OK ladies, so it’s that time of the year again where we wake up some mornings and simply don’t know what to wear. It’s cold and frosty when we leave the house, sun beaming at lunchtime and dull and grey when we leave the office! Typical of March British weather to say the least!

There are loads of fabulous Spring/Summer fashion trends emerging at the moment but one of our favourites has to be the “high shine” trend which in essence almost a continuation of last season’s metallic trend.

This is a trend which not only will be prominent later this year come Summer, but also a trend which you can really start to incorporate right now in both your current and new season wardrobes.

Designers showcased a sea of sequins, metallic thread and detailing together with lush luminous fabrics to create an understated, subtle radiance.

Throw these features onto your LBD or even an all black ensemble and instantly it becomes lighter, brighter and leaves Winter memories behind; perfect to rock right now!

For more women’s fashion tips check out Women’s FashionBeans and for their latest trend reports click here.

There’s that classic saying that every girl should have a black dress in her closet, well add scarlet to that.

This Spring, scarlet is a key colour and rightly so. Spring is all about adding colours to the grey days and this shade of red is not only vibrant and bold, it can be worn during the day and at night.

Since 2002, celebrities have been sporting red dresses on the opening night of New York Fashion Week at the Heart Truth Red Dress collection. Supermodel Heidi Klum rocked a John Galliano gown at this years show. Kim Kardashian also dazzled the crowd with a one shouldered, floaty gown by Marchesa.

Instyle recommends neutral wedge heels along with a wrap dress for a elegant day-time look that isn’t over the top. But for evening glamour, grab your high heel stilettos and a one shouldered dress and you’re good to go!

If you’re still apprehensive about wearing this shade, Instyle has some advice: “Pack the same punch with a prominent accessory, such as a belt or a purse, worn against neutrals or basic black.”

The good thing about red is its versatility. It’s a universal colour with a shade for everyone. If you find that scarlet isn’t right for you, then of course opt for other shades such as lava, sangria and crimson.

By Safeera Sarjoo - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

Just when you thought we had resurrected every Eighties trend possible, up pops the bum bag, rearing its ugly head for another chance at fame.

All things considered bum bags are actually very practical, and safe. They allow hands-free shopping and ensure your valuables are secured close to your person, reducing the chance of thieves snatching or pick pocketing your handbag. Perhaps it is for these reasons why the bum bag is not considered to be the height of fashion and why it is usually associated with tourists, along with shorts (whatever the weather), sunhats, sandals worn over socks, big rucksacks, a giant camera and a huge map in front of one’s face. Most of us try, at all costs, to avoid looking like a tourist and therefore steer away from the above. 

But fashion has a wonderful way of charming us and making the un-cool cool. First shoulder pads, then double denim, now, the bum bag. Marc Jacobs is doing it, Louis Vuitton is doing it, and we want to too. Like it or lump it the bum bag is making a come back and unlike many trends this one’s not exclusive to women. Throw down your man bags guys (they are so last season), and strap on a Black Leather Slim Design Multi-Compartment Flat Pouch, £6.99. If it’s a more casual style you prefer check out our Jeep Black Canvas Multi-Compartment Pouch with Phone Holder, £7.99.

By Yvette Yarnold - Product Features Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

Being a young lady in the prime of my life, I sometimes limit my advice to that of teenagers and twenty something’s so I’d like to apologise for the neglect from my mature readers.

Women of all ages need advice about Beauty, Skin and Health Care. Women who hit thirty are made to feel old, unattractive and ‘past it’ by the constant parade of scantily clad youngsters on TV and Film, the hype and overt promotion glorifying plastic surgery and by their male counterparts who may be indulging in a mid life crisis.

Women over thirty, in reality are mature girls, young at heart, beautifully enhanced with laughter lines and know a lot more than us when it comes to sex, beauty tricks and career choices.

Let’s share some tips with our mature girls, just in time for Mother’s Day!

