jewellery gifts for her

I'm always thrilled to receive jewellery gifts.  I mean which girl despite the many necklaces and earrings in her possession turns up her nose up at a unique piece of jewellery?  I do feel sorry for guys though when it comes to buying jewellery gifts as no doubt it must be confusing for them when choosing that special jewellery gift  for their wives, girlfriends or partners as there is so much to choose from.   It's especially hard if you are competing with jewellery necklaces and jewellery gift sets from past beaus, then you definitely want your present to be that much more a unique and special jewellery gift. 

Buying bespoke or handmade jewellery including exotic jewellery like copper jewellery, leather jewellery, eco or recycled jewellery can help you stand out from the crowd when it comes to gift giving on those very special gift giving occasions like anniversaries, birthdays, valentines, christmas and mothers day. 

A great alternative if you know your loved one already has lots of jewellery is a jewellery box as a girl has to have somewhere to store her lovely and extensive jewellery collection. Again with jewellery boxes you can go the extra mile and seek out handmade jewellery boxes which may make her feel that extra bit special as it may be hand carved and different to any other trinket box or jewellery case she might have seen.  My personal favourite are wooden jewellery boxes.  For a more luxurious gift for her, some prefer a velvet lined jewellery box, but naturally it depends on your preference and budget.   Selecting that unique gift for her can't be easy but just showing that you put some thought into buying her a gift that others will be asking her "where did you get that?" is sure to score you points. 

Birmingham's German Market

Hope you had time to visit the Birmingham German Market this year. I made an effort to go for the first time this year 2011 and absolutely loved it. What's not to love -  great atmosphere, lots of german food, beer and gifts. There was local english foods available and craft stalls from local artisans as well so something for everyone.  It was such a big market that it stretched from the birmingham symphony's hall all the way down to the bull ring. We walked from one end to the next, a feat I will never attempt at any other time.  Some say that this birmingham german market with over 180 stalls is even larger than their own Frankfurt market.

When it came to food there were german hot dogs, german ham, german bread all being cooked on site. The confectionery stalls were simply to die for with loads of donuts, chocolates and other sweets delights your heart can wish for. Lots of waterholes for when you got thirsty with german beers and german ciders and hot chocolates and mulled wine for those who wanted to warm up. It was a culinery delight to behold and taste. At one point it reminded me of a carnival minus the costumes.

While some of the items on offer were clearly mass produced there was quite a lot of handmade jewellery and handmade accessories including crafts items like handmade wool hats and lambswool scarfs.  A woman buying a scarf at one of the stalls turned to me and said you can actually smell the sheep in the lambswool used to make the scarf.  It was that rustic an experience at some of the stalls for some.

At the end of the day other than food, I didn't buy much, just a felt hair clip for my daughter, a warm woolly dress for myself, a vase and some german bread.  That said we spent the better part of 4-5 hours at the german market as our parking charges would show. But it was a great night of good food, lots of novelty christmas gift ideas to behold.  I'm so going back next year 2012.

Flower jewellery accessorizes Marc Jacobs' S/S 2011 collection

Flower brooches and corsages just got bigger and trendier with fashion designer Marc Jacob accessorizing his spring summer 2011 collection with huge fabric flowers including leather flower waist belts to create real flash and flamboyance of colour on the catwalk.

Traditionally corsages are known to be worn at weddings and proms, those special celebratory experiences that only happen once in a lifetime. Corsages are usually worn on the wrists, lapels, shoulders and hair with oriental florals being a particular favorite of mine to be worn in the hair. But Marc Jacobs takes it a step further and glamorizes the neck and the waistline with super sized elaborate corsages and flower brooches in vibrant reds, pink, oranges and gold.

This super size floral look may not be new for some of us especially Sex and the City viewers who may remember seeing this over sized floral corsage look on Carrie Bradshaw in her arrival in Paris ensemble - a Sonia Rykiel Top and Skirt with large flower on the front. Carrie does like her corsages as you can see from the white corsage dress she wore in Sex and the City - The movie. 

What Jacobs does differently with his corsage and flower accessory look is to add huge colour and texture to the trend creating huge impact and intrigue. Munique’s handmade hibiscus flower leather necklace is right on trend for this flower jewellery look.  Handmade jewellery never looked better, painted by hand, this handmade necklace is as lifelike as it gets.  This flower necklace is also available in red, peach and gold.

