Style Birmingham Live 2015

Birmingham is fast becoming THE shopping destination in the UK. With the addition of Grand Central Birmingham (two words: John Lewis) alongside the Bullring, The Mailbox and more, there’s something for everything.

Us Wardrobe ladies, love arranging a little shopping trip in Birmingham. Once we’re done with stores such as River Island, Topshop, Selfridges, Debenhams, Urban Outfitters, New Look and Zara, we’ll rest our feet (and credit cards!) in one of the many food and drink places around. Even with our hectic schedules, we’ll always make time for a Brum day out and one of the local events we always look forward to every year is Style Birmingham Live.

For those not familiar with Style Birmingham Live, it’s the city’s fashion and shopping event of the year. Seriously, if you love fashion, beauty and shopping then this is the event for you. We’ve been regulars at SBL over the years and we really missed it’s absence last year. But this year it’s back – with a bang!

On Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th September, SBL will be taking place at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery‘s Gas Hall which is going to be transformed into ‘The Fashion Theatre’ for the event. It’s the first time the event will be held at the Gas Hall which is such an impressive venue. We can’t wait to see how it will all look.

Everybody’s fave Essex boy Mark Wright is the host this year and hell be joined by Stylist Mark Heyes. Mark Wright will be hosting the six catwalk shows across the weekend which will be taking place at ‘the fashion theatre’. The catwalk shows are our favourite as we get to see the latest autumn/winter styles and collections from some of our fave high street retailers. The shows are basically a chance for us to write down ‘want, want, need’ next to the items!

For those following our Facebook and Twitter, you’ll have seen photos from the launch evening of Style Birmingham Live. Award-winning salon Francesco Group will be the official hair partner at the event and MAKE UP FOR EVER will be the official make up partners for the show. We’re familiar with Francesco Group here at Wardrobe but it was the first time that I tried MAKE UP FOR EVER. First impressions? Er I’m sold! I can see why Emily was raving about the HD foundation, it looks flawless on my skin. Looking forward to learning more about the brands at the shows.

I can’t wait for this year’s event, it looks set to be a big one especially with the transformation of the city. There’s still time for you to buy your Style Birmingham Live 2015 ticket, just visit http://www.theticketfactory.com – your ticket will get you a VIP entry to the show, a welcome drink on arrival, access to retailer offers and activities plus a goody bag. Perfect if you want to make it a day out with your friends!

We’ll be tweeting live from the event on Saturday 26th September so follow @WardrobeMag for the latest. Now, what to wear…

Who will we be seeing at Style Birmingham Live 2015? 

Sunny

Images courtesy of Rewired PR

A message from Wardrobe…

Dear readers,

We started the blog back in 2009, fresh out of University and with a whole lot of time and enthusiasm. It’s a terrible excuse but as the years have gone by, the blog has taken a backseat a little as everything else in our life has gotten a little cray. The blog was created due to our mutual passion for shopping and while fashion and beauty is something we still very much enjoy, it’s becoming ever so difficult to keep up with the blog- and the blogging world in general!

This year we’ve seen a lot of big changes in our personal lives; new jobs, house moves, new passions/hobbies and planning the first Wardrobe wedding! It’s all very exciting but we’re clearly in different stages of our lives compared to when we started the blog at the ripe ol’ age of 21.

We didn’t think we needed to explain our absence (it’s a shame to feel guilty about not posting when it was always for fun!) but thought we owed it a little to our readers and supporters.

When we first started out, there were hardly any bloggers around in Birmingham so over the years we’ve made so many good friends through blogging. Not just in Birmingham but all over the country, that’s been the best thing about blogging – the bloggers we’ve met along the way. Also we’ve been to some fantastic events, built relationships with some fab brands and PR’s and had some great experiences. Blogging has changed so much over the years but it has been fun- and we hope that’s what it’ll always remain.

We’ll still be blogging on Wardrobe but just not as much. We know this may put off some PR’s / brands from contacting us (we know how it works!) but we’ll always be honest about what we can cover or not. I do find it a little sad that we have to declare that but blogging has become a business now – just not for us unfortunately!

We’ve still got some great blogs lined up for you to enjoy in the meantime so don’t completely give up on us yet!

Wow, that was a bit emosh! Now back to bidness…

Love,

Sunny and the Wardrobe Ladies x

Spring/Summer Fashion from Joy

Hello!

