Charnos Run-Resist Tights

As you may know I am a Charnos Hosiery Tights Tester. A group of us trial new tights and write about them for their blog. Here is my most recent trial...

So on a date I went...with my man of 7 years...I wore a waisted floaty skirt, a sharp blouse, my ever reliable, make my legs look longer please, black, platform courts and....my new Charnos Run-Resist tights. Normally I avoid wearing sheer tights as I'm a girl all about the accessories and my sparkling jewels shred them before I even get them on. So, trial these you say...oh I'll trial them alright!

Getting ready for my evening of romance I throw all the rules out the window...
I slip on my new tights with no rings, bangles, cuffs removed...hmmm, no snag.
Ok, so "you look nice love" he says, "wearing tights?" As he reaches to stroke my legs. "NO!!" I snap, "don't touch them!" His hands are so rough from all his man work that the slightest touch would ladder them beyond recognition...I would look like I'd foolishly bought LiLo's entire "collection". Remembering the "Charnos Challenge" I allowed him leg access for the rest of the evening, a couple of snags here and there, but no ladders...yet...

In the restaurant, off I popped to the ladies...if they were going to ladder, it would be now...hoisting them back up again..."OH NO!" jewellery caught, massive hole! "That's that, I'll have to take them off".
Checking the mirror, my skirt covered the damage, so I left them and the date continued. I forgot all about the hole (wine may have had something to do with it) until the next day. Remembering, I rushed to check them...no ladder. I rang my mum...she bought some.

BB x

To see more trials on the blog click here.

Beau's Back

Ok, so whilst changing jobs, working on various projects and swanning off all over the place I admit I've rather neglected my baby Beau Blog.
Well, not for much longer! Feeling chilled and basking in the sunshine I have decided to give Beau Blog a little love. But rather than waffle on for several posts about what I've been up to...here is 2010 so far...on a pin board...in my garden...nice.

BB x

The Skinny Cow Swap Shop

Ok ladies, if you missed the entry date for the Swap Shops just become a fan of Skinny Cow on Facebook to be entered into the ‘Skinny Dip’ which will allow you battle it out to win more amazing fashion items and get a new look wardrobe for 2010.

What's the Swap Shop about?

Well, The Skinny Cow® has teamed up with Kelly Brook to host a celebrity charity Swap Shop, to raise funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

With items donated by the likes of Holly Willoughby, Sarah Harding and Danielle Lloyd – the exclusive Swap Shops will give fashion fiends the chance to breathe new life into their wardrobes through swapping not shopping!

The Skinny Cow® , which is owned by Nestlé UK, will be raising funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care, Nestlé UK’s charity of choice for 2009 and 2010 by making a donation for every item ‘swapped’ by a celebrity at the two events and online.

Throughout the year, Nestlé UK is aiming to raise £250,000 which will help fund 12,500 hours of Marie Curie nursing care for terminally ill people and their families in local communities.

To view the video of Kelly Brook introducing the Swap Shop click here.

Don't miss out on being involved...become a fan now.

BBx

Sport Relief T-Shirt Challenge

Show Sport Relief your support by wearing a sexy tee designed by the Beckhams.
TKMaxx have a fabulous selection of shirts up for grabs at http://www.tkmaxx.com/.

Girls...why not wear on a night out. Team with sexy heels, a waist belt and jeggings. Lets not kid ourselves...it's still snowing out there so throw over a blazer to keep out the chilly!

Here's how to do it...

BB x

P.S - To vote on my style pop to: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=180465&id=109651927078.

Tight-Testing-Tastic

Well I am proud to say I was picked by Charnos Hosiery to be a "Tights Tester". Lots of different colours and styles of tights (that suit my leg shape) will be sent for me to try. Fabulous! So in the post they came...2 pairs of bright 60 den opaque tights. First to debut were the fuchia pair. A bit bright for my little legs so I teamed them with black lace for a textured effect. Had the girls round for food and wine...after much of this I felt no need to roll down my tights. They stayed put for the duration of the evening. No unsightly "hoisting" needed, no digging in to create unwanted, visible love chub and no gaping crotch. The girls were full of compliments...and they always tell the truth!
Overall a fantastic fit although I'm not sure the colour is for me. Pop to www.lessonsinlegs.co.uk to see the whole team of "Tights Testers" in their multi coloured glory.


