Carrie Bradshaw's Closet

The Fashion Feed: Coco Before Chanel Special

2009-07-27T09:35:00.000-07:00

With the release of Coco Before Chanel at cinemas nationwide celebs are going crazy for the fabulously understated look that Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel championed so much in her designs. Of course not all of us are on a Girls Aloud pay packet so I've hunted down some cheaper versions of the real thing so you can celebrate the release of Coco Before Chanel in style! My first cheaper than cheap top pick has to be this lovely black quilted chain bag from Asda. It only costs £5 and will add a touch of Chanel class to any outfit. I think this bag would work particularly well as an evening bag as it would give a nice edge to your LBD.

Following in the quilted footsteps of the Asda handbag are these gorgeous pink contrast detail court shoes from Asos. Originally these little beauties would have set you back £74.00 but now you can pick them up for £33.00 and look as cute as Coco herself.

Without a doubt however my favourite Chanel-esque budget buy has to be this gorgeous black bowler hat which literally screams chic. Perfect for the coming autumn/winter season this hat will go beautifully with black dresses and suits to boot. It will only cost you £22.00 from Topshop so there's absolutely no excuse for being yellow-bellied about this rather bold fashion move.

The Fashion Feed: What You Will Be Wearing This Autumn

2009-07-13T07:46:00.000-07:00

I know it's almost sacrilage to think about a time when the sun might not be shining as we're all just slipping into our summer maxi dresses but the weather has taken a turn for the worst in England and consequently it got me wondering what is going to be hot once the leaves start browning in Autumn 09. The biggest trend I've read about so far in the Autumn lines is the army cadette look which means it's time to get your Khaki on. Like most trends, it's nothing we haven't seen before on the catwalks and the highstreets and yet it's almost impossible to resist buying new garments and accessories to revamp for the coming season.

A well-made military jacket is the cornerstone of cadette couture and I have totally fallen in love with this utility blue affair from French Connection. It is currently reduced to £92.00 which admittedly, still isn't that cheap but the military trend pops up so frequently that it is worth investing in a garment that is going to last you year for year.

If you'd like to focus on the flirty and feminine aspects of cadetteship then you can't go wrong with this fabulously forward-looking silk khaki dress from Firetrap. This dress is a little bit cheaper than the jacket at £79.00 and is the kind of piece that will seamlessly make the summer to autumn transition with a pair of black tights. You can currently pick this little baby up on Asos alongside some other fabulous khaki coloured garments.

Those of you who are panicking about the fact that all this is just too pricey for your purse, don't worry. I wouldn't write a blog without at least one item that can be bought on a shoe-string and this week, it's this gorgeous vintage medic bag which, in my humble fashion opinion, is uber-cute. It costs a paltry $19.99 from 1st Army and will definitely see you through every time the military theme pops up on the catwalk.

The Golden Girls: Summer Styles With Added Shine

2009-07-01T00:54:00.000-07:00

Golden Girls by BradshawsCloset featuring Miss Selfridge shoes

When it came to fabulous fashion picks I always felt that Miranda got a raw deal on Sex and the City. It's not really anyone's fault, the nature of her character was very business like until she became a mum when the fashion relaxed a little bit. Imagine my delight then, when I went to the cinema and saw Miranda strutting down the streets of Manhattan top-to-toe in gold. It was a stroke of style genius by Pat fields as it highlighed Miranda's trademark red hair and pale skin beautifully. Bagging Miranda's big screen look this summer will keep you bang on trend as the industry seems to have forgotten the chav connection and given gold a welcome resurrection.

These golden gladiator affairs from Kurt Geiger are my top style pick for this summer. Granted they are £110.00 but I'm thinking cost per wear. These beauties will look fabulous teamed with your bikini and sarong/kaftan by the poolside but will also look equally as fabulous with your little black dress come Christmas. In short, they are a timeless shoe, nothing is ever going to stop them looking good making them a must-have for all avid shoe collectors. Of course if you're sticking to a budget and you're just wanting a summer shoe to see you through the hot months Miss Selfridge are doing a lovely flat gladiator pair for just £25.00 (shown above). They won't be as versatile but you will be able to bring them back out of your closet for summers to come.

My heart skipped a beat when I saw this gorgeous metallic leotard from Wet Seal. It only costs $26.50 and looks as though it's come straight out of Gagas closet. The most likely place you're going to wear this is a club or girls night out and teaming it with a fitted black skirt and massive black accessories would mute it down just enough to be chic rather than freak. Of course, the more daring of you might be able to make this into some kind of beach combo wearing it bathing suit style and teaming it with a sarong/kaftan. Either way it will definitely turn heads for all the right reasons.

Accenting your golden girl look with some jewellery is the perfect way of completing your outfit. Chunky is the word du jour for summer 2009 so if you're going for gold, make it thick chainmail, celtic, or knotted designs for serious wow factor. My favourite pick is this knotted necklace which costs a paltry £8.00 from Peacocks. Come christmas you can team it with a purple dress for a fantastically festive edge.

The Fashion Feed: Confessions of a Shopaholic Style Special

2009-06-29T00:17:00.000-07:00

As Carrie Bradshaw is taking a short break from our screens Becky Bloomwood gave fashion fans a welcome reminder of just how good flashing the plastic can feel earlier this year in the film 'Confessions of a Shopaholic.' To celebrate the release of the film on DVD I've uploaded some scans from Oli magazine that offer a how-to on recreating 'Confessions couture' (using Oli products of course!). Oli have been mentioned in this blog several times and I love the fact that as well as offering me fabulous high street buys they also offer some fashion savvy editorial on all the important things going on in the fashion world. Simply click on the images to enlarge and read the editorial. Enjoy!

The Fashion Feed: Ginnifer Goodwin's Dip Dye Style Steal

2009-06-15T11:56:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the release of He's Just Not That Into You on DVD this week's Fashion Feed is devoted to one of my favourite rising stars and style muses, Ginnifer Goodwin. If you have a spare evening I can recommend a Ginnie double bill of Mona Lisa Smile and He's Just Not That Into You, both of which go down a treat with a bottle of wine.

Ginnie has recently been spotted in Mathew Wiliamson's dip dye dress and she pulls it off with beautiful finesse. If you didn't manage to get your hands on one of these little beauties from H & M before all the A-listers snapped them up do not fear! I've hunted down some cheap but chic alternatives that will allow you to emulate Ginnifer's laid back California look with the same class and sass as she does.

From Top to Bottom: The perfect day-to-night summer halter from House of Fraser, £36.00. Tie die dress by TopShop, crocheted for comfort, £32.00. Quirky dip dye skirt by Debenhams with snake skin effect, £25.00.

The Shoe Fix: Get The (Electric) Blues

2009-06-10T01:57:00.000-07:00

Blue is the colour at the moment, particularly in vivid electric hues making these shoes a wardrobe essential for any savvy fashionista. Their thick cut-away detail allows you to flash your feet flesh and the slim stiletto heel has fabulous sex appeal. This is the kind of shoe with a high cost-per-wear value as they will retro-up jeans, skirts, shorts and trousers quicker than Sony can release yet another 'Best of the 80s' compilation CD! They are now down to just £31.00 from ASOS so it's a buy now or regret it later kind of a deal!

The Fashion Feed: My So-Called Closet

2009-06-08T07:04:00.000-07:00

My So-Called Closet by BradshawsCloset featuring Dorothy Perkins

Anyone who watched the fabulous 'My So-Called Life' the first time in the early nineties will be over the moon to know that the 'Angela Chase' look is back in a big way this season and I'm already salivating over some of the gorgeous checkered styles I couldn't wear the first time around because I was too much of a chubby teen!

My favourite checkered item available online at the moment is this gorgeous checkered shirt dress by Fred Perry. It just looks like an over-sized shirt borrowed from the gorgeous Jordan Catalano belted around the middle. You can pick it up at ASOS for £79.25 and is one of those pieces you'll be comfortable wearing time and time again.

If you want to go a bit more flirty and feminine you can't go wrong with this oh-so Angela purple check dress from Dorothy Perkins. It only costs £35.00 and is great for recreating a summery school girl look. It's something you could easily pair with leggings, use as a pinafore dress or wear over a pair of jeans making it muchos versatile.

If you're going to go for a straightforward check shirt make sure it's a really good cut so you can wear it from years to come. I love this one by Wrangler which is currently on sale at Oli for £45.00. For the borrowed-from-my-boyfriend look buy it three sizes too big and wear it baggy or tie it around the middle for shape when you want it.

For full on so-called closet chic you need to finish your look with a pair of Doc Martens, a messenger style school bag and some kind of accessory with the peace sign on it (which Angela would have borrowed from Rayanne Graff more than likely!). When it gets cold cover your shoulders with a faded denim jacket for that left-over-80s look the characters seemed to love so much and you'll look like you've just stepped out of the show!

BONUS ACCESSORY: There was an episode where Angela dressed up for Halloween in some kooky 1950s glasses. If you're into freaky chic they'll be just up your alley and are available at low, low prices from most costume shops!

The Monthly Must-Have: The Dolce Vita Dress

2009-06-03T06:56:00.001-07:00

I am not usually one for all-over sequins but after seeing this on Caryn Franklin's runway at The Clothes Show Live over the weekend I couldn't help but indulge. Dolce Vita style fashion is set to be massive all the way through 2009 and having bagged one of these limited edition beauties for myself I have to say it is possibly the best dress I have ever tried on in my life.

It costs £60.00 from New Look and is currently available in their Oxford Street branch. I've had very mixed reactions to it when I've showed people. Most of the girls have loved it and most of the guys have hated it but what to men really know about style and fashion anyway? The tunic shape makes it very flattering and I just know with the right pair of heels this is going to make a fabulous outfit for a Saturday night on the town.

If you can't get your hands on this particular item due to funds or location then find something equally as sparkly to get the same effect. Sequin handbags, skirts, scarves and vests are readily available across the high street at a range of prices so nobody has to miss out on a bit of bling! Now if you'll please excuse me, I think I'm going to go and look adoringly at my new dress for a little while.

The Fashion Feed: Patriot Games

2009-06-01T01:22:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I went to Clothes Show London for a 2009 trend update. As you can see from the picture above the 'Cool Britannia' look was showcased in a massive way suggesting that patriotic chic is well and truly back in vogue.

It has been over a decade since Ginger Spice sported that unforgettable Union Jack dress and I like to feel, at least as far as fashion goes, that we've moved on a bit since then. This red, white and blue wrap-over skirt is a fabulous way to recreate the 'Cool Britannia' look without it looking that little bit too much. The skirt costs just £40.00 from TopShop and is perfect for a bit of patriotism regardless of which side of the Atlantic you live on.

