How To Dress For The Job YOU Want

Dressing in an important tool for both your confidence and presence. Although landing your dream job comes with determination, ambition and preparation, a powerful outfit can help set the tone.

Consider your shoes:

Running from one meeting to another, it is important that your shoes are committed to you and your day. A girl having a bad day, is a girl in uncomfortable shoes. Your shoes should be both comfortable, and smart. Don’t try to break in shoes, on the day of a meeting, (an important lesson I learnt in my first role) as nobody likes a slow coach. Heels are not always the most practical pair of shoes but if they do finish off your outfit, carry some flats and swap over before you arrive at the venue.

Never underestimate the power of tailoring:

Smart, formal dressing is always highly looked upon. A blazer will instantly elevate your look, ensuring that you look professional. It doesn’t matter if you team this with a white tee and skinny jeans, the blazer will broaden those shoulders and have you looking chic. Depending on the industry, a suit may be necessary but in fashion, a blazer teamed with pretty much anything works.

When in doubt, reach for monochrome:

Monochrome is a timeless colour palette. A classic, powerful ensemble that will always start your day off right. If you wake up thinking ‘i have nothing to wear’ and we have all been there (even if our wardrobe is bursting with clothes), have faith that a monochrome two piece will have your back.

Old is gold:

The old fashioned rules of appropriate length, fitted (not tight) and nothing too low cut still apply. You want to be known for your hard work and commitment to achieve as opposed to your fashion faux pas!

Finally, invest in some transitional pieces and rest assured that these will carry you through.

Thanks for reading!

Annie Shah X

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The Annie Shah Collection

Loved by Gigi Hadid, Kim Kardashian and of course little North West, a cold shoulder top is optional, but a choker is essential. The choker trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down, as a fan myself of a sophisticated choker, I can understand why. They are such versatile pieces and can elevate the simplest of outfits. This trend had resurrected from the 90’s and is definitely here to stay.

Some of you may have noticed on Instagram that I have launched my own accessory collection, the large majority of which are chokers. Jewellery plays such a significant part in finishing off a look. It is for this reason that I wanted to offer luxe, affordable chokers, whereby quality was not compromised.

The collection consists of:

The Allure Choker

The Allure choker needs no introduction. Ladies, if you are heading ‘out out’, this piece will be your partner in crime. A striking two tiered choker which naturally enhances your assets due to its positioning on the chest.

(Choker one in the image above)

(£18 + p&p)

2.  The Vanity Choker

Two of the biggest trends, wrapped all in one? AMAZING! The Vanity choker amalgamates the rhinestone trend and the leather look trend. One of the most sought after chokers, this mixed media look boasts a touch of demure with a whole lot of sophistication.

(Choker three in the image above)

(£18 + p&p)

3. The Divine Choker

A classic approach to the rhinestone choker, this three tiered rhinestone choker is a subtle yet sophisticated piece. Dress up with a body con dress, off the shoulder jumper of an unbuttoned shirt.

(Choker two in the image above)

(£14 + p&p)

4. The Luxe Choker

A premium mix of faux suede and chrome, this choker is an everyday piece that offers versatility.

(£6 + p&p)

and the newest edition to the collection:

4. The Amour Ring

This adjustable ring, is a combination of beauty and elegance. A classy addition to your latest manicure.

(£10 + p&p)

If you would like to purchase any of the collection, please feel free to email annieshahcollection@gmail.com. Alternatively, drop me an email via the ‘contact’ page here or DM me on instagram.

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Annie Shah X

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|City Breaks| Amsterdam

A city known to attract tourists for a few well known reasons, there is so much more to see and experience. It is for this reason I have compiled a blog post unveiling my top things to visit in this wonderful city. If you are planning a long weekend away, Amsterdam is the city to visit. Having visited Amsterdam for the second time, my love for the city continues to grow.The city is so easy to travel around, the trams travel across the breadth of the city and are uncomplicated. They also have fantastic large windows which mean if you spot something you like the look of, a cute brunch cafe for example, you can just hop off.
Top Things To Do In Amsterdam:

• The city is known for its art and the Van Gogh museum is one to visit. The city is filled with a great deal of art galleries and the Van Gogh museum is definitely the most sought after.

