THE CHARMED ONES: WAXING LYRICAL ABOUT THESE BEAUTIES

On my radar for a while are these stunning wax seal pendants by the talented Jessica De Lotz, I love the vintage & nostalgic vibe of each piece. When you look at these pendants it's almost as if there's a story to tell. The mixed metals add a little je ne sais quoi, and the fact that you can layer these pieces makes it all that more special. J'adore!

Mini Wax seal with Anchor wax seal necklace (double hand stamped) 'Based on a cherished love exchange, the collection, entitled ‘Across Waters’, includes a range of hand stamped 19th Century wax seals - wearable pieces for both women and men alike'

 I love this Pivoting wax seal compass wishbone necklace

19th C, wax seal charms via Jessica De Lots. You can even choose which emblem you want on the wax seal - 

~ Love Forever 

~ While I live I Grow 

~ Love/Truth 

~ Faithful 

~ Friendship 

~ Such is life

Other faves i've come across on my hunt for my lust list include these:

1. Victorian or Entwined Monogram Sterling Silver pendant via here

2. Wax seal initial charm pendant -BARGAIN! via here $16.00

3. Pegasus Wax seal pendant- image via here (couldn't find it on sale in Etsy)

4. Eternity wax seal necklace via etsy

So which ones have you been charmed by?

x.o.x.o

Hot under the collar: Jewellery Love

Kiki Kang (above) looks beyond amazing in the editorial for Madame Figaro China, no?  I'm loving, no dying over everything in this entire look. Shot by Charlies Guo via here.

Whenever I get those "I don't have anything to wear' moments, I opt for one of my fail safe uniforms of plain t-shirt or sleeveless vest top, jeans (coloured or plain), heels and a serious whopper of a necklace. The bolder the better, I say... better still,  I even layer a few different pieces together for a dramatic look sometimes (especially when I think I'm channelling Miroslava Duma - below).

Miroslava Duma collage via Dashion Mouse Blog

Need some inspiration, how about these gorgeous pieces to get you hot under the collar? I'm a sucker for Mawi, Dannijo and Lanvin's statement jewellery pieces... Might need to win the lottery to score some of their gorgeous bling though.

 1. Mawi Hexagon foil & hammered Necklace 2. Lanvin Sworovski cord & chain necklace via Net a Porter 3. Nikola Gold Collar necklace via New Look (£15) 4. Brass collar via asos (€24)

1. Cotton and gold-toned necklace by Marni via Outnet.com 2. Broken Record necklace via Tobi.com

3. Oahu beaded necklace by Dannijo 4. Pink beaded necklace £16 via River Island

What are your favourite go-to pieces when wanting to make a statement or simply dressing up an otherwise simple outfit?

Metallic Mix: Bling Bling

I don't know what's come over me, but I'm feeling the need for some fierce metallics as a final goodbye to the cold, harsh winter... So feast your eyes on these inspo lovelies!

Badass metallics

I kinda love everything about this shot, nails, clutch, bling... wish I knew the original source!

I'm sorry it's taken a while for me to get around everyones' blogs... I burnt my hand on the weekend - yes, hot pan of boiling water and a red raw right hand later... yeee-ouch! It was only a minor burn so Mr. Perseus acted quickly... I had my hand running under ice-cold water before he lathered on toothpaste - yes, that's right, toothpaste, (this only works with very minor burns though!!!) all over my entire hand.
The mintiness was incredibly cooling and much later I applied a thick layer of Aloe Vera and stuck a plastic glove on before hitting the sack... It's all looking much better now, normal actually and luckily now, no pain!

Not long til the weekend... I say bring on spring and colour!!! Wishing you a very Happy March!

images via 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6

Because it's Monday: Barbie Mania by Miles Aldridge

Happy Monday gorgeous people! I hope you've had a terrific weekend? The busy season is finally over for moi and I now have a moment to take in the New Year and new projects/challenges coming my way. It's been a little difficult, since working flat out the past month... each day blended into the next... I'm just so glad I popped all important dates into the phone to buzz and remind me of what I might be forgetting! Anyhoos, time for some amazing photography love by the extremely awesome and talented Miles Aldridge, he's one of my faves.

I love this Barbie Mania shoot he did for Vogue Gioiello 2009, it's such an imaginative way to shoot accessories, no?

I loved the styled up Barbies and bling, gimme some!

images via Miles Aldridge

I'm really excited... I can't wait to share with you an "I Want This Job" feature this week from a legendary blogger who just has the best job in the world... More soon!

Have a great week peeps!

