MINIMALISIM - CHECK OUT OUR BLACK LEATHER LOOK COURT SHOES
|
|
 |
"Less is more” the good old mantra used in fashion that never disappoints. This A/W, designers from Calvin Klein to Stella McCartney showcased minimalism with beautiful cuts, pared-down pieces in cool hues of navy, winter-white and grey. In celeb-ville, looking drop dead gorgeous is the Twilight superstar actress - Kirsten Stewart, and she rocks minimalism out by showing off her pins in the Roland Mouret frock and Christian Louboutin high heels. The key ingredient to minimalism is simplicity. Being simple does not mean being boring and dull but about picking beautiful, elegant, sophisticated, sultry items to make it work. To get the look nailed start with our Black Court Shoes once £34.99 but now on sale for an irresistible £19.99. Walk with your head 10.5cm above others and give your legs some height. We all know how painful wearing high heels can be, but fear not, these court shoes have cushioned insoles for added comfort. (Sigh of relief). The tan leather-look lining and pointy front design make for a perfect sophisticated look. So hurry up and purchase yourself a pair whilst stock still last. By Samantha Chidenga - Product Features Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
GLAMOROUS GOTH!
|
|
 |
Bones, Skulls and Horror! Who would think it would make the perfect trend for those looking to give their style that edge. Accessorising with the skeletal look is perfect for this season as designers such as DSquared2, the late and fabulous Alexander Mcqueen and Sass and Bide are sporting Gothic Glam! Dsquared’s latest work can be described as dark futurism with their spine heeled platform ankle boots making a soaring entry and fast becoming the catwalk shoes to die for as they hit the shelves in mid-september. Shoes aren’t the only way to accessorise ladies! Jewellery is always important whether it’s that one iconic piece that sets you apart for your counterparts or a range on stylish bling! Legendary Jewellery designer Stephen Webster proves how the skull motif has a great history in jewellery mimicking the medieval era however modernised through time; as seen in the infamous Mcqueen skull printed scarves. These scarves were worn by the likes of the Olsen twins, Sienna Miller and Russell Brand. As these celebs set the trend racing its up to us individual fashionistas to make it our own and embrace it with open arms. So Ladies the likes of Mcqueen and Webster may be out of our reach but don’t fear because your fashion fairies at A-SHU are here! Bracelets and bangles, over-sized and over done are great for this trend! Check out our Chunky Wood and Silver Metal Over-Sized Swirl Bangle Set at just £10.00! Try the look with that edgy handbag whether it’s for those nights out with our Large Black Snakeskine Effect Clutch at just £12.00, or add the gothic glam to every day life with our Black Leather Effect Stud Embellished Holdall / Shopper Tote with Long Shoulder Strap at just £22.00. Why not embellish your feet with our great Silver Diamonte Embellished Multi Ankle Strap Flat Leather Sandals at just £20.99! Or to really embrace the look why don’t you try our rock ‘n’ Roll Grey Patent Knee High Stiletto Boots at just £16.99. So there you have it an accessorizing feast to get the perfect Glamorous Gothic look! By Anisha Parmar - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
FASHION FORWARD ACCESSORISING: FUN FRINGING
|
|
 |
This summer has seen the arrival of many different trends; crop tops, maxi dresses, oversized glasses, leotards, the list goes on... But one trend that has never really gone away in the fashion circle is fringing, aka, tassels. First worn by Daisy Duke, the fashionable fringing definitely has American heritage and for that we have much to be thankful for. Its been huge on the festival front this summer and it’s likely to continue for years to come with handbags hosting the fringe effect. Pixie Lott, Beyonce and Paris Hilton are all huge fans and the high streets now recognise this; its not just the big designer labels sporting fringing anymore. Handbags, shoes and boots, belts and most recently waistcoats all following the trend and they look fantastic. Try cowboy boots, denim shorts and a white T with a fringed waistcoat for cool shabby-chic look. Or team a black maxi dress with a fringed holdall for an edgy, grown up look. Get the look nailed! By Mary Olivia Hickey - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
