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Fashion, Shop

Father’s Day Gift Guide: present ideas for every kind of dad

31st August, 2017

Father’s Day is quickly creeping up and I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect gifts to give Luke and my dad. In the process, I’ve stumbled across lots of really great present ideas that I’m sure will put a smile on any dad’s face come September 3. Whether your dad is sporty, fashion conscious or outdoorsy, if you’re after last minute gift options I’ve got them covered.

Shop my picks below…

Gucci embroidered leather sneakers

A great pair of kicks—especially of the Gucci variety—is a great way to spoil a fashion loving dad. These sneakers are versatile so you can bet your dad will have them on high rotation.

Kjus golf jacket

What better accessory for a day out on the green than this waterproof golf jacket.

Polo Ralph Lauren striped jersey shirt

A striped tee is a classic and would be the perfect addition to dad’s off duty wardrobe.

Jacquard Shawl knit

Help dad stay cosy and stylish at the same time with a gorgeous knit.

Trenery Vincent scarf

A lightweight wool scarf will help dad navigate the sometimes unpredicatable trans-seasonal weather .

Lanvin knitted silk tie

For the man who loves to look dapper, a knitted tie adds a fashion forward touch to any ensemble.

Emporio Armani Luigi watch

A beautiful timepiece always makes a thoughtful gift.

Trenery Brendon Eva Derby shoe

Elevate dad’s shoe wardrobe with this derby in a luxe suede with a chic statement sole.

Fabbrica Pelletterie Milano suitcase

If your dad is a frequent flyer quality luggage would help him jetset in style.

Links of London classic gold t-bar cufflinks

If you really, really want to spoil dad this year then these cufflinks would definitely fit the bill. They’re definitely an investment piece but a pair of gilded cufflinks would take your dad’s look next-level.

Aesop Facial Balancing Gel

Aesop always do beautiful skincare and this facial gel enriched with vitamin C will deliver light hydration to the skin and is an ultra easy addition to dad’s grooming regimen.

Polo Ralph Lauren cap

This versatile cap will quickly become a weekend staple and add a bold pop of colour to any look.

Tom & Teddy swim short

If your dad hasn’t updated his swimmers for years, a pair of fun swim shorts will quickly have him looking on trend at the beach.

Lululemon shorts

For the fitness fiend father a pair of cool shorts will be a welcome addition to his gym wardrobe.

Trenery leather overnight bag

A beautiful leather weekender bag is the type of gift dad will have for years to come.

Happy Socks Father’s Day gift box

Socks have always been a reliable go-to Father’s Day gift option but when they’re this vibrant and fun they’re definitely guaranteed to put a smile on dad’s face.

Lifestyle, Shop

My Mother’s Day Gift Guide at QVB

4th May, 2017

Mother’s Day is just around the corner and there’s no better time to spoil mum and show her how much you appreciate everything she does. Whether your mum is fashion obsessed, loves to be pampered or enjoys simple creature comforts such is sitting back and relaxing with a warm cup of tea, below I’ve rounded up my favourite gift picks to help put a smile on her face on May 14. All of the products are available to shop at the QVB as well as a range of other beautiful and unique gifts for all types of mums.

 

 

Gifts for a Practical Mum

Kikki. K Boxed Card Set 

If your mum is the type who loves to be prepared at all times this beautiful box of gift cards will ensure she’s ready for every occasion thrown her way.

Aveda Healthy Hair Pack 

Who wouldn’t want to be gifted amazing tresses? This pack will help mum to keep her mane in beautiful shape.

Gorman Check It Throw Rug 

Any interiors loving mum will appreciate a cosy throw rug to add to her home.

T2 In The Mood Indigo Trio 

Afternoon tea is made all the more enjoyable with pretty crockery from which to enjoy it from.

T2 Tiny Tin of Manjari Tea 

If your mum is a tea aficionado introducing her to an exotic new brew will definitely earn you major brownie points.

T2 In The Mood Indigo Storage Tin 

This tin is a picture perfect way for mum to store her favourite tea.

 

Gifts to pamper mum

Haigh’s Cinema Mixture 

You can never go wrong with gifting chocolate of any kind, especially when it’s this delicious.

Koko Black Mother’s Day Gift Box 

Nothing beats a box of tasty sweets and these milk, dark and white chocolate pralines are guaranteed to please.

Country Road Animal Print Pyjama Set 

Beautiful sleepwear will ensure that mum enjoys a great night’s rest in style.

Aveda Light The Way Candle 

The spice Madagascar-inspired aroma of this candle will fill any home with a delicious scent.

