Christmas gift ideas: $200 and below

Christmas is supposed to be a time of happiness and joy, however many of us associate this holiday period with stress and chaotic shopping centres.

If you know what to buy, you can start early, and even online - however, a lot of people just don't know where to start. Well, that's where I jump in!

As your Christmas genie I have come up with 2 items for each price point from $10 - $200 which range from beauty, accessories, home, and beachware.

So start taking notes, because your Christmas list is about to get a whole lot easier!

$200 and under
Kicking off our highest price point with two ultimate beauty products.

The first, a Napoleon Perdis contour kit (which I can confirm from personal experience - is AMAZING). Featuring a mirrored compact, highlighter and contour duo, with a brush for each. This duo will lift and brighten, as well as slim and sculpt your face. RRP $149.

Next, the exclusive MAC Stroke of Midnight lip and cheek bag (in coral). This pack includes a lipstick, lipglass, powdered blush, mirror, brush - all in its very own make-up bag. RRP $125. HUGE value (especially when compared to the Napoleon contour kit).

$100 and under
Being practical never looked this good.

For years we have been buying Mimco baby bags, and using them as an overnight bag (yes, slugging baby matts, milk bottle compartments and all). Finally, Mimco have listened to our demands, and have created some patterned over night bags. Cue 'The Weekender' for only $99.95.

Down under, we are lucky enough to celebrate Christmas in the sun! Well now not only can we use this amazing hat as a resourceful way of finding shade, but we can look like our favourite celeb all at the same time. Seen on Lara Bingle, Nadia Fairfax and SFB, you too can rock this look for only $99.

$90 and under
The next pair will have you seeing stars.

The best accessory on a female, is said to be their smile. But what is a smile without a gorgeous shiny lip? This MAC pack gives you a Creme D'Nude lipstick, Boldly Bare lip pencil and a Softly Lip lipglass - all in nude tones, to help you create a kissable lip. The pack which includes a make-up bag is available for $89.

And what is the perfect lip, without the perfect bling accessory. Grace and Scarper's silver star, on a fine chain (as seen on Rozalia Russian) is back-in-stock for $89.

$80 and under
This dynamic duo are perfect for any handbag.

Mimco are known for their signature pouch, but this Christmas sees an old favourite have a new twist. Revamp your old pouch, with this sleek mini envelope. RRP $79.95.

Not big enough or loud enough for you? Well the Sparks Fly Clutch has you covered! RRP $79.95.

$70 and under
Beauty not your thing - the next 2 finds will be right up your alley.

The holidays are all about sleep-ins, and what a better way to sleep in with the cutest Peter Alexander bow set. You will never want to get out of bed! RRP $69.90.

Arm candy your thing? Say hello to these easy to wear bracelets from Mimco for only $69.95, available in a multitude of colours.

$60 and under
Beach babes - bring it on.

Some girls are just so hard to buy for! Just when you thought, surely she is running out of ideas, I present to you a monochrome beach towel from Country Road. Being at the beach never looked so good. RRP $59.95.

You don't have to go to the beach, to look like a babe. NARS eye, lip and cheek palette is the perfect way to bring out your beauty. Featuring a blush, bronzer, lip gloss, and 3 eye shadows; beauty never looked so easy! RRP $59.

$50 and under

If these items were at school, they would definitely be the 'popular' kids.

Most homes you enter would be filled with fragranced candles, and let's face it, we all love a good smelling room. Just in time for Christmas, Glasshouse have put together a trio pack of their top smelling candles - Tahaa (my ultimate favourite!), Montego Bay, and Rio de Janeiro. RRP $49.95.

Stop it - you're making me blush! Nars is renowned for both their cheek colours, and their cheeky blush names. This adults only palette, retails for $49.

$40 and under
We are just under the half-way mark; maybe your loved ones would enjoy the next two finds.

Christmas is all about making memories, and what better way to relive these memories, than in Country Road's 4-set white frames. Whether it's a cheeky selfie, or a photo-bombed group shot, display it around the house for only $39.95

Camilla may be the Kaftan Queen, but Cotton On is the price King. Throw this baby over your 'kinis at the beach for only $34.95.
 
$30 and under
We are now getting to the finer details.

Dress your nails up with OPI's two favourite colours (both worn by WAG Bec Judd). This pack retails for $30 - nailed it!