SUMMER FASHION 2010: SPARKLES AND SHOULDERS
|
|
 |
The current one shouldered trend is one of my favourite looks to pull this summer. Whether you’re wearing a dress or a blouse, this specific cut gives you a very feminine look. The versatility of this trend ensures that you’re able to go from day to night smoothly without having to worry if you’re overdressed or too casual. Instyle recommends this trend as one of this summer’s must. Whether it’s an asymmetrical dress, or a floral print, celebrities such as Camilla Belle are constantly heating up the red carpet with beautiful, light dresses in this style. Also making an impact this summer are sequins and sparkles. Guaranteed to make a statement on a LBD, some might find these shimmering beauties to be a bit over the top for daytime fashion. However, as long as you’re rocking small doses, there’s no reason why you can’t spruce up for lunch with the girls! Alicia Keys gets the balance just right by choosing black separates and making her top the main focus of her outfit. Plus with a lot of fabulous and affordable shoes and fashion handbags on offer on A-SHU, accessorising these trends couldn’t be easier. By Safeera Sarjoo - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
THE PERFECT MILITARY TREND ACCESSORY
|
|
 |
Military is one of the major trends this summer and Lady Gaga is definitely without a doubt the commander of daring fashion outfits and she spills her influence to the men in her ‘Alejandro’ music video where she had major military-esque male dancers dressed in leather. That is what we particularly like about the design Mr Emporio Armani created for Gaga’s army. It was not the usual camouflage, but leather with a military twist. Now this is an outfit for true survivors’ and if you think you can pull it, then charge ahead! But if you do not fancy marching down the streets looking all serious in leather military, then stand to attention with the perfect military fashion accessory; our Black Leather Slim Design Multi-Compartment Flat Pouch only at £6.99. Load the two small front zipped compartments with all male essentials, whatever they maybe! Wear it loosely or tightly, whichever way you need to complete the mission using the adjustable waist belt. Why not view the various range of pouches on our cyber shelves whilst stock still last. By Samantha Chidenga - Product Features Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
BACK TO THE BEACH
|
|
 |
Hawaiian prints, coral necklaces and flip flops have really been left to the surfers or sun bathing junkies of the warmer areas of the world instead of us British folk who celebrate if rain isn’t forecast. However this sudden spurt of sunshine has brought the beach to the streets. It has been questioned and rejected by many. However others are celebrating the excuse to ditch the usual mix of dull navy’s, black’s, greys and sport something a little more colourful and suitable for Summer. No I’m not just imagining it, it isn’t just desperation to bring some colour into our lives - the designers are dictating it too. Armani has made lycra sandals with a print named Honalulu, Guess has the perfect one-piece swimsuit that is sexy but sophisticated at the same time, and Ashish’s spring 2010 collection is the perfect example of this trend. Floral jewellery is perfect if you want to go all out, hibiscus flower rings are everywhere from on the high street to the pricier Van Cleef & Arpels. I am currently in Mauii - a Hawaiian island where celebrities such as Whitney Port and Megan Fox have just been seen vacationing in bright colours. So I am experiencing first hand the feeling of what it’s like not to feel equipped for a sunny holiday. Even the men are joining in with Tommy Bahama shirts to match their other halves floral mini dress. I opened my suitcase to an array of....nothing, black, black, black, oh and a lucky grey skirt that made it in there. When you go on your travels this Summer make sure your suitcase is complete with an item that is holiday appropriate, not something that screams ‘I am used to bleak weather’ but something that’ll help you blend with the local folk. Get the ‘been to the beach’ look with our Short White Shell Beaded Necklace for only £4.99. By Jasmine Jayyousi - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
LADIES SUMMER SHOES: FLIP-FLOP HEAVEN...