And I just think that this butterfly brooch from Lupin handmade is just cute and gorgeous and so very apt for a spring summer look.

Artisan jewellery for summer

It's not usual that I decide on a look for summer or slavishly follow current fashion trends yet I find myself on trend this spring summer 2011 with the artisan look.  The artisan trend is in full swing this spring summer  with lots of crochet tops and dresses, aztec patterned bags, trousers in tropical prints with macrame, fringes and tassels being key indicators of this artisan style.  While I don't see myself investing in a pair of crotchet shorts in memory of the 70s there are lots of accessories like crochet ballet pumps, crochet cardigans or fringed suede bags to add a fresh new dimension to your summer wardrode. 

Me I can't get enough of the handmade  artisan jewellery especially my flora and fauna jewellery which is the perfect summer wardrode jewellery accessory in summer.  Flower jewellery like my handmade necklaces, rings and earrings are now right on trend for that ethnic look that I love so much.  My firm favorites have to be my leather flower necklace, blue coral ring and heliconia copper earrings part of what I call my exotic jewellery box collection.

Add depth to your summer wardrobe with artisan jewellery handmade like Munique’s leather flower necklaces which are hand painted and look just as life-like as the hibiscus flower and the orchid flower.  This flower necklace will certainly create a mixture of textures with your look this summer. 

Blue jewellery is not an accessory I had in my wardrobe until I added my blue coral silver ring to my flora and fauna collection.  This blue silver ring is very sophisticated indeed with tiny beads for the stamen and circular shaped petals.  Best of all it is adjustable.  This may not be a oval cut Ceylon Sapphire surrounded by 18 diamonds, set in white gold like Princess Kate's engagement ring but it is a sophisticated handmade silver ring from the very unusual blue coral.  

The artisan look is not just about the clothes you wear but can really be brought out with the right accessories.  When I want to look really ethnic I reach for my bali girl necklace which looks like jewellery out of ancient Egypt.  My bali girl necklace is made of copper and brass which is fast becoming my most worn jewellery metal simply because the colour of copper jewellery is so amazing and it goes well with most looks including the nude look, a fashion trend that is always in style it seems. 

Shop now for artisan jewellery, flora and fauna jewellery and flower jewellery at http://www.muniquefashions.com/

Handmade jewellery gifts and leather bags for mother's day

I simply cannot resist a good sale. Can you?  While I try to remain sensible I can end up getting what I don't need.  That said sales are a great time to get those much needed gifts and with mothers day fast approaching I took advantage of Munique 50% discount to get my mother a stunning handmade jewellery gift set  for mother's day.  Okay so I may have picked a handsome fan pearl necklace for myself as well but I do have expensive taste so I must seek out a bargain when I can and half price on handmade jewellery is as good as you can get.  With  a range of jewellery suitable for all occasions and all budgets you are bound to find that unique gift for her at Munique

Handmade jewellery is not the only ladies gifts on offer though.  There are exquisite wooden jewellery boxes to store your precious jewellery gifts, ggorgeous leather handbags as well as scarves and handmade leather sandals and everything is half price once you spend £50 or more and use discount code - mothers day - at checkout.  But hurry offer ends this weekend Sunday March 13, 2011 so shop online now at http://www.muniquefashions.com/ and remember to tell your friends about the sale.  They will love you for it. Start tweeting and sharing on facebook now.

Crochet dresses a spring summer must have

Unbelievable sunshine yesterday and today and tomorrow is fore casted to be a cracker as well. Is this the first signs of spring? Still pretty chilly in the morning with de-icing a must but it’s been warming up brilliantly. Dare I get my spring /summer wardrobe out? I’m hopeful and I see that the daffodils and crocuses are out in full bloom. So even if it is still a little cold it is the perfect opportunity to fill up on some Vitamin D.

With such beaming sunshine I felt I simply had to dress to suit the weather so out came my multicoloured crochet dress, one of my favorite summer wear and very popular on the catwalk spring summer 2011 with designers Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Rodarte and Peter Jensen. I have had this dress for four summers and as with classic styles it just never goes out of style so I’m going to invest in this white short sleeved crochet dress from La Redoute and wear with my sea shell copper handmade necklace and rose summer leather sandals to keep the ethnic trend going.