Often neglected in Summer in lieu of a tan, lather up your body with Glasshouse creme. Why stop at your hands, when you can have your whole body smell like a vanilla thickshake. RRP $24.95.

$20 and under
Perfect for those 'Secret Santas'.

What a cute way to tzuj your Christmas tree. Mimco have never introduced a tree ornament into their collection, but I know this year I will be stocking up. With their signature bow, you will have the most trendiest tree in your street. RRP $19.95.

Possibly the most world-renowned eye lash curlers have just gotten better (is that even possible?). Guaranteed to leave you with no eye injuries, this perfect Shu Uemura make-up tool will you have your eye lashes curled quicker than you can say 'Kardashian'. RRP at the new price of $20.

$10 and under
Gifts on a budget.

These two are all with thanks to Model Co. Forget the novelty bobble-heads and snow-globes this Christmas, with one of the most affordable make-up cases and Kabuki brushes going around. Shop now for $9 and $10, respectively. You can keep the change..

With only 37 days remaining until Christmas, I hope you were able to add even one of my gift ideas to your list. Happy shopping!

Let me know your thoughts on this Christmas edition blog on Instagram @jspstyling

Copy cat: Cotton On

This past year Cotton On has undergone an extreme makeover. The designs of their clothes have gone from basics, to more on trend designs; cover a range of apparel such as swimwear, sleepwear, lingerie, ladies, men, children, shoes, accessories and more. They have also recently collaborated with Australian model and former WAG, Lara Bingle, to reignite their brand with the youth market.

Here are a few copy cat designer duds, that have been recreated by Cotton On.


1) AJE vs. Cotton On

$440 vs. $49.95
Total saving = $390.05

2) Kenzo vs. Cotton On

$340 vs.$29.95
Total saving = $310.05

3) Chanel vs. Cotton On

 
$580 vs. $19.95
Total saving = $560.05

4) Triangl vs. Cotton On

$86 vs. $39.90 ($19.95 each)
Total saving = $46.10

5) Michael Kors vs. Cotton On

$275 vs. $19.95
Total saving = $255.05

6) House of Harlow vs. Cotton On

$80 vs. $4.95 (for 2)
Total saving = $75.05

Some huge savings, on designer "inspired" pieces. Follow the link to find out where your closest Cotton On store is, or simply buy online. Your wallet can thank me later!

Client stories

Chrisi got in contact with me via my Instagram (@jspstyling) in need of help finding a 21st dress. This was just not any 21st, this was Chrisi's white party 21st that she shares with her triplets.

The party is in February and Chrisi had very few requirements: white, and unique.

Firstly, I LOVE the theme of a white party (one of the very few themes I like!). My second thought is that a whole group of white-wearing 21 year olds would shop in the same places. Because of this, I looked at interstate labels, with very little presence in Melbourne (however, enough presence that I could source the garments for Chrisi - eg. Aje), and secondly higher-end online clothing boutiques (such as Shopbop - no Asos here!).

When it comes to the term 'unique' clients need to understand, that some of these pieces are made-to-order, or are even sourced from overseas - and hence allowing yourself enough time to order the dress, see if you like it, and then make adjustments if necessary, is key.

As Chrisi had not set out any guidelines such as length or budget, I designed a brief that varied in styles.

 

My personal pick for Chrisi: Aje Precious Opal dress in white (featured in black in the brief above).
I have spoken to Aje, who are able to create this garment for Chrisi in white. Aje is based predominantly in Sydney (with a new boutique that has just recently opened up in Brisbane), making it more difficult for other partygoers to readily access. Again, without enlisting a help of a stylist that has a good rapport with a certain company, the label may not agree to create you a garment in a colour that is not already offered. This dress also has a high neck, which is not a common feature of dresses this season - another check! The outfit is fitted, so will show off Chrisi's gorgeous physique (big plus!). And lastly has a large split through the middle, which eliminates this dress from being 'an over-the-top formal gown', making it sexy and edgy.

My styling tips for this particular dress would be a statement ear (in diamonds, to team with the 'white' theme), accompanied by a wrist, a gorgeous pair of heels (that are also comfortable, so that Chrisi can enjoy her 21st), and a clutch. As the dress code is quite strict in terms of colour, we are able to work with different shades of white, textures and even clear accessories.
The styling would also depend on Chrisi's budget, as she may want to reduce costs on accessories whilst splurging on the dress, by using items that she already owns.

