rock legends Queen named after the toe-tapping single of the same name. The 10-year-sell-out international production written by funny-man Ben Elton in collaboration with Queen superstars Brian May and Roger Taylor has fans dancing in their seats in 15 countries worldwide.
 
The Dominion Theatre’s longest ever running production didn’t fail to disappoint; there was music, dancing, lights and the best two and half hours of my life put together in a show stopping magical production.
 
The plot was a very powerful and current theme for the 21st Century; set in the dystopian future of Planet Mall, the rock rebel bohemians want to change the Ga-Ga world of music downloading and re-discover the Golden Age of real bands creating real music.
 
Out of this world stage production captured the futuristic element with a jaw dropping set that veered out over the heads of the audience and rock-tastic costumes that mirrored pop legends Madonna and Robbie Williams.
 
Brenda Roberts’s energy had mums, dads, grandmas and granddads and even the kids singing along in her phenomenal portrayal of Killer Queen with her pitch perfect voice and booty shaking moves.
 
Most definitely it was the outstanding brilliance of the orchestra who packed out the theatre with their instrumental rendition of Queen’s top rock hits, who stole the show.
 
The sheer buzz and excitement of people leaving the theatre, showed how no matter where you were sitting or how much a fan you were of Queen before the show, you couldn’t help but love We Will Rock You.
 
It rocked to Number one on my theatre review.
 

 
                


Image sourced from: http://www.daysoutguide.co.uk/we-will-rock-you

Monday 19 November 2012

Kardashian Kollection

The three sisters: Khloe, Kourtney and Kim, most famous for their reality show Keeping up with the Kardashians on E! have launched their Kardashian Kollection in high street fashion retailer Dorothy Perkins.
After the success of their DASH boutiques in New York and Miami, they decided to venture to the UK to give their eager fans the chance to steal the style of their favourite Kardashian.
Whether it's glamorous Kim, effortless Kourtney or laid back Khloe, there's a range of clothes, shoes and accessories to choose from.

After all the hype of the Kardashian Kollection mania had calmed down, I took a trip to the Dorothy Perkins store at the Trafford Centre in Manchester to see whether it would live up to my expectations.
In my honest opinion, I do believe there was a few select pieces I rather admired myself and they were reasonably priced but I could not quite imagine any of the Kardashians wearing these to a red carpet event.

My favourite pieces:
The Dress
 
Kardashian smoke print dress,£50
 
 
This tight fitted bodycon number is perfect if you've got Kardashian curves to extenuate. Designed with padded cups and a structured bodice, this smoke printed dress will create the ultimate sophisticated silhouette for a glamorous girly night out. Team with black platform heels, bright red lipstick and smokey eyes to achieve the iconic Kardashian look.
 
The Top
 
 

Kardashian black spot blouse, £35.00
 
This sheer black blouse is designed with elegance and sophistication in mind. The long sleeve ruffle neckline and textured spot mesh sleeves add texture to this feminine and chic design, perfect for a glamorous office look or cocktails with friends. Team with black skinny jeans and a splash a colour with a burgundy clutch and set of wedges which is bang on trend this season.
 
 
The clutch
 
 
 
Kardashian black box clutch, £30.00
 
 
 
This delicate snake skin clutch is an ideal accessory for a glamorous evening look. Available in both black and gold and complete with a detachable gold chain, you can carry this cute clutch or wear it on your shoulder. This accessory will either make the outfit as a statement piece or complement the look perfectly.
 
 
 


Monday 13 August 2012

Back to school fashion at Middleton Grange Shopping Centre in Hartlepool

Schools out! Summers Here (well kind of)! And BHS have just launched their brand new schoolwear range, to get the kids looking top of the class, without breaking the piggy bank.
So head to Middleton Grange, to see the range of afforable fashion items for ages 3-16 years, that will keep the kids on trend throughout the Summer/ Autumn/Winter season.

BHS Campaign

Here is a few of the top buys I found whilst out shopping yesterday:

Girls:

Layering is a key trend this season to keep you feeling warm and looking fashion fabulous, so in every girls wardrobe there should be a cute cardigan, perfect for the upcoming Autumn/ Winter season. The scalloped edged detailing gives this navy blue cardigan a girly feel, without breaking the school uniform rules. At £12 this cardigan is a steal and will go perfect over the top of the grey pinafore (below).


How could you not fall in love with this girly grey pinafore with ribbon and bow detailing, complete with a pretty puffed sleeved blouse underneath?! 2 in 1 for from only £12, match with a pair of black tights or add a splash of colour with red knee high socks. With sizes from 3-12 years, there's no excuse not to grab one of these today and keep looking stylish for less.