• Anne Franks House was an inspiration to explore, a wealth of history and strength lay within the Anne Frank Museum making it a must see. Advance booking for this is advised as the queue to purchase tickets on the door can be up to three hours.

• A city abundant with beautiful canals, the only way to admire the true beauty is so take a canal tour. This is best experienced in a glass boat with a guide to experience its true wonder.

• Although exploring the city on foot is fun, exploring on a bike is even better. Cycle lanes are all over Amsterdam and is the preferred mode of transport.

• Indulge in the boutiques. Amsterdam is very fashion forward, a chic city inhabited with lost of unique boutiques. Purchase a one off and feel unique knowing nobody can steal your look.

• Hidden in Amsterdam’s China Town is a true gem. A stunning buddhist temple inhabited by Buddhist monks. The interior truly is stunning and the peace and light in this temple is that of being in Thailand.

• Enjoy brunch! Brunching is essential in Amsterdam, with so many places on offer you will be spoilt for choice.

• Visit the W hotel for a cocktail. You wont be disappointed!

I hope this blog post gives you an insight into the amazing city of Amsterdam. You don’t have to spend your time in ‘coffee shops’, you can explore the beautiful museums, galleries and even the palace in the heart of ‘Dam Square’.

Thanks for reading!

Annie Shah X

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*Press For Champagne*

Champagne at the touch of a button, what’s not to love? Last weekend I had the pleasure of visiting the famous Bob Bob Ricard restaurant for dinner with a close friend of mine. After a week 5 waiting list, we finally managed to gain a reservation at the infamous Soho venue.

The entire experience from start to finish was incredibly luxurious. Greeted at the entrance by a doorman followed by a lady to take our jackets and a waiter to take us to our exclusive booth. The decor exuberates opulence. Deep navy blues and touches of gold gave the venue an air of regality.

The main reason we were chose the venue was of course to ‘press for champagne’. A fabulous touch to every table, once pressed the button illuminates and within a few minutes a waiter was there to ask which champagne we would like. We chose a vintage Möet infused with both strawberry and peach, it was delicious!

The food was cooked to perfection, flavoured with a wealth of ingredients.

Our Order:

Sides – Crushed Peppered Sweetcorn

Mains – Sauterness & Truffle Humple Pie, Roast Norwegian Cod

Desert – BBR Signature Chocolate Glory

Desert stole the show, chocolate jivara mousse, chocolate brownies and berries all encased in a perfect gold sphere. Drizzled on the very top was dark chocolate which revealed the contents and opened into a flower of chocolate. To compliment this was a passionfruit and orange jelly sauce which added a delicate fruit flavour to the ensemble.

The Outfit:

The dress code for BBR is elegant and elegant is the way to go. Surrounded by this gorgeous interior and buzzing ambiance you certainly want to look your best. I teamed an embellished French Connection jacket with a silk top tucked into silk palazzo trousers. Heels of course are a must.

The Makeup:

I chose to focus on my eyes and teamed a brown/black smokey eye with lashes. I emphasised my highlight and wore a deep burgundy lip to compliment the all black outfit. To accompany the silver detailing on the jacket, I wore embellished snake earrings.

I would highly recommend this venue, the intimate setting, remarkable interior and the attention to detail all make the experience one to remember.

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Annie Shah X

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Winter Skincare

Winter is the season of skincare saviours. It is important to adjust your entire skincare routine during the winter months to ensure that skin is not left dehydrated. Plummeting temperatures, icy air and indoor heating can all negatively affect the skin.

Whilst you sleep, your skin is rebuilding and rejuvenating itself. It is during this time that moisture should be restored, creating an effective hydrating barrier. Incorporating a solid night skincare regime will ensure that your skin will feel supple and hydrated in the morning. It will do the hard work whilst you rest to un-do the days’ damage.

Both serums and moisturisers are effective in combatting the dull, dry nature of the skin during the winter. The key to glowing skin is hydration. A good night cream such as the Nivea Q10 provides the perfect barrier whilst you sleep. It is extremely thick and hydrating. It has a delicate fragrance as well as anti ageing qualities.

