New Look AW12 Press Day

Last week I popped along to the New Look AW12 press day to see what goodies they have lined up for next season, and let me tell you - you are in for a treat!

If I had to describe New Look's Autumn/Winter collection in a single sentence, it would be "90s grunge glamour with a modern kick in the face". What does that mean, you ask? Take a look for yourself!

(I REALLY want this collar...argh, hurry up next season!)

Chunky knits, accents of leather and laser cutting, sharp studs and intricate embellishment - don't you just love it all? The whole collection is the perfect mix of 'My So-Called Life' crossed with a darker, edgier Blossom. New Look have always been known and dearly loved for their shoes, and this season they've really outdone themselves. Who knew you could get such high end styles without having to sell a kidney?! And don't get me started on their collars!

Oh dear, I appear to have gushed everywhere! What do you think of the New Look AW12 collection? Will you be shopping there next season?

Until next time...

Much love,

Frankie

Swell Vintage

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F'ing good!

Yesterday my friend Kyrie and I went to the launch for Florence and Fred's (that's F&F to you and I) collection for Spring/Summer 2012 at Clothing at Tesco.

Those lovely folks at Tesco certainly know how to throw a party! There were pretty things to look out, tasty foods to eat and - what always turns out to be a blogger favourite - a photobooth!

Kyrie and I posing it up.

I must confess, although I've only ever heard great things about F&F, this was the first time I'd had a good look at their pieces close up and they didn't disappoint. Not only was the quality excellent, but it's all very reasonably priced - what more could you ask for?!

There's a good mix of styles on offer too, ranging from fun neon brights to more demure elegant tweeds and lace. There was also an impressive array of Christmas costumes available from a bargainous £6 - definitely worth investing in for the holiday season!

We were also asked to select our favourite pieces from the collection. There were so many items and styles to choose from, but after long and careful deliberation we managed to narrow it down to one each.

Kyrie opted for this sexy leopard print number, which could work for a day at the beach or a night out on the town.

I chose this pretty little lace number. I'd wear it with black tights, black heels and some classic pearls.

So if you fancy treating yourself to a new outfit and don't want to break the bank, I highly recommend F&F at Clothing at Tesco. You'll be very pleasantly surprised!

Much love,

Frankie

Swell Vintage

x

Beauty showcase event for Holland and Barrett

Last week I attended the launch of some new beauty products for Holland and Barrett that will be hitting stores in November. I'm not really a beauty blogger, but I am always on the hunt for new and innovative ways to improve my skin. After hearing a bit about Manuka Doctor and their revolutionary apitherapy products, I was very intrigued and keen to find out more.


If you're not already in the know, the clever minds behind Manuka Doctor have discovered that the mix of deliciously decadent manuka honey and bee venom (that's right - the venom of bees) make for powerful and effective skin care. Already dubbed "nature's alternative to botox", Purified Bee Venom is renowned for its anti-bacterial, anti-wrinkle and regenerating benefits which can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles or scars. Sound too good to be true? I had to find out for myself.

I've been using the Manuka Doctor Facial Moisturising Lotion (£16.99) for a few days now, and I must say I am genuinely impressed. I have already noticed an improvement to my skin - blemishes were quickly reduced, and overall my face is softer, looks clearer and feels more toned. My hairdresser even told me I was looking younger - either this stuff is great or he was angling for a bigger tip...either way, I am sold on this product. The whole range is very affordable too, with prices ranging from £3.49 to £49.99. If you're stuck for stocking-fillers for Christmas, this could be a great way to go.

I'm not going to lie to you - I have no idea how this product is produced, and that is the only thing that's bothering me slightly. I sincerely hope there is a ethical method for extracting the bee venom. In fact, the more I think about it, the more I assume there has to be a way of extracting the venom without killing the bees as they are close to becoming endangered...right? If you happen to know anymore about this, please get in touch and fill me in!

Assuming their products are bee-friendly, I would definitely remcommend and continue to use them myself. If you'd like to try the products for yourself, head over to your local Holland and Barrett store in November and let me know what you think!

Much love,

Frankie
Swell Vintage

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