30% discount at Munique this valentine weekend only

Get a whooping 30% discount off everything at Munique Fashions when you use discount code - valentine - at checkout.  There's still time to get that precious valentine day gift for your loved one or treat yourself to handmade jewellery on your wish list.  But hurry offer ends this Sunday. 

Your 30% discount can only be redeemed at checkout. To take advantage of this generous discount please enter discount code – valentine – at the checkout. When you type the word - valentine- in the discount code box at checkout and press return, your discount will be applied automatically. Discount code expires Sunday February 13, 2011.

With your 30% discount this volcanic lava stone pendant mounted on sterling silver chain can be yours for just £40, fantastic value for unique handmade jewellery that will be treasured forever.   Shop now and save http://www.muniquefashions.com/

The perfect jeans for your bodyshape

I'm on the hunt for a new pair of jeans after wearing my last favorite pair of jeans to the ground.  Sadly I think it is time for us to part ways as it looks too tattered and I don't do shabby chic very well.  Could never understand why people pay top dollar and buy new jeans that's already deliberately torn or distressed all because they've been advertised as trendy or as seen on the catwalk.  If you wear and wash your jeans long enough they will become distressed, faded, worn and all those other buzz terms that mean worn out jeans.  A good idea for my worn out jeans since I love them so much is to add fashionable paisley patches  so maybe I'll hold on to them after all.  May come in handy for that bout of gardening fever when spring finally shows its face. 

But still need to find me some new fashionable, fabulous and well fitting jeans for my body shape.  I must admit I approach all my clothes purchases as I do handmade jewellery, I look for the unique and unusual even if it is only a pair of jeans.  Since I wear my jeans often I must always feel good each time I put them on and know that it is money well spent.  Denims after all are a year round wardrobe staple.

So first things first body shape.  Our blog article on Choosing a winter coat to suit your body shape has a video link to finding your bodyshape and fashion DNA.  Alternatively go straight to  besleek.com input your body measurements and you are well on your way to defining your bodyshape.  Once you know your body shape, click on Gok Wan's "How to look good naked - choosing the right jeans" video and you're sure to buy the right jeans for your body shape.

For a wide range of designer jeans including the one pictured here go to dress-for-less

sea jewellery

Every time we go to Wales and spend time by the beach I am always inspired by sea jewellery as my kids collect countless shells on the beach.  Sea jewellery can either be jewellery with a sea motif or jewellery using materials from the sea like blue coral which readily comes to mind given my most recent acquisition of a blue coral ring.  But before my blue coral ring, pearls were one of the first things I associated with sea jewellery as there is nothing more natural and precious than that.

That's why I'm loving this unique shell necklet with swarovski crystals pearl so simple and yet stunning.  This unique pearl jewellery in sterling silver is mounted on an 18 inch silver cable necklet.  You don't have to a lover of sea jewellery for this pearl necklace to take your breath away.  Which woman wouldn't feel loved and adored receiving this handmade jewellery necklet as a gift on valentines day?  Click her for more valentines day gift ideas.

shell pendant

So while men are busy looking and thinking about valentines day gifts for her to bestow on their loved ones, us ladies are planning our outfits for that valentines day dinner date.  Even if you haven't had an invitation there's no harm in being prepared.  See what I mean about expectations?  Lets hope we are not planning in vain.  Keep it simple is what I always say so why not revamp an old number from your wardrobe with some dramatic handmade jewellery or chunky jewellery.   This shell pendant can be just what you need to glamorize that little black dress or that wrap dress.  A very ethnic jewellery piece that comes mounted on a thick silver snake chain, looks absolutely stunning!. Cut by hand, the shell is decoratively arranged on a disc pendant held in place by a polished silver clasp welded to the disc.  Click here to buy shell pendant online.

blue coral ring

Wore my newly acquired blue coral ring to an annual dinner last Thursday and got so many compliments that my husband was feeling all smug as it was a christmas present from him.  It is a stunningly gorgeous silver handmade ring in a flower design and I do like floral jewellery though it's usually flower earrings or flower necklaces for me.  So well done to my husband for choosing such a unique jewellery gift.

I did wish he didn't broadcast that he bought it at Munique fashions as I rather like having unique and unusual handmade jewellery gifts all to myself.  