Fornasetti Ortensia Candle 

Hand-crafted and housed in a gorgeous ceramic vessel, this Fornasetti Ortensia candle is a truly luxe gift for a truly special mum.

Oroton Estat Large Beauty Case 

This sleek and classic beauty case will house mum’s cosmetics in elegant fashion.

 

Gifts for a Stylish Mum

Country Road Soft Trench 

A trench is a style staple so any fashion-loving mum will appreciate having this classic piece in her closet.

Jo Mercer Scuff Slippers 

Slip-on metallic loafers is a statement shoe that is both chic and comfortable.

Helen Kaminski Fur Felt Hat 

Help make mum’s winter look complete with this beautiful felt hat.

Helen Kaminski Abigale Bag 

This on trend bucket bag combines form and function and is the perfect carryall.

Bally Suzy Bag in Rosehaze 

Compact shoulder bags are very of the moment, especially when in the season’s major hue of a soft dusty pink.

Lovélle Ring 

Jewellery is always a gift that’s sure to impress but even more so when it’s such a striking design.

 

This post has been created in collaboration with QVB

Fashion, Shop

The gift hub that’s making Christmas shopping easier for fashion fans

7th December, 2016

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The countdown is on to Christmas and I’m well and truly in shopping mode. I am quite a frequent visitor to Matches Fashion throughout the year and have definitely made a purchase or two so I was excited to discover their Gift Studio. I’m all about anything that makes life easier during this busy time of year and this certainly makes gift buying a cinch! The edit on the Matches site is always top notch, and they always stock my favourite designers so I know I’m guaranteed to find something perfect, but to make it easier to locate the ideal present, the dedicated Christmas hub narrows down present ideas into different categories, price range and style so it serves up just the right list of suggestions. It really takes the stress out of shopping. Plus if you’re a little short on time to gift wrap you’ll be glad to hear that every package comes in their signature marbled packaging so you don’t have to worry about wrapping. The packaging is so beautiful so it’s guaranteed to impress and their delivery times are super quick so if you’ve left things to the last minute, don’t worry, it’s not too late!

Here are some standout gifts that I’m sure will put a smile on someone’s face (I know I’ve bookmarked them for myself)…

Statement shoes

Whether it’s Aquazurra’s iconic Wild Thing sandals or Valentino’s beautiful Rockstud leather mules Matches’ shoe selection will satisfy any shoe addict. Flats don’t need to be boring these day either so I ordered a pair of Nicholas Kirkwood backless loafers.  These shoes are just the right style to ensure whoever receives them will get plenty of use out of them whilst still making a head-turning statement.

Bold jewellery

One huge trend at the moment is statement jewellery. The bolder the better. Whether it’s a pair of Gucci pearl-effect earrings or a gorgeous gold cuff any woman would be pleased to see something so special under the tree on Christmas morning.

Embellished bag

Gucci have really nailed it this season, especially when it comes to bags. The Dionysus embellished bag is the stuff designer dreams are made of. It’s gorgeously artistic and completely striking and is the type of wardrobe addition that will certainly impress.

Sunglasses

I’ve mentioned my love of sunglasses previously and I think they make a great gift. Whatever the style, beautiful frames are the perfect way to update an outfit and are a summer staple.

Lingerie

Why not treat yourself to beautiful lingerie? It’s the ultimate indulgence but oh-so right when it’s as pretty as this.

Accessories 

Whether it’s a Dolce & Gabbana iPhone case or a hot pink Givenchy card holder a mini designer hit is the kind of gift that is guaranteed to put a smile on the face of anyone receiving it.

 

 

 

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Gift ideas to help you spoil Dad (or any special man in your life)

29th August, 2016

Father’s Day is just around the corner and if you’ve yet to find the perfect present for your dad I’ve got the ideal gift ideas to suit every kind of personality. Whether he’s into travel, loves fashion or you simple want to spoil him, there’s sure to be a gift here to put a smile on your dad’s face.

Cufflinks

A great pair of cufflinks is always a welcome addition to any man’s wardrobe. These propeller cufflinks add a little bit of fun to an outfit.

Leather workbag

A quality leather workbag is definitely an office wardrobe staple that will get plenty of use.

Tom Ford

What better gift than a gorgeous fragrance? This one by Tom Ford will incite many compliments.

Bracelet 

For the fashion-conscious father, this bracelet will add some edge to any outfit.

 

Shorts

With spring/summer around the corner a great pair of shorts will certainly be on high rotation during the warmer months.

Wallet

Is dad’s wallet on its last legs? Spoil him with a new quality wallet complete with fun inscription.