- Eat more greens! You probably know this, but make it more interesting by making a beautiful salad with grilled chicken, green beans, cucumber blended with yoghurt for a natural dressing.
- Invest in a skin care regime that actually works but won’t break the bank. Tried and tested is Well Woman’s Range at The Body Shop. Complete with Night cream, day cream, eye cream and silky serum, its secret ingredient is Yam Flower which will leave the driest skin silky smooth.
- Keep sunlight contact down to a minimum. Invest in sun cream, even if you are not going on holiday; make sure your daily moisturiser is packed with SPF. Purchase a cute visa or sunhat too. Visit Laura Ashley.
- Do face exercises every morning for 2 minutes. This will naturally improve the elasticity in skin which will contribute to less wrinkles.
- Switch perfumes! It will give you a new appeal and may attract a new mate if you are single. Avoid Musk, Vanilla and Jasmine. Go for fragrances with Rose, Patchouli or Lily.

Stunning Girl’s over 30; Shakira, over 40; Monica Belucci, Over  50; Sade Adu.

I’m sure you are privy to all the rest; exercise twenty minutes daily, drink 1ltr of water daily, take vitamin supplements, get your hair trimmed every six weeks blah blah blah.

Remember this - becoming a mature girl, woman, lady is part of the natural order of evolution. We must all experience this process. It’s the most serene thing when you can look back and say ‘hey, that gorgeous girl used to me and still is… just with a little more life on her!’ and be happy for the woman you have become.

By Clare Eluka - Beauty Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

The first days of spring always bring new hopes and aspirations. This sunnier and brighter time of the year means fresh new fashion choices. And now with the Oscars looming on the horizon - there has never been a better place to search for fashion inspiration.

Designers have quite a few breathtaking gowns to present to us. The talk of the season though, isn’t about the search for the perfect dress - it is about what frock would make what celebrity look nothing less than perfect. These gowns are just some examples of the marvel designers have to offer.

Marchesa always knows what a girl wants: to look bohemic and elegant. The nude colour gives this dress a fresh vibe and the grey hardly-there print makes it look oh-so modern. The key to wearing this dress is all natural beauty and minimal make up.

Zac Posen knows that every woman loves to shine. His creation has it all: the pastel tone, glitter and golden sparkly flowers. The beautiful embroidery underlines the great design genius Zac Posen himself possesses.

Givenchy has proved Vogue’s theory right: “Floor-length silk dresses with plunging necklines and almost indecent leg splits will always give maximum impact." This design is by all means a show stopper. Frilly frolly, floor length and glittery - this one is avant-garde and extraordinary to the max.

Will any celebrity consider wearing these beautiful gowns to the Oscars?

While the viewers are glued to the screens, watching the awards and looking out for who wore what, fashion journalists are at their best - worshipping the celebrities and designers that got the ensemble right, and scrutinising those who got it wrong. And why not? It is highly entertaining.

By Edita Lozovska - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

A handbag that is hot property at the moment is the Alexander Wang ‘Coco’ Duffel.  It is literally on fire, everyone in Hollywood is sporting one. Style icon Mary-Kate Olsen hasn’t let hers out of her sight wearing it all over town, Kristen Cavallari of The Hills fame enjoys hers in the LA sunshine and Ashley Tisdale and Rihanna simply love a bit of Wang.

The handbag is beautifully made of luxurious black leather and on the bottom is covered in gold studs, giving it more personality than most bags. The ‘Coco’ Duffel is everything you could want from such an item, attention grabbing, yet versatile.

Lucky for you, here at A-SHU we have been smart enough to grab a bag inspired by the ‘Coco’ Duffel, so all you wannabe Wang’s pay attention. Our Black Leather Effect Stud Embellished Holdall/ Shopper Tote with Long Shoulder Strap is an outstanding £22.00, and is just the thing.

There are three variations of this little gem, the classic and wonderfully timeless black, striking maroon and a deep orange to bounce off the beginning of that summer tan, wishful thinking perhaps, but a colour for everyone no doubt.

This holdall is great for daytime or evening, especially considering it’s multiple compartments and long shoulder strap. Embellishments are always big news and will be next season too. This beauty is studded along the sides and a little across the top. It just screams rock chick and will up date your look in a second, so treat yourself right now.

By Amy Shiels - Product Feature Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

Designers and fashion gurus predict everything forthcoming, from key textures to key designers. Colours are also an important factor in their predictions, and 2010’s set to dazzle. One popular colour I’ve seen around is Blush, which reminds you of the vintage powder puffs.

