Running in Heels thanks to Sticky Heelz

As a model, I find myself in and out of many different clothes, accessories and not least shoes. Being a size 5 shoe with a petite frame makes it difficult to find shoes that really fit my feet with a snug and comfortable fit. Ever since I was a child, my Mam & Grandmother have spent hours altering clothes and elasticating waistbands - however changing shoes to stop rubbing is pretty impossible. The problem I have, my feet are very slim, so where most shops stock a wider fitting range, not all have a slim fit size or half sizes.

 

 

Growing from teenager to a twenty something, I have made the transition in to heels, with the same issue. So, when I was sent the Sticky Heelz Anti-Slip Heel Pads, I was eager to see if they live up to their name and actually help. The pack includes:

4 x heel pads
2 x shoe pads

 

 The heel and shoe strips are both labelled so is near impossible to get them mixed up. The heel pads have a micropore tape kind of texture and are breathable on the skin. The shoe pads are cushioned and foamy for maximum comfort once your foot is inside the shoe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To show you guys the difference, I wanted to show you all a pair of heels of mine which I love but they're a tad too big. And, we all know, if your heels don't fit right, it affects the way you walk and in turn how confident (and sassy) you feel! As you can see there's enough of a gap to create rubbing, blisters and a dodgy walk!



 

 

Excited to give them a whirl, I peeled off the paper from the shoe pads and popped them in my heels firstly. This process is super easy which is good news. I don't have time for fussing and faffing when I'm in a rush heading out the door. Once the paper is peeled off you fold almost in half and line up with the inside of the shoe and press into place.

 

 

 

 

 

So far, simple. Then the heel pads follow the same instructions  and from the diagram the cut out section goes on the bottom of the heel which allows more flexibility in the shoe and doesn't feel restricting. I stuck to my heel lining it up with where the top of my shoe would sit (so it wasn't visible once on.) Still simple. Then I put my foot in to the shoe (like a modern day Cinders wearing my Zara denim) and added pressure to the heel to bond both sets of pads together. Hey presto! It feels like a Velcro type of grip once they are together.

 

 

 

 

 

 

So like the good blogger I am, I just had to show you the difference once using the Sticky Heelz pads. Where there was previously a gap in the heel area, the gap no longer exists.  So yes, they look cool and make your shoes look like you've finally managed to stop wearing your imaginary big sisters hand - me - downs. But do they feel any different?? This was my main concern, but rest assured, the bond between the heel pad and the shoe pad is enough to keep them attached and also really makes your foot feel secure in the shoe. This means I walk waaay better ion these heels now and feel much more confident in the knowledge that my shoes actually fit me thanks to 2 clever adhesive pads!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once you take your heels off the 2 strips will most likely be stuck together because of the strong grip between the two. Now, don't forget, the heel strip you throw out but the shoe pads are multiple use (bonus!)  

 

 

 

 

These heel pads seriously do make me feel more confident and secure about ill fitting shoes. If you, like myself have struggled with the same thing (or have the odd pair the wrong size you cant bear to throw away) then give Sticky Heelz a try!

 

 

 

Until next time...

 

The Original Redhead

 

X

 

 

 

 

Statement Jewellery: Dare to Wear

I think by now, we all know I'm a totally jewellery & accessories lover. Jewellery can totally transform and outfit and the way you feel. Certain jewellery pieces of mine somehow allow me to feel more confident or sophisticated or fun (you get the idea, depending on the design.) Over December I was in Primark picking up some wardrobe staples and had to have a mosey around the accessories section.

 

I am a complete sucker for rose gold, whether its jewellery, home accessories, nail polish. I can't get enough. I got my eye on the full finger ring which was reduced to £1. What a steal! The ring is 1 coil of metal (rose gold coloured obv) and dusted in diamantes, gently nestled in claw settings.

 

 

 

 

 

When the light catches this, the diamantes really twinkle. The full finger effect creates a statement head turning piece which has made for lovely compliments when I've worn this.

 

 

 

 

I am seriously loving either fine pieces or slightly ambiguous statement pieces at the moment! And this fits the latter. The coiled metal is sturdy so the coil doesn't nip the skin which is a plus.

 

 

 

 

So if you're looking for minimal effort of upgrading your outfit, the dare to wear a full finger ring - or even better... a two ringer ring!  