Suitcase

If your dad is a frequent flyer he’s guaranteed to get plenty of use from a brand new suitcase. This one is just the right size for a carry-on.

Aesop

Aesop always do really gorgeous products and this grooming kit will have your dad feeling and looking his best.

Sneakers 

You can’t go wrong with a great pair of sneakers. This white pair by Converse is sleek and understated so will work back with virtually everything in Dad’s wardrobe.

 

 

 

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Best new gifts for kids

21st July, 2016

When it comes to gifts for kids there are so many adorable options out there that are guaranteed to put a smile on their face. If you’re looking to spoil your kids, nieces, nephews or any other special little person in your life I’ve rounded up some new and unique gift ideas that are guaranteed to make you very popular indeed…

I love anything interactive so rate this musical barn which has plenty of farm animals and different song to sing for each to provide hours of entertainment. The opening and closing doors reveal hidden friends and a spinning windmill.

Looking for the shoe of the season for a special little girl? The adorable kitty face design on these shoes are on another level of cuteness. If you can make an investment, buy quality shoes made from leather as they will accommodate the foot and allow for better movement. Leather lasts longer and is also a natural fibre which allows the foot to breathe.

As most parents can attest you can never have too many cute pyjamas. I recently bought Sophia a pair of pyjamas from Cotton On which has a great range and isn’t all that expensive. She is growing so quickly that it is great to be able to buy a few budget-friendly options and have them on rotation.

As you can imagine Sophia’s well versed in all things horses and this particular toy is one I think she will absolutely adore. This horse is ready to race with reins, saddle and even winter leg warmers and a brushable mane.

Do you remember Sylvanian Familes? They were around when I was growing up and I absolutely loved collecting them. If you want to buy a special gift for a child, go for a collectable so they can continue to add to it over the years to build a full set.

 

There is something timeless and special about wooden toys. This pull along pig features bright colours and sweet woven rope so a child can follow it on lots of adventures!

To mark the special occasion of the arrival of a new baby arrival this divine set including a woollen cot blanket and a cuddly fat lamb soft toy are sure to put a smile on any new mum’s face.

When the weather is cool but you don’t want to layer up your child too much a puffer vest is a great option. Sophia loves hers as it’s the ideal accessory for early morning walks and plays in the park. To finish off the look? You can find a puffer vest for yourself, too!

There’s something quite charming and old-school about a rocking horse. I think it makes a great addition to any nursery. The soft fabric body makes this a very child-friendly gift and it guarantees hours of fun. The mini horse also doubles as a great soft toy to play with.

 

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Gift suggestions for the hard to buy for people in your life

14th July, 2016

We all have that person on our list that seems to be impossible to buy for.  Sometimes they have two (or three) of everything already, a very particular taste or you don’t know them quite well enough yet. I’m told that I fall into these categories so I often hear from friends and family that I’m someone who’s ‘so hard to buy for’!

While gift giving can be tricky, rest assured there are some foolproof gifts which are guaranteed winners. My gift suggestions list covers every type of personality and every kind of budget. Even if there’s no special occasion on the horizon unexpected gifts are always a great way to spoil someone. So prepare to win some major brownie points with the gifts below. I know I’d definitely love to receive anything on the list…

Go-to gifts for every kind of person:

Anything monogrammed is always a great way to spoil someone. Check out the range of personalised stationery from The Daily Edited.  

Luxurious toiletries are always a welcome gift, especially anything from Aesop. I highly recommend the hand soap which smells absolutely amazing. 

Think of someone’s interests and give them a beautiful coffee table on the subject. I’m sure many a fashion lover (myself included) would love this Kate by Kate Moss book. 

Wardrobe basics are a great option when you’re not quite sure of someone’s style. I particularly recommend Bassike t-shirts, jumpers and shorts.

It is important to always have special soaps at home as the small touches make a big difference. The vintage inspired wrapping on these scented soaps make them look as good as they smell. 

Nothing says tea time better than T2 Teas. The range is so extensive you’re guaranteed to find one to suit every tea lover. Definitely try the green sencha or sleep tight varieties. 

My bathroom has never looked better since being adorned with the most chic towels ever from Missoni. Any interiors fan would love them as they’re a great way to add a designer touch to any bathroom.

Jo Malone pear and freesia perfume is a well known favourite scent of mine. I can’t think of any woman who wouldn’t love to receive a treat from Jo Malone.

These Country Road frames are perfect for holding your special memories. To add a personal touch print some photos to pop in the frame when you gift it.

The Daily Edited (TDE) pouch is perfect for your phone, makeup and keys. I own multiples of them and can attest to how great they are for carrying essentials. Once again the monogrammed touch elevates it to the next level.