High street shops have stocked a range of items, from dresses, to blouses and even jackets and handbags in this delectable colour. Instyle compliments the versatility of this shade as it gives all skin types a “rosy glow” - so there’s no excuse not to invest in at least one piece.

You can easily team another neutral coloured accessory that will compliment your outfit such as belts, jewellery and even scarves.

Instyle says: “To give an outfit more texture, experiment with lace, chiffon or suede pieces.”

But if you’re feeling daring, “find a blush-colored dress or blouse with embellishments such as paillettes or beading.”

Shoes are also key to completing an outfit and whether it’s black and strappy or beige and textured, it’s sure to compliment this essential, flourishing colour for the season.

By Safeera Sarjoo - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

Women know the nitty gritty of the very basics that are necessary to achieve great style. Items such as a white smart shirt, black stilettos that ooze sex appeal and a classic trench jacket are all the backbone of any serious fashionista’s wardrobe. As is often the case when it comes to fashion advice, men have been overlooked in this arena. Here, men, are few of the staples each and every one of you should be investing in this season:

1: Classic, chic and worn with almost anything smart white collared shirt:
Most professionals own this piece already.  It’s important to spend a little extra on quality. Whether you wear it as a part of a suit, or on its own, cheap and low-thread cotton is a no-go. If you invest in something a little more elegant now, you’ll be getting your value’s worth in the end. The nicer the fabric, the longer the last. 

2: White, black or grey tee:
I know that the T-shirt is probably the most common item in anyone’s wardrobe, but there are many of you that are just getting it wrong. I am talking about the loosely fitting, schlump-wear type of T-shirt I see many of you sporting with jeans. Sports wear is fine, as long as it’s tidy and it fits properly. Beer and slogan tees that are three sizes too big are, frankly, tacky and unflattering. Instead, spend your money on simple solids that are cut slim. Black, white and grey are always on trend, and v-neck tees are very sexy.  

3: Straight-leg jeans, dark wash:
While we’re on the subject of fit, let’s talk about jeans. Jeans that are so big you could fit you and your mate into are just not okay. You all probably have your leg-fit preference, and trends come and go, but try to have at least one pair that falls somewhere in the middle. A straight leg, dark washed jean is a bit tidier than its other counterparts are. Casual work Fridays or a nice Sunday roast may call for something of this nature. This is again the time to spend a little more for something of quality. The nicer the jean, the better the fit and the longer the last. 

I hope you’ve taken notes. Though there are many more items considered the basics of menswear, these three are necessary for anyone that cares anything about looking good.  The key is to invest in classics and basics and it will take you much further than spending all of your money on a trend that will die next season. Besides, a man wearing a nice pair of jeans with a v-neck tee and white smart shirt unbuttoned over the top is probably the easiest, yet sexiest, outfit I can think of. 

By Jamie Bona - Men’s Style Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

With London Fashion Week just gone we’ve seen a whole lot of high heels, both on and off the catwalk. At this time of year, more than ever, models, celebrities, the press and fashion hot shots alike step out in their highest skyscraper heels. Teamed with statement designer handbag and dark sunglasses, they make up the mandatory Fashion Week uniform.

But just how wearable are these beautiful objects of desire, and how many models are dying to scream out in pain after a show? Journalist Caitlin Moran set out to answer these questions in a recent article for The Times and find out ‘what happens when a real woman wears catwalk clothes?’ After sampling footwear from the likes of Versace and Gucci her analysis was, ‘unbelievably painful’ and the solution: ‘WE NEED TO GO ON STRIKE FOR SHOES THAT ARE BEAUTIFUL, BUT ALSO ACTUALLY USEABLE AS SHOES.’

We love to see fashion pushing the boundaries and the late Alexander McQueen was certainly one to do that, most notably with the recent, controversial creation; the Armadillo shoe. Amazing, but where would you wear them?

If you’re looking for a shoe that ticks all the fashion boxes but doesn’t leave your feet in tatters, our Brown Mid Heel Woven Design Wedges, £22.00, may be the answer. Forget no pain, no gain. Mid heels may be the compromise between fashion and comfort we’re looking for. Stella McCartney seemed to think so, with mid-height, cork effect wedges making an appearance in her latest collection.

