Galleries Shopping Centre
What's hot
Spruce your wardrobe
Financially, January’s always a tricky month to get through. After splashing the cash over Christmas, we’ve all got to survive on a bare minimum until our next pay packet.
This means we have to do without some of life’s luxuries, like new clothes. But there’s one saving grace – the accessory. These indispensible items have the power to rejuvenate any outfit, making it look current and trendy with a few simple touches. And the only limit’s your imagination…
Star style
Last year, fashionistas fawned over Carrie Bradshaw’s oversized corsage in the Sex & the City movie. And this year, it’s set to be one of 2009’s biggest accessories. Attach it to a dress like Sarah Jessica Parker, wear it like a headband, or plump for the smaller version as a hair accessory.
Get set for sun
As we head towards spring, it’ll soon be time to strike a pose in a pair of swanky designer shades. But this year, the ubiquitous oversized style will be replaced with a calmer, vintage look. And top of the pile has to be the spring/summer range for Ray Ban. Their latest collection is a classy, sixties-inspired series that’s sure to be one of the season’s hottest accessories.
Tie a ribbon...
Recently, celebrities like Alexa Chung and Kelly Osbourne have been sporting a quirky, kooky accessory – the hair ribbon. This Alice in Wonderland style adds a girly touch to any outfit, especially when worn with a low ponytail or wrapped around a bun.
Bag it up
The indecisive handbag changes shape, size and style every few months, but 2009 is all about the clutch. Whether it’s plain, patterned, Prada or Primark, this understated, elegant accessory deserves to be at the top of every girl’s must-buy list.
All that glitters...
If you really want to stand out from the crowd, crystals and sequins are currently flying off the shelves. Whether they’re covering a clutch bag, slinky shoes, or even gloves, they’re impossible to ignore. But don’t overdo it – there's a very fine line between tasteful and tasteless.
The bold and the beautiful
It seems we can’t get enough of bold statement jewellery as it continues to dominate for 2009. Organic-themed accessories are one of the latest trends, with giant pieces made from molluscs, shells and coral. However, oversized gold trinkets will still be top of the pile, followed by chunky wooden bangles.
Fabulous fringing
Fringing is one of the key looks for 2009 – and these boots are the trend’s defining feature. Worn by the likes of Sienna Miller and Kate Moss, their folky, bohemian style is set to be one of the smash hits of the summer. Wear them with an elegant dress for a trendy mismatched style, or simply pair with jeans for a dash of casual chic.
A taste of luxury
They may not be to everyone’s taste, but exotic skins are a major look for 2009. The likes of Jimmy Choo, Dior and YSL are offering a selection of shoes, clutches and clothes made from alligator, lizard and snake skin. This luxurious style simply oozes quality, so beware of cheap imitations and garish prints.
