Let's Talk Embellishments

Blustering winds, downpours of rain and countless broken umbrellas: it’s fair to say that this winter has been downright dismal. But thankfully, evenings are starting to stay lighter and spring will soon be on our doorstep, which means only one thing… it’s time to start filling our wardrobes with this year’s spring/summer trends!

We at H Samuel love all that sparkles, and our eyes have been glistening over the lavish embellishments and statement bling seen at London Fashion Week for S/S'14. The majority of fashion houses have embraced lashings of shimmer, sparkle and costume-jewellery, embellishing any spare inches of fabric that they can reach.

Burberry’s Prorsum S/S'14 ‘English Rose’ collection showed romantic styles of sheer materials, intricate cotton lace in ice cream and sorbet hues, and hand-applied gemstone motifs. One of my favourite designs had to be one worn by Cara Delevingne: a pink lace midi skirt embroidered with shimmering rhinestones, paired with a beautiful white lace top and transparent vinyl jacket, embellished with glistening crystals. Using this as inspiration, why not create your own chic, embellished look with this Fiorelli rose gold-plated small crystal cluster ring. Effortlessly glamorous, this sumptuous rose gold tone ring is set with a glittering crystal surrounded by a cluster of sparkling stones, sure to complement pastel hues and sheer materials.

Pastels romanced with brights in Miu Miu’s S/S'14 collection, showing a display of 1970s inspired yellows and bohemian oranges, with accents of beaded fringe and jeweled embellishments. We think this gold-plated crystal set necklace would make a bohemian style statement and add instant glamour to your S/S'14 outfits.

Staying true to her roots, Simone Rocha inspired her S/S'14 collection on the west rural coast of Ireland, well renowned for its fresh and effortless beauty in spring. Rocha captured this essence in her pieces with misty sheers and dreamy whites, embellishing along collars, pockets and the tops of sheer, knee length socks with elegant pearl flower motifs.

We thought this Sekonda ladies' stone set watch and bracelet set would go beautifully with Simone’s cloudy white inspired designs. Set with an alternating pearl and crystal embellished bracelet and finished with a shimmering mother of pearl drop dial, it also comes complete with a matching pearl and white crystal bracelet. We think this chic stainless steel timepiece would compliment your Simone Rocha inspired look.

If you didn’t already know, Miley Cyrus is getting dark and moody as the new face of Marc Jacobs’ S/S'14 collection. There are plenty of moody hues, sequin embellishment, black floral appliqués and sheer materials to fall in love with, creating a stunning gothic vibe. We thought this Amethyst crystal flower brooch would be perfect to showcase a striking blend of elegance and contemporary style. The amethyst crystal detailing certainly adds a mystical midnight element to your S/S'14 evening wardrobe.

To help create your embellished look this Spring/Summer, here are just a few more statement accessory faves here at H Samuel:

http://www.hsamuel.co.uk/webstore/d/1592661/martine+wester+stargazer+beaded+stretch+bracelet/

http://www.hsamuel.co.uk/webstore/d/9718249/stone+flower+pearl+brooch/
http://www.hsamuel.co.uk/webstore/d/1592777/martine+wester+cosmic+crystal+drop+earrings/ 

Browse all the latest and hottest trends in fashion at H Samuel

A Valentine’s Proposal

If you’re planning to make this Valentine’s Day extra romantic by proposing to your loved one, but you’re having trouble finding her the right engagement ring... why not let us help you say it better by choosing from our sensational range at H Samuel? We understand you want to find a ring that reflects her unique style, but also at an affordable price.So with this in mind, we’ve chosen a few of our favourite engagement rings from our classic Timeless collection and our glamorous Endless collection.

To decide whether your special lady would prefer a more traditional or extravagant ring style, you may need to put your detective skills to the test!  Be sure to have a search through her current jewellery and take note of her preferred style, such as the types of metal she likes and whether her jewellery is big and sparkly or dainty and elegant. You may also need to ask her a few questions about what rings she likes, or discreetly walk her past jewellers' windows so she can point out her favourite styles.