Not one to do heels by halves is the ever elegant Christian Louboutin, but he too has embraced the wedge for Spring/Summer with similar details, such as brown straps and a rope effect. So, why not give your feet a well-deserved break. To get the look nailed team your Brown Mid Heel Woven Design Wedges with some khaki shorts or a denim skirt, á la Stella McCartney.

By Yvette Yarnold - Product Features Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

There once was a time when anyone wearing beige looked similar to the furnishings of my Nan’s front room - but this season designers including Chloe and Fendi have shown us how to work the nude look in yummy shades of biscuit, mocha and blush. And the best news is that no matter what your skin tone is like you can find a look to suit you!

For those with a pale complexion opt for a pinker shade of blush, as modelled by Kelly Osborne at the New York Fashion Week. Kelly selectively picked a pretty dress in a pastel pink and kept accessories to a minimum to balance out the frilly design. To make this look more edgy team pale pastels with brown leather belts and handbags to get a chic utility look perfect for summer expeditions.

If you are lucky enough to have a naturally darker skin tone then mix and match coffee shades with clashing textures to add an edge to nude shades. Zoe Saldana showed just how to make beige and brown sexy in her geometric dress which she wore to the Fashion Week.

For those who are keen to experiment with nudes then why not mix them all together for a super sophisticated look which can look smart yet fun. Pick colours from every spectrum of the nudes and pile them on top of one another for a perfect ‘thrown-on’ look this Spring. And if you really want to use nudes to your advantage why not use them as a neutral base and go wild with floral prints, bold stripes and clashing graphics which will be calmed by the neutral tones running throughout. Add a pair of over-sized shades and leather satchel and your ready to go!

Nudes can be used in a multitude of ways this Spring/Summer so don’t be afraid to experiment with colours, textures and layers to create your perfect naturally chic look this season! 

By Charlotte Seabury - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

Most people have already paid their respects and paid homage to the unique talent of Alexander McQueen: the visionary. Still I wanted to take the chance to look back at his amazing contribution to men’s fashion. Much of the coverage so far has focused on McQueen’s womens wear partly because it got him noticed and is what he designed when he launched his own collection. However McQueen was also a fine designer of menswear.

His Kate Moss hologram in 2006 will go down as one of my favourite McQueen moments but what devastates me the most about Lee’s sudden suicide is that his most recent collections were some of my overall favourites. This just goes to show the great talent which McQueen still had to give to the fashion world. The main pieces of the Spring/Summer 2010 Collection were not only the structural and graphic abstract printed dresses, there were of course ‘those shoes’ the ones that made us appreciate Alexander McQueen even more whether they would be worn by someone or not. Of course I am talking about the ‘Armadillo’ shoes.

Lee staged what would be his final men’s collection in Milan in January during the Italian men’s season. Inspired by rocker Sting, the collection featured a whaling captain, and many Celtic origin references of which McQueen was so proud. “I wanted to show that, because my customers are complete men, not a stereotype of a fashion victim. Sting’s my ideal man, cause he’s a real man”, McQueen said at a dinner last month in Milan.

Lee was acknowledged as a masterful tailor and any man who has worn an Alexander McQueen suit, coat or jacket, I’m positive will testify to this. Once labeled “the hooligan of English fashion” for his controversial approach, McQueen actually started his fashion career on the decidedly masculine Savile Row, serving an apprenticeship with the tailors Anderson & Sheppard, before moving to Gieves & Hawkes.

Lee McQueen was the real deal, not some name on a label pumped up by a marketing strategy, which is why I am unsure whether the Alexander McQueen line should continue. He was a genuine talent.

By Russell Arkinstall - Men’s Style Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

Whilst our minds are set on getting away from this gloomy Winter scene and welcoming warmer, sunnier days, designers are one step ahead and are showcasing their Autumn/Winter 2010/2011 collections during the London Fashion Week extravaganza.

Vivienne Westwood’s collection was a showstopper not only in terms of clothes, but also make up. This time make up was not used with a standard lips-eyes-cheeks technique. It was used a facial contour enhancer. And the effect it gave was one to remember.