Hair for this particular dress should be off the face (perhaps a beautiful big bun) so that you can see the neckline of the dress, and the statement earrings; and makeup should be a dark smokey eye to contrast the white-on-white look.

Chrisi's next step is to choose an outfit (if she cannot find an outfit from this brief, then we will create another edit) that she 100% loves, so that she has no regrets, and if desired work on the all important accessories - my favourite part!

Tips when using a stylist:
Having a client with too little requirements can be difficult, as it gives a lot of space for 'error'. If you don't like a particular cut because of how it sits on your body, or you aren't prepared to pay thousands of dollars for a dress - it is best to let your stylist know in advance.

On the flipside, having a client with too many requirements can be difficult, as it can restrict a lot of options, and can also eliminate the garments that a stylist may think the client wouldn't pick themselves (and surprisingly would like!). An example of this is a mid length white dress, with sequins, one shoulder, tight, must be able to be purchased in Melbourne so that I do not have to pay postage, and in total must cost no more than $50. Now I'm not saying that this can't be done, however, the client must expect that the options will not be as varied and as many, as a client with fewer restrictions.

About electronic briefs
With an electronic brief (most commonly used for clients outside of Melbourne), this is paid for upfront, and includes edits. Meaning, if you choose a style you really like from the brief, I can find you more of that style; or if you found that the garments in your brief differed from your expectations, I can assist in creating a new edit - free of charge. Some clients, once they have secured their garment, will come back for a second brief for accessories. Other clients might have a certain accessory that they want to use, and we work the garment around that. Which ever way you want to create your outfit, we can work with what suits you and your needs.

If you would like a quote on a special event that is coming up, send me an email at jspstyling@gmail.com

Copy cat

Love the Amber Sceats headpiece for the Albert Park Polo in 2 weeks? Turned off by the $259.95 price tag? Never fear, my budget finding skills are here..

Presenting you with the Crystal Flower Pear Round Head Chain from Lovisa for $29.99.

Total saving = $229.96 - bargain!

All I want for Christmas...

Only 4 small things, not much to ask for really? Consider these as "necessities"...

1) Hermes
Collier de Chien
Silver
$4,235

2) Cartier
Love bangle
White gold
$7,800

3) Louis Vuitton
Vivienne wallet
Black with gold hardware
$2,540

4) Aje
Catara mini
Black
$390

Santa, hope you are taking notes!

What I wore

Yesterday I was at the Jeep Polo at the beautiful Werribee Mansion.

My fashion prediction was that there would be lots of dresses, and little to no headware...so naturally I did the complete opposite of this. I wore a jumpsuit, and the largest possible hat I could find.

My three main colours for the day were black (jumpsuit, shoes, smokey eyes), gold (cuff, earrings, sunglasses), and red - my pop of colour (clutch, lipstick, and nails).

Jumpsuit - Kookai
Cuff - Kookai
Earrings, clutch and shoes: Mimco
Watch: Chanel
Hat: Myer
Sunglasses: Sportsgirl
Lipstick & nailpolish: Revlon
Eye make-up: MAC
Bronzer & tan: Model Co

What I wore

I have had loads of questions asking about my outfit that I posted over the weekend, so here are all the deets:

Dress: Kookai
Clutch: Louis Vuitton
Watch: Chanel (J12 Black automatic)
Bracelet: Chanel (gold)
Ring: Cartier Love ring (white gold)
Earrings: Mimco (gold large dome stud)
Shoes: Sportsgirl
Tan: Model Co (tan airbrush in a can)
Nail polish: Chanel (Black Satin)
Makeup: Eye shadow - MAC Carbon, Electra, and Nehru
               Eye liner: MAC Feline
               Mascara - Origins GinZing, Eyeko Skinny brush
               Lips - MAC Pretty Please (lipstick), Fashion Scoop (gloss)
               Blush - MAC Dainty
               Bronzer - Model Co (Ameretto Sunset)
Hair: GHD hair straightener & VS Sassoon (38mm barrel curling wand - clampless)
         Eleven (Miracle Hair treatment)
         Hairspray (strong hold)

Copy cat: Accessories bonanza

This post is all about accessories. If fashion were a degree, I would have a major in accessories! They are definitely my one weakness when it comes to splurging.