If you're more of a stars and stripes kinda gal, you can't go wrong with this distressed vest from Old Navy. It costs a paltry $10.00 and would look awesome teamed up with your favourite pair

of jeans and maybe even a denim jacket for that old-west feel. Tees and vests are available in a

range of flag designs online so get searching and hunt down your favourite designs.

If flags are a bit full on for you, why not try dressing in your nation's signature colours? This red 50s inspired dress cost just £80.00 from French Connection. The white shoes are $80 from Aldo and the gorgeous blue feather clutch is just £21.75 from ASOS. Together they make the perfect tribute to Queen and country...or president and country!

The Hippy Hippy Shake

2009-05-29T03:40:00.000-07:00

Summer of Love by BradshawsCloset featuring GAP jeans

From tie die tunics to groovy headscarves Carrie certainly knew how to work the hippy look and it has come back in a rather shameless way for SS 09.

My favourite hippy-look item on the high street at the moment is this yellow floral skirt by Red Herring. The reason I like it so much is that it is very different from a lot of the other stuff being put out on the clothes rack this season. It's shapely but the mini element keeps it fun. It is currently reduced to just £15.40 at Debenhams.

A more subtle way to give your wardrobe the hippy make over is with scarves and I have totally fallen in love with this coral patterned number from Missoni. At $100 I suppose it is quite a lot to pay for a scarf but if we're talking value for money it's a good buy. It's an incredibly versatile item and could easily be used to jazz up an old jacket come Autumn. You can buy this item at Net A Porter.

The last thing on my summer of love wish list is this gorgeous floral necklace from Dorothy Perkins. It is £50.00 which again is a lot of money to pay for a piece of fashion jewellery but, well, just look at it! This would look fabulous over a tee or a vest and is so well designed in my opinion it's actually reached statement status.

The Fashion Feed: Vamp It Up With Vintage

2009-05-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

Vintage Couture by BradshawsCloset featuring Carvela shoes

Carrie was always shopping for vintage but it can prove pretty pricey to get authentic vintage couture, especially if you shop in London boutiques! Thankfully with a bit of clever accessorizing you can blag the authentic vintage look and give Jackie O a run for her money.

Collar necklaces are probably the most affordable way of vamping up your wardrobe and this lace effect number from Debenhams is particularly convincing with it's beautiful drop bead detail. The best part is that it only costs £15.00.

Nothing screams Victorian charm like a bow in the hair and this black and white version from is both cheeky and chic. From a distance it looks like a prim and proper bow but on closer inspection you realise there is a skull sewn in at the knot. It costs just $10.00 making it a real budget buy!

Finally, I've always thought that lockets have a lovely retro charm. It kind of reminds me of war time sweethearts who keep each other's photographs so they don't forget each other. There are a wide range available at various prices but this sterling silver version costs just £35.00 and in shiny enough to really draw the eye. This too can be picked up at Debenhams who seem to be stocking up on vintage-look fashion this season.

Back to Black

2009-05-15T11:38:00.000-07:00

Back to Black by BradshawsCloset featuring CHANEL Jewelry

There was a time in my life when black was the only colour you could find in my wardrobe. Since then I've branched out but I still believe that black is an undisputed sophisticated style staple, just like Carrie did.

The best start to any black outfit is a pair of black textured tights. It immediately sets the tone of the look and is a very affordable way of customising your wardrobe. This pair of rose patterned beauties cost just $14.99 from Modcloth.

For a super-elegant addition to any look I don't think you can go wrong with a pair of black gloves. This vintage beaded pair from ShopCurious are one of a kind and only cost £28.50. I just love the idea of wearing these out to a fancy dinner!

Finally, for a full on goth look why not go for some retro vamp black nail polish? Again in these credit crunch times it's a wallet-friendly way of finishing off an all-black outfit. You can buy black polish from any beauty shop or pharmacy but Forever 21 do a particularly affordable version at just $2.80.

The Fashion Feed: Heaven Scent Perfumes

2009-05-11T11:32:00.000-07:00

My Obsessions by BradshawsCloset featuring mulberry tote bags

In addition to shoes, handbags, marshmallows, robots, puppies, Art Deco Design, Daphne Du Maurier cupcakes, and Hugh Jackman, perfumes have found their way on to my list of obsessions. My favourite place to buy them is The Perfume Shop because you can get more for your money than you usually do from pharmacies and beauty shops.

This wouldn't be a Sex and the City inspired blog without mentioning Lovely by Sarah Jessica Parker. SJP is a self-confessed fragrance addict and when you get a whiff of this you'll see just how seriously she takes her scents. The unique blend of oils in this fragrance makes it completely unique and it's potent enough to last all day.

My all time favourite perfume has to be Contradiction by Calvin Klein. It has a beautiful garden-like scent that is fresh and invigorating. It clings to clothes, necklines, wrists and cleavages all day and all night and makes me smile with every spray. If you're looking for something noticeable but inoffensive this is definitely the one for you. The only problem is it doesn't come in the most attractive bottle and let's face it, getting a pretty bottle is part of the incentive to buy a perfume! So...

I recommend investing in some gorgeous decorative bottles like this Pink Fairy affair. There are a wide range to choose from on ebay for very low prices and if you search for vintage bottles on Etsy you'll also find a wide range of shapes, sizes and colours to choose from.

The Fashion Feed: Somewhere Over The Rainbow...

2009-05-04T10:10:00.001-07:00

Rainbow Brights by BradshawsCloset featuring Forever21 bracelets

A good twitter friend of mine, GoddessSammy sent me a link last week about rainbow hued accessories dominating the high street and since seeing my computer screen awash with vibrant colour I've been dying to write a blog post about them. With summer drawing ever closer it's only right that your wardrobe should brighten up as much as the weather so I've made a list of my top rainbow picks.

First on my list are these gorgeous gummy bear necklaces from Lunacy Boutique. Not only are they fun but they really pack a colour popping punch, especially if you wear more than one at a time! They cost just £5.00 a piece and are perfect for adding a kitsch element to any outfit.

For true celebrity glamour you can't go wrong with these gorgeous pleather peep-toe heels in the style of Beyonce Knowles. Not only do these shoes tick several on-trend boxes with their buckle fastening and canvas detail but they also come in a fabulous zingy orange shade! The shoes will set you back just $39.90 from Fly Jane making them an absolute star style steal!

Finally I'm going mad for electric blue at the moment and as far as this season's key colour goes I don't think fashion investments get any better than this beautiful clutch bag from Debenhams. This handbag will see you through a Saturday night in the club and act as a quirky accessory for a wedding or formal dinner. It costs just £28.00 and will quickly become one of the staple fashion items you reach for to give your outfit a contemporary edge.

Pale and Interesting: The Power of Pastels

2009-05-03T12:43:00.000-07:00

Although most self-respecting fashionistas spend their time devising ways of standing out from the crowd, there's nothing wrong with toning down the high-fashion vibe once in a while and going pallid with pastels. Gorgeous greens, yellows and pinks were most frequently donned by Charlotte and Miranda on the show and pulling off their rather elegant twist on washed-out hues is surprisingly simple.

Green is a colour not many of us would pick out. It's not an obvious fashion trend unlike say blue or coral but it can look just as popping if you accessorize in just the right way. This gorgeous cross- over dress from Monsoon is the perfect example of just how sophisiticated a hue green can be with it's silk ribbon-tie detail. At just £68.00 this classic piece will have you set up for summer weddings and formal lunches for years to come.

If you fancy taking pastels to a super-feminine level, you can't go wrong with this sassy but shapely pencil skirt from Debenhams. It seems that pencil skirts are everywhere at the moment and it's no surprise as teamed with a pair of killer heels they are the ultimate in corporate-esque sex appeal. This timeless item will only set you back £25.00 and will match with everything from a tucked in Tee to a frilly chiffon blouse.

When it comes to shoes I am loving the sling backs available in the shops at the moment. This mid-yellow pair from Dorothy Perkins would set off a monochrome outfit perfectly or, if you're feeling a little bit braver, would clash beautifuly with that pastel pencil skirt from Debenhams. The ribbon-tie detail keeps them flirty whilst the chunky heel gives them a practical edge. They are currently on sale for £28.00 but sizes are already limited so I recommend buying now otherwise you will be regreting it later!

The Fashion Feed: Go Graeco!

2009-04-27T08:25:00.000-07:00

Go Grecian by BradshawsCloset featuring Monsoon bracelets

Grecian style is a favourite of every goddess to grace the red carpet and this week we're looking at how to recreate the Hollywood Graeco look on a budget.

For full on glamour at a ball, opening or opera night opt for a one shoulder dress with flattering, flowing lines. I love this New York Fashion Week inspired red maxi dress by Goddiva. Its hour glass shape is designed to flatter curves and at just £34.99 it is a total style steal.

This hip hellenistic ring is also on my Grecian wish list as it's such a versatile accessory. It would look fabulous with the Goddiva dress or as a Graeco-inspired addition to a vintage look. The ring is currently available at ModCloth for $11.99 making it the perfect fashion find for fashionistas on a budget.

When it comes to shoes you really can't go wrong with these Gladiator-esque sandals. It wasn't so long ago that they were featured as our Monthly Shoe-Fix and they haven't lost any of their shine 6 weeks later. They cost just £34.50 from asos so get them whilst you still can!

Smart/Casual The Carrie Way

2009-04-26T05:40:00.000-07:00

Now I know that this will be an unpopular thing to say because of the way things turned out with Big but until the whole post-it-note-break-up-incident I had rather high hopes for Carrie and Burger. Just like her he was quick-witted and quirky and whilst she was dating him she wore some of the sweetest little outfits. My favourite has to be the Blazer and Tee combo.

Start with a jacket that's got really nice lines to it, preferably in a nice neutral colour like cream, nude or beige. Our favourite is this cream tuxedo jacket by Principles. It is available at House of Fraser for just 25.00 and will smarten up any trouser and tee outfit you care to put together.

There are lots of Mickey Mouse T shirts on the high street and online but sometimes the shapes can be quite unflattering. My favourite is this little blue beauty available from Amazon for a mere $18.99. Because it's blue it will stop the outfit from looking too washed out and it's just as chic as the one Carrie wears in the series once you get the blazer over it.

If you're not a Disney fan, you can make this look work with any casual T shirt! I picked this one up from TopShop for just £18.00. My boyfriend wasn't too impressed with the slogan but if he would just give in and spend more time taking me shoe shopping and less time playing Street Fighter on Xbox Live I wouldn't have to resort to such drastic measures to get my point across!

The Fashion Feed: Get Noticed In Neon

2009-04-20T03:52:00.000-07:00

Designers are getting all nostalgic at the moment and bringing back the nineties neon look. This style was seen in the seventies and the eighties too and if worn with care can create a playful but at the same time pretty stylish outfit.

Block colour pieces are probably the best foundation for the neon look as you can contrast bright, garish shades with blacks, greys and beiges for a more subtle effect. This lime-topped dress is the perfect example and costs just £22.99 from Republic so it's a totally affordable option for any self-respecting bargainista.