|
|
 |
Flip-flops are your quintessential summer footwear. Comfortable, sparkly and in a neutral colour, our Black Multi-Shimmer Embellished Flip-flops are £13.99; a treat indeed. These shoes will give your outfit a boho edge and the cute floral sole they have adds to the glamour. The gorgeous embellishment will brighten up your day in a flash, along with the cute patent black straps. Celebrities cannot get enough of the simple flip-flop. From the likes of Nicole Richie to Kim Kardashian and Pairs Hilton, they always slip them on to run errands. Flips-flops are extremely versatile and we have a variety of options for you to choose from here at A-SHU. Our Black Embellished Flip-flops for a fab £12.99 will add a dash of excitement to your look. If you want a pop of colour, perhaps check out our lovely Hot Pink Floral Print Flip-flops for a great £4.99, also available in lilac. By Amy Shiels - Product Feature Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
MENS FASHION: FLIP FLOPS AND SANDALS - A MUST-HAVE FOR MALE TREND SETTERS
|
|
 |
With the sun shining upon us so splendidly and still promising to shine upon us over the next couple of weeks, we say get the shorts and vests out in preparation for a perfect tan (taking precautions of course). But the shorts and vests are incomplete without the perfect footwear and this where our Black and Tan Leather Sandals come in handy. Only at £14.99, these sandals come with black leather cross over straps and textured rubber style sole for extra grip. Obviously leather means durability, class and quality. Slip these on when coming back from the office or when just lounging with your friends for relaxed comfort. Sandals are also popular amongst male celebrities such as Pdiddy, David Beckham and Zac Efron who combine style with comfort. Perhaps inspiration came from Bottega Veneta’s 2010 spring collection which featured styled suits teamed with sandals. Be on trend whilst giving your toes a breather, from our range of men’s sandals available on our cyber shelves whilst stock still last. By Samantha Chidenga - Product Features Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
STUDDED ACCESSORIES ARE HERE TO STAY
|
|
 |
You would have thought like most fashion trends the ‘everything must be studded’ one would have phased out by now and be forgotten until its next turn in the cycle... but no. These studs are here to stay! No longer associated with the days of Punk, ‘The Sex Pistols’ etc. They’re grungy no more, instead edgy embellishments that can be dressed up or down. From last year up until now we have seen mainly jackets and handbags covered in gold or silver studs. However now it seems like anything can be doused in them from headbands, to jewellery, to dresses. They are also not only studs, but bullets and safety pins are being added as well. For example Alexa Chung recently wore a red safety pin dress by Versus to a fundraiser and we all know that Miss Chung knows her fashion well. I’m afraid that if you’re a floral only girl and no fan of this everlasting trend you’d better sit tight for a while as they aren’t going anywhere and are pretty much un-escapable. From the high street to the high-end designer, studs are being used left, right and centre. The newest addition to the mass of studded items is designer Katie Nehra’s leather jacket from her ‘Simone’ label. The special thing that caught my eye about this jacket (and to be honest made me rather upset that I couldn’t afford it) was that Nehra has been quoted on Style.com saying ‘you can custom order the jacket any way you want’... this is officially the dream jacket, on trend and personalised, so that it really is unique! Fans of this jacket are Patti Smith, Mary-Kate Olsen, Nicole Richie… the list goes on. Some stars have even been known to have their names emblazoned upon the back or up the sleeve. I know the climate right now may seem a little too hot at the moment and not really leather appropriate but there is no harm in preparing yourself for Autumn or a chilly afternoon is there? An absolute favourite for this Summer however has to be the Alexander Wang Rocco mini duffle it’s this year’s must have fashion accessory, and right on trend with its underneath covered with bullets. Stars such as Dakota Fanning, Ashley Tisdale, Rihanna, and the Hilton sisters have been sporting the beauty wherever they go. However if you aren’t a Hollywood celeb or someone who can afford to spend £870 just like that I’d suggest to go for the less expensive substitute and get the look with our Black Leather Effect Stud Embellished Holdall / Shopper Tote with Long Shoulder Strap at just £22.00. Bargainous! By Jasmine Jayyousi - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
RELIVE THE RETRO DAYS WITH PUNCHY COLOURS
|
|
.jpg) |