It may be a few months away, but it's never too early to get prepared for the cold winter months of winter, so BHS have launched a range of stylish winter coats for you to choose from. This bubble hem coat is one of my favourites; the popper side detailing cinches in the waist giving great shape to the overall design of the coat. And, best of all, it is complete with a faux fur hood, adding textured element to the staple black style which will provide you with warmth and comfort for all kinds of winter weather.

And don't forget the shoes! These black wedge ones with heart punchout detailing are cute as well as practible with a velcro strap for fastening and prices start from only £17.00.



Or if your a girl who likes to bring a sense of style to the classroom, snap up these on trend lace up brogues, as seen on catwalks for summer 2012. Designed with punched out heart detailing and a sturdy small heel to complete the classic brogue style; a practical and fashionable shoe without breaking the bank. Prices start from only £16.


Boys:

  

Get ready for the winter season, with this stylish v-neck jumper for just £8. The soft yarn material is made especially for style and comfort wear and perfect to keep warm for the autumn/winter season. This winter must have will last right through junior school, with sizes available from 4-10 years.


Grab a bargain! At just £8 for a pair of black trousers with an adjustable waist to ensure you get value for money and last you the year through. And don't forget the deep side pockets which are ideal for boys to store all their essentials.

These white polo tops are an essential for casual school wear, the easy stretch material makes them comfortable and stylish. And with prices from £6, you can afford to get one for every day of the week.

Sales for quilted jackets in 2012 have stormed the shelves, with high street stores such as BHS taking on the staple Barbour style, but for a fraction of the price. The burnt orange quilted material with brown cord detail, is the perfect colour palette for the autumn/ winter season and is ideal for layering up over your school uniform. 
These black smart shoes are easy to slip on and their versatility means not only can they be worn for school but they are perfect for weddings, dates or proms. They are easy to wipe clean, so are resistant to any conditions boys may get into. They are available for both junior and senior boys, with sizes ranging from 1-8, from £19.00.




















Start of college fashion at Middleton Grange Shopping Centre


A new (academic) year, a new you! Starting a new college year or the transition from school to college can be daunting, but no need to worry, with a new wardrobe full of hand-picked stylish treats; you'll be able to make the corridors your catwalk.

College fashion DO's:


  • Always carry a bag; avoid small shoulder bags and opt for a large satchel type; a tan colour will complement as a neutral shade to any outfit, but dark colours such as black and blue are ideal too, as they will hide any marks that may show up on a bright white or cream shade. They are perfect to fill with any books, stationary or work you may need.
Black slouch shoulder bag with gold zip detailing, £35.00, River Island
Beige mixed fabric flap over bag with adjustable straps, £40.00, River Island




  • Purchase a coat. This is England so the weather is normally unpredictable. Dig out your leather jacket or purchase military style jackets which are both on trend for Autumn/Winter 2012. They’re both lightweight and easy to carry, so wont take up much room in your bag. It’s always best to be prepared for the winter months, so head to Middleton Grange and see what they have in store, before they all sell out. 
Black Pu Faux Fur Collar Biker Jacket, 55.00, River Island.

  • Have lots of jewellrey. Whether its plain, quirky or bright, lots of bracelets or just one ring; accessories are the key to adding style to any outfit.
Gold tone owl stud earrings, £1.50, River Island

Pink Friendship Bracelet, £8.00, River Island

Gold tone peace sign necklace, £5.00, River Island


 
College fashion DONT's:

  • Don’t wear sweatpants every day. Once a week is fine, but leave them for home rather than the classroom. If you want to feel comfy, grab a pair of leggings and style with a long top and pumps for a laidback look. 

S- Dance Brown Print Top, £15.00 and Black Scuba Leggings, £18.00, both from River Island
As seen above with leather jacket, all from River Island



  • No high heels. There is a great range of stylish flats or small heeled wedges on the high street, so snap up a few pairs today, to keep you looking and feeling stylish without breaking the bank (or your neck!)
Black bow ballerina pumps, £25.00, River Island

After a few trips to the changing rooms in River Island, here is my top find for an effortless, college day look:



 The printed detail top was a great find, with the top longer at the back it is perfect to tuck into shorts (as above) or teamed with a pair of black leggings, a versatile top that is bang on trend with its bright, vibrant style.
These high waisted denim shorts will become your best friend at college, they will go with just about anything and are super comfy (I liked them that much I bought them myself). The mid wash effect adds a two tone design but doesn't draw the attention away from the top, they are a great staple for the upcoming autumn/ winter season. 