BBx

The S/S Bag Report

So 2009 saw the oversize bag, the satchel, the large clutch, chain handles (wrapped round the wrist), heavily embellished totes...
This year, what bags are we set to be carrying, wearing.... dragging?
So the first and probably hardest to sport is the backpack. This bag looks casual, chic and practical. Unfortunately the high street hasn't really catered for this mini trend. But hopefully they will catch on. Having said that, Topshop have a few cute styles.

More Topshop...

More Topshop...

The second and most controversial style is...wait for it...the bumbag. Re-introduced by Marc Jacobs, D&G, Louis Vuitton...I have to say I love this little number! Fabulous for summer, leaving your hands free for playing beach ball/eating icecream/making sandcastles... Practical yet stylish. Again I struggle to find any on the high street. Fingers crossed.


Third for a mention is the x-body bucket bag. I really love the casualness of this bag, it gives the impression that we just pop in our lippy, throw it on and go. It just screams "I am low maintainance!"
But unless you are low maintanance I suggest throwing the rest of your kit and kaboodle in a fairtrade shopper.

More Alexander Wang...

Another great style is the satchel, this one was around last year and will stick for some time. Best in tan or brown this bag makes us look intelligent. We look like we are carrying books back to the library not carrying 3 make up bags, a huge, unnecessary wallet and a change of clothes just in case we go out tonight.

More Mulberry...

More Topshop...

Now, one huge but practical style is the weekender. I have to say, I'm not partial to this type of bag. Mainly because I pack half my wardrobe for just one night and need wheels to help me cart it around. It is ever popular and sales of this bag still continue to grow.

More Anya Hindmarch...

More Marks and Spencer...

I hope this helps when choosing your very own "it bag" of 2010. I'm being good for a little while...no new handbags for me! Well, we'll see.

BB x

The New Season Shoe

Carefully pack away your painfully fabulous heels...and say hello to sexy yet sensible kitten heels. Yes they are back...probably because there was nowhere else to go. Let's face it, our shoe collections got higher, chunkier and more oddly shaped as the seasons strutted by. Nothing will shock and amaze shoe lovers again! Or will it...?

This season its all about comfortable chic. Pretty little heels, strappy sandals....and clogs (heeled of course). I doubt the average club goer will ditch the sky high heel, but if you're a keen fashion follower I'm sure you will. If you're one of the many ladies who couldn't quite master the killer heel, its your time to shine. Lead the way! It may take a while for the rest us...our feet need time to re-adjust.

BB x

The Biggest Trend - Lingerie

Well, last year we probably all dabbled in the "underwear as outer wear" look. I have to say, it wasn't a look that worked for me. But this year I am very excited about the Lingerie Trend. Mixing pretty lace with smart tailoring is very appealing, and incredibly sexy. Instead of wearing a bra over a plain tee like last year, which frankly looked like you didn't understand the concept of getting dressed in the morning; just replace a camisole for a corset. Or why not wear a chemise tucked into shorts, topped off with a blazer.

Play with the idea until you find a look that you feel confident and comfortable with. This doesn't mean arriving at the office in your dressing gown and slippers. That may be over stepping the line a little.

If you don't master this one, don't panic. It isn't a trend for everyone, if it doesn't work, don't wear it.

Have fun.

BB x

Now We Can All Wear Chanel

Yippeeee!!
Add a touch of couture to your wardrobe with a piece of Chanel for under £50. Ok its not a wear forever investment piece but it's a start.
These stunning transfer tattoos are set to be huge for spring.  Could they be a replacement for statement jewellery?
For all you fashionistas on a budget, join the queue in Selfridges on march 1st to snap up your little bit of amazing.
An absolute must for S/S!


Here you see Peter Philips applying the transfer. 

Thank you to Chanel PR for the photo.

BB x

P.S For any extra info or to be added to their waiting list just call the Selfridges Beauty Counter on 0207 318 3662.

Fringe Is Back...What A Shocker!

Back for round two. Yet again....another trend that is coming back around. Is there ever anything new anymore?
So we saw it, bought it, wore it and fixed it last year and now this spring I advise you to do just that. Before you run around the shops with an eye only for fringe....check your wardrobe. There's sure to be a couple of pieces in there.