An alternative to a thick night cream is also a rejuvenating facial oil. These are particularly effective during the colder months as they lock in moisture. If your skin type is oily, this doesn’t mean that you need to avoid oil based face products. L’oreal provides an array of skincare oils that work wonders when incorporated into a skincare regime.

It is important not to dismiss an SPF moisturiser during the colder months. I use a daily moisturiser with an SPF of 50 throughout the year to protect my skin. Additionally, it is very easy to forget to apply the moisturiser all the way to the neck. The skin on the neck is extremely delicate and ages at a much faster rate than the skin on the face. Remember when applying moisturiser to apply along the entire neck and massage it into the skin in small circular motions.

Exfoliation is also essential during the winter months to ensure that all dead skin is removed, enabling glowing purified skin. This will also allow your daily skin moisturiser to seep more deeply into the skin, maintaining moisture for longer.

Finally, our lifestyle contributes heavily to the quality of our skin. Sleep, exercise and our diet all play a vital role in maintaining a glowing, angelic and clear complexion. A healthy balanced diet, eight glasses of water a day and regular exercise all benefit the skin cells.

Thanks for reading!

Annie Shah X

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Aloe Vera Face Mask

Aloe Vera boasts moisturising and anti ageing qualities. The natural skin healing plant has both antioxidant as well as nutritional qualities.

There has been a real shift in the products I am willing to use on my skin, especially my face. Natural products are far better for your skin than face masks containing “extracts” of plants. Shop bought face masks contain several chemicals that can be damaging to your skin – causing break outs.

Raw aloe vera gel applied to the face can increase the collagen in the skin which can reduce ageing and increase elasticity. It is 99% water and thus extremely hydrating. This face mask will plump the skin as well as reduce dark under-eye circles.

Purchasing an aloe vera plant will enable endless and inexpensive face masks. I normally slice the aloe vera in half and rub the gel directly on my face. Another alternative is to scrape the insides of the plant out, place in a blender and apply with a face brush.

Leave the gel on for 20 minutes, wash off and apply a heavy moisturiser (preferably a night cream). An amazing, kind to skin face mask, that will have you looking hydrated and bright.

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Annie Shah X

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Trending: The Bomber

This season is definitely bomber season. Editors continue to love the trend. If you don’t own a bomber yet…you need to buy one. If you already have one…you need to buy another one! This trend is here to stay.

Bombers are the ultimate style saviour! They are great for this transitional weather too. Throw on with Skinnies for relaxed weekend chic or team with a body con dress to add some sass to your outfit.

With the addition of a bomber, your outfit will elevate to that of being aspirational! #Goals

 

Silk bombers are by far my favourite bomber trend, it mixes both boudoir and baseball all in one. If you are going to opt for a silk bomber, a dusky pink one is definitely the way to go. This bomber is the perfect shade and would work well with white skinnies, nude heels and nude coloured lips.

Embroidered bombers infuse oriental intricacy.  Designers such as Gucci and Saint Laurent embraced the Japanese inspired theme. This pattern works with almost anything. The detailing of this bomber works especially well with a white Tee and blue skinnies for a relaxed luxe vibe.

The classic bomber is a wardrobe stable. This addition will make off duty dressing a breeze! A contemporary streetwear classic that celebrities such as GiGi Hadid continue to model.

With the ultimate bomber list compiled you have no excuse but to embrace the trend. How do you style the bomber? Which style is your favourite?

Thanks for reading!

Annie Shah X

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The Power Of Turmeric

The power of turmeric has been known for centuries. Turmeric has impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric face masks have been a traditional part of Indian heritage for centuries and are commonly used by brides-to-be. The face mask is known to give the bride a majestic glow on her big day.

Celebrities such as Thandie Newton swear by the power of turmeric calling it her “secret beauty weapon”.

I have tried numerous brands but nothing compares to organic, natural ingredients. I have tried to steer away from using unnecessary chemicals on my skin and thus have looked for natural ways to keep my skin looking radiant.

This turmeric face mask does exactly that and is known to combat wrinkles too. I apply this once a week and it has my skin feeling soft and subtle. Harsh chemicals in shop bought face masks can really dry, as well as irritate the skin. This face mask is a great alternative for sensitive skin.