I decided that as the weather has finally changed for the better and thoughts turn to sandals and dresses rather than boots and jumper, I would do a little post with a few things that I think will make a great addition to your wardrobe this season.

In particular, all of these things are from the JOY store. I must admit, I’ve only ever bought bits and pieces from JOY, but they have so many things I want that I wanted to focus on it today.

You may have seen that yellow is very on trend right now. Despite the fact that I am usually found in black, I actually have a lot of yellow tops and accessories. I have even been known to rock yellow Converse once upon a time. This yellow dress is absolutely gorgeous, and pretty much screams “summer wedding” if you ask me. If you just want a little hint of yellow, a simple top would be perfect too.

Louche Bergen Dress, £59. JOY

Louche Thyme Top, £35, JOY

As well as the dress above, there are lots of perfect sun dresses and tops available.

Louche Luxe Tully Floral Dress, £120, JOY

Louche Rosalia Floral Dress, £59, JOY

Louche Alta Anchor Top, £32, JOY

Finally, I saw these handmade retro lolly necklaces on their website, which I absolutely LOVE! They are the perfect little accessory for summer. Mine would have to be the Fab lolly!

My Bear Hands Retro Lolly Necklace, £35.00, JOY

My Bear Hands Retro Lolly Necklace, £35.00, JOY

My Bear Hands Retro Lolly Necklace, £35.00, JOY

I think it’s the perfect weather to go shopping, and then head to your nearest park for some ice cream and lounging in a sun dress, don’t you agree! I love these pieces in their store, and there’s more that I think you’ll love online and in store.

Will you be adding any of these pieces to your wardrobe?

Bhavna

Adidas Stellasport- Bright and Affordable Fitness Wear

So the new Adidas StellaSport collection was launched a few weeks ago. Though I’ve not had a chance to check it out in person yet, I wanted to blog about it after a conversation with someone about affordable fitness wear,

When you think of a range of active wear from Stella McCartney and adidas together, your first thought might be that it will be out of your budget. However I’ve been pleasantly surprised by just how affordable this new range is! I’d seen bits and pieces from the collection from sneak previews on social media, and could tell that the new pieces were going to be beautifully designed, but maybe a bit pricey, but since its launch, I have been proven wrong.

The new range is bold and bright, and should be highly coveted by anyone who’s a fan of eye-popping colour for their active wear. That definitely includes me.

It’s so great to see Stella and adidas work together to create pieces that could fit into anyone’s workout wardrobe and won’t break the bank. This range includes good-quality, technical materials, so whatever your workout there should be something for you.

adidas Stellasport Tights, £39

adidas Stellasport Bra, £28

adidas Stellasport Sweat Pants, £48

adidas Stellasport Swimsuit, £38

adidas Stellasport Backpack, £37

What do you think of the StellaSport collection?

Bhavna

Steal her Style- Maisie Williams at the SAG Awards 2015

Hello! Hope everyone has been having a good year so far- we’ve been quiet on the blogging front but we have had lots to be getting on with at the start of the new year. However, there’s lots of exciting things that have caught my eye which I’ll hopefully get to blog about.

Of course, with the start of any year, we’re all excited about awards season! There have actually been far too many gorgeous dresses and trends hitting the red carpet at the moment, and I’m sure we can get a round-up of BAFTA and Oscar red-carpet looks. But for now, I wanted to talk about one dress in particular, mainly because I had been lusting after it for a few days then lo, it turns up on Maisie Williams at the Screen Actor’s Guild Awards!

Maisie Williams at the SAG Awards 2015

Doesn’t she look gorgeous? I love this shade of red, and had seen this dress a few days before online. If you love it as much as I do, you can pre-order it from London-based label Self Portrait.

Azaelea dress, Self Portrait, £240

The dress is available from Feb 2 and also comes in white.

Complete the look with these heels from Topshop.

GEMINI Metallic Court Shoes, £42, Topshop

It’s worth checking out the whole of Self Portrait’s new arrivals– there is lots of clothing to lust after!

What do you think of Maisie’s dress?

Bhavna

Destination Christmas: Selfridges

It didn’t feel right to mention the ‘C’ word until now. But as we reach the end of November, it’s time to start thinking about yep, Christmas.

Now, the holidays emphasise two kinds of people: those who have already started and pretty much wrapped up their Christmas presents and those who have yet to start. Guess what camp I’m in?

I’m not panicking though. The shops are full of amazing gifts that I have to stop myself buying (for me) and there is still time until the big day.