I give you a few do's and don't's to consider before you wear:

Do:

• Wear with confidence
• Buy in spring colours
• Invest in a dress
• Team with killer heels
• Shimmy and spin around as much as you like
• Carry a mini sewing kit for any mishaps
• Check yourself in the mirror for any unwanted attachments

Don't:

• Climb a tree
• Greet an excited puppy
• Wear with zips
• Run anywhere near a bush or anything with twigs
• Play with children
• Wear with catchy jewellery
• Start plaiting it out of boredom in a meeting

Have fun and wear with care.

BB x

Winter - Spring Transition

All we can think about is our new spring/summer wardrobes. We've seen celebrities sunning it up in the Bahamas and we just can't wait to get into shorts and strappy sandals. But the reality is, Britain is wet, cold and slushy. So in the meantime try mixing your winter wardrobe with a few key pieces from the season to come. My most worn look at the moment is black jeggings, a soft pink tee, chunky boots (2 pairs of socks!), a grey blazer, pearls and a big bow in my short, curly bob. Greys and pinks work beautifully together and for now I can wear with black. For spring all I need to do is ditch the black for grey shorts and swap the boots and socks for some sparkly sandals. Done.
So just mix it up a little and you'll feel like spring is only moments away. Can't wait.

BB x

A/W to S/S Transition

It's snowing like mad out there, yet all I can think about is the new seasons trends. Inject soft pinks, peaches and golds into your...

Naughty Nautical

So Nautical is back...every year there's a slightly different take on this popular trend. Spots are set to be bigger than ever this summer, mix with navy and pink floral prints. Pink appears to have replaced the usual red this season, a welcome change.
Think British beach time chic. Pretty bows, classic pearls, the ever famous Breton tee, pretty pink florals, navy (obviously), anchors, giant sun hats and tea and sandwiches on the yacht.
So where to buy? Everywhere! Pretty much every shop on the high street will have a nautical collection, whether it be clothing, shoes, accessories or beach wear.
Be daring and mix the big lace trend into your nautical selection by adding a splash of navy lace. Stunning.
We all love a bit of naughty nautical so be creative and make it your own.


BB x

Naughty Nautical

Florals look awesome with Nautical. These shorts are so cute.

The January Sales...Or So Called!

If you've yet to hit the sales...get down there sharpish!

Although titled "The January Sales" most of the best bargains have already been whipped up and are now with loving new owners. Before you go, set a budget with a maximum overspend. Its very hard to stick to a strict budget, so set an ideal budget and a naughty budget. Trust me, it works!

Think about what your wardrobe is hungry for and what is going to be on trend next season. There's no point buying something that will go out of fashion faster than you can say "a tenner".

So here are the thoughts that ran through my mind when sifting through the sale rails...

• The first, and most important thing to run gleefully towards...leather! Not faux leather, not leather look...good, decent, wear it forever leather. I can never afford a good pair of leather boots in autumn so the sales is the perfect time to stock up! But you have to be nifty! They sell out fast. If you're getting a leather jacket in the sale, think soft leather for S/S and go for a classic cut. Timeless.

• What are the hottest colours of next season? This year focus on nudes, pastels and soft neutrals. I will be using grey as black, mixing with creams, pinks and peaches.

• What are set to be the biggest trends this year? I'm not a religious follower of trends but I do like to mix them with my own personal style. Usually with one key item of clothing and lifting the look with accessories. Keep checking my Trend Tracker for updates on the new seasons hottest trends. Here are a few to look for when sale hunting...
• Nautical. Its back...as it always is. This time around its quintessentially British, involving teacups and teapots, clocks and buttons, anchors, pearls, bows and stripes.
• Silk. Trousers, jackets, tops, skirts, scarves.....choose soft tones. My advice though...mix texture, don't wear it all at once.
• The unstructured, loose fitting trouser. They've been around for a while now so there should be some available in the sales. Don't go too baggy though, you're not hiding in them. Ideally they should fit comfortably round your waist and be narrow at the bottom, maybe with a small turn-up.
• Lace...pretty lace. Inject it into your everyday wardrobe by wearing with denim and layering into your look. For evening, wear black lace over nude, oh so chic. Also, keep your eyes peeled for navy lace, it's set to be huge this summer.

• Now what am I going to wear under all this sexy lace? Basics...you can never have enough tanks, tees and camis. I always pick several staple colours, black, white, grey, cream and navy. Boring but essential. Gap are fantastic for basics.

I really could go on forever about what to look for. Underwear, accessories, shoes.... (KG have an AMAZING sale)! But I don't want to keep you from finding those bargains, so quick....get yourself to the sales before it's too late.