It is certainly a fact: fashion likes to recycle itself. What has been fashionable in the 50s can be a style staple in 2010. This summer make sure you go old school with punchy colours. Versus decided to go for the screaming shade of scarlet - ideal when you are choosing summery dresses as well as eye-grabbing accessories, such as clutch bags or red-framed sun glasses. Make up-wise, why not give that red lip a go? It looks oh so-glamorous and at the same time seductive. The models at Dior Spring/Summer 2010 have by all means nailed the red lip trend. The collection has also been inspired by the sirens of the silver screen, with the clothes reflecting a throw-back to the era of Classical Hollywood movies. The colours among other things were also in-your-face, or how Vogue has poetically described it: “a pared down palette of grey, black, white, cream and grey that was later pierced by scarlet, orange or fuchsia for pleated silk cocktail dresses overlaid in black lace.” Desirable indeed. Lastly the Spring/Summer 2010 couture collection of Jean Paul Gaultier was also injected with punchy colours. Turquise blues, delicious oranges and natural greens were seen throughout the catwalk creating a ‘we’re in paradise’ feel. To embrace the go back in time with a show-stopping colour trend be sure to clash the hues, instead of matching them and go for daring make up. Experiment with the head-scarves ala housewives of the 50s – it can glam up a plain ensemble. By Edita Lozovska - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
THE CHECK SHIRT
|
|
 |
The check shirt has been around for ages, however it was usually only worn by red necks, builders and cowboys. Now it seems the check shirt is an essential part of our wardrobes. The check shirt has definitely earnt a place is the fashion hall of fame. It is nice to know that it is us brits who really started the trend; A-listers such as Fearne Cotton, Sarah Harding and David Beckham are huge fans and have been wearing them with pride for the last decade. High street shops are all feeding the trend and the check shirt recently travelled across the pond and is now huge in America; Justin Biber, Lauren Conrad and Justin Timberlake can’t get enough of the preppy look and fans of the stars are following suit. The check shirt is an unusual fashion item as you can’t really dress it up with high heels it just won’t work. You have to keep the whole outfit casual, teaming your shirt with flip flops or gladiator sandals and skinny jeans is an effortlessly cool look, you can’t really go wrong. Alternatively try to pair them with boyish brogue shoes, my favourite! Finish off with a dark pair of shades and simple hair to complete the look. Just remember to leave your cowboy hat at home or you may end up looking like a cowgirl! By Mary Olivia Hickey - Fashion writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
THE MAXI DRESS
|
|
 |
The maxi dress; an essential summer piece. When else can you wear a floor length dress and look fabulous apart from your wedding day? Maxi dresses can come in all different shapes, sizes, styles and colours but one I would definitely invest in this summer is a black maxi. I am huge fan of the LBD mainly because they are so stylish, flattering and above all you can create hundreds of different outfits from just one item of clothing. A black maxi dress is similar to a blank canvas, you can do whatever you like to it, i.e. accessorise with gold jewellery or jazz things up with a leopard print scarf. Either way you can create so many looks for very little money. A black maxi dress is similar to an LBD just a little more chilled out, summery and more appropriate for hanging out by the beach. A maxi dress can be teamed with wedges for an evening look or flip flops for a chilled out day look. Whatever the occasion you will always look super fabulous! For a holiday evening look, how about our fabulous Brown Mid Heel Woven Design Wedges. At just £22.00 they are not breaking the bank and would look great with an array of summer holiday pieces. Get the look nailed! By Mary Olivia Hickey - Fashion writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
PARIS COUTURE MAKES HOT AND STEAMY FASHION STATEMENT
|
|
 |
We know of the trend Underwear-as-Outerwear but this year the Paris Couture scene is taking a daring approach exposing the vixen within. Jean Paul Gaultier is renowned for his pointed bra that Madonna popularised making the underwear-as -outerwear trend one of the most sustained and reoccurring. Yet again he had not failed to shock with Burlesque Star Dita Von Teese as his showstopper who showed the audience how artful it is when Couture collides with burlesque dancing as she revealed layers of Gautier couture. She exposed a figure defining bustier where the architectural boning was embellished highlighting each curve of the body. Gautier’s collection showed his audience the structure of garment formation as he says, “"It was all about structure, about bringing the bones, the very foundation of what makes a garment, to the surface." He continues to admire and accentuate a women’s figure through his collections, which is a key trend for the Autumn/Winter 2010/2011, as Valentino also resembled this structure and form in his couture gowns using sheer fabric over a crinoline style birdcage. What these couture designers are doing is reversing the Victorian style by exposing the hidden layers under all the heavy fabric making it sexy yet tasteful! Getting the trend right it a must as it can easily go wrong, it is not as simple as wearing your bra or knickers over your normal clothes but about highlighting the assets of the body so set your self a task; search for that vintage corset or the classic lace dress. Remember to get the underwear-as-outerwear trend right be daring and confident but also remember that less is not always more! How about pairing your pieces up with our Patent Black Quilted Effect Slim-Line Purse / Card Holder at £7.49 or our Black Satin Effect and Bow Detail Peep Toe Heels at just £14.00. Fabulous! By Anisha Parmar - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
FASHION AND ACCESSORIES - RED ALERT!