But if you are not like me, and can't justify spending money on your bling, check these out.

1) Long 3 layered necklace with turquoise accents

Left: Pendantic Drop Neck                            Right: Layered Western Neck
        Mimco                                                              Sportsgirl                     
        $149                                                                 $24.95

Total saving: $124.05

2) Gold open cuff

The same cuff can be found for $40 at Kookai and $34.95 from Seed.
This is a small saving of $5.05 - however, a saving is a saving!

3) On the subject of Kookai, their signature Sky High heels now have there very own doppleganger.

Left: Sky High heels                   Right: Lavigne
         Kookai                                          Tony Bianco
         $160                                              $149.95

Total saving $10.05

4) And last for my show stopping piece, I introduce to you next set of bracelets

These beauties are designed to resemble a nail (just like the Cartier Love bangles are designed to resemble screws).

Left: Well armed bangle              Right: Juste un clou
        Kookai                                            Cartier
        $25                                                 $6850

That is a total saving, just wait for it, of $6,825. A world record for our Copy Cat section.

Again, this proves my point that you don't need to spend big, to look like you are dressed in designer duds.                    

Copy cat

They say diamonds are a girls best friend.

Well ladies, say hello to your new BFFL

This Crystal Diamond Bib from Shay Accessories, can be the ying to your yang from Shopbop for $360.98.

For those of you thinking this new bestie of yours is a little too out of reach, here is a copy cat version from Tilkah for only $189.

Total saving for this copy cat is $162.98 - that's what friends are for!

Copy cat

Are you ready to save some money? This week I have two 'Copy Cat' items to share with you all.

This dress should be given its own hashtag on Instagram, as I see girls posting all the time about how much they love the dress. 

The dress in question is from Nookie and retails for $209.00

With my keen investigative skills, I have found you a very similar dress (in fact I would say an even nicer cut) from Somethin Somethin, for only $149.95.

That is a total saving of $59.05.

And now you can't have a bargain dress without a pair of bargain shoes - right?

Take these pair of super comfy and stylish Tony Bianco wedges that retail for $179.95

Well here are my Copy Cat alternative from Sportsgirl, that were $99 but are now on sale for $75 - score!

That is the easiest saving of $104.95 that you will have all week!

If you have an item that you have found, and would like me to find you a Copy Cat version of it, send me an email to jspstyling@gmail.com or tag me in the post on Instagram using @jspstyling.

Client stories

After my last post, I have had a flood of people tagging me on Instagram with their outfits that I have inspired or helped them with. I have chosen two to share with you.

The first gorgeous girl saw a jumpsuit post that I had Instragrammed 9 weeks ago now, and loved it so much that she wore it to her Valedictory.

The thing I love about this (a part from all the likes Jess got on Insta - and I am sure on the night), is that she has seen an outfit on my page, envisaged herself wearing it, and purchased it. Perhaps Jess never thought that she would wear a jumpsuit to her Valedictory (a very brave fashion move if you ask me!) however she pulled it off with her sleek pony. Thanks for sharing Jess.
The second story that I want to share with you is a client that I had the pleasure of taking to a styling session last weekend. Before our styling session we had gone back-and-fourth in emails, finding a bit about each other. The clients requirements were specific: a wedding outfit, must be a dress, must be black (no white to this wedding, and the client did not like colour), no one-shoulder, no more than $750, must be past the knee but not floor length - oh and the engagement was next weekend. Some people may put this into the 'too hard basket', but me - no way! I love a challenge.

Of course I do my research for my clients before our styling session, but until you meet the person and see their physique, and other elements that people neglect about themselves (for example, this client forgot to mention that she had a KILLER body) you will know what options to eliminate and to add. Note: this is different from an online styling session where I digitally send you options, as I gage more information from you via my styling questionnaire (also, if you feel like you need more options after the first edit, I will send you an extra edit free of charge).