If you want to go for more of a hippy slant you can't go wrong with this rainbow striped animal print slouch bag by Roxy. Not only is it big enough to carry all your beauty essentials but the leopard print detail and neon shading offers a double-whammy on the fashion fix front! It is currently available at Pacsun for $29.50.

Last but not least, if you're feeling a bit 'Lost in Translation' you could get wiggy with it and invest in a bright pink hair piece. I love this long fringed version from PartyDomain because regardless of how many diets we go on, not all of us have Scarlett's petite jaw-line! It costs a paltry £4.91 meaning you can be completely wild and wonderful on a budget!

Born to Shimmer, Born to Shine

2009-04-17T10:35:00.000-07:00

Sequins by BradshawsCloset featuring Betsey Johnson jewelry

Carrie was a massive fan of sequins and admittedly whether it's Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall it's always nice to add a bit of sparkle to your wardrobe. It's true they are a fashion move to be used with caution, but if worn correctly they can turn heads like nothing else.

This gorgeous little number from Almost Famous London is made from silver silk with sequin detailing on the central panel. At £135.00 it is more of an investment piece but with it's sheer lines and shapely design this little baby will be earning it's place in your wardrobe for years to come.

This sequin adorned clutch would make the perfect accessory for your dress. Clutch handbags are not just big in the world of Sex and the City they are also this season's must-have handbag design. You can pick this one up for £27.99 from Isabella's Handbag Shop.

Last but by no means least you can finish off a sultry shimmering look with this gorgeous Betsey Johnson ice-queen-esque bangle. It is currently reduced at NordStrom from $35.00 to just $22.90 making it an absolute bargain for those looking for a timeless bit 'O' bling.

The Shoe Fix: The Movie Mexicoma Must-Haves

2009-04-15T06:14:00.000-07:00

Few of us are going to forget that gorgeous block colour dress Carrie wore during her Sex and the City Movie Mexicoma and these colour stacked sandals from Nine West are just the ticket to emulating her hippified, holiday style. The shoes are made of leather and are high enough to give a pair of jeans or a floaty dress a serious edge for Summer 2009. They are currently priced at £65.00 and are available at a range of stockists including Nine West directly in the USA and Shoe Studio in the UK. Don't be afraid to clash them unashamedly with other colours in your wardrobe as mix and match fashion is so this season!

The Fashion Feed: Go Mad For Monochrome

2009-04-13T14:31:00.000-07:00

Mono Mania by BradshawsCloset featuring Via Spiga heels & wedges

Style this season is developing a bit of a sixties swing, maybe at least in part due to the fabulous British film 'The Boat That Rocked' that is currently showing in cinemas. Whatever the reason for the retro twist when it comes to sixties chic you can't go wrong with the monochrome look so it's time to start looking at the world in a more black and white fashion.

Dress Spotting. This fabulous spotty dress is an absolute monochrome must-have. The shift shape and the round neckline makes it so sixties and the conservative skirt length makes it super-elegant. It is currently on sale at Oli for £60.00.

Tout Your Tote. If you're feeling a bit Saint Louise and haven't got the cash for a new handbag why not rent this gorgeous Betsey Johnson mono tote bag from Bag, Borrow or Steal. It will only cost you $12.00 per week and will give you the opportunity to tout some serious designer baggage about.

Pump It Up. Finish your mono look with this gorgeous pair of Chanel-esque quilted ballet pumps. You will be able to pair these little beauties with just about anything in your wardrobe and they'll only set you back a paltry £12.00 from Dorothy Perkins.

The Ladies Who Lunch Look

2009-04-10T02:55:00.000-07:00

Ladies Who Lunch by BradshawsCloset featuring Dorothy Perkins heels & wedges

It won't be long now before we're tucking into all those lovely chocolate eggs! Having had chocolate for breakfast and elevenses however it seems only fitting that we balance our act of gluttony with an act of grace and go for an elegant lunch with the family. Of course, looking dignified with that much saturated fat inside you can be tricky, so you're going to have to let fashion do all the hard work for you!

The Ladies Who Lunch look is the epitome of chastity, a sort of under-stated bridal look that is classy through and through. Start with a white fitted jacket with nice feminine lines. This tailored jacket from Mango is just the job. It only costs £45 and the tie in waist will do wonders for your silhouette.

Team your jacket with a white flowing skirt, ivory vest and a pair of these little beauties from Dorothy Perkins. These really are the most versatile of shoes withe their neutral shade and cute cross band buckle. The heel is mid-height so they are practical but the slight platform gives them an on-trend edge. They are currently on sale for £28.00.

Once you have your whiter than white canvas all you have to do is accessorize it up to the hilt. I recommend pearls, dusky pink corsages and diamante brooches to keep it classic. If you want to do something a bit different however this ruffle detail parasol will certainly set you apart from the crowd. Brace yourselves for the price because at £107.66 from Brollies Galore this is without doubt an investment piece that you will need to take tender loving care of. If you can't quite stretch to that for such an obscure item you can of course pick up low-cost versions on the likes of ebay or opt for a pair of white lace gloves instead which are just as chic and very cheap.

The Fashion Feed: Follow the White Rabbit - An Easter Special!

2009-04-06T13:48:00.000-07:00

Easter Special by BradshawsCloset on Polyvore.com

As if the promise of chocolate eggs wasn't enough, this year Easter Sunday is going stylish with big flowers, baskets and bunnies to boot!

Become a Basket Case. Enjoy country chic at it's best with this adorable floral basket from Accessorize. Although Easter Sunday is an excellent excuse to use it, it is the kind of item that is cute enough to last you all summer long. It's made from 100% straw to give you that authentic rustic look and will only set you back £10.00.

Get Creative With Corsages. Carrie Bradshaw may have been responsible for the corsage revival but fashionistas are increasingly finding new and inventive ways of using them to set off an outfit. Pin several corsages around the collar of a blouse, to a handbag or to the hem of a skirt for an instant customised look! Corsages are currently on sale in every size, shape and colour but we particularly like this over-sized blue version from Johnny Loves Rosie. It will cost you £50.00 but it will also last you a long time because all of their items are very well made. If you're on a budget you can pick up smaller corsages at Primark, H & M and New Look at more reasonable prices.

Follow the Pink Rabbit. Playboy Bunny jewelery is tacky and we're not going to deny that but in the spirit of Easter Sunday we've hunted down the perfect Playboy bunny bling ring. It comes in pink and is so sparkly, it's the only item of jewellery you will need. Wear it with your tongue firmly in your cheek in the Bradshaw I-wear-gangster-style-jewellery-for-fun fashion and you will totally get away with it. The ring costs just £18.00 from Littlewoods making it the perfect guilty pleasure!

Pretty in Pink

2009-04-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

Carrie was an expert at making pink hues work for her and why shouldn't we get a bit girly from time to time and go for the dolly bird look? It worked well for Barbie!

Start your look with a bold pink dress. This Jasper Garvida Cocktail Dress from Oli is just the job with it's capped sleeves and fitted shape it looks sexy without the need for showing off two much flesh. The flared skirt is perfect for disguising tummies or wide hips and it also brings a nice balance to the shape of your silhouette. The dress costs £70.00 so is definitely more of an investment piece, but the shape is timeless so you will be wearing this for years to come!

Keep it candy with these gorgeous muted pink shoes from Dorothy Perkins. The shade of these shoes is just adorable and the platform design will alleviate the strain the heel puts on your feet, providing some much-needed relief for those long nights out on the dance floor. The shoes cost just £35.00 and are vesatile enough to ensure you get your money's worth.

Accent all your plush pink hues with some white and cream accessories to keep things subtle. We love this braided white stud belt from American Eagle Outfitters. The soft braided leather makes it so Carrie Bradshaw and at just $29.50 it's an absolute bargain for your ever-expanding closet!

The Monthly-Must Have: Indulge Your Sweet Tooth With A Candy Stripe Clutch

2009-04-01T13:08:00.000-07:00

This month's must-have is this sweet and simple candy stripe clutch. Every designer worth their salt is trying to find new ways of bringing back 80s neon shades and this hard clutch bag is just the way to do it with subtlety.

This item is a style must-have because it ticks so many fashion boxes. All the top celebs have been touting hard case clutches on the red carpet of late and the block colour effect of this little beauty keeps it so on-trend.

It is currently on sale at Asos for just £19.75. We're expecting to see a 'sold out' sign on it very soon so we advise you to bag it whilst you can...no pun intended.

The Fashion Feed: Black and Gold

2009-03-29T07:43:00.000-07:00

Black and Gold - by BradshawsCloset on Polyvore.com

I doubt any of us are going to forget the vision of Miranda stepping out head-to-toe in gold with her girlfriends in The Sex and the City film. After six years of strictly business suitage Miranda shined beautifully in her metallic movie hues and we're going to show you how to shimmer too.

Pleat It. Accentuate your curves and shine at the same time with this fabulous shapely corset from Goddiva. This strapless beauty is so on trend and will add a classy edge to any outfit. Wear it over a black shirt for a quirky day time look or with a flirty frilly skirt for an on-trend burlesque ensemble. At only £22.51 you will be getting great value for money as it is such a versatile piece.

The Statement Pendant. This gorgeous gold owl design pendant is the perfect accessory to make you stand out from the crowd. It hangs from an adjustable gold chain so you can alter the length to match all your favourite necklines and costs just $23.99 from ModCloth.

Creating Contrast. Although Miranda looked amazing in tip-to-toe gold we recommend breaking the look up a bit for a subtler edge. Blazers are big fashion news at the moment so you can't go wrong with this black beauty from Miss Selfridge. It would go beautifully with the gold corset and it will provide you with the perfect silhouette. The blazer costs £45.00 and will see you through any job interview, day at the office or even Friday night on the town.

Put A Bit of Flirt In Your Skirt

2009-03-27T03:37:00.000-07:00

Moody Blue - by BradshawsCloset on Polyvore.com

Carrie and the girls seemed to have an endless supply of floaty, flirty skirts and since we're in the business of emulating Sex and the City style to the letter, it seems only fitting that we follow suit. The secret to the flirty skirt is to opt for materials and designs that accentuate your curves, helping you to really bring out your feminine side.

As far as frills go, you really can't go wrong with one of these fairytale style pettiskirts from Sterling and Pearls . Made from 100% chiffon these little beauties are guaranteed to have you twirling round the bedroom like a Balerina in no time. Our favourite is this Tiffany blue and black number but they come in a range of colours and contrasts so you can find the perfect shade to suit you. At just $67.00 it's perfect for those of you who want to recreate that American Girl in Paris look without having to fork out for the 1000 Layer Versace Sea Foam Gown.