Lusting after... Bad A$$ rings & pretty things

I was recently asked if i'd bought anything lately... in my head I was kinda thinking 'so, does this include online splurge or do you actually, physically mean walking into a shop and purchasing something which involves the exchange of hard earned cash?' Other than my dream dress purchase via Cocosa, it has been forever since I bought anything. Scout's honour...

I can't remember the last time I swooned at anything exciting, but whilst doing the rounds and looking for some summer accessorizing, I came across this long chained feather necklace and large stone cocktail ring from H & M. Yup, I swept these up in a jiffy and both weren't crazy expensive either, job done.

Even after my mini shopping stint, I still can't help but go gaga for these gorgeous rings!

1. ID knuckle duster ring by Mawi 474 euros
2. Bronze Lizard Onyx ring by Kara Ross reduced to £66.50 also via asos
3. Topshop triangle cut out ring £7.50
4. Low Luv 14ct Tripe bar ring by Erin Wasson redeuced £67.50 via asos

5. Vivienne Westwood silver square box ring £195 via asos
6. McQueen Spiral Twin skull ring (also available in gold) £150 via Harvey Nichols
7. This is so reminds me of the YSL Arty ring, but gorgeous otherwise. $16.95 Via Sportsgirl Aus
8. Agate cocktail ring £10 via River Island

Lastly, whilst grabbing the links for these rings, I've just spotted Lanvins new Medailles Crystal ring via Harvey Nichols, it is gorgeous!!! Which of these are tickling your fancy?

Hope you're all having a wonderful week!

Lusting after... cos its Monday right?

So, my fridge totally fell apart & died on me over the weekend. What's a girl to do, but do a 'Joey'..., what's that??? Eat the entire contents of the refrigerator! That's what, and if I had more shoes than sense or storage then I'd probably stash them in here! Well..., Ok, maybe not.

How was your weekend luvvies?

Whilst there were no other notable drama's, except for a corker of a headache/migraine/evil eye over the weekend, I had a great time stuffing my face. A lot.

I've missed the boat a bit on the Monday morning lust, but here it is...

Treasure Forever rings with different inscriptions:

Love
Forever
Wish Upon A Star
to treasure forever and ever
you make my heart sing
I shall return to my English rose
Rien Que Toi, Moi, Nous (nothing but you, me, us)

Available in Silver, 18ct Yellow Gold Plated Silver & 18ct Rose Gold Plated Silver
Laura Lee Jewellery

Loving Kara by Kara Ross' black python & oynx stone & skin section ring -£153
via asos

I'm totally obsessed with the YSL Arty enamel ring in gold with turquoise and I love these Kenneth Jay Lane molten 22k gold plated earring with the turq etched resin drops. (35.49 euros)

Pretty pop of turquoise via net-a-porter

In the spotlight: Monique of My Glamourology

Yippee today is Friday! I'm shattered to be honest. This morning I was battling with the good old Greek lack of internet and phone connection for over 4 hours... I'd woken up mega early to start my day and wanted to tick things off my never ending list of things to get sorted and the no internet thing didn't help at all!

Anyhow, I'm so excited to share with you all a fabulous & glam blogger who also happens to be uber talented at sketching (anything fashion) as well as designing & making jewellery. What I love about blogging is the fantastic community we have, getting inspired and sharing the love of all things fabulous!
So, let me introduce you to this gorgeous gal, Monique of My Glamourology and owner of online jewellery boutique, Justina-Leigh Jewellery! I remember the first time I came across her blog after she left a lovely comment on mine and I was instantly captivated by her outfit posts, cute pup and her amazing jewellery collection, one click on her shop had me running to my purse and grabbing my plastic, I wanted everything!!! I eventually picked out the ever popular woven chain bracelet 'Monte' for my 5m fashion fix.

Here's a glamourous peek into Monique's world, enjoy!

Tell us a bit about yourself and your work. When did you launch Justina Leigh Jewellery?

Full time I am a fashion designer for tween girl clothes but I've always had so many random passions on the side. I started making necklaces from thick chains maybe 5 or 6 years ago. I really made them as gifts and a few people at work would order some. It's sorta started from there but only recently did I have enough courage to actually try and get it into small independent Boutiques like Julia James and even started my own Etsy shop.

This morning you woke up and...
Today is Saturday so I woke up later than usual, immediately put coffee on the pot, checked and made a few emails, not every Saturday do I have to fill an order but ironically today I do! A bracelet for a girl named Debbie over in the Netherlands she ordered the Monte from my Etsy shop..