 

 

 

 

 

Until next time...

 

The Original Redhead

 

X

 

 

 

Skincare & Shopping: Sunderland Bridges

So for all of those who have been super organised and have completed your Christmas shopping, well done you. To those of you like myself, who think they're organised and will be calm and under control and still panicking the week before the big day, then this one is for you. 

 

Sunderland Bridges Shopping Centre invited me to experience a little of what their shops had to offer. And as a gal who likes to shop... how could I refuse?! First on my list was Boots, where they firstly explained their new service of custom printed ribbon and laser etching service. This is a lovely little personal touch for anyone really but if you've left it last minute, then this is so convenient! Even for birthdays, anniversaries, new babies, etc.

 

 

 

Lets all take a minute to appreciate my etched make up brush...

 

 

 

 

 

Boots also stock a wide range of contour & strobe creams and eye shadows from £3 each. And even better, you can buy an empty palette and custom select the colours you'd like in there.

 

 

 

 

 

 

I was then colour matched with the No7 colour matching service. Almost like a Dulux colour reader, the device reads your skin tone. Once you have been matched to your foundation, the colour card of your shade offers a range of blushes, lip and eye shades that would also suit your skin tone. This really would be a lovely experience for anyone who is a little afraid of experimenting and unsure what colours to buy for their make up bag.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Moving on to The Body Shop. Every Christmas I normally pop in here & buy a few gift sets as they have some lovely scents. But to be honest, it's been a while since I've really explored their product range. And jeez, it's expanded a lot! The product I really fell in love with was their body scrubs. Available in a range of sultry and alluring scents - a little pricey but the tubs look like they'd last months.. This would make the perfect gift for any bath lover!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

That's not all, they have boxed candles in invigorating scents which remind me of islands and summer air with woody undertones. I'm a sucker for candles so these stood out to me.

 

 

 

As well as the other newbies to the store, their ranges of face oils for different skin types is extensive. All colour coded from green to yellow, white to green. Love the packaging on these mini skin collections.

 

 

 

 

Moving on to Lush after trying everything (pretty much - no regrets) in The Body Shop. My love for Lush is constantly growing. I was never much of a fan of their products but the more I try, the more I love. And as if I wasn't already a converted fan, they then let us make our own bear shaped, bath bomb. Let me repeat that. I MADE MY OWN BATH BOMB. I was far too excited for this and who doesn't love bath products in the shape of a bear. I mean, seriously!

 

 

 

 

These have always had my attention, even though I was big on the bombs themselves I remember seeing these as a teenager and loving. Lip scrubs!! The Sugar Plum Fairy is sooo good and edible too for truly lickable lips. If you're shopping for teens or your girlfriends these are great to keep your lips polished in this winter weather.

 

 

 

Phew, last stop on the list! I rushed to Clarins just before closing to check out what they could offer over this crazy festive time.

 

 

 In the midst of Christmas parties and busy festivities combined with Christmas shopping and working overtime, who doesn't need a helping hand to revamp your skin? My mine was blown by this little skin boosting range. The serums target dull skin, dehydrated & tired skin and also help bring your radiant glow back. Got a friend who loves to party? Or a workaholic? This lovely little Detox, Repair & Energy range is really the perfect little remedy for your handbag to carry you through to January!

 

 

Feels so lovely on the skin...

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you're splurging on yourself with your Christmas bonus, or still looking for gifts, head to Sunderland Bridges Shopping Centre for your retail fix.

 

Until next time...

 

The Original Redhead

 

x

 

Jewellery Watch: Mirror Image Accessories

Jewellery addict like me?! When Mirror Image Accessories approached me with some of their beautiful pieces, I was intrigued to find out more... I had seen their pieces online and knew they were laser cut mirrored Perspex pieces but the photos don't do them justice. They are actually even more beautiful in person so you can see the detail up close.

 

 

 

 

The first pieces I want to show you is this gorgeous teal mirrored piece with a distinct art deco feel. This is the perfect look to 'finish an outfit.... throw on with a white shirt (the colour really pops) or a trendy t and you've upgraded your look in an instant. Love that these pieces can effortlessly make it seem like you've... well, made an effort! The colour is intense and really demands attention so the rest of your look needn't be too over the top! RRP: £25.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next piece is the perfect little accessory for Autumn through to Winter. This Gold Mirrored Kite Brooch is lovely worn alone, pinned to a tote bag or clamped onto a luxurious cosy scarf to keep the cold out. I'm forever cold in the winter so I live these months cocooned in layers so this piece is great for keeping your scarf in place. And at this price point, it's an absolute steal! RRP: £4.00

 

 

 

 

 Really catches the eye against darker colours...