Slightly more on the subtle side is this prim and proper black rose skirt from Peacocks. The calf-length finish makes it super classy and it comes complete with a tie belt. We reckon this skirt will make the perfect throw-on for summer days in the city, especially if you team it with a pair of on-trend heels to update the look. The skirt costs a paltry £10.00 so it really is a buy it now or regret it later purchase.

When it comes to the feminine mystique bows are big business too and we couldn't help but get over-excited when we saw this mono Bella Bow Skirt in the sale at Coast. Reduced from £95.00 to just £45.00 it is a true on-trend bargain that will see you through this season and beyond. The skirt finishes just below the knee and boasts gorgeous black belt and bow hemming for contrast allowing you to double-up on your fashion brownie points. Suitable for all occasions it's one of those garments that you're just never going to want to take off!

The Fashion Feed: Peaches and Cream

2009-03-23T11:21:00.000-07:00

Peaches and Cream - by BradshawsCloset on Polyvore.com

As mentioned in our Fashion Feed 'How to Look Good Nude' neutral shades are massive themes on the high street this season. This week we're taking a look at peach and cream coloured must-haves all of which come with pretty sweet price tags.

The Dress. First in our virtual shopping bag is this Peach Oxidised Shirt Dress from Miss Selfridge. With it's studded collar and racer back straps it is the perfect smart-to-casual foundation and the bubble style skirt makes it so on trend. The dress costs just £28.00 making it an affordable and versatile addition to your wardrobe.

The Statement Belt. Gently accentuate your waistline with this beautiful wrap tie belt from TopShop. It will break up the neutral hues of the rest of your outfit and is very now with its eye-catching corsage with creamy contrast detail. The belt is a snip at just £20.00 and is something that you can wear over a cardi, blazer or even to add a quirky edge to an evening gown.

The Vintage Hat. Peaches and Cream couture wouldn't be complete without a classy vintage hat and this peach Kangol retro piece from Candy Says is just the job. The rose detail would match beautifully with the TopShop belt and the optional veil makes it an excellent option for summer weddings or for a fairytale themed walk in your local park. This item is a bargain at just 25.00 so snap it up whilst you still can!

The Bradshaw School of Forties Fashion

2009-03-20T02:42:00.000-07:00

Forties Inspired Fashion - by BradshawsCloset on Polyvore.com

The peplum skirt has it's roots in 19th Century style but didn't really take on until the 1940s. This bulbous trend died out in the 50s but was back again in the 80s, 90s and now, thanks to Ms Bradshaw, in the noughties too. The Peplum is fun because it goes against all the usual "does my bum look big in this" style conventions and looks surprisingly chic.

Our favourite peplum garment at the moment is this gorgeous electric blue number from Miss Selfridge. Not only does it boast beautiful contrast detail in this season's hot colour but the V neck front will be flattering to any figure regardless of shape and size. The dress costs £35.00 which is nothing for such a high fashion item. This look has come back time and again over the decades so it's well worth investing in a piece like this that you can pull out of the closet when ever the trend comes back into vogue.

The only way to finish off a peplum dress is with a pair of killer heels and a cutesy clutch. Our pick of the clutches has to be this feathered number from Asos, also in electric blue. The clutch style keeps it nice and retro but the feathers and the vivid colour will bring your look bang up to date. The bag is currently selling for just £21.75 and can be teamed with any number of outfits.

As for the heels, you can't go wrong with a pair of black skyscrapers. We love this pair from TopShop for their stand-out cross over detail. They will set you back £70.00 but like the clutch will team up with any number of outfits adding extra value to your wardrobe.

The Shoe-Fix: Block Coloured Beauties

2009-03-18T13:56:00.001-07:00

Ever since Carrie wore her famous block colour dress during her silver screen Mexicoma we have been blogging furiously about multi-colour trend. With this in mind we simply couldn't resist making these gorgeous peep-toe affairs our Monthly Shoe Fix. The gorgeous grey, white and pink contrast is sophisticated enough for office day wear but could also easily funk up an LBD or evening dress.

There's nothing less attractive than a woman who can't actually walk in her shoes but that won't be a problem with these little beauties. As well as ticking every aesthetic box going these shoes are built for comfort with a nice mid-range court heel. Possibly the best thing about these shoes however is the price. They cost just £30.00 from Dorothy Perkins. Other leading stores are selling block colour items for over double this price so snap up these retro-look shoes whilst there are still some left to be had!

The Fashion Feed: Sports Chic on the Cheap!

2009-03-16T13:34:00.000-07:00

Designers are taking inspiration from chav-style garments at the minute with sports stripes and neon vests swiftly becoming major fashion themes. A walk down the high street however is a far cry from a walk round your local council estate as perfecting this look requires two things Vicky Pollard never had: subtlety and style.

Going Nude. The key to this look is to keep it looking neutral and add just the token neon item to liven things up. Start with this gorgeous cream skirt suit from Peacocks. The skirt and the jacket will set you back just £36.00 for the pair and will create a fabulous base for your Sports Chic look. Their subtle colouring and classic shape makes them stand alone wardrobe basics too so you're guaranteed to get frequent use out of them.

Queens of Neon. Accessorise your suit with this gorgeous neon detail bag from Asos. It costs just £17.75 and epitomises the sports chic style with a muted tan base coupled with vibrant flashes of neon. You can pick up a matching belt from New Look for just £5.00 to add the finishing touch to your sports chic outfit.

1990s Remix. It is perfectly acceptable to mix neon colours, if you're feeling daring add in a yellow stripe or even lime green if you're particularly feeling the 1990s retro look. We particularly like this flourescent vest from American Apparel. At just £15.00 it is the perfect bargain buy for creating your own alternative sports chic ensemble. Customising this trend to your own taste will single you out from the hoards of other fashion followers and will allow you to easily mix and match any new purchases with your existing wardrobe so don't forget to keep it plucky and personal.

Perfect the Preppy Look!

2009-03-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

Dear, dear, Charlotte. There isn't a minute of the day that she doesn't look sickly sweet and yet somehow you just have to love her for it. Her preppy daytime look is a classic fashion move that is easily and affordably replicated.

Start with pastel shades as a nice inoffensive base. We love this yellow pleated skirt from Charlotte Russe. The buttons give the garment a sensible edge but the shape is super sexy. At just $22.99 it's a bargain buy and because it's such a versatile piece you're easily going to get your money's worth and more!

Shrewd looking court shoes also make a great cornerstone to this look. These Jasmine tie-ups from TopShop are a great example. Not only do they come in a colour to die for but you'll be able to walk comfortably in them making them excellent day-to-night accessories. At £55.00 they are a little bit more expensive that what you would normally want to pay but they truly are an investment piece that you will buy now and love forever.

Finally, round off your look with a pair of signature Charlotte sunglasses. Toppers pull it off once again with this gorgeous pair of tortoise shell shades. They are so Jackie O, you'll feel like the First Lady herself in these little beauties. They cost a bargain £15.00 and now the sun is finally starting to peep it's way out from behind the winter clouds they'll be every day handbag essentials.

One last tip - don't forget a manicure! Charlotte wouldn't be seen dead with unsightly nails, or unsightly anything I suppose, but the nails are a great place to start and the pampering session will make you look and feel fabulous!

The Fashion Feed: I Got The Blues

2009-03-09T06:32:00.000-07:00

Got The Blues - by BradshawsCloset on Polyvore.com

Fashion is going all Jonie Mitchell on us by bringing back the blues in a big way. Ice Maiden's can go tip to toe in turquoise whilst the more regal amongst us can envelope ourselves in a rich Royal Blue.

Our top turquoise pick has to be this gorgeous quilted cross over bag from Miss Selfridge. It comes complete with a chain mail strap which is so this season and only costs £12.00! Team it with whites and creams for a real Snow Queen look or with deeper richer blues for vivid blue contrast!

Another one of our favourites is this Turquoise Stone bracelet from Oasis. This all-natural looking bracelet will add a lovely hippy vibe to any outfit and will only set you back £8.00. It is currently on sale at Asos.

For a richer and deeper effect you can't go wrong with this gorgeous burlesque basque. Made from luxurious satin with on-trend frills and bow detail you are going to want to wear this little number everywhere you go. You can pick it up at Goddiva for £24.46 and team it with jeans, flowing skirts and boot cut trousers depending on the occasion.

So next time you feel down, we encourage you to wallow in it whole-heartedly...as long as your accessories match your mood that is. Perhaps A case of the blues doesn't have to be such a bad thing after all!

Fashion Safari in the Urban Jungle

2009-03-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Only Carrie Bradshaw could bring the safari look back in such a big way! Her gorgeous Safari style vest from Sex and the City The Movie has got designers thinking about how they can equip women for the style challenges of the urban jungle. The great thing about the safari look is that it is subtle and smart and can be adapted for a hike in the hills or for an evening trek to your local cocktail bar.

The must-have item is the safari jacket. Perfect for teaming with skirts, jeans and combat trousers it is destined to be a Spring staple for any fashionista's wardrobe. The most affordable version we've found is this belt and button sleeveless number in neutral. Made by South, it is currently on sale from Marshall Ward for £35.00. Because of it's nude shading it will match beautifully with almost anything in your wardrobe. Safari comes in and out of fashion so it's worth investing in a classic spring/summer item like this that you will use for years to come.

If you don't think the full on safari look is for you nothing says subtlety more than a statement bag. We love this Elliot Luca Canvas Tote with Tan Detail. It retails at around $280.00 but you can go all Saint Louise and rent it at Bag Borrow or Steal for just $15.00 per week. There are plenty of nice replicas around but sometimes it's just nice to have the real thing...even if you don't get to keep it forever.

Of course traditional safari style can look a little bit washed out if you're not careful. When Carrie worked it she teamed it with a token red vest to bring a bit of vibrancy to her outfit. You can create a similar effect by experimenting with bright reds, yellows and different types of animal print. This thick mustard belt by Vando for example would work fabulously as a colourful alternative over your safari vest and will only cost you a trifling £7.99 from Only Shop! So why not take a walk on the wild side this Spring? It won't cost you the earth and it might even add a sense of adventure to those single nights out in the city.

The Monthly Must-Have: 80s Tropicana Makes a Come Back!

2009-03-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

Club Tropicana - by BradshawsCloset on Polyvore.com

As mentioned in our recent blog post Retro Looks That Never Die, the retro look never goes out of style and we are delighted to see that the 80s tropical club look is making a come back. Inspired by cheesy retro TV shows like Miami Vice and equally cheesy pop songs by Wham! this look is all about fusing your pinks, greens and aquas to create a sensational tropical explosion.

To celebrate this unexpected tropical renaissance we've hunted down the perfect tropical print dress by Jane Norman. This month's must-have item boasts a beautiful blend of dusky pinks and muted greens making it the ideal canvas on which to create your bold retro look. As with all Jane Norman items the dress is flatteringly figure hugging. It is guaranteed to pull you in at all the right places and accentuate your curves to help you get that sexed-up, whatever goes 80s vibe going on. The dress costs just £40.00 and will last you a life time as this super saucy Samantha-esque look is destined to keep coming around and around for decades to come.