Tightening + Radiance Face Mask:

Mix 2 teaspoons of gram flour, honey with one 1/4 of a tea spoon of turmeric.

Cooling + Plumping Face Mask:

Mix 2 table spoons of yogurt, a squeeze of fresh lemon, a squeeze of organic honey and a 1/4 of a tea spoon of turmeric.

Apply a thin layer to the entire face and neck. You can also take this mask up to the eye as it will help to eliminate dark circles, just be careful not to apply it too closely. Leave on for approximately 30 minutes and wash off with a wet flannel.

Apply a face moisturiser straight away to lock in all the goodness.  

I hope you enjoy the benefits of this face mask as much as I do. Thank you for reading!

Annie Shah x

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Desk To Dinner

Make your transition from desk to dinner effortlessly sublime. Whether its cocktails with the girls or a dinner date, I have compiled a look which I believe is extremely versatile! Taking you from your 9-5, into the late evening.

Just Swap Your Accessories

Accessories are heaven sent! A killer pair of heels, a gorgeous clutch and some statement jewellery are all things that you can keep in your drawer. A strong dark lip will have you ooze into the starry night. I have so many gorgeous heels but I always reach for these white heels from Zara. Its all in the details, the chrome finish on the tip of the heel allows me to incorporate my chrome jewellery. My clutch is from French Connection and is the perfect size for my phone, my purse and my lipstick of course! The white and red mesh clutch actually inspired me to create this entire outfit.

White On White

The stunning recent weather has given me the perfect opportunity to showcase white on white. White is such a simple, subtle yet powerful colour and works so harmoniously with a range of colours and tones. My white jeans are from Zara and my white blazer is from Mango. I always find white on white exudes classiness. Be it cocktails or a date, you can rest assured white will have you looking confident and classy!

Bold Colours

Keeping a bold colour central to the outfit allows you to mix and match your attire. My top is from Zara and again the neck detailing is what drew me to buy it!  A central bold colour can help you to bring in accessories that will complement the colour too. Elegant cuts and formal finishings will mean that struggling to find an outfit to wear to work and dinner will no longer be the case.

So ladies, its time to say YES to cocktails with the girls and YES to a date with your latest tinder match! Put those drawers under your desk to good use and stack them with ready to wear accessories.

Thanks for reading.

Annie Shah x

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LASH OUT – TOP 4 MASCARA PICKS

We all swoon over gorgeous long wispy lashes however, the difficulties surrounding false eyelashes mean that most of us reach for a good mascara to create that mini faux lash.

These four mascaras are by far the best mascaras that I have used. They individually and combined create long, wispy and naturally thick looking lashes. Clumpy lashes are definitely not a good look and we want to create the illusion that our lashes are naturally thick and long. Clumps definitely do the opposite.

Firstly, this Dior (Diorshow Iconic Overcurl) is excellent for curling lashes. We all dream of those hassle free mornings and this mascara essentially combines a lash curler and a great mascara. The wand is curved so that you can really lift the lashes from the very root, which helps them stay curled for the entire day. This is the mascara I reach for everyday as it separates, thickens the look of lashes and curls them all at once! I use the shade (090) which is a jet black shade.

Secondly, this Guerlain Cils D`Enfer Maxi Lash Mascara (01 Noir) is great for natural looking lashes. The wand is particularly good at separating lashes which creates the illusion of more individual lashes. The simplicity of the design means that the product is build-able so, if desired, a more dramatic look can be created with this mascara too.

Thirdly, if I want to create a dramatic eyelash look, one that mirrors the look of a mini faux lash, I always reach for my L’oreal Volume Million Lashes (shade black). The reason for this is that, this wand has anti-clumping wipers which ensure that you can create a thick lash look ensuring that you have zero clumps. Additionally, with this mascara, only a couple of coats are required to create that wide eyed faux eye lash look.

Finally, in terms of value for money I would recommend the Kiko Falselashes Concentrate Volume Top Coat Mascara. This mascara is brilliant for lifting lashes as the brush is much larger than those that have previously been mentioned. I find that with this mascara, that I can really volumize my outer corner lashes and the larger brush allows me to lengthen them. The shade is also particularly black with I adore. 

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Annie Shah x