I guess it's true what Munique says that their jewellery is a conversation with fashion that starts, "where did you get that?, as my blue coral ring really sparked off conversation at the dinner table. I explained that the ring was handmade which evoked even more appeal and being adjustable meant that it would at least fit on one of my five fingers.  I'm really terrible with names but one woman at the table commented that she had no idea that blue coral existed as she was only familiar with red coral as was I.

I imagine that the four women on my table are looking forward to a valentines day jewellery gift from Munique.  Buy unique handmade jewellery from Munique Fashions

What valentine gift are you expecting?

Valentine's day,  that time of year that makes many men nervous and even more women apprehensive especially when not in a long term or committed relationship.  As tradition would have it, on this gift giving occasion the onus is on men to pamper their valentines unlike christmas where it is an exchange of gifts.  Not fair on men I say but we women have our own inequalities to deal with. 

Why the nerves?  Well it's fair to say that the choice of gifts, thoughts and sentiments expressed on the part of the male can sometimes be a clear indication of where you stand in a relationship.  A definite relationship maker or breaker if there ever was one as indeed it is all about expectations being fulfilled or shattered.

Men can't get more transparent than zero effort on such a momentous social calendar event. That said some people put no importance on the valentines day tradition and not giving a valentines day gift or acknowledging the day in some way is in no way a sign of where the relationship is headed. 

So what type of valentine are you? 

Do you like the show and attention of having flowers and chocolate sent to the office?  Some people love this overt attention or to be wined and dined at a fancy restaurant while others are more conservative and prefer a valentines day gift at the end of the day over a quiet dinner.   Me I like the sentiment and a memento to treasure forever, so handmade jewellery can never disappoint.

Here's hoping that your valentines day expectations are met even if you do send yourself gifts at the office to avoid feeling left out or others feeling sorry for you.  So much pressure, it makes me wonder where the idea of valentines day even originate.  If you share my curiosity click here to read why every year, on February 14 millions of men across the globe set out to impress their wives, partners, fiancees,  girlfriends etc with unique jewellery and special gifts, flowers, chocolates .......and why you have to book months and weeks in advance to ensure you get a table at your favorite restaurant. 

Handmade jewellery for a unique look

At a dinner function last night I had the worst scare. There was another guest wearing the same dress as me.  What a nightmare?  You know how you usually see female celebrities featured side by side in the same outfit with the caption "Who looks better?"  So there I was playing the same game in my head while trying not to rudely stare.  

I guess it was my fault for wearing my classic black wrap dress, long sleeved made from a bamboo blend.  Hers well I didn't get close enough to tell what material hers was made of.  So in a competition like this what does it come down to?  Body shape for one but then a well made and cut wrap dress can compliment just about any body shape.  So it was down to fashion accessories.  Luckily I opted for my handmade jewellery.  I explored my wild side and wore my ethnic and tribal understated animal print jewellery set in copper, an inch wide leopard print belt with gold buckle and my tiger print pumps. 

My worthy competitor I have to admit also looked quite elegant in a white pearl necklace.  So who won?  Both looks I felt were carried off well though I made sure not to stand shoulder to shoulder with her and have people speculate.  Amazing how jewellery especially handmade jewellery can set you apart from others even if you are wearing the same dress.

Unique handmade gifts for her that would not disappoint

Are you tired of your girlfriends, wives, partners etc returning your gifts post christmas?  Then opt for unique handmade gifts that leaves them wondering "where did you get that"?  Whatever the occasion - anniversary, birthday, valentines, birthday, unique handmade jewellery is all it takes to say how special you are to me.

Returning unwanted gifts have become so common place that a gift receipt is now a natural part of your wrapped present.  Gone are the days when you removed the price tags from your selected christmas gifts as you didn't want the person to know how much they were worth as it were; though gift giving should be more about the thought and sentiment rather than the gift.  Some women, I am sure would disagree as they believe luxury gifts are the only expression of love.

So what do women want from a romantic gift for her?

Without a doubt, with gifts exchanged between romantic partners there is always a weight of expectation on the part of the woman who wants to feel appreciated and know that her partner "gets her" or understands her as a person.  It's not so much a matter of how expensive your gift for her is but how suited it is for her personality, her tastes, her desires.  Even better you can't beat a memento of a moment shared -  how romantic!!!! 