Team your must-have dress with a bright pair of aqua shoes, a stand-out turqoise handbag and a coral hair flower and before you know it you'll be caught up in Tropicana heat, where castaways and lovers meet...sing it George!

The Fashion Feed: Tell Me About It, Stud.

2009-03-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

Carrie Bradshaw Searching for Her Stud - by BradshawsCloset on Polyvore.com

If we're honest, 21st Century studs are few and far between, at least if we're talking about men they are. Thankfully finding a man to live up to the mantle of "stud" will be the last thing on your mind when you see the studded treasures up for grabs in all your favourite shops this month.

This glossy studded bag for example is very similar to the Chanel Tote Carrie was touting about in Sex and the City the Movie. It's fully lined with a black glossy finish and is big enough to squeeze all your on-the-move beauty essentials into. This bag is on sale at Forever 21 for a paltry $34.80 so you can achieve the designer stud look for much, much less.

One of the top must-have accessories at the moment however has to be the black studded belt. Belts are big news and are currently being sported by all the top celebs over cardigans, coats and evening gowns. You can pick up this chunky black beauty at One Poster and it will only cost you £9.99. It would team up beautifully with the Forever 21 tote and give a modern edge to jeans and a white shirt or a Carrie-style shift dress.

If you feel that the silver studded look is a bit too agressive you may want to opt for a piece which is studded with coloured gems instead. We love this gorgeous turquoise ethnic look bangle from Fantasy Jewelry Box. Turquoise is just as big news as studs are this month so you'll still be right on trend if you do go for the subtler approach to finding the perfect stud.

Retro Looks That Never Die

2009-02-27T07:50:00.000-08:00

Retro Looks That Never Die - by BradshawsCloset on Polyvore.com

Carrie and the girls were massive fans of the retro look and for good reason - it never goes out of style! At the moment the high street is going mad for all things 80s and we've got some top picks lined up for you at good old-fashioned low prices to help you stay on trend.

In our post What's in a Name? we talked about how Carrie's nameplate necklace had become a must-have Sex and the City item. If you want to do this look with a retro twist however pay a visit to The Lunacy Boutique where you can pick up one of these fabulous multi-coloured fridge magnet name necklaces! You can order any name you want and it will only set you back £18.00 - a pittance to pay to stay on trend!

If you're looking for a selection of 80s inspired T Shirts you can't go wrong with a visit to 80s purple. Our favourite is this grey retro print which would look fabulous over jeans, a bleached denim skirt or a pair of electric blue leggings. It's the touch of animal print that really wins us over and at just $32 it's an utterly guilt free purchase.

Last but by no means least we come to shoes. Retro look shoes are coming in all sorts of shades and styles at the moment and although it's tempting to get out your walkman, buy yourself a Wham bar and jump on the 80s bandwagon you should bear in mind that the key to a timelessly fashionable wardrobe is the investment in classic pieces. If you have a wacky personality and want the shoes to match that's fine, but if you're a bit more conservative and rarely have an opportunity to wear wacky shoes we'd recommend these beautiful block colour numbers from one of our favourite online shops Boohoo.com. They're a snip at £25.00 and will still look fabulous when the weirder brands of shoes have fallen out of fashion.

East Meets West: Experience a Taste of the Orient

2009-02-25T12:23:00.000-08:00

A Taste of the Orient - by BradshawsCloset on Polyvore.com
A Taste of the Orient - by BradshawsCloset on Polyvore.com
Whenever Carrie sports a style it isn't long before it hits the high street and thanks to Sex and the City the Movie oriental prints and motifs are massive fashion news.

Miss Bradshaw looks gorgeous in green but the oriental trend comes in many shades and with a range of affordable garments and accessories readily available in all our favourite shops gettting the Geisha look doesn't have to break the bank.

As shown above, sunset shades are designer favourites this spring so why not start your oriental outfit with some strong orange tones? The gorgeous tunic pictured above costs just £28.00 from Dorothy Perkins and the matching hair lily comes even cheaper at just $7.50 from My Diva's Closet Not only are these items painfully on-trend they ooze confidence. Who needs a little black dress when you've got a whole pallet of colour?

Create contrast with bold green tones. The shoes pictured above cost $196.00 at Shoes.Com but if you can't stretch to that you can create a similar effect with these gorgeous patent leather wedge heels from Farah. You can currently buy them on Zappos for just $67.50.

To complete your look go super girly with a fan and / or a parasol. As mentioned in this week's Fashion Feed fans are going to be the hottest high street accessory once the humid months are upon us so beat the escalated prices and bag yours now. Ebay currently list a gorgeous selection of oriental fans and this fabulous lace parasol can be picked up at hatsnstuff for just £39.50. The parasol is more for a walk in the park on a summery day than a trip to Tesco. It may not be the most versatile item but it will protect you from the harsh rays of the sun at weddings, christenings and Sunday trips out to the coast and will add a touch of class to anything you team it with.

The Fashion Feed: Burlesque is Back in Vogue

2009-02-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks to girl band 'The Saturdays' and their comic relief single 'Just Can't Get Enough' burlesque wear is experiencing a bit of a revival. You are obviously not expected to bear as much flesh as Frankie, Rochelle, Una, Mollie and Vanessa have in their new video but style is always adaptable and with a bit of know-how it is possible to make this look more classy than trashy.

Become a fan of fans. Start with one of these classic Marabou fans from Ann Summers. They cost just £5.00 and will work wonders both in the bedroom and as an accessory for a ball or club night. Our favourite colour is the baby pink fan because it's super-feminine and flirty but the same fan also comes in red and in black if you want to go more for Samantha's sexy siren look.

Relish The Retro Pin-Up Style. Team your fan with this beautiful roakability skirt from Starlets and Harlets for a fabulous retro pin-up edge to your look. The clashing patterns give it a contemporary edge whilst the lace heart detail comes across all coy! The skirt costs just $49.95 and in keeping with the burlesque theme you can buy a matching garter... maybe you should be selective who you show that off to however, you don't want to get too much of a reputation!

Heel yourself. Finish your burlesque tribute with these killer gold platforms from Office. We use the word killer only to describe the look of them as the platform front will ease the strain put on your feet by the 14cm heel. This means you can perfect a sassy burlesque strut without the fear of falling over and without being in a desperate amount of pain by the end of the evening. These leg-lengthening beauties were originally £85.00 but are currently reduced to £55.00.

Competition Time: Win a Sex and the City Style Goody Bag!

2009-02-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

We're giving away a range of designer make-up from one of Hollywood's leading make-up artists: Victoria Jackson worth over £150. We're also going to be giving away an exclusive tips booklet from Victoria herself to help you recreate Carrie's effortless glamour every day of the week! And that's not all. We're also going to throw in a range of Carrie-inspired, on-trend accessories such as this gorgeous mustard pashmina from Scarf World to complete your Sex and the City look!

To get your hands on this amazing prize all you have to do is email us with the answer to this painfully simple question:

What is Carrie's Maiden Name?

A. Golightly
B. Bradshaw
C. Hobbs

Email us at: closetcompetitions@gmail.com with your name, postal address and the answer to the question. The winner will be randomly selected and announced on the 31st of March. Good Luck!

Become a Frill Seeker!

2009-02-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

An American Girl in Paris - by BradshawsCloset on Polyvore.com

Perhaps the most unforgettable dress that Carrie ever wore was that amazing sea foam, 1000 layer Versace gown. It was beautiful Sex and the City irony that just when it looked as though Carrie was going to miss out on her fairytale ending she decided to throw on fairytale couture.

Versace gowns aren't known for their reasonable prices but there are still some gorgeous garments to be had for all you frill seekers out there that don't come with a designer price tag. The closest you'll probably get to recreating Carrie's lush layers on the high street is this slate green beauty from Monsoon. We're not going to lie to you, it's not going to cost you as much as a Versace gown but it's not going to be cheap. This ruched and ruffled prom dress is currently on sale for £200.00. It's well worth the investment if you can afford it, but if you can't there are other ways to frill seek on a budget.

For a subtler effect and a smaller price tag, try on this delicious satin ruffle dress from Lipsy. Not only is it slightly more versatile than the Monsoon dress but it will only set you back £70.00 which is a big reduction! The bustier design will pull you in at all the right places and emphasise the big ruffle effect at the bottom.

Frills and ruffles aren't exclusive to dresses and skirts of course, they've been appearing on all sorts of garments and accessories. Our favourite is this beautiful Fiorelli clutch bag in one of this season's hottest colours: coral. It is currently available at John Lewis for £35.00 and is versatile enough to wear day or night. Use it to modernise a jeans and T shirt look or match it with your favourite little black dress. Either way it will look fabulous, flirty and fun.

The January Shoe Fix: Epic Gladiator Footwear

2009-02-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

Caged shoes are so Sex and the City, but most of the high street stores are selling theirs for over £60.00 leaving any cash-strapped shoe lovers having to do without gladiator-esque footwear.

We didn't take those high-cost price tags lying down however, oh no. We believe that women everywhere have the right to own the latest shoes and thus have endured an online quest of epic proportions to hunt down the cheapest and chicest gladiator sandles.

There is hope even in this bleak, economically challenged world of owning footwear that will turn heads. At just £34.50 these designer look metallic stripe sandles from Asos will put the world to rights once more and allow women from all walks of life to cage their feet Carrie style. As long as there are reasonably priced shoes in the shops, there is justice in the world!

The Fashion Feed: Confessions of a Shopaholic Special

2009-02-16T02:46:00.000-08:00

We are counting down the days until the release of Confessions of a Shopaholic this Friday and to celebrate this New-York-set-Fashion-Fest we've put together a Fashion Feed special on re-creating Becky Bloomwood's gorgeously garish style.

Unashamed clashing is the key to creating the 'Confessions' style. Start simple with this gorgeous yellow handbag from Marks and Spencer. It may be big enough for a weekend-sized break but oversized handbags are a massive trend this season so it could easily double up. Priced at £49.50 this is probably more of an investment piece for most recessionistas but since it's made of high quality leather it is without doubt worth the extra pennies.

Whilst you're in the mood for solid fashion investments why not splash out on this fabulous tangerine coat from the Star range by Julien Macdonald. Military jackets are big news in the world of fashion at the moment so this coat provides two-in-one trend value. It will set you back £85.00 but this piece will last you a life time. Tangerine may be this month's colour, but even once the trend is over it will look timelessly bold and beautiful. This piece is currently on sale at Debenhams.