Black love affair print step hem vest, £16.00, River Island

Back of top





Mid wash denim high waisted shorts, £25.00, River Island









Saturday 25 February 2012

Get Delta Goodrem's Leather Inspired Look

It's time to get out the leather and feel fashion hot with the newest trend of 2012.





Leather is all the range this season which is great because it means you can still look smokin’ hot without feeling the winter chill. With leather jackets, dresses, skirts, leggings making their way onto both the high street and designer catwalks it is more than a just a motorbike staple but a top trend for 2012. 

When it comes to the winter months, it’s easy to cover up and keep warm with jumpers and scarves. But don’t forget with the right layering and accessories, you can still feel warm and look fashionable, by adding a dash of leather to your wardrobe. Whether it’s a rock chick day look like Delta's, fashionable work wear or a glammed evening style, leather will go with any outfit for just about any occasion. 

One woman who got the leather look just right is newly single Delta Goodrem who stepped out in a pair of gorgeous black leather quilted shorts to showcase her stunning sets of pins on the set of Austrailia’s version of The Voice. She teamed them with a loose white silk cami, rolled up black and white striped blazer and a pair of stunning spiked Christian Louboutin killer heels. 

We might not be able to get the Aussie’s glowing skintone or the designer shoes but we can certainly steal her style thanks to high street stores such as Topshop, Warehouse and Asos.com jumping on the leather bandwagon. 

You can get Delta’s look for less by heading over to asos.com to grab a pair of leather shorts without the designer price tag at just £25. Wear with a side zip silk cream vest at £28 and a Co-ord Oil feather blazer jacket for £65 both from Topshop.

But don’t forget an outfit needs its accessories, so head over to (http://www.bagsobeautiful.com/) to browse their extensive range of fashion bags and why not grab this black quilted handbag (http://www.bagsobeautiful.com/Cat/Everyday-Bags/Black-Quilted-with-Chunky-Handles.aspx) which will go perfect with the leather inspired look. 

Words by Hannah Collins

Images sourced from:
Silk top:

Blazer:

Delta's full look:

Sunday 19 February 2012

The Bargain Basket: Next

I have a £10 off voucher to use for http://www.next.co.uk/, so I thought I'd browse the offers section to see what bargains I could find.  Here are my top three finds for this week:

Lipsy One Shoulder Jersey Dress, £30 reduced from £40

This electric blue cut out dress is the perfect sexy but feminine number which has been a regular addition to high street fashion, with the likes of Topshop creating a similar cut out style. Show your animal side by adding a hint of leopard print to the outfit, my leopard heels from Next are amazing and sooo comfy, grab a matching clutch bag and your ready to hit to the town! They also have it in black too!

Neutral Faux Fur Gilet, £25 redcued from £55
Want to stay warm but look stylish, then this faux fur gilet is an ideal buy for the winter months and the neutral shade will take you right through to the spring season with the right accessoring. Layer up with a cream long sleeved top, black leggings and  riding boots to create the perfect day look. You'll definitley get your money's worth at £25, it's a bargain not to be missed.

Ivory Beaded Bolero, £16 reduced from £35
This cute bolero has beautiful sparkly detailing that will glam up any outfit, day or night. Grab some on trend red jeans and white cami for a classy, day look or add some sparkle to your favourite LBD for a glammed evening style.

Happy internet shopping!


Hannah x




Sourced photos

Lipsy One Shoulder Jersey Dress:

http://offers.next.co.uk/search?p=Q&cnt=16&isort=score&nxti=0&nxtv=000&sale=OFFERS&pfg=03tyu3er5&images=on&w=Lipsy+One+Shoulder+Jersey+Dress+&description=Lipsy+One+Shoulder+Jersey+Dress&af=&size2=&desprice=

Neutral Faux Fur Gilet:

http://offers.next.co.uk/search?p=Q&cnt=16&isort=score&nxti=0&nxtv=000&sale=OFFERS&pfg=03tyu3er5&images=on&w=Neutral+Faux+Fur+Gilet+&description=Neutral+Faux+Fur+Gilet&af=&size2=&desprice=

Ivory Beaded Bolero: 

http://offers.next.co.uk/search?p=Q&cnt=16&isort=score&nxti=0&nxtv=000&sale=OFFERS&pfg=03tyu3er5&images=on&w=Ivory+Beaded+Bolero+&description=Ivory+Beaded+Bolero&af=&size2=&desprice=