 

 

 

The last piece is so dreamy. I adore the harsh geometric shape of the Gatz Necklace and again is beautiful against black and the autumn colours of this season. This is hung on a long chain which is a nice variation from the other pieces in the collection. Again, a white crisp shirt and a pair of skinnes really rock this look. We all know party season is ahead of us (numerous Christmas parties & celebrations) so for a busy girl about town, I would recommend this piece. I think this is my favourite as it encaptures old school art deco whilst still remaining modern & current. Glamorous gold! RRP: £8.50

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you're looking for some accessories to get you through this season, then M.I.A is your brand! You can find them on Etsy, Twitter, Instagram & Facebook.

Until next time...

 

The Original Redhead

 

X

Sparkling Jewellery: Celeb Faves & Charlie Hedge's Festival Fun

Those who know me, will know I truly am a jewellery addict. I am not in jewellery addicts anonymous however, so when Sparkling Jewellery approached me about sending me some pieces how could I refuse?! So with music culture and festivals increasingly growing in popularity, we're always on the search for new outfits and accessories. Weather you're just heading for a vacation, camping with friends or going to Bestival, Charlie Hedges Festival Collection is totally for you! You will most likely know Sparkling Jewellery for their Double Coin Necklaces & the brand has been spotted on celebs from Michelle Keegan to Katie Piper.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 One of the original celebs to be adorned with the SJ necklace was Holly Willoughby (if you watch This Morning close enough I guarantee you'll spot it!) and appropriately this design is named Holly. There is a range of coin and sovereign variations over on the website but this is the Classic Two Coin Holly Necklace which retails at £29.00 & free next day delivery on all UK orders over £10.

 

 

 

 

 

I love the detail of the name stamped onto a gorgeous dainty tag near the clasp. The little details make all the difference!

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I have honestly worn this necklace so many times with numerous outfits which I can now see why they are so popular. In a rush? Throw on a Sparkling Jewellery necklace (weather its the Double Coin, Sixpence or the Karma) it will transform your look effortlessly. I would recommend carrying in your handbag to upgrade your look from work wear to evening in a flash.

 

 

 

 

 When Sparkling Jewellery gifted me with these items I was excited to see what the Charlie Hedges range had to offer. This is the Love Bracelet in black. It is a great size for me and I really love the hook clasp which is a nice unique detail instead of a standard lobster clasp! This also comes in red and blue and is down to £1.00 online!

 

 

 

 

 

For the gypsy souls out there, this one is really for you! The Charming Brow Band really is the festival lovers wardrobe staple. I always think these kinds of headbands give a real 70's feel to an outfit. The alternating rose & diamante charms really do add a touch of glamour without being too much. With an elasticated section, this headband stays in place perfectly (which is a must if you're dancing out to your fave band!) And, this is also available in silver if gold isn't your thing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Gypsy vibe not your thing? Then perhaps the Gold Earrings are for you. These really are the perfect addition to your festival back pack. Pop these on and turn your outfit from festival acceptable to rock chic in no time.  Such an effortless piece to switch up your look weather your working loose waves and wellies or a polished up do on holiday.

 

 

 

 

 The flower headdress really is the original festival piece and the Charlie range doesn't disappoint with the Festival Hair Garland! These have been worn for years and really never fail to go out of fashion in the festival scene. Which is why I think this would be a great investment piece if you're a regular festival go-er.

 

 

 

 

 Besides the Double Coin Necklace... this Ear Cuff Stud Cuff Stud really is my favourite piece. With a gold stud which connects to a cuff via 3 gold chains this is the ultimate edgy chic piece. For the fierce look.... This wouldn't look out of place paired with a fringed suede jacket, embellished dress or leather mini skirt! This little gem vamps your outfit from a 5 to a strong 10 on the fierce scale.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Don't forget to follow Sparkling Jewellery!

 

 

 

 

Until next time...

 

The Original Redhead

 

X