BB x

My Three Fashion Resolutions

Every year we all make New Years resolutions we don't stick to. I looked back at my list from last year and I haven't done one thing on that list...not one! So to see in 2010 I have decided to pick one subject and focus on it. The natural choice of course is....fashion. So here are my 3 fashion resolutions.


De-clutter I have so much stuff! I could wear a different outfit everyday for the whole of 2010....but I won't. Instead I am going to have a fun and productive time working through my wardrobe and auctioning anything I haven't worn for a year. With the exception of classics and certain vintage of course.
Watch the blog for a first chance to grab some fabulous, lovely things.


Invest Fashion right now is all about versatility and maximum wear value. Yes we still LOVE throw away fashion....we don't admit it and we aren't proud if it but its true. If you haven't already, now really is the time to think about those key investment pieces. I'm talking wardrobe staples.... perfect fitting jeans, a tailored blazer, loose fitting tees and leather...oh beautiful leather. These are the things that are here to stay. Sure they might vary in style over the seasons but they can be worked with those passing trends to create a look that is personal to you. This is where you should spend your hard earned cash, hand over your pocket money for the short haul trends.


Revive Every week I am surprised by some of the wonderful pieces lurking in my wardrobe...."Hey, if I just take that up and change the buttons, I've got the perfect S/S 10 nautical skirt!" No pocket money wasted there. If you have an eye for it, it takes no time to pop to your local haberdashery, pick up a few buttons and a metre of ribbon and stitch them to last years clobber to instantly update. Be careful though, the aim isn't to look like a haberdashery just threw up on you, keep it contained.


I will keep you posted throughout the year on how it is going...


Right, wish me luck!


BB x

Rachael's Multi-Trend Dress

My fashion fixated friend text me the moment she handed over the cash for her new favourite item of A/W 09. "BB...I have found a dress sooo worthy of a blog post you'll cry!". She couldn't believe she found one dress that ticked so many of my trend-tastic boxes. Excitedly I rang her for full details. Photos where sent and yes...it is blog post worthy. Sequined...Scoop-back....Sharp shouldered...£35....New Look!

So here I am Rachael...taking my hat off to you! Well done! A fabulous find.


Can I borrow it???


BBx

The Bum-Bag Is Back

And on my Christmas list!
Sciatica is not a pretty word and I don't like it following me around. After years of lugging an overweight, oversized bag around, my self inflicted back pain is screaming at me to give it a break. So my New Years resolution is to ditch the enormous handbag once in a while and sport a rather chic bum-bag. This quilted, black one from Topshop will do just the trick and it's at the top of my Christmas list. Enough room for camera, blackberry, money and lippy, check! Plus the added bonus of keeping my hands free to carry more shopping! Yippee!
BBx

My Christmas Shopping Top Tips

Yes yes, we've seen in the news that this week is going to be crazy busy with online shopping. So many of us have little time to shop around for the perfect gifts. But I say that its all part of the festivities. I love the feeling of handing over my money knowing that a special someone will just love my pressie. So, here are my top tips for enjoyable, stress free Christmas shopping...

• Over a glass of wine, surf the internet to look at what your local retailers are stocking this winter. Compare prices and wise up on their returns policy. This will save on wasted browsing time and keep you from holding up the queue by asking 20 questions.

• Set a budget per person...and stick to it, unless you're rolling in money this will reduce the risk of over spending. Many a time have I spent January eating baked  beans due to getting carried away at the till point.

• Think about transport. If you're doing it all in one hit, I advise you to drive in to town and plan a trip back to the car before lunch. That way you can unload, give your sore fingers a rest and have an enjoyable lunch. If you're walking or using public transport, perhaps plan a couple of trips or get a friend or family member to help. However, don't drag your husband/boyfriend around, even if they don't say, they hate it and will only rush you.

• Get to town before the shops open, park your bottom in Starbucks with a festive hot drink and plan your route. Where will you start and where will you end? You don't want to be flapping back and forth in a fluster. Clever you, beating the rush by being there early, don't be ashamed! Queuing outside the shop for the launch of sale on Boxing Day is shameful!! Don't do it! Stay with your family, that's what Christmas is for, sale will still be there on the 27th.

• When hunger strikes, have a light lunch to avoid that sluggish feeling, of course accompanied by your favourite tipple (one glass...well maybe two).

• Over lunch, tick off your list and plan the rest of your day. Have you overspent? If so, return it now or you never will!