Although the catwalk show blended in various colours as dark or as eye catching as possible, it is necessary to remember that not every runway trend can be pulled off in real life. Good news, this is the fabulous one that is very wearable minimally, as well as for a more dramatic look. 

If minimalist make up is your cup of tea, try underlining the contour of your face using a bronzer rather than rouge. After all, spring is not at all far away. Firstly apply foundation, but make sure that its colour closely resembles your skin tone.

Next, go for the eye brow pencil, fabulously highlighted eye brows always give a confidence boost. Afterwards, use the bronzer to slightly highlight the skin under the cheek bone. Not sure where is that? Just smile in front of the mirror and put the bronzer on the line that appeared from your mouth to the corner of your ear. Remember, simplicity is key here, so always tone down, if you feel that the cheek bone line is too noticeable.

Don’t grab your eye shadows just yet - highlight them lightly with the bronzer. For your lips, use nude, matt or pastel shades. This is a great way to look fresh and natural. However, if you want skip the everyday look and go Westwoodesque - use darker browns and contour everything, including your nose!

By Edita Lozovska - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

What happens when you take a masculine look and add a certain touch of femininity? You get the fabulous Modern Military trend that’s what. This trend encompasses everything that’s great about certain boyish trends and makes them girly!

With this trend, don’t be afraid to experiment, and embrace a look you wouldn’t automatically go for. Worker ankle boots look fab teamed with a day dress and tights, or try them with leggings tucked in and leg warmers while it’s chilly!

New style combats are a great part of this trend and these can also be teamed with worker boots. Finish off your modern military look with a military style cropped jacket, parka and work the feminine cadet style to the T.

To chic up your military look a little team any boyish items with peep toe ankle boot heels, and some girly accessories.

By Laura Radford - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

Being an avid, in fact, let’s not try to play this down, being an obsessive Chanel fan, this item is an absolute must-have if ever there were one. Our Deep Red Quilted Handbag/ Shoulder Bag with Silver Chain for a marvellous £19.99. This is perhaps one of the best bags inspired by the brand, ever to be seen.

The brand Chanel was created by the wonderful Coco Chanel, who started a revolution against the corset and constructive women’s clothing of the time. Her cutting edge designs have stood the test of time and her brand is chic and iconic, which explains why it is lusted over by women the world over. Still at the height of popularity all this time on, timeless just isn’t the word.

Mischa Barton has an ever expanding collection of beautiful Chanel bags, and this my friend, is the next best thing. The colour of this lovely is simply show stopping. Nicole Richie has been seen toting a red version of the bag and Rachel Bilson has also been spotted with a similar design.

Our Deep Quilted Red Handbag comes in a soft leather-like material with that fabulous quilted design. As an addition and eye-catching detail the bag has a silver chain linked edging. Chanel lover Bilson has been seen everywhere with a brown Chanel bag sporting the chain edging, proving it is a look not to be missed.

By Amy Shiels - Product Feature Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.

Dominate this Spring with prints! Love them or hate them, shops have started to stock blouses, dresses and skirts with interesting and colourful designs.

Instyle has labelled it a key trend saying, “Digital technology has given designers the ability to craft exuberant patterns that would have been unthinkable 10 years ago.”

With that being said, why not team up some sassy accessories with your next print purchase. Take the Large Navy Blue Soft Suede and Patent Croc Effect Clutch Bag at £14.99, which can be teamed with cooler colours.

Alternatively, there is the Small Light Purple and Brown Quilted Duffle Bag with Tassel Detailing at £19.99 that can easily brighten an outfit up.

Instyle also has tips for wearing prints. “Ask yourself how much attention you can handle. Even a short dress will stop traffic. A kaleidoscope shoe or handbag may be enough for you - pair either with neutrals to show it off.”

If you think neutrals will work for you then why not turn your attention to the Taupe Soft Leather Effect Handbag with Heart Charm and Detachable Long Shoulder Strap for £24.99.

Remember that prints stand out so the worst thing you could do is overload on the accessories. Keep it simple and stylish and unleash your inner daredevil this spring!

By Safeera Sarjoo - Fashion Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.