If you find that her taste is more subtle and classic, your lady might prefer the simple elegance of our Timeless diamonds collection. In this range, styles such as the traditional solitaire remain the breathtaking centrepiece of engagement rings. If you’re looking for something truly special and sophisticated for your Valentine’s proposal, then The Forever Diamond collection offers an effortless blend of classic and contemporary diamond solitaires, set on a choice of metals including white gold, yellow gold and platinum. This stunning The Forever Diamond 18ct white gold ring features a radiant 2/5 carat  solitaire, crafted in the sparkling 73 facet flower cut unique to The Forever Diamond. Finished with a “Forever” engraving and a hidden diamond inside the band, this ring offers exceptional sparkle and a unique twist on the classic solitaire.

But if you think her jewellery is more contemporary with that extravagant edge, she might be dazzled by our Endless diamonds collection, which has a range of more elaborate bridal sets, clusters and halo rings. The Perfect Fit 9ct White Gold 1/2 Carat Diamond Cluster Bridal Ring Set would make a beautiful representation of your love this Valentine’s. These twisting 9ct white gold bands are sprinkled with shimmering diamonds. And at the heart of this pretty engagement ring sits a flower shaped diamond cluster, for added romantic dazzle.

So, whether you’re looking to propose with a timeless solitaire or an endless engagement ring, the most important rule of thumb when buying a diamond engagement ring is this - take your time. If you cannot decide before Valentine’s or you’d rather wait to choose together, you could always propose on Valentine’s with a proposal ring. The gorgeous 9ct Yellow Gold I Love You Ring sparkles with a glittering heart-shaped cubic zirconia centerpiece, teamed with a glittering cubic zirconia either side. The ring also comes in 9ct white gold and is finished with a delicate engraving on the inside of the band reading “I Love You”.

If you're looking to propose this Valentine's, but maybe need a bit more advice after reading our blog, be sure to visit our online wedding page at H Samuel.co.uk, or ask for advice from one of our experts in your nearest H Samuel store. Whatever you choose to do this Valentine's, we're here to help you say it better!

Beating The January Blues

A belated Happy New Year from us here at H. Samuel! It’s unbelievably been a month since Christmas. The decorations have now come down, presents have all been unwrapped, and the weather has unsurprisingly been dismal and cold. Like myself, you may have got your wages slightly early last month and now it feels like forever until you see money in the bank again! But pay day is just around the corner, so why not treat yourself to a few pick me up pieces...

When the New Year started, I set myself the same old targets... become more organised, budget my money, and eat healthier. But my flat already looks like a jumble sale, I’ve gone over my budget, and my most recent phone contact is for pizza delivery. Receving gifts over Christmas is always exciting, but finding places to fit them all can be frustrating. Investing in a small mink jewellery box to store all your new jewellery in might be a great solution. The inside is finished with a gorgeous cream lining and a mirror to check out your jewellery. It’s also compact and secure to carry on the go.

 If you’re looking forward to your birthday this month, you probably know that garnet is January’s birthstone. These gorgeous Candy Hearts stud earrings feature garnet centres and diamonds, which add extra sparkle and elegance to all your outfits. They would also be great to wear on Valentine’s Day with their cute heart-shape design.

It’s easy enough to give in to the January blues by slouching in your onesie and eating left-over Christmas chocolates. But why not keep your social life on track with this elegant Sekonda ladies’ stone set strap watch. It’s glittering, feminine beauty will certainly be a conversation starter when you give a sparkling wave to your friends, and it’s neutral and unique pearl coloured beaded strap adds chic glamour to any day or evening wear.

The January blues will try to creep up on us all, but even on a tight budget you can chase them away. View all of H Samuel sales and offers to find your new sparkly accessories and brighten your dreary January.

Personalise Your Christmas Gifts

With less than two weeks to go, there is no escaping the fact that Christmas day is quickly approaching. The radio has been taken over with festive songs and here at H.Samuel HQ there doesn’t seem to be a single spot that hasn’t been wrapped up in tinsel or covered in fake snow. Although this is well and truly getting us all in the Christmas spirit, the topic of gifts is one that I’m desperately trying to avoid. This year I am guilty of being unorganised and the amount of gifts ticked off my list has reached a grand total of…..2! 