Despite strategically avoiding going into Willow, because I know the amazing dresses in there were over our budget, my client was keen to have a look. I was afraid that she would fall in love with a garment over her budget (and both the client and I would be in trouble from her husband) - in which she did. And I also thought that when she told me that she wanted to try the dress on just to get it out of her system, that she would love it even more....which she did again. The dress didn't meet two of the requirements that this client set, one being the length (this was a floor-gown dress, but was not too formal that she would be restricted in wearing it to only this wedding), and the second of course was the budget.

What we decided on in the end is purchasing this amazing dress, and save on the accessories. The client decided to wear her own shoes rather than purchase a new pair (and as this dress was floor length, and you would only be able to see the top of the shoes, that was totally OK), and also decided to purchase one affordable pair of earrings (from Lovisa - a copy cat pair of the Mimco Simple Glamour Ear), and 1 affordable clutch (which I found half price at Peeptoe - score!).

One of my biggest things that I stress to clients is that if they are going to spend a lot of money on an item, will they wear it again. It is easier to justify your spending if you know you will wear it again - and this is where I can give you some options of different ways to style your outfit. For this particular dress we decided that on the night my client would wear it with red lipstick, and her hair down (along with the accessories we purchased). For the next time that she wears this outfit, she can wear her hair up, nude lip, remove the straps of the dress, and add a pop of colour with a different clutch; making this look like a different outfit in its entirety. Again, ensuring that the accessories can be worn in a more casual manner too (even if they were so cheap!).
 

Styling sessions are always great fun, as you are able to build a rapport with people. I now know what this particular client likes and dislikes, and when we work together again, will be able to tailor outfits even more specifically to her needs.

I also believe that if a certain stylist doesn't meet your expectations, then you should be honest with them, so that they can either try and change their approach to helping you, or perhaps suggest a colleague who they think will be better suited in finding you that perfect outfit.

I hope you have enjoyed this little insight into the world of styling.


Shoot me an email if you are interested in taking part of a styling session, or if you have any questions for me jspstyling@gmail.com

*Special offer: Book 2 styling sessions at the same time, and get the second 50% off;
                       Book 1 styling session, refer a friend onto JSPStyling, and receive 50% off
                       your next styling session

*Conditions apply. Offer commences 2nd November 2013

FAQ

I get such a reward from seeing my clients happy in an outfit. Whether it be from an outfit picture that I have created and posted on Instagram, to an email styling consultation, to a personal shopping session.

The purpose of sourcing someone like me to help you find an outfit, is to take you out of your comfort zone. You may not realise how amazing your legs are, and how you should dress to accentuate and show off these assets! Or you may not even think to go into that little boutique that you always walk past to find a dress. Others are time poor, want a style revamp, or even just a second opinion.

Whether this be for a one-off event or a wardrobe revamp, I am more than happy to help.

The first step in organising a styling session (whether this be online, or for those living in Melbourne face-to-face), is to tell me about yourself. The more honest you are about what you like and don't like, the more accurate my edits can be tailored to your needs. Whether you only wear black, or you hate one-shoulder cuts, or you have a certain budget that you need to stick to - all this information is important in finding you the perfect outfit.

Perhaps you want to change your image altogether, or cull your existing wardrobe. Which ever it is, we can work together to find something that suits you.

The services do not include just clothes - some people may just want help in a certain niche, for example accessories, and that is OK to.

Most people are able to pick an outfit after a styling session, others might want to have a think and scroll through the outfit pictures that we have taken on the day before they choose. Some people may decide to spread our shopping adventure after a few sessions eg. focus on clothing the first session, second session focus on accessories, and third make-up and hair.

Depending on what your style is, we can work out a way to suit your needs.

In certain boutiques, I am able to pull items before they hit the shelves, or even have you skip the queue of a waiting list. Again, another perk of having someone to help!

My pricing is very affordable in comparison to the market price for these services, and this is because I want all people to have the access to a stylist. Having someone to help you shop, should not just be a privilege for those with pocket fulls of cash!

If you have any queries, please feel free to contact me at jspstyling@gmail.com

In my upcoming posts I will give you some client stories. If you have used any of my posts for inspiration, I would love to see pics! Tag me on Instagram @jspstyling if you would like to share these with me.

J xx

Look for less: Nicholas the label

Love the sleek style of the Nicholas bonded wrap skirt dress? Don't love the $450 price tag?

Society of Chic have a copy cat version of this dress for only $88. That is a whopping saving of $362; ca-ching!