• Pop round your last few destinations, keeping an eye out for a little treat for yourself. Well, you have done so well! Only a little one mind.

• Now home you go to hide all your wonderful gifts. To avoid prying eyes, hide them at a friends house, mine have never been rumbled yet!

• If you've forgotten anything, order online. BUT ensure the website is legit! Some websites have been closed down recently for fraud, but there are still thousands out there. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

So, off you pop! If you haven't done it yet...GO! Happy spending!


BBx

Tracksuit Trousers - Hugely Debatable!

Right, this is a topic that has intrigued me, infuriated me and also astonished me. A so called "look" appeared in the UK around a year ago. It's the "I wear tracksuit bottoms, tucked into fake Ugg boots that sag at the bottom and scuff when I walk, with a hoodie, fake Fendi Spy bag and scabby, un-brushed hair" look. Apparently this look is preppy. But frankly it looks lazy, messy and as if you haven't had a shower in a week. With much relief it seems to be fading but there are still girls walking around like this. If this is you, stop it! You look awful!
Now, on the other hand...Vogue did an article on the new way to wear the tracksuit trouser and this look is fabulous!

 

I hope they don't mind me posting this page but it demonstrates a great way to wear sweatpants without looking like you're:

• A. Going to the gym.
• B. Following the weird fake Ugg boot trend.
• C. Couldn't be bothered to change out of your PJs.

So the rules for a successful tracksuit trouser ensemble are as follows:

• Wear with a heel, no exception. Blogger Garance Dore comments "Without heels, I look like I'm en route to my hip-hop class".
• Wear low-waisted and slouchy.
• Choose a tapered leg.
• Look for a drawstring waist and deep pockets. 

Vogue writer, Sarah Harris also advises that this trouser requires a tailored element, so should be worn with a crisp trench coat, a long-line blazer, a sleeveless jacket or a cropped tux.

Practice this look in private until perfected to avoid looking so, so wrong. I think I will be debating trackie trousers for a while, probably giving in and wearing nothing but. However, you will never see me leave the house looking like a casual retailer has just thrown up on me...I will look tailored, chic, smart and sophisticated. And if you're going to try this look, so should you. 
End of rant.
BBx

Top 5 Tips For Scoop-Back Splendour

1. Nipple Covers

   If you are a smaller busted lady go bra-less, but avoid poking someone's eye out and cover your nips. By far the best nipple covers around are the Nippies Nipple pasties available at Love Honey. They are used by celebrities and come in an array of shapes and colours. From animal print hearts to glittering night fever stars. Watch the video on how to apply.
   
   

2. D+ Perk-Ups

   If you're a lucky D+ the perfect solution is the Faveo Freedom Bra. It is adjustable, supportive, backless, strapless and best of all it keeps your breast friends perky yet comfy. This fabulous "bra" is available online at faveo.co.uk. The website provides instructions, size guide, testimonials and even a demo of a lady jumping around - boobs in tact.
   
   

3. Supreme Glamour

   For ultimate sparkle + added support try the beautiful Splendour Diamante Strapless Bra. The strap on the back is a piece of statement jewellery in its own right. Who wouldn't want to show this bra!?
   
   

4. Daytime Scoop-Back

   For the day, a low scoop-back can be a little racy. Maintain modesty with a pretty cami underneath. Then whip it off when the sun goes to bed.
   
   

5. Finishing Touches

   Ensure you remove your day bra at least 2 hours before your back debut to avoid any unsightly red lines. Get a fake tan to even out any evidence of too much sun worship. Lastly, slap on a shimmering body lotion with pearly bits to make your back look super sumptuous.
   
   

Follow these top tips and you will always look sexy in the Scoop-Back.
BB x

Animal Print – But For How Long?

Well it's nothing new! A trend that comes around year after year, in fact it never goes away, it was huge for S/S 09 and it's even bigger for A/W. So what's different this time? It's now merging with other trends. You can mix animal print with Goth, Punk, Vintage even Parisian. You can wear it with just about anything.

You're an animal!

Mix trends. Animal, Goth, Dogstooth...

But I do ask...after we have crammed our wardrobes for years with all this fabulous gear...will it suddenly be out of fashion? All I can say is when the time comes...keep it, box it up and pop it at the back of your wardrobe. It's bound to come back, you'll save a fortune next time round. But for now wear with pride.

BB

x