Pampering time? Jo Malone bath oil is my way to detox at the end of a long day. It sweet almond, jojoba seed and avocado oils to hydrate the skin and scent your skin. It’s the ideal gift for someone you really want to spoil.

Tip: Sale time is the perfect opportunity to stock up on gifts for family and friends. There are numerous sales at the moment both online and in-store so keep an eye out for some serious bargains. Case in point: this week at David Jones’ you can receive a third product for free when you purchase two from the David Jones beauty range. You can also choose three samples for free when you buy beauty products online from David Jones.

 

Fashion, Lifestyle & Social

Shop the look: Kids

12th January, 2016

Not sure what to get the little ones in your life? I’m always on the look out for gifts for my friends’ kids and also my niece and nephew so I’ve built up quite an extensive list of great presents for children. There’s always birthdays around every corner so here’s what I’ll be keeping on my list:

BUILDING BLOCKS: Beatrix Potter 

There’s something quite whimsical about a set of building blocks and this Beatrix Potter set is adorable.

SHOES: Polo

Stylish and comfortable, these Polo sneakers are great for kids who are active and always on the go. (Might want to keep them indoors on a rainy day though!)

TOP: Country Road 

A great summer print for little boys, this is the perfect tee for the warmer months.

CHINOS: INDIE Kids 

I couldn’t resist these chinos! They can be dressed up or down so are a great addition to any child’s wardrobe.

SOFT TOY: Jellycat

These are so super soft! They’re great as a baby gift and is something that can grow with them.

METAL CAR: Vilac

I love the old school look of this toy car. I’m sure any child would get hours of enjoyment from riding around with their own set of vintage wheels.

BIKINI: Zimmermann

I can’t resist Zimmermann when I’m bikini shopping for myself so I couldn’t go past this set for little girls. The print and ruffles are the perfect beach day look.

OVERALLS: Country Road

Denim pieces are great because they can be matched with virtually anything so you can be sure it’ll get plenty of use. Plus who can go past the cute factor of overalls?

DOLL HOUSE: Le Toy Van 

I think almost every little girl dreams of having her very own doll house. This house is particularly pretty and I’m sure would make a welcome addition to any toy collection.

Fashion

Shop the look: Spoil him

21st December, 2015

Whether it’s your partner, brother, dad or a friend, here are some of my favourite gift options for the special guy in your life.

BACKPACK: The Hershel 

I think every guy needs a backpack. It’s a really good to use as carry-on luggage for a trip overseas or as way to take essentials to the gym. It’s a really handy item.

WATCH: Christian Paul

This is one of my faves from the Christian Paul collection. They’re unisex so if you give your partner this watch you can always have a borrow of it as well. It’s from the marble collection and it’s one of my faves.

SUNGLASSES: Tom Ford

You can never have too many sunnies for different occasions. This pair is great because they can be dressed up or down.

CUFFLINKS: Paul Smith

I think cufflinks are always a great gift option for men. My husband, my brother and my dad are always wearing cufflinks and they like to mix it up at times. It’s handy to have a classic pair but some fun ones are always good.

SHAVING KIT: Molton Brown

It’s always nice to give gifts to people that they wouldn’t buy themselves and I think there’s something luxurious about a shaving kit. I know my husband would be happy if he received something like this.

Fashion

Mother’s Day gift guide

30th April, 2015

I love to spoil my mum every Mother’s Day so I’m all about finding the perfect present. Here are some great present ideas I discovered in my hunt for just the right gift…

Samantha Wills sunshine & saltwater bangle

A classic piece of jewellery for the mum who loves sunny days and hanging at the beach.

Sheridan ultralight mum robe

A luxurious white robe never goes astray.

Michael Kors classic single chronograph watch

Rose gold is definitely having a moment and this watch is a gorgeous time piece.

le specs rapture sunglasses

Black statement sunnies are a wardrobe staple.

Fornasetti scented candle

I think a scented candle is a must for every home and this one doubles as eye-catching decoration for any room.

Kenneth Jay Lane faux pearl necklace

Pearls are a classic addition to any jewellery collection but this is ideal for the more fashion forward mum.

Rag & Bone leather-trimmed wool-felt fedora

I love a great hat! This is perfect for winter and can work back with so many outfits.

Givenchy pouch

This printed pouch is a great way to make a statement.

Givenchy scarf

I love the fact this scarf has a slightly edgy print. I don’t think you can ever go wrong with anything from Givenchy!

Miu Miu pouch 

A classic plain black pouch is just the right piece for any fashion-conscious mum.