Dress like a celebrity, on a fashionistas budget.

Look for Less: Balmain

We all know and love the intricate patterns and details that Balmain present to us each runway, and that can be seen on our favourite celebs; but let's face it, unless we win the lotto we can kiss goodbye our dreams of having a piece of Balmain in our closet. Right?

 

Wrong? With thanks to online shopping outlets Asos and The Iconic, I have found you some pretty spot on Balmain look-a-likes for only a portion of the price-tag.

Get a similar look to Kristen Stewart from The Iconic for only $149.95:
 

Or is it the patterned pant-suit that you are after? Shop a similar version for only $101.66 from Asos:

Who wore it better

SFB has just posted a picture in a gorgeous white Marchesa gown.

This sparked a memory of Kim Kardashian wearing this dress back in 2010 at a red carpet.

So I have to ask....who wore it better?

I am a big Kim Kardashian (soon to be West), however I do prefer how SFB is wearing her hair down. However, SFB was 3 years behind on this number...

Leave me a comment below, or on Instagram (@jspstyling) to let me know who wore it better.

Copy cat

Every designer you look at are now doing a cross over dress, with a cheeky peep hole.

Last blog I featured a beautiful white version of this dress from Manning Cartell.

This blog, I am going to show you how you can save $400.

On the left we have the Manning Cartell dress which retails for $549, and on the right we have a Country Road dress that retails for only $149.

 

Now with that extra $400 in your wallet, you can spoil yourself with some accessories.

Remember, you don't have to spend big to get a seasonal look. With a bit of research you can find some great copy cat alternatives for less than half the price.

Happy shopping!

Giddy up

Forget the gloves, the tailored pant suit, the oversized sunnies and the wide brim hats - the 2013 Spring Racing Festival is about to begin.

                                  Featured: Manning Cartell, Mimco & Siren Shoes

Predictions:

• White, white, and more white
• Monochrome
• Downsized accessories (smaller clutches, finer jewelery)
• Chunkier shoes (stilettos and a long day on your feet; not to mention standing on grass - is not an ideal mix)
• Bold lips (move over nudes)
• Headpieces (rather than hats)

Beauty tips:

• For underneath your eyeshadow, use a MAC paintpot (my pick is 'Painterly' as it suits most skin types). By coating your eyelids (using either your finger or an eyeshadow brush) with this product pre-eye shadow application, you will not only avoid the crease lines that appear within a few hours of wearing makeup, but the colour itself will stay vibrant and will not move throughtout the whole day.

• Use a setting powder under the eyes to avoid your mascara/eyeliner smudging (my pick is MAC Mineralise Skinfinish in Light). For your face spray MAC Fix + to set your foundation/blush/bronzer.

• To avoid a sunburnt face use a foundation with SPF (my pick is MAC Sculpt. I personally prefer the NW shades [pink undertone] rather than the NC shades [yellow undertone]).

• Use a lipstain for a long lasting colour (try Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain). The lipstain will wear better than a lipstick, and requires less touch ups.

• Start tanning 2 days before the races so that you can build this up gradually, and avoid the orange look (my pick is JBronze). Ensure that you shower on the day of the races to avoid staining your outfit with tan (especially important if you are wearing white).

Don't be surprised if this years fashionistas don a jumpsuit to the races - taking the 'risk' of wearing a jumpsuit (whether it be long or short) will definitely get you standing out in the crowd (for all the right reasons).

I think racegoers will be happy to see that the hem lines this year will be on or just above the knee, and rather than bearing skin with low-cut necklines, small cutouts (like the Manning Cartell dress pictured above) will be making an appearance, and up-do's (big hair buns will also be heavily spotted), as well as lighter locks.

Ladies, if the weather is cool on the day, don't suffer - sling a blazer over your shoulders.
This will give you warmth, as well as adding a classic edge to your outfit.

Are you going to the races? Need fashion advice? Want to be featured on the blog/Instagram? Email me at jspstyling@gmail.com or tag me on Instagram @jspstyling

Copy cat: Aje Catara Mini

If you were unlucky enough to have missed out on today's shipment of AJE Catara Minis (queue the tears), I have found a copy-cat version to pull you through until their next delivery.

This number is from Tigermist, and is only $49.95