|
|
 |
Add a splash of Red hot accessories to your wardrobe this season. Be daring and show your confidence off with a sizzling colour that sets hearts racing, whether its those sexy high heel shoes, a glamorous clutch bag or that outstanding dress; show off your key pieces with a colour that turns heads. This year’s Spring/Summer collections showed dashes of Red from Phillip Lim’s empowerment of women to Chanel’s one off piece so why not use the streets as your personal catwalk and be bold in your accessories with this seasons key colour. By Anisha Parmar - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
ANIMAL ATTRACTION - OUR VELVET EFFECT LEOPARD PRINT HANDBAG
|
|
 |
There is no other designer who adores animal print more other than King of the Jungle himself, who this year, is celebrating 4 years of this label - Roberto Cavalli. In his interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Cavalli spills out his secret to why he lives a leopard print-life; “God created such a fantastic world. Leopard is an animal design, and my designs come from nature”. He is interested in dressing Michelle Obama in a small print with a vibrant colour so watch the space! If you live your fashion life like that of Roberto then bring out the animal in you with our Velvet Effect Leopard Print Handbag with Gold Metallic Croc Detailing at £15.99. This handbag is a real show stopper. Its velvet feel is first class and of course the recent trend is to mix and match different prints and this arm candy delivers such a great combination of gold croc metallic contrast with gold stud embellishment throughout - absolutely fantastic and bang on trend! It also has two side pockets with magnetic closure to stack all other girly essentials. And to top it off, the interior is specious, has one zipped compartment and two open pockets, fully lined with the leopard print. C’mon, you just got to have it! Another way to get the look nailed this summer which is totally buzzing on our streets, is to team animal spots paired with floral patterns. If animal print is your thing then check out also our White Velvet Effect Zebra Print Tote with Leopard Print Scarf at £19.00 and our Dunlop Slow Leopard Print Slippers with Removable Insoles at £12.00. By Samantha Chidenga - Product Features Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
TRENDS TO MAKE YOU FALL IN LOVE: HEART SHAPED CLUTCH
|
|
 |
Here at A-SHU we have come across the cutest clutch ever imaginable. Sparkly, kooky and perfect for summer nights out our Champaign Gold Hard-back Heart Shaped Clutch is a glorious £11.00. Small enough to fit only the essentials and make you truly shine, a must have. This clutch bag has a metallic glitter finish and is made of hard casing. The heart design is girly, quirky and a little cheeky. The seductive clutch has silver metal detailing and the option of a short or long chain so you can chose which suits you best. The bag also comes complete with a full satin lining to keep your goodies safe at all times. Balenciaga and Versace fully endorse the heart trend this season in a variety of ways on the catwalk, whether it is in the form of patterns, cutouts or bags, hearts absolutely rule supreme. Nicola Roberts has been spotted with a Vivienne Westwood heart shaped beautiful red bag, so purchase of our little clutch would make you bang on trend. If you are a fan of the gold heart clutch, lucky for you it also comes in metallic silver and versatile black. Get a little love in your life today. By Amy Shiels - Product Feature Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
WANT YOUR BAD ROMANCE - OUR HEART SHAPED CLUTCH BAG
|
|
.jpg) |
It is cute, pretty, trendy and affordable. You can’t help it but fall in love with it. It is the heart shaped clutch bag it is the bad romance. This heart shaped design bag is the trendiest clutch bag going. But I think that if you are full of love, then why not show it off outwardly? It is obvious that celebrities such as Kerry Washington, Amy Winehouse and Jennifer Lopez know how to show off the love. Kerry Washington who featured in the movie Lakeview Terrace as Lisa Mutton, showed off how much she was loving the role at the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame Awards by wearing the adorable heart shaped clutch bag that complimented her Roberto Cavalli dress amicably. But they are not the only ones who can show it off. Football fans ditched the banners and t-shirts never mind the hats. Customise or opt to have your favourite team’s flag or logo on your clutch bag. Like for England supporters, demonstrate how passionately you support them by opting for the heart shaped England/UnionJack clutch bag. Or maybe you want to get this bad romance nailed, but keep it on the subtle side. Then check out our adorable heart shaped clutch bags available in Metallic Silver, Black and Champagne Gold and only comes at £11.00. It has exquisite features including its crystal look, clasp closure for easy access and two chain linked shoulder straps at long and short length. Come on fashionistas’, have it, buy it, its fashion, work it! By Samantha Chidenga - Product Features Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
MIX UP YOUR WORKWEAR WITH FAB SHOES AND ACCESSORIES!