Thankfully I can turn to our very own Personalised Gifts collection, which really does have something for everyone and as it is easy to create something which is bespoke, I can tick off a large section of my list and everyone will be none the wiser to my lack of organisation.

My sister is the first one to tackle as she is easy to buy for, because she is totally mad for chocolate and even madder for sweets! Though as I always resort to getting her something to indulge on, I would like to make this year’s gift a little different. This retro jar, from the chocolate and sweets collection, is filled to the brim with sweets and is decorated with a chic ribbon design with the option to add a name and a message, giving this classic gift a quirky and unique twist.  

 

When the Christmas season begins social calendars seem to fill up much faster than they do any other time of year and friends you may not have seen for a while all want to meet up for a festive catch up. Unfortunately my bank account wont allow me to buy gifts for everyone, but for my close group of friends, who enjoy a glass of mulled wine or two, this stylish glass is the ideal present. 

With the recent arrival of a gorgeous little nephew my list has a new addition. As he has already been completely spoiled with cute outfits and is too young for toys I was left a little stumped when thinking of what to buy him. This Forever Friends bauble is an adorable little keepsake to celebrate his first Christmas. With a space for you to put a name on the front and space on the back to write your own special message, it makes the perfect addition to any proud parent’s (or auntie’s) Christmas tree.

View our range of personalised gifts at H.Samuel. Order by the 16th December for pre Christmas despatch.

Festive Gift Guide 2013

It’s payday, hurrah!! Every year, November payday means only one thing for me: time to start my Christmas shopping. It’s like an annual alarm clock, set to remind me that it’s only, what, 26 days until I can indulge in a big turkey roast, novelty gifts from the family and far more Quality Street than any one person could possibly need. So if, like me, you’re gearing up to face the The Big Shop of 2013, then here are a few gift favourites from us here at H.Samuel.

Firstly, we have the all rounder. This gorgeous Sekonda set comes complete with watch, bracelet, and necklace, so she’ll have everything she could wish for in one gift! With a matching ball design and generously embellished with glistening white crystals, each piece can be worn individually for just a dash of sparkle, or altogether for a glamorous, co-ordinated look. Come day or evening, this set will work for all outfits and occasions, and is sure to please your chosen wife, girlfriend, sister, daughter, auntie.... you get the picture!

For something with a more homely, festive feel, then this Swarovski crystal bauble is perfect. With a delicate clear ball design, the centre boasts a simple Christmas tree finished with a scattering of glistening Swarovski crystals and a pearly white ribbon to hang from. Elegant and Christmassy to the T, this bauble is the perfect keepsake for a family member, giving them something they can treasure each Christmas for years to come.

So on to one for him. If you’re looking to make an impression this Christmas, then giving something unique is the perfect way to do it. In a sleek silver tone with a crisp rectangle design, these stylish cufflinks can be engraved with his initials for a personal finishing touch. Boasting a mother of pearl detailing, these cufflinks will offer a handsome finishing touch to his outfit, blending classic and contemporary styling for a look that will work with any shirt this party season. Not much of a shirt guy? Then take a look at some of our other personalised gifts to find the perfect present for him.

Tired out from doing all that shopping? Envious of all the great gifts you’ve been buying for everyone else with your hard earned cash? Oh go on, treat yourself! After all, you surely need some new accessories for that work Christmas party?? This taupe imitation pearl and crystal ball bracelet from fashion jewellery label Mikey London is a personal favourite of mine for the party season. Simple with just the right amount of sparkle, the taupe hue of the imitation pearls is sophisticated and versatile, whilst still bringing a classic edge to your look. And, what’s more, you can wear it all year round, so no need for buyer’s guilt!

Find the perfect Christmas gift with H.Samuel.