Recessionistas on a budget needn't be without their homage piece to 'Confessions' however as New Look have brought out these perfectly pink peep-toe heels for the bargain price of £30.00. Clash these little beauties with anything else in your wardrobe and you're guaranted to turn heads on the high-street. We all thought Carrie was experimental in her time but Becky Bloomwood is without doubt the next generation in statement moves. The good news is, just like the Sex and the City crew, this girl knows how to have fun with fashion so following suit should be a blast!

The Bride Wore a Dress by Noone!

2009-02-13T03:52:00.000-08:00

Valentine's day may be the big V word floating about at the moment but when it comes to stand-out style it's the word vintage that's going to stand the test of time. As mentioned in our Valentine's Special a couple of weeks ago the vintage look is hot on the high street at the moment and because vintage clothes are based on classical designs it's a look that will always remain timeless. If it's good enough for Carrie and Big's wedding, then it's good enough for us!

The big question on every fashionistas lips is: 'where can you buy quality vintage clothing?' The high street stores are doing some very likeable mock- ups but the truth is you're likely to get better value if you shop old school vintage and actually buy clothes and accessories from times gone by. How much access you have to vintage clothing will depend greatly on where abouts you live. London is a hot-bed for retro shops such as Absolute Vintage, Fur Coat and No Knickers and Beyond Retro where you can go on a day-long treasure hunt for beautiful one-off items like those pictured right.

If you don't live in London, which many people don't, there are still some choice online picks to be had if you know where to go. We particularly like Martha's Closet and Steptoe's Antiques as they sell a wide range of vintage items online. You can browse through their range gallery style and select the top items from the comfort of your home! Prices start very low for vintage clothes, which is just the way we like them. So next time you feel a shopping spree coming on why not go vintage and show everyone that you can wear a dress by noone and still look and feel like someone!

The Fashion Feed: How to Look Good Nude!

2009-02-09T10:52:00.000-08:00

As women we spend a lot of time glamming ourselves up when in actual fact subtly enhancing your natural beauty can be much more empowering. Natural tones are going to be massive on the high street this Spring and consequently we thought we'd give you a bit of guidance on going nude!

The trick is to avoid looking drab by accenting your wardrobe a few key accessories. We love these strappy nude sandles from Asos. Although they're decidedly natural the almost 5 inch heels completely modernise the look. Their neutral shade means that they will go with almost anything in your wardrobe and will be appropriate footwear for almost any social event. At just £18.00 they are without doubt the best value option for natural footwear this Spring.

If you're trying to create a more formal outfit you needn't look further than Scarf World who sell this cute but conservative scarf with a trendy leaf motif. It costs just £9.99 and is big enough to double up as a light weight shawl making it a highly versatile addition to your wardrobe. The best part however is the material. The scarf is made from a beautiful floaty chiffon, meaning it is guaranteed to soften your style and make the perfect finishing touch to office or wedding wear.

Of course the natural look doesn't have to stop at clothing. There is a vast range of natural make-up on the market for varying budgets and skin types. Our favourite is this Maybelline Moisture Extreme Naked Beige Lipstick. This particular range offers a variety of nude shades to suit your preference and moisturises your lips to boot. You can currently buy this product at Boots at just £3.88 so why not give the natural look a go and let people see the real you for a change?

What's in a Name?

2009-02-06T08:04:00.000-08:00

Carrie's cute nameplate necklace started a massive trend as fans of the show across the globe dashed out to get their name written up in gold plated glory. For those of you a bit hazy on the details the necklace even became a bit of a plot point during the show finale when a devasted Carrie thought she'd lost her cheap but cheerful chain right about the same time that she was feeling like she'd lost herself. Interestingly once she followed her heart she found herself and her necklace again, proving there's more to jewellery than just a bit of sparkle.

If you still haven't got yours yet Punky Pins make a beautiful range of gold and silver mirror effect necklaces covering every name you can think of. You can literally order any name you want at the check out and the necklaces only cost £20.00 meaning nobody has to be without this iconic piece of Sex and the City bling.

Of course style has moved on a little bit since the days of Sex and the City and the good news is that Paris Hilton's gal pal Nicole Ritchie has single handedly moved the name necklace trend forward by sporting a set of silver chains featuring some sparkly initial charms.

We love these large pendant affairs from Diamante Divas. The pendants vary in price but all letters are around the £5.00 mark meaning you can stay on trend and on budget. So why not show people who you really are by shimmering, sparkling and shining all day long, just like Carrie did!

The Monthly Must-Have: Star Buy For Spring

2009-02-04T10:05:00.000-08:00

The hottest colour on the high street at the moment is coral and consequently a lot of stores are charging over the odds for any product they stock in that colour. Imagine our delight then, when we discovered this gorgeous block colour dress from Goddiva.

As mentioned in our previous post 'Block Party!' block colour fashion items are massive thanks to Carrie's post-jilt-honeymoon to Mexico in The Sex and the City Movie. In short, with this dress you're getting two key Spring looks in one outfit and like any star buy it is a versatile piece which can be smartened up for the office or dressed down for the pub. You could even pair it with some sparkly jewellery and wear it on a date for a more sophisticated look.

The best news about this little number however is that it is only £29.99 making a mockery of the big stores who still believe consumers are willing to pay over the hundred pound mark just to stay on trend. When will these people learn that we want to look like SJP, but we're not exactly on her budget? Snap your block colour dress up now and start enjoying the unignorable looks of envy from every woman you pass!

The Fashion Feed: Valentine's Day Special

2009-02-02T04:58:00.000-08:00

If you're in a relationship Valentine's Day can be sublime. If you're single however the whole day appears very different and it can be a very isolating experience. Well, we're here to let all you sassy singles know that it's just not worth getting hung up about. Saint Valentine's day is supposed to be a celebration of love, it's not about getting so depressed about being alone that you hang yourself from your shower rail!

This week's fashion feed is a Valentine's Special aimed not only those people who are in such a comfortable relationship they don't even close the bathroom door any more, but also all the single ladies who deserve love. Real love. Ridiculous, inconvenient, consuming, can't-live-without-each-other love. We've found three fabulous and fashionable ways to show the world that you've got your love, even if you don't happen to be in love just now.

Valentino for Valentine's Day. Why not ditch the emotional baggage this year and concentrate on the kind of baggage that actually has an off-chance of impressing somebody? We love this Valentino inspired piece from Fashion Junkee. It looks like Valentino could have designed it but only costs $50.00. Whether you're meeting your other single soul-mates for a pizza and a film or are having a candle-lit dinner with a special someone this bag will make the pefect companion to take along with you.

Vintage Valentine. Vintage chic is big business these days and if you want to work the vintage look this Valentine's Day why not pick up this adorable love locket from Dallas-based designer Rebecca Berry? The locket is silver-plated set with a pearlized Lucite oval stone which features a retro style pin-up girl. You can buy the locket for $82 from Plastic Land and keep that someone special right where they should be, close to your heart.

I Want Candy. If you fancy something equally quirky but not quite as pricey pay a visit to The Lunacy Boutique where you can pick up a range of fabulous love-themed accessories at very reasonable prices. We adore this love heart bracelet which features a range of classic slogans from those yummy pastel sweets we used to devour as kids. At only £14.00 how can you resist a little sugar this Valentine's Day?

Stay Cosy and Look Cool This Winter

2009-01-30T15:13:00.000-08:00

When you're out and about this winter it's really important to keep warm - whilst looking indisputably glamorous at the same time of course. Knitwear can be a bit grandma so your best bet is to follow in the footsteps of Miss Bradshaw and pack your wardrobe with a range of fitted coats and jackets that will see you through the Antarctic temperatures of January and also through all those clement afternoons come Spring.

This gorgeous turquoise number from ebay seller streetboutiqueuk would be an excellent start to your collection. It is so 'An American Girl in Paris' and is guaranteed to keep you looking cool whilst staying cosy for many winters to come. At just £40.00 how can you resist?

Alternatively you could brighten up those grey February days with this bold but beautiful scarlet twill coat. Not only does it ouze sexuality (we can imagine Samantha strutting down the street in this) but it will go with almost any accessory you have in your wardrobe. You can find it on sale at Debenhams and it is also priced at £40.00.

When it comes to accessories for your outer wear don't be afraid to clash. Thanks to the new film 'Confessions of a Shopaholic' starring Isla Fisher the more you clash the better you look...which is good news when you're short on time and are having difficulty co-ordinating your outfit! This tangerine scarf from Scarf World would really give your classic turquoise coat a contemporary edge. This fabulous pashmina is available for just £5.99 and did we mention that tangerine just happens to be Spring's hot new colour? Colours like this come and go so you do not want to fill your entire wardrobe with them but having a few key items will keep you at the cutting edge of style and put you in good stead for next time the colour comes into vogue!

When it comes to accessories for the red coat, go for purple it's your best bet for clashing without looking too over the top. These gorgeous custom made arm warmers from etsy seller deliriumkredens will only set you back $20.00 and nobody else will have a pair like them! It's true that purple and red are not a traditional match but that will make your look all the more quirky and let's face it, convention isn't really that fun anyway, particularly when it comes to clothes.

Can A Woman Really Fake It?

2009-01-28T07:11:00.000-08:00

As you are reading a post from Carrie Bradshaw's Closet and not the lastest issue of Cosmo, you won't be surprised (although you may be disappointed) to learn that the title does not refer to orgasms. We think Meg Ryan made the case for womankind in When Harry Met Sally when it comes to that rather sensitive question. What we're more concerned with is whether or not you can easily and cheaply fake a designer look without being found out.

A few blogs ago (Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue) we were lamenting the fact that the deal breaking Manolo Blahniks in the Sex and the City Movie cost many a pretty penny. And in these hard times, it's unlikely you're going to break the bank for a pair of shoes, even a pair as beautiful as those. This got us thinking, why not just create a replica pair? There are currently some very cheap blue satin shoes, complete with pointed toe, selling on ebay. Handily you can also buy some suitably shimmering diamante buttons to stick or sew (depending on how much attention you paid during textiles lessons) onto your new pair of shoes. The result? A pair of shoes that look the real deal but actually cost you under £25!

We suspect that in these hard times the ability to customise clothes and shoes is going to be the way forward. The pros of this little venture are that whilst you're customising the clothes you already have you're not out buying new ones and racking up major credit card debt, when you're finished you'll have a one-of-a-kind item and you can get replica designer wear at a fraction of the original price. The cons - it's going to take you a little bit of time and effort.

For those of you who really can't face picking up a needle or a bottle of superglue, you can still fake it but you will be doomed to spend your Saturday afternoons trawling the jumble-sale likes of TK Maxx and Matalan Discount Stores. There's nothing wrong with their products but it will probably take you an age to find what you're looking for!

Because we're nice, we've found the perfect item to start off your faking-it collection. This gorgeous quilted white bag from Dorothy Perkins screams Chanel and even comes with a designer look gold chain strap. It will only set you back 12.00 and will look a million dollars. Besides a man who means what he says and a free shopping spree at Prada what more could a girl want?