I quite like hitting the shops by myself; Sunny on a mission. No messing about, I know what shops to visit and roughly what I want to get. It’s a massive bonus though if you can just get the majority of your gifts from one place.

Step forward Selfridges. Your first destination this Christmas.

The Selfridges Birmingham branch in the Bullring is one of our favourites if you haven’t already guessed from our previous posts. You’ll always find something there from food to beauty.

This year, Selfridges have gone for a personal touch so you can make your gifts extra special. One of the most popular gifts is a personalised jar of Nutella- trust me, we got quite excited at this! Not bad for a scrumptious stocking filler…

As a young girl, I loved reading Mr.Men books. As my name is Sunny (hello!), I used to get a lot of Little Miss Sunshine related presents so the personalised Mr. Men station is such a cool idea. I think this is a great little gift idea not just for kids but grown ups too (cough). I love my gift courtesy of Selfridges! [Prices start from £34.99*]

This bespoke Christmas sack would make such a good present that can be reused every year. I think this would make a nice present for a new family. Again, this is a present suitable for anyone of all ages. I can’t remember the exact price but think it was from £20.00…

There are so many personalised gift options on the first floor as well as the ones mentioned above. Check them out and the best thing is, you’ll get them done whilst you shop. While you wait for your bespoke gifts, check out the Christmas Gift Shop also on the first floor. You can even get gifts for your pets…yep. The food and drink section has some ace gift ideas if you want to splash a bit of cash for a special person. Selfridges have a wide range of Christmas hampers filled with amazing products. From luxury chocolates, teas, Christmas puddings, cheeses, wines, champagne and so much more. If you have no idea what to get, there is a dedicated team of food and drink experts on hand to point you in the right direction.

That is all just on the first floor- with four floors in the Birmingham store, you’ll be spoilt for choice. We couldn’t resist venturing to the beauty floor where there are so many amazing products making our Christmas Wardrobe Wishlist including these Alphabet Makeup Bags [£20]. Which one though?

Oh and I couldn’t not mention these Sophia Webster Evangeline heels also available in Selfridges- dreamy!! I hope Santa knows I have been a very good girl this year. Well…

Pop in and get your bespoke gifts from Selfridges Birmingham (please check London and Manchester). Is Selfridges one of your shopping destinations this Christmas? Have you started your Christmas shopping?

Images taken by WardrobeMag

Sunny

 

 

 

AW 14 Winter Running Jackets

It definitely feels like winter now! November has brought a chill with it, but for those of us who have winter and spring races to complete, training still has to go on.

Personally, I’ve never had a good experience with running jackets. I get very hot very easily and would rather opt for a long running top, gloves and a fleecy headband, but it’s personal preference. Sometimes I see people so layered up when the sun is out, but everybody reacts differently in this weather. I do have a running jacket, but only wear it in the early mornings, when I’m doing a short run and it won’t bother me.

The other problem I have with jackets, apart from overheating, is that once I want to take it off, I hate tying it around me, especially when my phone or key is in the pocket. It really distracts me. But there are some great jackets out there that do away with all that, so I decided to put a few of them together.

Despite what I’ve said, there are many positives to running jackets. They can protect you against the elements, can be great to wear at the start of a race when you’re lining up in the cold and give you added visibility. As someone who doesn’t like to have one flapping around their waist, I really love this Sweaty Betty Ultra Run Jacket.

Ultra run Jacket, £95, Sweaty Betty

I love the city lights print for AW14 across their running gear (especially on these splits run capris), with this jacket being the right amount of colourful and bright for winter. It has a back pocket for storing keys etc. But the best thing about it is that when you want to take it off, it folds down into a bumbag!

City Lights Ultra Run Jacket Sweaty Betty

It’s great to take out with you to put on later during a run if you find that you’re still cold, or to put away at the start line of a race. Definitely the kind of jacket I like!

If visibility is your main concern, and you have a big budget, then Nike’s Shield Flash Max running jacket might be for you. It also comes in a bold and bright blue, but at £350 it’s not the cheapest you will find in stores!

Nike Shield Flash Max Running Jacket, £350, Nike

However the jacket does feature a reflective polka-dot design on the entire jacket, so you will definitely not be missed during the dark evenings!

Finally, for people like me that manage to warm up a little too well and need to shed some layers to stay cool, jackets which have detachable arms are ideal.

ASICS have a super bright jacket that is convertible, depending on the weather. It has detachable sleeves, and features motion protect technology to keep you warm and dry.