The new 'Monte' bracelet with leather entwined

What is a typical day in the life of Monique Justina?
A typical day is me waking up at around 6:30, After getting ready to go to the office I check my emails, maybe publish a blog post, read a few blogs, get to work and usually I have a meeting in the AM with my merchandiser, get to designing and working with our pattern maker. After work I go home at around 6:30ish I walk the dog, the sweetie and I either cook or order in, and then I blog, and design jewelry and I'm in bed around 12:30/1am every night. Working full time and also having a mini side business def leads to less sleep and less time for relaxing and TV watching. But I enjoy it regardless.

Supercute outfit and a little sketch of those lace shorts

Where does your inspiration come from?
I'm not sure really what I'm inspired by. Nothing specific in particular I just really love mixing girlie with hard edgy things. I love when I wear a frilly party dress and one of my big chunky heavy metal bracelets to off set the look. Even on my heavy metal pieces they have crystals and pearls. I just love the clash of the two looks.

Justina Leigh sold in various retail locations, click here for more info

What do you love most of what you do?
Having an Etsy site and being able to send the things I create across the globe to someone is amazing! I have an order from a girl in the Netherlands and to me that's just amazing. Someone will be wearing Justina Leigh across the globe! I love that!

Any advice for aspiring online shop owners?
My shop is still pretty new, but I think having a blog has really helped it gain a bit of traffic. I've become Etsy obsessed lately. Buying things from other creative people. Things that are one of a kind and unique. I think I'll do most of my Holiday shopping there too!

Other than shoes, what is your wardrobe chock full of? (Note, this gal loves shoes!)

Well, yes shoes are def 75-80% of my closet! But I also have an abundance of handbags. I started collecting bags when I was in college I had hundreds! Sad story - my Father accidentally put the box of handbags I had stored in the basement outside for charity to pick up! I lost literally about 100 handbags!! The one I miss most is a vintage Moschino red one. I've never seen that style again! Definitely a sad day for me, but slowly my collection has grown and I do have quite a number of handbags.


Fave dress?
My deep purple Diane Von Furstenburg chiffon wrap dress that I purchased at Neiman Marcus outlet for a pretty good price. It's simple and elegant and I toughen it up with chunky belt. I love that my BF is in the background of this pic too! Typical of what happens when I'm photographing and playing dress up! Haha!

Fave Bling?

I love this ring I purchased as a gift to myself when I was single. It's a big smokey topaz with a halo of pave diamonds and pave diamonds on the band. I figured if you don't have a guy to buy you sparkles just buy it yourself! It makes me feel strong and independent. I think they call those power rings? Did I just make that up? I have no idea, but I love it and I love that It was a gift from me to me!

Fave Shoes?
My Chloe Black Patent "Leonessa" T-strap Mary Janes that I purchased 3 years ago. They make me feel so girlie! I wear them with thick black tights and mini skirts around the holidays, they never go out of style.

What are your favourite shopping haunts in NYC?
I love thrift stores but unfortunately they've gained so much popularity that you cant find anything at a bargain! Until I discovered Beacons Closet in Williamsburg recently. They have great things designer and not designer at great prices! Huge fan of that place. But my all time favorite store in NYC is Henri Bendels. That place is like heaven for me!

If there was a genie in a bottle, what 3 wishes, would you wish for?
1. To be able to eat cupcakes every day and not gain a pound!
2. More hours in the day to do everything I want to do
3. More wishes?? lol!

It's never too late to...
Do something your passionate about.

What's next?
There are so many different things I want to do. I would love to expand Justina Leigh into a small lifestyle brand. I'd make one of a kind handbags with straps that look like a lot of my bracelets (I used to make handbags in college) and maybe even some clothing pieces. I'd love to get back into sewing, but there really just isn't enough time in the day! Where is that genie!?! haha Here's a peek of one of my new styles that I haven't put in my shop yet. It's a twist on the popular "Monte" I'm starting to incorporate leather. I haven't even named it yet, any suggestions? :)

I really love this!!!

Fashion is...
Not the articles of clothing you wear, but how you wear them.

Thank you so much Monique for sharing! Have a great weekend everyone!

Don't forget to check out Justina Leigh Jewellery!

Poolside Glamour

I hope you're all having a fab weekend!!!

Mr Lastminute.com failed to mention we're supposed to be heading to a pool party today. What to wear??? Hmmm...I'm on the slightly pastier shade (although olive skinned)than everyone else for sure, as I haven't made it to the beach at all this year. So a bit of cover up is required... errrr, what about this?