The Diva is in the Detail

2009-01-26T12:23:00.000-08:00

A wise man once said that the devil is in the detail. Then an even wiser woman bought a lace detail vintage handkerchief and pinned it to her belt to prove otherwise. When it comes to fashion statements it is the diva not the devil that is in the detail and lace is the perfect trimming to class up any high street outfit.

You'll be pleased to know that lace is in high supply on the high street and from online outlets. Miss Selfridge are selling a killer pair of black lace tights for just £8.00 suggesting that 80s style never went out of vogue.

If you want to go a bit more girly with your look check out this beautiful lace handbag courtesy of ebay seller Tailors Boutique. The bag is only £7.99 and has a beautiful gold chain strap mixing the classical and the contemporary for a truly unique look.

There are also plenty of ultra feminine lace detail skirts floating about on Etsy. We love this one by online seller priscilladawn. Not only do the blue and the white contrast beautifully but it comes complete with an ultra flirty bow which is a key look for this season. The even better news is that it is hand-made, one of a kind and only costs $32.00.

To recreate the original Carrie Bradshaw look pay a visit to Manu Factum who are currently selling lace embroidered handkerchiefs for just under £7. As you can see you don't have to earn the same as Beyonce to emulate diva-esque attention to detail, just remember that the handkerchiefs are only for show so no sniffling or crying into them, especially over men!

Shopping for Labels or Shopping for Love?

2009-01-24T13:18:00.000-08:00

It's true that most women spend their life in search of the two Ls - Labels and Love. Thankfully you no longer have to choose between the two thanks to the latest heart-shaped high street trend. Love hearts are making their way into patterns and are sculpting stunning new handbags and sun shades alike just in time to cheer you up on Valentines Day.

These oh-so retro multi-coloured shades from TopShop will really get your heart pumping especially when you find out that they're just £15.00. Why not match it with their black over the shoulder quilted bag for the full on loved-up effect? It will set you back another £25.00 but isn't it worth it to get the look of love without the hassle of a boyfriend?

The contribution from Asos is this beautiful heart print purse which is currently selling at £14.75 thanks to the lovely VAT discount (thank you Alistair Darling).

The good news is, you don't have to stop at accessories. New Look have printed this adorable tee to show people just how big your heart can be and how much love you've got to give. You can pick it up for a trifling £10.00 so if you haven't got a date this Valentines Day and it feels as though the annual love-in is on steroids why not make a date with your favourite high street labels instead of a date with your pyjamas and your favourite binge food? As Fergie sings: buy a bag and get over it! Does it get more profound than that?

Play Wear and Day Wear

2009-01-18T12:29:00.000-08:00

Pretty much anyone can look glamourous in floaty dresses and designer heels but adding class and style to the casual look is a little bit more of a challenge. Forever in blue jeans (as the song goes) is a fate no fashionista should inflict on herself. Kate Moss may like to live in her size 6's but some of us like to stand out in the crowd and do something a little bit different. The answer? Denim dungarees! I know, I know most people think dungarees are only for pregnant women who need to keep everything secure when they walk but they are actually a very versatile addition to your wardrobe and with the correct accessories they can look fabuous.

Try pairing some dark blue stone wash dungarees with this beautiful peach vest from TopShop. With its lace finish and beautiful muted shade it will keep your look feminine and flirty without making you appear over-dressed for a trip round the aisles at Tesco. The vest will set you back £38.00 but it is such a adaptable adornment that it is well worth the investment. Sometimes you have to think about the cost-per-wear price of a garment rather than looking at the up-front fee. This is definitely one of those instances.

To really glam up your casual look add these uber-cute pearls from Dorothy Perkins, or if you are a bit strapped for cash simply invest in these instead of the peach blouse. You can use any white or pink top out of your wardrobe instead and still look 100% dazzling with a set of pearls framing your neckline and this particular set will only cost you £10.00.

As with any outfit, shoes and a handbag provide the perfect finishing touches to the not-too-grungy dungarees look. This navy blue bow detail tote from New Look costs just £20.00 as do these super-trendy natural tone Sketchers from Barratts. By carefully selecting your accessories you can go from street to chic in seconds without looking over-dressed or out of place. It's exactly the kind of look we love - minimum effort, maximum impact!

The Noughties Go Nautical

2009-01-08T11:28:00.000-08:00

The nautical look isn't anything new but this does not mean it should be disregarded, in fact quite the opposite is true. It's a look that comes around every year meaning every girl should have a few staple pieces stashed away in her wardrobe. Navy blue shades are the key component this time around which is good news on a mix and match level. Just like black there are very few colours that don't go with navy.

The high street has been quick to catch on to the nautical theme so there are plenty of bargains to be had. This beautiful navy prom skirt from TopShop has now been reduced from £32.00 to just £18.00. The ruffled pleats add texture to your look and the material really shimmers.

Ebay also offers up some choice nautical offerings with this stunning vintage style sailor dress (left) from ebay seller enchanted oldies. It costs just £21.99 so you'll be able to stand out from the crowd at a snip.

When it comes to the nautical look accessorising is key. Why not accent the navy blue with shades of red and white? These patent leather platforms are now just £10.00 from Dorothy Perkins and this matching polka dot bag (above) is a paltry £6.00 from New Look and also comes in navy blue.

There's no end to the scope of the nautical look. Keep an eye out for sailor themed charm bracelets and pendants and bright red tote bags and don't be afraid to mix polka dots and stripes. Anything goes! Be as bold as you dare, embrace the uncertain ever-changing sea and prepare for the waves of compliments to come flooding in.

Peachy Keen, Jellybean!

2008-12-29T04:40:00.000-08:00

Things may not always be peachy when it comes to love but at least you can cheer yourself up a bit by flaunting this feminine but oh so sophisticated muted shade. It's perfect for the more formal affairs such as weddings (for those of you at that horrible age where all your friends are already marrying off), first date dinners (for those of you still trying to get a leg up on the dating ladder) and of course those all important business schmoozing parties where looking chic and sleek simply comes with the territory.

This gorgeous dress from Etsy seller ouma is very reminiscent of the dress flaunted by Carrie in the opening credits of the show. It is a little bit more expensive than the average high street dress at $250 but it has every right to be as it is one of a kind and beautifully hand made. Nobody else will have anything like it in their wardrobe making it an absolute bargain, when you think about it. On top of the quality and originality of the piece, let's face it, you're never going to want to take this off so the cost-per-wear is going to be low, low, low!

Those of you who find peach a bit too much on the subtle side can simply accessorise with it to give your existing wardrobe a touch of class as needed. High street buys that wont cost you the earth include this luscious mock croc bag from New Look. Not only is mock crock the must have material for the spring season, but it also comes in clutch format offering the ultimate in bag versatility. The even better news is that it will only set you back £10.00 meaning you can feel peachy any day of the week.

Je T'Adorn

2008-12-19T02:17:00.000-08:00

,The much-covetted Eiffel Tower bag from the Sex and the City movie gave fans a little reminder of Big and Carrie's adventure in Paris at the end of the series. The real deal by Timmy Woods is going to set you back around $500 or if you want the Swarovski Crystal covered version around $3000. Thankfully once again we've been able to hunt down some Paris inspired alternatives.

If you're intent on a bag purchase then TopShop have just brought out an Eiffel Tower clutch bag for a credit crunching £20. We know, we know it's not covered crystals or even fake diamante versions that you could pass off as crystals but it still says continental chic and won't cost you your life savings...you're saving that for your Vivienne Westwood wedding dress, remember?

There are also some beautiful Paris inspired necklaces to be had that can be used as a tip of the hat to the continental theme. This handmade version from Etsy seller adorn you will have you dressing up in berets and strings of garlic before you can say Aleksander Petrovsky. It will only set you back $18.50 and from here on in the city of lights will always be within reach.

Block Party!

2008-12-09T01:38:00.000-08:00

Block colours are here, there and everywhere thanks to Carrie's little stint in Mexico in the Sex and the City Movie. Although undoubtedly more boho and beach than city sleek with the right accessories the block colour dress can become a very servicable outfit to suit a myriad of occasions. In this photo Carrie is upping the beach look with the sling back sandles and the giant beads. To get a more friday-night-look where your block colour dress over jeans or black leggings with heels, belt and clutch to match. To turn it into day wear simply wear a vest, short or long sleeved top underneath with a long bead necklace. Versatility is the key.

In terms of cheap buys, or at least cheaper than Carrie can afford, New Look are doing a lovely block colour dress fusing black, purple and yellow. A little over the £30 mark but well worth the investment as with a lot of the Sex and the City fashion moves this dress will look great regardless of how trends move on. Of course there is also the ebay option. Typing in block colour dress into the search bar and your dress size will bring up a range of colourful spring delights. We like this one from ebay retailer nalinfinity. The colours are fun and flirty and the five blocks make it a stand out dress that will turn heads wherever you go.

There are literally hundreds of women out there dressing up like silhouettes because they're told that black is slimming but do you really want to pale into the shadows with everyone else? Bold dress statements show you exude confidence and are comfortable with choosing extraordinary outfits. What would you rather say to passers-by? Diet-Coke head or fun, friendly and fabulous?

The Clutch of the Matter

2008-11-29T05:44:00.000-08:00

If there's one thing Carrie Bradshaw knew how to work it's the clutch handbag. Simple and stylish the clutch is living proof that good things do come in small packages. Thankfully the high street has been quick to catch on to this trend and as a result there are quite literally hundreds of different styles, colours and materials to choose from.

This gorgeous feathered clutch from asos is so NYC style and very similar to one that Carrie used in the show (above). Animal prints and materials are very big this season so sporting them on your new clutch bag will pack a double whammy. Of course there's a lot to be said for keeping things simple and if that's more your style then maybe you should check out this cream and gold clutch from Dorothy Perkins instead.

The beauty of both of these pieces is that they will complement almost anything you have hanging in your wardrobe. Such accessories always become fast favourites as you really get your money's worth out of them and they're so versatile you don't even have to think about how to finish your look it just happens and what women isn't pro-effortless style?

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue

2008-11-19T05:03:00.000-08:00

Royal blue is a massive colour on the high street and on the catwalks at the moment. Needless to say this did not go unnoticed by Miss Bradshaw. Those deal clinching Manolo Blahniks from the Sex and the City Movie have inspired an army of followers to go in search of their own something blue. Of course not all of us can afford the $945 for the actual pair from the movie (yes that's right Carrie lied about them being $525, but haven't we all downplayed the cost of shoes at some point in our lives?). For all those recessionistas out there we've hunted out some stunning high street alternatives to help you work that timeless Sex and the City chic without having to take out a bank loan.