Christmas Glamour

With the imminent arrival of payday next week and the scraping of coins at the bottom of our purses soon to be a distant memory (well for at least a week anyway), that means only one thing; it is time to get festive! It’s time to get shopping for those Christmas presents to wrap and place under the tree, time to buy the must-have novelty Christmas jumper, but most importantly, it is party season and, after all, here at H.Samuel sparkle is what we do best.

The trusty LBD is a fashion favourite and certain to be a fail safe way to ensure you look great at any festive party you have this season. The swing dress has been an ever popular choice in the last couple of months, and this slip dress version from New look is no exception. Not only does the trusty LBD ensure you will look fab, it also allows for a little experimentation with your accessories. From sequins to colour, inject something a little different into your look for statement, stand out style. 

These earrings from Martine Wester are perfect for adding a dash of contemporary colour and sparkle to your LBD. Complete with a pear shaped black crystal and flashes of purple, these earrings are elegantly edgy and, teamed with a chic up-do and bright lips, would give your look a dose of effortless glamour. 

Although statement has to be one of my favourite trends, Christmas isn’t Christmas without delicate fairy lights and a little sprinkling of glitter and this is definitely a rule to stick by when it comes to your jewellery. This elegant silver and cubic zirconia figure of eight pendant would be sure to add minimalist sparkle to your look but still have maximum impact. Team with a pair of subtle silver studs for a classic and timeless look. 

Not everyone likes to wear a watch with their party look, but mine is always a must-have accessory whatever the occasion. So whether you’re looking for statement or just to ensure you arrive at the ball on time, a watch from H.Samuel is perfect for fashionable timekeeping. This beautiful watch set from Sekonda boasts extravagant crystal embellishment and comes with a matching bracelet, pendant and earrings, sure to bring your favourite dress alive this party season and, at only £49.99, this striking set would make for the perfect Christmas gift too. 

Looking for something with a little more statement? Then why not indulge in everyday elegance with Casio Sheen. We’ve all seen the TOWIE adverts and who can resist a watch that not only has a statement and on trend bracelet but also lights up!? 

From Billie to Lucy, the cast of TOWIE all sported these watches in the scenes of The Only Way is Essex and with a little Swarovski element sparkle, this Casio Sheen watch can easily be worn from day until night. For a limited time only, Sheen are giving away a pair of Babyliss straighteners with every Sheen purchase from H.Samuel in store & online. Watch, check! Hair, check! 

Countdown to Christmas

Here at H.Samuel HQ we’re all feeling the cold; with the rain splashing on the windows and everyone hugging tightly to their hot water bottles, I think it is safe to say that winter is well and truly here. Although the weather might be miserable, we haven’t let it dampen our moods because the countdown has begun for our favourite time of year.  With less than 50 days to go until Christmas (and only 2 paydays!) it’s time to start thinking gifting before panic mode sets in.

To limit the risk of stress, we’re taking a look at some of our favourite festive gift ideas to help you say it better this Christmas.

It seems we aren’t the only ones keeping warm with a trusty hot water bottle this winter. This adorable collectable from Me to You shows Tatty Teddy all cosy and ready for bed. Whether you’re starting up someone’s collection or just adding to it, collectibles come in all shapes and forms and can make the perfect gift for a loved one. From our cute Me to You teddies, to stunning Swarovski crystal pieces and even quirky Magnificent Meerkats, there’s a collectible to suit everyone.

From something you would give to a collector, to something they will only receive once. For those of you who are thinking of popping that all important question this Christmas, this special gift may be a little harder to choose. This classic solitaire from The Forever Diamond makes for a timeless choice. Simple and elegant, this ring will take her breath away. With the 73 facet flower cut unique to The Forever Diamond and a unique twist of glistening diamond detailing running along the shoulders, this ring offers plenty of seasonal sparkle.

Looking for something to give to him? A watch is a stylish and versatile gift which he will get plenty of use out of (and will make sure he isn’t late any important occasions!). This sleek watch from Citizen is complete with their solar powered Eco-Drive technology, meaning that he will never need to replace the battery. With an on-trend blue dial and illuminating features, it makes for the ideal gift.

 Take a look at H.Samuel for more festive giftspiration.