• Printed tunic - lingerie/beachwear shop, L'Ultima in P. Faliro (same rd as AB Vasilopoulos).
• Gold Sovereign coin necklace- present from Mr. Perseus
• Large sunburst pendant necklace - House of Fraser
  
• Shades - Topshop??? Can't remember
• Cluster of bangles - really old, from old samples, to Primark to Accessorize.
• Purple ruffle front sandals - Topshop last year.

Sorry, I know this is a bit of a lame post, but I gotta run!!! Ciao fashion bunnies!
p.s will catch up on some essential reading tomorrow!

Cheap thrills! Delicious Rings under £20/€20/$20!

I've been digging through my ring collection of late only to find that some of the rings I have either lack lustre, are scratched, or have lost a gem...

It's clearly high-time I picked up some new fabulous pieces. for all you recessionista fashionista's, these precious babies are all under $20, £20, €20!!! Bargain!




From top, left to right:

• All rings by New Look, UK - delivery Worldwide is £5 only! Plus they have a sale on too!
• Giant Flower ring-£6 available in blush too
• Shell flower ring - £5 available in an assortment of bold colours
• Resin Rose ring - £1!!! available in other colours
• Chainmail Bow ring - £10

• Forever 21 (F21) Burst filigree ring - $3.80
• Asos Bonjour double finger ring - €10
• Topshop heart and wings ring - £5
• Topshop Heart & arrow ring -€7.50

• F21 - Boysen beaded ring - $6.80
• F21 - Gaia stone ring - $5.80
• F21 - Luxe Gem ring - $3.80
• F21 - Bold vintage ring - $5.80

So, which ones will you be buying?

NEWSFLASH! I have a really exciting post to share with you all this Friday, so keep your eyes peeled...All i can say now is that if you love Vintage you will love this gal! She's simply beyond amazing!

As usual, tomorrow's post will reveal a talented individual in the fashion industry for "I want this Job" feature!

All images via Forever 21, Topshop, Asos.com, New Look

Superstitious minds: Mati, Evil Eye

I saw this image a while back on 'Because I'm addicted', I love it - isn't M.I.A smokin' gorgeous? Loving the pink lips, which reminds me I must dig out my hot pink MAC lippy 'Girl about Town' and show some fuchsia love. The headgear is pretty incredible right? Have you heard about the curse of The 'Evil Eye'?

In Greece (as this varies from country to country), this is a glance believed to have the ability to harm those on whom it falls, can come from anyone at any moment, or you can draw it to yourself. The cause can be zealous admiration, envy or even malevolent jealousy. Freeeeaky!

So, the funny thing is (or not), I've often suffered from really bad headaches usually after being out & about. Migraines are bad, but this was different, no amount of painkillers or ibuprofen helped. These headaches were seriously heavy and made me feel nauseous... ugh! Anyhow, it turns out I was given the 'Evil Eye' aka & 'Shiva Eye'. Lucky for me I had someone recite some prayers for me and a short while later I felt heaps better. Call me superstitious, but I wear a lucky charm religiously now (above) and weirdly enough, no more headaches! Here are some other protective charms I found on the net.

Hamsa Hand & Evil Eye charm Necklace by Vanessa Kandiyoti
via Net-a-Porter

Hamsa Hand Gold bracelet by Vanessa Kandiyoti
via Net-a-Porter

Mati, Evil Eye charm ring by Elena Syraka, Kolonaki, Athens
via Ethosjewel.com

Evil Eye ring by Kara Ross for Tory Burch
via Vogue

Jewellery Spy: Pretty pendants

above: Regal Crown hand stamped wax seal necklace £210

I always get a bit giddy over cool pieces of jewellery, so you can probably imagine how i felt when i stumbled across this Jessica De Lotz collection of wax seal style pendants from her collection titled 'Love Story', how romantic!

As a talented Central St. Martins graduate, I look forward to seeing more awesome pieces of jewellery from Miss De Lotz (cool name or what?) and her brother Benny.

Speaking of pendants, I recently noticed that Tex, from Fashion Butter had almost the same gold pendant as myself, check out the similarities here. I really love this beautiful sovereign coin pendant capturing the memorable battle between St. George and the Dragon as it's my first ever gift from my man when he tracked me down in Athens airport about 4 years ago... sigh!

I've seen a few gold coin pendants floating about, most are bought as gifts. The one above is of Athina via here.

I also love this jeweller, Christina Guenther on Etsy, who makes the most beautiful had stamped sterling silver pendants, with the offering of customizing too, check it out ladie. Note that there are others who do similar 'hand-stamped' pendant on Etsy, but i do so love the cute messages by Christina.

images via: Jessica De Lotz, Ancient Creations, Etsy