Convertible Running Jacket, £75, ASICS

This Gore-Zip off running jacket is also ideal.

Gore Zip Off Jacket, £149.99, Runner’s Need

The jacket comes in an array of colours, and features detachable arms that you simply zip-off as the name suggests and pop into the pockets. This would be ideal if you need to cool down, but also want to maintain protection against the weather, as your chest and back remain covered. There’s also a zip-off hood, although in my experience, hoods do not stay on your head whilst running! But it’s always handy for when you are jogging to the start of your run, or even once you’ve finished and need to keep warm.

Gore is a great running brand, and this jacket is now only £104.99 in the Gore sale at Runner’s Need, so if you want it you should snap it up now!

Whilst these jackets might seem pricey, for around £100 you know you are getting a good quality jacket that will provide you with good weather protection whilst being sweat-wicking and increasing your visibility, vital for cold winter road runs. Some things, like jackets and shoes, are always on the more expensive end of the scale, but it’s worth checking out your local running store and sites like Wiggle, which will have jackets in your budget.

For any male readers, the Gore, ASICS and Nike jackets are also available in the men’s sections!

So even though I usually opt for less layers, I’m very tempted to buy a versatile jacket to see me through autumn and winter.

What do you wear on winter training runs?

Bhavna

Discovering RMK (we know)

One thing I have learnt from venturing into the beauty world is that there are so many cosmetics and skincare brands out there. I don’t know about you, but it can leave a girl hella confused.

As mentioned before on WardrobeMag, I was introduced to another brand that I hadn’t heard of before: RMK.

RMK is a Japanese cosmetics and skincare brand which is available at Selfridges, Birmingham as well as online and worldwide. I had heard rave reviews about one of their products- the RMK Cleansing Balm- and when I was asked to come in for a little trial of the new range, I was like why not?

After a hard day at work, I popped into Selfridges and found the RMK counter next to Urban Decay. It’s crazy to think I have never really noticed it before. The lovely Shanara sat me down and explained she would be creating a fresh look for me. I normally go for something dramatic, like a smokey eye or dark lips but was intrigued to see what a fresh natural look would do…

My look would be created by using the new Power of Love A/W 2014 collection as well as some classics. First of all, the famous Cleansing Balm that I had heard a lot about came out to take my makeup off. It’s frickin’ amazing. It’s like my new favourite product. I was kindly given a sample which is still going strong. I am definitely going to invest and have been raving about it to my friends and family. It’s a rose scented balm that removes even waterproof eye makeup and a little goes a long way- worth an investment.

RMK Cleansing Balm- a beauty must have!

With my skin prepped, Shanara got cracking using the new range. One thing that I have had a problem with are my eyelashes. I naturally have long and thick eyelashes- which isn’t a bad thing but I can never find the right mascara to make them look wowsers. Shanara is probably the first MUA to get my lashes looking like this. SERIOUSLY. We could have ended the makeover there and then because I was just like wow. All it took was some nifty curling action with the curlers and then letting the RMK Seperate Curl Mascara do its thing.

Look at the difference!

Shanara then used the new limited edition Matte Shiny Eye pencil from the new range in the brown shade. The pencil has a matte crayon on one side then a glitter powder on the other side to give it some sparkle. I think it’s good for everyday use as you can sweep the powder on if you’re going out. The rest of my look made using the new creamy foundation, Matte shiny cheeks blusher, Shiny sheer gloss and Powder eyebrow kit.

I really liked my look- something different! I have since tried to replicate it and it’s really easy to do. The Power of Love collection is worth checking out especially if you’re a fan of the fresh look for a party alternative. I want to thank the lovely staff at RMK Birmingham for looking after me so well and especially Shanara for showing me how to get my lashes looking lush!

Have you ever tried RMK products before? 

Images taken by WardrobeMag

Sunny

AW14 with Intu Merry Hill

I’m trying to avoid visiting shopping centres at the moment but it’s proving tricky! Why am I trying to avoid them? Because I can guarantee you I will find something that I want to buy in every shop as I absolutely adore this season. It’s just not great on the ol’ bank balance.

Last weekend however, it was the Intu Merry Hill Autumn Winter Fashion weekend. If you’ve been following the blog for a long time, you’ll now that we love these weekends. Not only do you get to see the new trends available to purchase but you get a booklet full of discounts- and you can’t ignore a discount right?

