CHRISTMAS STYLE ON A SHOESTRING

According to the latest economic predictors, we are all planning to spend a lot less this Christmas than in previous years, as the nation tightens its belt.....

Many women tend to put themselves 'last on the list' when it comes to the family budget, so if you're feeling that there's no money to spare for any new 'razzle dazzle' for you this festive season, here are some ideas to get some glamour and glitter into your celebration outfits without breaking the bank from my......

'Supermarket Sweep'

Whether you are looking for a dress, a top, shoes or some inexpensive glitzy accessories to liven up an outfit you already have, Supermarket clothing ranges have come on in leaps and bounds in recent years. You could be pleasantly surprised at what your local supermarket has in store! You can find a very chic looking simple shift dress for £20 - £30.- Florence & Fred at Tesco's, Tu at Sainsbury's - with the help of the inimitable Gok Wan - and George at Asda's clothing ranges all include some very wearable festive pieces at affordable prices.

My favourite picks from the current offerings:

Dresses - below, left to right : Satin shift dress from George at Asda, Black lace dress from F & F at Tesco, Red shift dress from F & F at Tesco

In fact I'm so taken with the Little Red Dress that I'll be heading into town tomorrow to get one for myself.

Do I really need it? No.

Do I want it? OH YES!

A Stylish Tuxedo Jacket - only one contender here and Gok's fabulous

design is a wonderful choice for those who don't want to wear a dress and prefer their 'dressed up' look to be an elegant outfit with trousers instead. This is a classic piece which will stand anyone who looks fabulous in black in good stead for many occasions well beyond Christmas. At a mere £45 it's a snip and for all those in the Chelmsford area, Sainsbury's Springfield store stocks the Gok range

.

Accessories - If you don't want

a whole new outfit, how about a glamorous lacy cover up to complement and breathe new life into an existing dress?

These are also great for disguising any heaviness around the upper arms if you are wearing a sleeveless dress.....

Lace Embellished Shawl by F & F from Tesco's

Alternatively, you may just want to add some inexpensive glamour to an outfit you already have with new shoes or jewellery. A pair of satin or embellished shoes will lift any ensemble and your spirits! Tesco's and Asda both come up trumps again here with a simple but glamorous court style at under £20......

The glitter court shoe (left) is from Asda, whilst

the satin court shoe from Tesco shown comes in purple as well as the teal blue.

If you can only afford to spend a few ££s on yourself, then indulge in some bling jewellery and finishing touches to jazz up your look. Big bold bangles in dramatic designs or vivid colours can add some drama and interest to any simple outfit. Pile on the arm candy (one arm only!) with a stack of bangles or pearls bracelets in different sizes, or try adding colourful hair accessories or a flower corsage at the shoulder for contrast.

Pink beaded cuff and Flower accessory both from Tesco's

Inexpensive elasticated bead or imitation pearl bracelets can be twisted round to use as a scarf ring to add a little glamour as well.

You really don't have to spend a lot of money to look fabulous at

this or any other time of year!

If you'd like some help and ideas to boost your image, then do get in touch. Wishing you a glamorous and peaceful festive season,

Cass