Last post of 2014

Wow so this is the last day of 2014 and instead of leaving with a review, I just wanted to say a huge

To each and everyone of you who is reading this, reads my blog, leaves comments, messages me across social media, has emailed me, I've met via blogging, I've worked with, am working with and generally supports me.  It means so much that someone takes the time out of their lives to spend just a few minutes reading what I have to say and sometimes saying thank you is what I should do more often.

Over the past year I have seen quite a few changes to my blog that I am chuffed to bits with. Whether it is regular comments, new people commenting, new followers and even the other way round. I have taken the time to find new blogs to read, some that I have no experience in whatsoever, but do you know what, I've enjoyed every minute of it.  I don't try and 'fit in' because that isn't me, I am who I am.

I've tried my best to support some new bloggers on the scene by commenting as regularly as I can, I've been to blog events and met other bloggers, some of whom have become really good friends and I hope to meet more of you.  I've even stated watching YouTube videos and leaving a comment but the thing I am probably most proud of is my Hubby and his blog, you might know him better as Beautykinguk and if you have a few spare minutes, please do  go and say hello to him, being a male beauty blogger (though he is also doing fashion too) isn't all that easy a task and thee are very few community groups that exist, so it is quite hard to get yourself acquainted at times.

Anyway as this is my last post of 2014, I want to wish you all

Enjoy whatever it is you do today and tonight and I will see you next year!

Win £100 worth of John Lewis vouchers to spend this Christmas, courtesy of Harvey Water Softeners

Harvey Water Softeners is offering the opportunity for one lucky BeautyQueenUK reader to receive £100 worth of John Lewis vouchers** to spend online or in-store.

Harvey Water Softeners is a family-run business based in Surrey that manufactures and installs the UK’s best water softeners. Founded by Harvey Bowden in 1978, the company’s patented twin-cylinder water softeners remove the minerals from hard water that cause limescale and scum to build up inside kettles, washing machines and other appliances inside the home.

The beauty benefits of soft water include reduced risk of skin disorders such as eczema and reducing hair frizz whilst making it more shiny. Home and financial benefits include less need to clean sinks and shower screens, more bubbly, soapy baths and showers and extending the life of household appliances and boilers whilst making them more cost efficient. 

Visit www.harveywatersofteners.co.uk  for more details.

The competition closes on New Years Eve 2014 - so start 2015 with a pocket full of vouchers to spend in the sales! Some of the options are Mandatory and must be completed, if they are not done so (and I check everyone) your entries will be removed from the competition.  This is a UK Only Giveaway.

The Winner has been contacted - Debbie, Congratulations!

** These vouchers have been kindly given for this giveaway

The big trends in accessories for 2015

Yep, Christmas is well and truly upon us. It is easily the best time of the year, and a time for indulgence, from food to gifts. It is of course the perfect time of year to show your loved ones you care, and this doesn’t mean spending a gazillion pounds either.

It won’t be long before Christmas is forgotten; the mince pies have been devoured, the decoration are in the attic for another year and we look ahead to a brand new belonging in the form of 2015. Have you thought of any resolutions yet?

Everyone knows I love my beauty, but fashion and accessorising is all part and parcel of the whole package. What’s the point in showing off your amazing new watch if your nails aren’t shiny from a post-manicure?!

The New Year also means sales and there are big savings to be had. Whether it’s a stylish designer watch from Watches of Switzerland or a gorgeous pair of earrings and necklace combo from your favourite high street (that happens to now be half price too=win!) there will always be an accessory that takes your fancy.

Here are some of the best to look out for in 2015:

Bright and Bold Earrings

Whether it’s sporting just one absolute show-stopper or opting for traditional Avant Garde style jewels, if you want one focus next spring/summer, opt for the statement earrings. I mean, check out these ‘crocodile tear’ earrings:

So clever! And I love the Parisian style jewels and Art Deco style, and you can find such perfect jewels at market and vintage stores whether they’re online or in person. Often one of a kind, you can really make your sense of style as unique as you really are.

Experimenting with your looks is so fun so why not try teaming your minimal outfits with crazy big gold or silver hoops and added bling in the form of a Chanel chain bag.

Gorgeous Gladiator sandals

It’s weird even meaning the word “sandals” when we’re in the midst of such a chill (winter is well and truly here ladies and gentlemen) but before you know it, the sun will be back and summer holiday will be booked. Save yourself the effort and rush that comes with missing the  fashionista boat and get ahead of the game.

SS15 has brought with it a more stylish gladiator sandal in the form of thin, high heel and gladiator style boots that can easily be styled with your festive party outfits for that extra bit of “Wow!” factor.

Circular detailing

This is a peculiar trend and one generally not spotted, but circular shapes are everywhere this season; they’re hard to miss in fact!

Where you will see a lot of them is handbags. The clasp detailing has been seen from Victoria Beckham to Celine with many clutch bag incorporating this into the handle so that striking clasp is at the fall front. Of course, a metallic handle also looks so striking.

It isn’t just bags and purse opting for the circular motion, but necklaces, bracelets and even sunglasses too.

In terms of the bracelets and necklaces, it’s all about being bold. Bamboo style rings decorated the front and geometric shapes gives a real 60s feel. When styling, you can leave your clothes minimal and express yourself through the bling instead!

Pastels pastels pastels!

Come to mention the 60s, I couldn’t help but fall madly in love with the Moschino show for SS15 ; it was Barbie themed. The outfits all looked so much fun, and there was definitely a pink theme running throughout.

Now, not every woman is a pink fan, and it can look a little tacky in the wrong concept so what are the basic rules. For starters, if you’re wearing all pink from head-to-toe, you better have the attitude to back it up! It’s a daring look and can easily look either frumpy or overkill when not executed properly.

The easiest way would be to opt for a light sugary pink knit. It will keep you cosy during chilly winter days and will be perfect come spring for those slightly less chiller evenings.

I might be looking a little far into the future, but the top designer have already had their spring/summer shows for 2015 so hop to it! And be one step ahead of the rest.