Unique handmade gifts for her makes a woman feel so special and captures the sentimental part of gift giving that translates into "you took the time to find me a special gift that I will treasure forever".   Click here for more gift ideas.

Classic contemporary copper jewellery

Growing up, accessorizing was straight forward.  Jewellery was simply earrings, chain, bracelet, ring, watches in traditional precious metals such as silver or gold and precious or semi precious stones.  The most you worried about was what carat gold it was. In some instances it was a matter of inheriting a brooch or watch from your mother, grandmother etc.

Now jewellery especially handmade jewellery has become more exotic, contemporary and chunkier made in a varying range of other metals such as copper and brass and materials like leather, clay and recycled material for example glass etc.  Categories such as ethnic jewellery, african beaded jewellery, copper jewellery are just some of the new categories that exist now.  Some of you when thinking about copper jewellery are reminded of simple copper bracelets worn for medical purposes and may not be thinking about the trendy fashion accessory like this handmade copper jewellery gift set entitled "Grapevine" that makes the most unique jewellery gifts for her.  

5 day sale event - massive 50% discount at Munique

Don't miss the 5 day massive 50% sale event at Munique Fashions starting today.  Use discount code - sale - at checkout and get 50% off any purchase from Munique Fashions.  Offer ends July 11, 2010

Choose from our unique range of handmade jewellery including leather jewellery, flower jewellery, semi precious jewellery, handmade bags, leather sandals and much more. Hurry whilst stocks last  shop now http://www.muniquefashions.com/

Handmade jewellery - your valentines presents

Tired of buying more of the same when it comes to jewellery gifts for your valentine? Buy your valentine some unique handmade jewellery and watch her face light up as she thinks you made an effort this year. She will love you for it. Not to mention each time she is asked "where did you get that", she will sing your praises time and time again.

So ladies if you are tired of receiving unimaginative valentines day gifts, then don't be shy , give your man a push in the right direction by sending him this link to shop for unusual handmade jewellery here.

Unusual christmas gifts for her

Gift giving occasions can always be a challenge so here are some unusual christmas gift ideas with her in mind. Have a think about the fashion personality of the ladies for whom you are buying. Ask yourself does she like to stand out from a crowd? Is she a romantic at heart or is she a practical no nonsense person? What are her favourite colours? This you can tell by the colour clothes she likes to wear.



To look as if you have put some thought to gift buying, go for handmade original handbags and handmade jewellery, two popular gift ideas for her. Jewellery gifts are always a safe option as a girl just can’t have enough jewellery. Should you get the latest fashion trend in jewellery – chunky jewellery? When it comes to chunky jewellery you can go for a chunky necklace or a chunky bracelet. If unsure about what colour to get then go for neutrals like this chunky bracelet above.


Clothes and handbags are another popular gift for her. Unique clothing like alpaca clothing makes an ideal christmas gift as it is practical for the season in terms of warmth and you cannot go wrong when you choose a unique christmas gift like this alpaca wool wrap . If your budget can afford it, team with the matching suede handbag and your lady would certainly think that she is special. This alpaca wool wrap she will wear for years to come and will always remember who gave her this special and unusual christmas gift.

The Boho Look

The Boho look is every where. It is a great look for spring and summer with a relaxed and chilled out feel for that hot and sunny weather (we hope!). Boho is probably so popular as it is such an easy look to create. The key to this trend is looking like you haven't tryed too hard. Mismatch items, have sightly ruffled hair and don't try to look too polished. Boho takes influence from the sixties and seventies and adds a modern twist for a really up to date look. Some of the key elements of the Boho look are: maxi dresses, faded/ worn jeans and denim skirts, layering, waistcoats, coloured tights, mixing patterns and embroidery.

Accessories are a key part of the boho look. It is not is not so much about what you wear as how you wear it. So try over accessorising with interesting individual handbags lots of chunky bangles, long necklaces and handmade jewellery.

This Goatskin and Leather Handbag from Munique Fashions will add instant Boho appeal to any outfit.

Get ready for a boho summer of love with this Jasper Long heart Necklace from Munique Fashions.
Wear this Onyx and Lava Stone Bracelet from Munique Fashions with a dress to change the feel from girly to boho.

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