How To: Wear Sequins This Holiday Season Without Looking Like A Christmas Tree Decoration

Over the holiday season, we’re all attracted to a bit of sparkle; glitter ornaments, rhinestone accessories and of course sequins. But it’s often tricky to don an adorned dress without looking like something that hangs off your mantelpiece. This time of year truly tests your sartorial versatility and although wearing an all in one sequined maxi dress might be for some, we believe it’s the subtle addition to a look that really shows off your holiday style. So worry no more, were here to help you master suburb holiday style and will walk you through how to avoid looking like a tree ornament this season.

1. Sequin Midi Skirt

Wearing a midi skirt can be a bit of a challenge from time to time. Am I too short, and I the wrong shape, what shoes do I wear with it? This little festive look is the perfect answer. Rather than wearing boots choose a pair which reach the ankle or a pair of cute pumps, either way the small bit of your pins on show will seem elongated and elegant. This sequin midi also has patterned effect which smooths out any lumps and bumps giving you the perfectly chic holiday look that Mrs Claus would be proud of.

2. Bauble sweater

You ask, how on earth can I wear an all over sequined sweater without looking like a tree bauble? Well team it with some super chic accessories - that's how, and you're bound to be the envy of all fashionista's this holiday season. Markus Lupfer always gets it so right, and this season he has not failed to disappoint. This cashmere navy number with large mirror disk sequins is the perfect addition to your holiday wardrobe and will carry you all the way through to Spring.

3. Sparkly skater dress

When wearing an all over sequined dress its better to keep it in a more neutral colour. This forest green skater dress from French Connection is just what were talking about, and in such a flattering fit and flare designer to suit all body shapes. Team it with some edgy accessories and you're bound to the the prettiest Elf at the party.

4. Sequin colour block blazer

So a fully sequined blazer  might be a tad too much, buts that's why we adore this black and silver number from Topshop. Oversized boyfriend bit with a touch of added glam. Keeping the colour palette neutral is the safest way to go, but whilst keeping the textures super interesting. Sequins silk, jacquard and leather - yummy!

5. Gold Mini Skirt

With the temperatures plummeting well bellow freezing around this time of year mini skirts can be some what of a no go area. But not to worry. Sass & Bide have got you covered with their sheer split maxi which is sexy and practical well sort of at the same time. Teamed with more black chiffon and bold accessories to complement the pops of colour on the skirt this is one sure way to look super chic over the holiday season. 

Be sure to follow me on Polyvore (click here) and check out more of my sets for some serious outfit inspo. 

Graduation Class of 2013

Why is it that time flies when you're having fun? The last four years spent at University have whooshed by with the blink of an eye. The fact that I am a graduate now beguiles me, not only because it means I might have to actually grow up but that fact that I no longer have student discount?! Like seriously. My shopping bills are now going to become even more extortionate. But really, that's beside the point. These past four years have been the most incredible experience of my life. Meeting such wonderful friends and having the chance to work in two of the World's fashion capitals, I really couldn't have asked for more.

So finally the big day came round. Graduation. 

With work, travels and a million other things going on, I put off getting a graduation dress, well, till the day before, and after traipsing though shop after shop, deciding adamantly that I was no longer going to the ceremony, and buying far too many 'maybe' options, I finally popped into my go-to-store, Zara, to pick up this little beaut in the sale. 

Being one in a family of six its rare that I get to have my parents all to myself. But with my sisters off on holiday and my brother grafting away, I took the opportunity to have a bit of 'me time' to celebrate my graduation with just my parentals.

Heading up to Leeds University bright and early, we made it just in time to our reservation at Angelica on the tippy-top floor of Leeds' new addition the Trinity. Boasting a delicious cocktail list and a delightful menu full of light bites (I wanted it all), couldn't help but have a cheeky glass pre-ceremony. Well after all... how often will a day like this come around?!

Raspberry & lychee champagne cocktail, don't mind if I do.

My bootiful mama looked gorgeous in her Karen Millen digital floral print dress and Michael Kors sandals, whilst I was in head to toe Zara, including my jewel necklace and strappy stiletto's. 

Mama opted for the salmon tartare complete with yuzu, chives, chilli oil - whilst I went for the Tuna with sesame, spring onion, lime and nori. 

Daddy's cheeseburger was good but not great. Looks pretty damn good in the in the photos though no? 

And they even had mama's favourite, mushroom vol au vent. 

Of course I went for the prawns. Grilled jumbo king prawns. Garlicky seafoody chilliy perfection.

Next stop. Back up to university for the last time ever, to totter into the Great Hall with all my fellow fashion graduates. 

Certificates in hand, and smiles on faces. Photo time!

Perfectly coordinating dresses without a formal dress code. Great minds think alike.

With hat's not allowed to be worn in the ceremony, I of course had to have the cliche, graduate stereotype photo of my hat being thrown into the air in jubilation. For some reason, whether the combination of champagne and 30 degree heat had gone to my head or the 5 inch heels but I could not catch my mortarboard. Poor daddy had to take a million and one shots before I finally caught the hat and could actually upload a worthy video to Vine. But didn't he do a good job in the end?

A wonderful day and an unforgettable four years. I don't want to get all mushy *bleugh* but I just have to say a massive thank you to all my gorgeous friends and family for the most wonderful experience. In the infamous words of Gordo (from Lizzie McGuire)...

You rock, don't ever change.