The Lipstick Effect

The lipstick effect is the name given to the the tendency for consumers to purchase small, comforting items such as lipstick rather than large luxury items in a recession. The purchase of a small item is supposed to give the same effect (well almost) as buying a whole new outfit, when times are hard. A little treat now and then is also a great way to stop yourself splurging on clothes that you cannot afford.

It doesn't have to be lipstick though, a piece of costume jewellery or especially handmade jewellery is also a great way to give yourself a treat and add a bit of sparkle to your outfit.

Swarovski Cluster Ring

'Feline' Copper and Brass Bangle

Banana Leaf Earrings

Visit Munique Fashions for more unique jewellery and lipstick like treats

Goodbye 2008 - Legs, Fashion Blogs, Individual Style and Costume Jewellery

As we say farewell to 2008 and welcome to 2009, here is a look back over the fashion and style of 2008.

The year of the leg- 2008 saw just about every type of leg wear to draw attention to the legs from tights in bright colours and patterns, to leather and wetlook leggings and thigh high boots.

Paisley Print Tights by Pamela Mann

The year of the fashion blog - 2008 was the year in which fashion blogging went crazy. So many new fashion blogs started in 2008 including the Munique Fashions blog. Fashion blogs are a great way to find out about the latest styles and trends and get some great fashion and style inspiration.

The year of individual style - 2008 was the year that individual style became uber fashionable. Ladies no longer want to follow the latest trend but wear their own unique style by picking and choosing from the latest trends, mixing designer and high street clothing with vintage and showing their personality by accessorising with individual accessories and handmade jewellery.

This handcrafted leather handbag is an original and unique design. A great way to accessorise a casual outfit such as jeans and a jumper.

The year of the costume jewellery - Costume jewellery is now a key element of many designer collections. In 2008 there has also been the emergence of many new jewellery designers. Jewellery is no longer something just chosen to compliment an outfit, new innovative pieces are a key style statement in their own right.




This Sunny meadows glass choker is a great way to show off your individual style. It is handcrafted in glass and silver which means that no two pieces are ever the same.

Purple Dresses

For a formal or dressy do, this Nicholas Millington dress is perfect. The folded effect is great for hiding any lumps or bumps resulting from a little festive over indulgence. The strapless neckline is great for showcasing your favourite necklace.

This Miss Sixty Purple Jersey Dress has a very flattering wrap over front and corset style waist. A great dress for any party or Christmas event.


This purple V necked dress by Diesel is perfect to take you from day time to evening. The V neck is a flattering style and looks great with a medium length necklace, black opaque tights and ankle boots.

The shops are awash with purple dresses this winter. I love the deep rich tones of purple. They are great for an evening out or a Christmas party. When accessorising a purple dress, you can always opt for classic black accessories or try something a little different like handmade jewellery in copper which looks amazing with purple. I love these 'dotcentric' copper and brass earrings by Anderson at Munique Fashions

Green is the new black

This year, there has been non stop talk of green and ethical fashion. I think this year green and ethical has finally become really fashionable. The concept of organic and ethical clothing has been trendy for a while, but now there is a huge range of green clothing that is stylish and very desirable in its own right. Even those who have no conscious, find themselves checking out what the new ethical labels have to offer.

The green fashion explosion has been fuelled by Esthetica at London Fashion week which is now in its fourth year. Esthetica is a sustainable fashion initiative championed by the likes of Katherine Hamnet and Noir. Since its launch Esthetica has attracted exciting new talent like Mark Lui. Esthetica labels adhere to a set of guidelines including the use of fairtrade, organic and recycled materials.

I am loving the new ultra stylish green labels, the perfect opportunity for guilt free shopping!

Handmade jewellery made from recycled materials by Mana at Munique Fashions

Spatial Necklace by Mana

'Your Something For Me' Necklace by Mana

Urban Warrior Necklace by Mana

Winter Florals

If you thought florals and flowers were just for the spring and summer, then you were wrong. This winter flower power is in full force with winter florals being a huge trend on and off the catwalk. The floral look has adapted itself for the colder weather by combining brightly coloured flowers with black.

At Matthew Williamson, graphic primary coloured flowers covered fabrics and floral embellishments covered this black dress with stunning effect.


At Roberto Cavalli, deep purple, blues, green and red flowers were combined with black for a bright and refreshing look.
pictures from http://www.style.com/
If you would like to add a bit of colour to your winter wardrobe the winter florals trend is a great way to do so. Try accessorising a black outfit with brightly coloured handmade flower jewellery or corsages. This is also a great way to accessorise a little black dress. I love this red leather Hibiscus necklace.