|
|
 |
Eveningwear and daytime casuals are always at the centre of our attention. We’re constantly experimenting with colours making sure our look is complete with perfect accessories and gorgeous shoes. But what about paying close attention to what we wear to work? Some of us might have a dreaded uniform, but for those in an office environment, have you ever thought about breaking free from the generic skirt, shirt and blazer and trying something that’s comfortable and stylish yet professional? It can be done. The Net-a-Porter magazine gives great ideas on how to tweak classic looks that are practical and fall under the “smart” category. For example, a structured work dress in a neutral stone or khaki shade teamed with classic black shoes allows you to wear an alternative colour, but maintains that professional feel with the plain black shoes. Two in one dresses are quite popular giving you that skirt and blouse effect. Try a dress that incorporates the blush tone - currently still a major colour being worn. Unique tops teamed with a classic black trouser or skirt is also another fashion do in the workplace. Light pastel colours work well against darker shades, so don’t be afraid to mix and match. What you wear for work shouldn’t be routine thing you do 5 days a week, if you love fashion, then find a way to stand out from the crowd and be unique. By Safeera Sarjoo - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
FESTIVAL FEVER!
|
|
 |
For a long time festivals were all about the music but now it seems fashion plays a huge part in the line up. Festivals are not a time for high heels and expensive handbags however it is your chance to be creative, fun and down right silly. Where else can you team your favorite dress with a pair of wellies and face paint? Everyone remembers how fabulous Kate Moss looked in a short gold dress and Hunter welly boots. Festival fashion is something you really need to embrace, you will never be judged because at the end of the day everyone is in the same position as you, and thats knee deep in mud with a bottle of cider. So go for it, and be daring! This summer its all about flowers so make sure you’ve got one attached to your head at all times, don’t bother investing in pricey clothes to take just improvise with old ones. Headscarves are also a must, cover up your five day hair with our Lightweight Purple Floral Design Tassel Scarf at £4.99. Festivals are not the time to pack lots of clothes so bring a few bright essentials and jazz things up with accessories, try our Neon Mixed Bangle Set - Set of four at £1.99. Whatever the weather make sure you look festival ready at all times, and remember to keep the high heels at home and wellies on at all times! By Mary Olivia Hickey - Fashion writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
ALTERNATIVE TO CLOTHES: THE SWIMSUIT
|
|
 |
Like any other season, Spring/Summer has its own veteran and newbie trends. The veterans are doubtlessly the nautical trend, florals and working white. Assuredly, designers reinvent them every season but the core of the trend is totally the same. For example Lagerfeld at Chanel reworked the whites to achieve the country style, Anna Sui reworked the florals to get the eye-grabbing effect and Hermes reworked the nautical into sporty. There are tones of newbies though - the denim-alls as seen at Gaultier, the modern military as seen on Balmain, and finally undone clothing at Prada. The trends go on and on, but there is only one item you simply can not live without during the summer, which ultimately is the swimsuit. Regardless if it is only tanning in the backyard or a full on holiday in the Bahamas, the swimming costume is a must, and this season it has become more than versatile. The June issue of Vogue Russia has given quite a few great ideas on how to work this alternative to clothing. They share their immaculate fashion know-how on what to add to the swimsuit: “When the sun goes down, don’t hurry to wear clothes, rather put some high heel stilettos on and demand some champagne from the barman.” And of course, don’t forget to match the statement necklaces with your bikinis. Another trick is to work the turban hat or headpiece trend a la the Sex and the City girls - a great style staple as well as keeps your head out of the sun. If you’re going on holiday, don’t forget to bring the fashion to the beach, and if you have a breath-taking bikini, give your clothes a rest and wear your swimsuit as an alternative. By Edita Lozovska - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
MUST HAVE ACCESSORY THIS SUMMER: TAN SATCHEL
|
|
 |
Check out our fab Large Tan Leather Effect Multi Pocket Satchel with Long Shoulder Strap for a brilliant £22.99. Perfect for day trips, weekends away and afternoons lying on the beach. This handbag has double handles and a removable shoulder strap for extra convenience. It also has a large zipped pocket at the front for all those extra girly necessities! Style icon of the moment and original Queen of ‘The Hills’ Lauren Conrad opts for a Marc by Marc Jacobs Dr Q Groovee Satchel in tan leather, which is the perfect mix of casual and cool. Our cute satchel is certainly inspired by the gorgeous Jacobs’ tote making it wonderful for every fashionista out there. If satchel bags are your things, why not check out our colourful range of these handbags. Our Multi-Compartment Leather Effect Satchel Handbag with Detachable Long Shoulder Strap comes in apple green, black, red and tan for a great £22.99. Get on board today! By Amy Shiels - Product Feature Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