First on the list has to be this gorgeous pair of heels from fashion savvy retailers New Look. Granted they are patent leather rather than satin and they don't have the diamante detail but at £20.00 they're the most pocket friendly way of paying homage to that gorgeous pair of Manolos Big uses to seal the deal with Carrie.

Set off the outfit by teaming it with this fantastic patent royal blue clutch. Available from ebay seller Renubags for a measley £9.99 it will put the finishing touch to any jeans based or black trouser outfit. In a world of marriage fearing men you'll probably be glad to hear that you don't have to be tying the knot with anyone special to sport something new and blue so why not be bold with your accessorising and show the world that feeling blue is no longer something to be sad about?

It's a Jungle Out There

2008-11-09T13:32:00.000-08:00

When Carrie strutted her stuff in that gorgeous pair of Manolo Blahnik zebra print shoes we all sat and sighed on our sofas, lustfully wishing we could pull off a look like that. Well animal prints are massive on the high street this winter, particularly leopard print so it's time to give it a go. Yes the the torch has passed from the TV screen to the street scene but if you want to get this look working for you you need to forget the tacky splendour of Bette Lynch. In 2008 this look is all about subtlety.

I've seen quite a few girls on the tube getting it totally wrong and teaming a leopard print top with a leopard print coat and leopord print trousers...and maybe even a leopard print bag too. Ladies...it's all just a bit too much. Generally speaking you should not be wearing more than one item of leopard print clothing and you should definitely not be mixing animal prints by wearing giraffe, zebra and leopard all it once. Subtlety...remember?

If you just want a hint of leopard print simply use it when you accessorize. This beautiful hair band from asos (above) merges animal prints and cutesy bows. It now costs just £2.00 making it a definitive item for winter 2008. If you're feeling a little bit bolder opt for this sleek and chic leopard print tunic (right) also available from asos at the bargain price of £25.00. It will look great over black trousers or leggings, or teamed with your favourite jeans down the pub on a Friday night.

If you want to step up the amount of leopard print you're wearing without over doing it, opt for a pair of leopard print shoes. Because they are on your feet they are less noticeable which stops the look from being too overbearing. These adorable leopard print ballet pumps, complete with a little black bow, are built for both comfort and style and are available from New Look for just £20.00. The bottom line is to have fun taking a walk on the wild side but to also keep in mind that simple is always stylish.

Where it's at this Winter

2008-11-02T13:03:00.000-08:00

The tide of fashion can turn very quickly and if you want to stay afloat the only people worth talking to are the designers who spend all their time trying to push boundaries and stay at the cutting edge of forward-thinking style. I caught up with one such individual to find out what was going to be hot on the High Street for Autumn/Winter 2008.

Victoria Smith, a freelance embroidery designer from Manchester, has recently started selling her own individual designs after several years of hard graft in the fashion industry. As you can see from the images left and below her new enterprise 'Fancy Stitches' fuses a range of styles and inspirations to create truly unique looks and she's got a lot of ideas on what to wear this season.

So Victoria, what looks do you think are going to be big for the back end of 2008/beginning of 2009?

Looks that are big this Autumn/Winter seem to be tartan- jackets, mini skirts and tops, aswell as leopard print, bows, frills and delicate beadwork/embroidery. Purple and mustard are also key colours this year.

Where do you find inspiration for your designs?

My inspiration comes from everywhere but my main sources are magazines, shops (fashion and interior design), fabrics that boast nice patterns - I have even been inspired by somebody's curtains!

Nature is also endlessly inspiring flowers are massive part of my designing so its important that I observe the world around around me to keep coming up with new ideas. Different cultrues such as Indian and African are so colourful and rich, and so different to ours that they also strongly influence the fashion world.

What looks do you see being the future of fashion?

I think fashion is always revolving and things keep come back in, even if its a few seasons later. So we are likely to see styles from the past coming back round again, for example, floaty empire lines were really in over the summer, now the emphasis is on more fitted smarter looks. This cycle is likely to repeat itself next year too.

Do you think that the UK is particularly daring when it comes to style?

I think London is one of the top leaders in fashion world, producing designers such as Scott Henshall and Matthew Williamson. Central Saint Martin's (fashion college) has produced many leading lights in fashion world who are often pushing boundaries of fashion. You only have to look to London Graduate Fashion Week for rising stars like this. London Fashion Week also highlights how London is seen up there with the other leading fashion capitals such as Milan, Paris and New York as people travel from round the world to come to it.

I put a bird on my head...

2008-10-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

Some say Carrie's bridal bird-in-the-hair moment was a fashion faux pas but I think it summarises true Sex and the City style. It was bold, beautiful and, as with all of Carrie's best looks, a little bit unexpected! Admittedly it's not the kind of look you can really pull off on the high street, but it is possible to successfully emulate the idea with some subtle feathered hair pieces and still look right at home in Leeds city centre...this is assuming that you're also willing to ditch the Vivienne Westwood weddding gown, it's a bit OTT for a trip to Dorothy Perkins.

It's really important with a look like this that your head piece is as unusual as possible. The last thing you want with such a unique fashion move is to walk down the street and spot other people wearing exactly the same thing. You can get individual hand-made pieces for low prices at Etsy. My favourite shops on this site for recreating the bridal bird look are Designs by Portobello who make this stunning peacock feather hair band (above) for $38.00 and Chuletin Designs who currently stock this fabulous feathered comb (below) for a mere $12.00.

You don't have to be going to your best mates wedding to dress your hair up. Although admittedly these accessories would be out of place in a grungy club if teamed with the right outfit these beautiful feathered fancies could be worn to a sunday lunch, a Friday night on the town, a family dinner or a walk in the park. You could go boho trendy with your look or up-market chic, either way wearing feathers in your hair is a bold move so you're likely to be the only one doing it. And let's face it, in a land overrun with Kate-Moss-a-like drones who spend their lives trying to copy-cat TopShop mannequins, there's no better feeling than staying at the edge of style and standing out in the crowd.

Patent Leather: Cheap and Tacky or Chic and Classy?

2008-10-17T01:45:00.000-07:00

Patent leather has come back to reinvade the high street like never before but is this necessarily a good thing? I have to admit that my gut reaction was...no. Patent leather can often look really cheap (even if you've paid a lot for the item in question) and the last thing you want is to look tacky. Patent leather however does have a certain retro charm and if you use it correctly it can be perfect for giving an otherwise simple outfit a bit of an edge.

I picked up these red patent leather sandals at my favourite discount store: Peacocks. They cost £15.00 and are going to work a treat with wardrobe staples such as jeans or a little black dress. The likes of Fendi, Chanel and Dior have all included patent leather bags in their new collections but since we're not all on a millionaire's budget you will be pleased to know you can pick up patent leather bags at slightly more modest prices at DestinationFashion.Com where prices start at £14.99.

Patent leather is a great material for anyone wanting to emulate Samantha-esque chic but whatever you do never wear more than one item at a time. You just end up looking like you've been shrink wrapped before coming out and people will assume that you simply can't afford to buy real leather and are settling for a cheaper looking alternative. Even if that's true, they don't need to know that so keep it minimal and you'll look both with-it and worth it.

Flower Power: Not Just for Hippys

2008-10-07T13:01:00.000-07:00

Floral designs must always be handled with care. If you're not careful you can end up looking either like someone who got lost on their way to Woodstock or like a 1950s house wife. Carrie has always been a big fan of flower power as she sported a range of stunning over-sized corsages throughout the series and The Sex and the City movie has reignited the nation's love affair with flowers as Carrie was seen sporting a beautiful, deep green, oriental style dress in the opening sequence.

The key note with floral designs is to be bold with the pattern but to keep the lines sexy. If you're going for a dress make sure it emphasises your silhouette by pulling you in at the middle and accentuating your curves at both the top and the bottom. If you're going for a skirt make sure that it's either just below the knee or to the floor - nothing says stay-at-home mum like a skirt that's wafting around your calves. Unless you have Sarah Jessica Parker's I-can-make-anything-look-fabulous body don't wear floral trousers. Keep it feminine and keep all your accessories plain so as not to clash with the main focus of your outfit which should be the flowers.

If you're opting for a corsage the good news is that Dorothy Perkins are stocking them this season in a range of styles and designs. Some original and quirkier designs can also be found on ebay. I picked up this gorgeous one-off piece from boutique apparel. When it comes to corsages it's a case of the bigger, the better but you might want to opt for colours such as red, black and white so you can mix and match them with more outfits. It can be the perfect accessory for an evening gown or even sprouse up a jeans and shirt combo. However you choose to exude flower power do it with pride!

Satchels Can Be Sexy

2008-09-30T12:13:00.000-07:00

Forget the retro school girl stigma satchels have become chic, sleek and sexy this season. This gorgeous, red, faux leather effort will set you back a mere £5.99 from Bargain Handbags Galore.
It boasts three compartments and an inside zip pocket enabling you to jam-pack it with all your favourite make-up and accessories. The strap is long enough to fit perfectly on your shoulder even with a bulky winter coat on and because it's a deep red it won't feel too garish alongside your other seasonal favourites.

If you do want to opt for a slightly more low-key or intellectual look then go for this designer-esque navy/tan satchel. Bargain Handbags Galore are selling this little beauty for a paltry £3.99. It has more pockets and zips than you can shake a stick at and comes complete with a 'Claro Paris' stamp on the clasp giving a subtle nod to the fashion capital of the world. I use this bag for more formal engagements but you could also easily use it to class up a more street wise outfit. It is of course the unlimited flexibility of handbags that makes us love them so, and thanks to bargain ebay stores we can all rest assured that we won't have to miss out on the top looks for autumn/winter 2008.

C is for Carrie, Court Shoes and Comfort

2008-09-20T09:29:00.000-07:00

All of the Sex and the City girls were well known for clomping around the Manhattan streets in killer heels but there's a lot to be said for comfort. No wonder Carrie had to take cabs everywhere, it's not as though you can go on a 6 mile urban hike in 8 inch stilettos. The court shoe is a great alternative to hideously high heels and were, on more than one occassion, favoured by the girls on the hit show. I found these amazing Salt Pink Court Shoes at Kurt Geiger reduced from £120.00 to £59.50. Kurt and the crew broke traditional style taboos and mixed together red and pink to created a timeless shoe that will match beautifully with a range of styles and colours. For the traditional look match your heels to the colour of your outfit or for a trendy street look wear them with jeans.

If the credit crunch is really taking it's toll on your shoe fund then pay a visit to Peacocks. I picked up this fabulous pair of court shoes in this season's key colour - mustard. They were a snip at £12.00 and will definitely come in useful this season and for seasons to come. Mustard is a colour that seems to come back round every year so it's worth keeping a pair of mustard shoes stashed in your closet to modernise an otherwise classic look. Court shoes still give your legs and posture a boost but will also enable you to walk gracefully rather than tripping over or getting your heels caught in drains and man covers. Always a bonus if you ask me!