With my discount booklet

Not only has the name changed but the fashion shows too. They were spread out rather than in the central position like the last few occasions. Sadly, I never got to witness any as I arrived after 5pm. But from what I saw inside the stores, I am sure they would have been on point.

 

I had a little wonder and managed to snap some of the trends that I think will be worth investing in:

Leopard Print– this trend drives me WILD every season. This print is a definite wardrobe staple as it more or less never goes out of fashion. If Leopard print scares you, then opt for accessories or shoes for a hint of wildness.

River Island

Tartan– Och aye! Another print that is a worthy investment. Prepare for the chill with some tartan print. I am loving the range of coloured scarves and the Burberry-esque wraps. This New Look one is on my Wardrobe Wishlist.

Primark

Simply Be / Jacamo

New Look

Orange– The high street is awash with this shade and as someone who is always back in black, even I love his colour. If orange ain’t your thang then invest in other bold colours such as red, green or cobalt blue.

Oasis

Sixties Swing– It’s all about the old school this season. First up is the sixties trend; from peter pan colours to mini skirts. I can’t wait to channel this trend with some heavy eyeliner and a bouffant Bardot would be proud of!

Marks and Spencer

New Look

That 70’s Show– One of my favourite shows and a trend that I have grown to love. From paisley prints to faux fur, this is a glam trend which is perfect for the upcoming party season. A perfect way to update any outfit is a floppy hat. I fell in love with this one from Topshop but couldn’t justify the £28 price tag boo!

Wearing a Topshop hat (£28)

Lace– Another trend that has become a wardrobe staple. I think a hint of lace is great to jazz up any outfit especially when it comes to going out. The guys at Intu Merry Hill had kindly gifted me a £30 gift card which I decided to spend on this lace skirt from River Island (£35). The thing I loved about this skirt is that it’s quite different and smart. I don’t have a midi length skirt but though it would keep me slightly warmer! It will also go well with the other trends such as tartan. I’m looking forward to wearing it for a party I have coming. Now I just need to decide on a top…

River Island

Which of these trends would you invest in? 

Images taken by WardrobeMag

Sunny

Selfridges Birmingham- New Menswear Launch

We just can’t get enough of Selfridges here at Wardrobe Mag. The iconic store is one of the Bullring’s most popular destinations and you can see why. For clothing and accessories, you’re likely to find whatever it is you want- and not necessarily breaking the bank. Recently, Selfridges has had a bit of a revamp. We’ve spoken about the new beauty floor but the Menswear department has also had a facelift. Unlike before, you can find all you need on one floor (Level 2) from clothing to accessories- it’s definitely bigger and better. Around the floor, you can find over 100 different labels such as Burberry, Belstaff, Michael Kors, Reiss, Paul Smith, Billionaire Boys Club, Tiger of Sweden, DSquared and Valentino. You can also find high street brands such as Topman and Primark. I know a lot of people are surprised to hear Primark but just like the women’s floor, the Primark concession consists of on-trend pieces. If you can’t stand going into a Primark store (it’s like a constant Next sale!) do check out the Selfridges concession. On Wednesday 1st October, I was invited along to the see new Menswear destination launch in association with British GQ. Shoppers were invited to meet GQ Editor Georgina Waltier and the Selfridges Menswear Buying Team for exclusive tips. They could also enjoy exclusive discounts and offers, the complimentary Haig Club Whiskey Pop-Up bar, a game of Ping Pong… oh and music from MTV’s Laura Whitmore.

Photo credit: Dale Martin

I was looking forward to meeting Laura- she is definitely deserving of her ‘Wardrobe Style Icon’ status. She is beautiful and stylish in the flesh too! Her outfit on the night was a Victoria Beckham polka dot jumper dress and vintage hat. Laura was DJ-ing throughout the night and she was playing some absolute tunes; The Stone Roses, Primal Scream, Michael Jackson, The Rolling Stones etc. Here’s how you can get her look for less:

Blue Vanilla Black Polka Dot Contrast Collar Dress @ New Look £26.00

Burgundy felt Bowler Hat @ Dorothy Perkins £14.00

Priya from Kaprii Jewels was my plus one for the night and we both were impressed with the new Menswear floor.

Sunny & Priya with Laura Whitmore (Photo credit: Dale Martin)

If you get a chance, do check out the new Menswear destination on Level 2. Perfect just in time for Christmas…

Have you visited the new Menswear floor in Selfridges Birmingham yet? 

Images taken by WardrobeMag unless stated

Sunny