MENS FASHION: WELCOME TO THE CLUB, MR. PORTER
|
|
 |
The love of high end designer t is good news for all of you online shoppers and high-end fashion bargain obsessed. Net-A-Porter is set to launch its menswear ‘brother’ site, called Mr. Porter in January 2011. Expect to see the likes of Burberry, Ralph Lauren, Lanvin, Yves Saint Laurent, Balmain and John Lobb, among others. This news comes just as Net-A-Porter celebrates its 10 year birthday. Online retail shopping is the perfect option for those of you that dread the crowds, the pushy salespeople and the unflattering lighting of the fitting rooms. Feel free to shy away from traditional marathon shopping trips. Instead, you can scroll and click your way toward your new wardrobe. Sure, you may be concerned about the fit of certain items. Sending stuff back in the post is a mission, but it often beats a grueling all-day trip to the high street. Plus, you can test drive your new duds and find matching items that you already own. Mr. Porter couldn’t have come at a better time in fashion and online media. With sites like ours, that carries great styles, plus expert advice and a rundown of current trends, online shopping has turned into something more like an entire fashion experience. You can purchase your favourites from afar, learn about up-and-coming designers, read what other shoppers are buying and peruse the web for new inspirations and your next fashion fixation. So, welcome to our club Mr. Porter. As your comrade and fellow menswear aficionado, I wish you the very best. By Jamie Bona - Men’s Style Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
EVERYONE NEEDS A FABULOUS PAIR OF SUNGLASSES, OR TWO!
|
|
 |
There are three items every woman needs in summer; a great bikini, flip flops and a pair of sunglasses. If you’re like me who has a different pair of sunglasses for every outfit you may need 10 or more pairs! I personally don’t see the point in investing in a really expensive pair; however I am currently saving to invest in a uber chic pair of Chanel sunglasses, (just for special occasions). But because sunglasses are such a fleeting fashion and styles change so rapidly, there’s not really any point in buying a really expensive pair of quirky glasses because by next summer you could end up looking like Deirdre Rasheed! So I think the answer is to buy loads of wacky pairs and just have fun. The catwalk this year has been full of ‘out of this world’ sunglasses and celebrities are lapping them up. Rihanna is huge fan of quirky glasses as is her good friend Beyonce, and the ultimate trend setter Lady Gaga has announced this month she is set to design her own range which is definitely something to look forward to! Take a leaf out of Gaga’s book and play around with sunglasses - make them as fun as you want and don’t worry about them going out of fashion because they were cheap to make and will be vintage soon! By Mary Olivia Hickey - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
EMBELLISHED BEAUTY - SHOES AND ACCESSORIES GALORE!
|
|
 |
The love of high end designer labels this season such as Lanvin, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Antik Batik and Louboutin, the embellishment look is not only sassy and sexy but angelic and princess-esque. This trend has the power to make you feel like royalty in regal diamante embellished shift dresses, and sequin embellished peep toe high heels, or perhaps a gorgeous embellished jacket. Not only all that fabulousness but accessories have gone mad for embellishment too. Here are the days of sequin, gem, and stud adornments. They are everywhere! This trend is perfect for eveningwear, and can be worked into everyday wear too. Why not try a super chic studded fashion handbag or tote bag? Or even studded heels for work wear and studded embellished gladiator sandals for the weekend and warm weather wear. However you do it, rock embellishment just like it’s the crown jewels! By Laura Radford - Online Fashion Features Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
TREND ALERT: DELIGHTFUL FLORAL HANDBAGS
|
|
 |
Florals are the way forward this season. The summer sun means that everybody gets a little more animated by fashion and accessories and this is certainly something to get excited about. Our Small Green Leather Effect Shoulder Bag with Large Floral Design is a fabulous £19.00. This leather effect delight is an ideal size, with an across the body chain strap and featuring a large ruffle design on the front. Stunning! This season the floral trend was seen in a big way on the runway at Erdem where there were beautiful prints on a variety of tiered shift dresses. A girlie, feminine and colourful collection proves to be a step in the right direction. Dolce and Gabbana also showcased floral detail with black and in some cases white lace giving it a sexy edge. Get the look nailed with this cute flower design handbag today. If florals are your thing, why not check out our Lightweight Green Bohemian Floral Design Straw Handbag for £18.99 or our Lightweight Grey Leather Effect Handbag with Floral Design at £9.99. By Amy Shiels - Product Feature Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK. |
