International Women’s Day: Meet the Inspiring Women at Accessorize

This year, International Women’s Day’s #BalanceforBetter campaign is calling for a more gender-equal world, especially within the workplace. To celebrate and support their message, we’re introducing you to some of the inspiring women at Accessorize – read on to see what makes them tick and how they’ve shaped their careers, plus find out more about the women who empower them to be the best version of themselves.

Colette Wells, IT Project Manager

 

What empowers you as a woman?

I am very competitive. It must be in my genes as my whole family loves a good challenge. I feel empowered using my own competitiveness with myself to always be a little bit better than I am the day before, whether that’s personally or professionally. I’m big on self-reflection, some say I’m too hard on myself but I do practice self-care. Those combined make me who I am. I learnt a long time ago to own my mistakes and learn from them and be proud of my achievements and celebrate them. My anxiety comes in sometimes which knocks confidence, naturally.  Each time this happens, I try not to worry too much about others judging me. It doesn’t matter if they are because that’s their issue, not mine. I’m trying to keep it simple and be a little better each day. Finding what drives you to be you is key.

 

Do you have any tips for women wanting to enter this field of work?

Traditionally, IT is a male-dominated environment therefore preparation is key. Ask for the agenda first to understand the topics. If you don’t know an area being covered, look it up. In a meeting, always ask questions if you don’t understand something. If someone listens and give you an honest answer, they’re going to be a valuable colleague. If they talk over you, others in the room will notice. People, both male and female, often assume that women can’t be interested in tech or be ‘techy’. They view technology as working in a dark room with computers and games which it really isn’t! Understanding technology empowers us to understand our environment and progress forward. In every meeting where I don’t know something, I’ll ask the questions and learn from them so that in the next meeting or on the next project, I’ll be that bit more prepared.

 

What’s your greatest achievement?

When I was 16, I was training to be a professional dancer. I then went on to perform in musicals and teach ballet. Due to the demands dancing puts on your body and a few surgeries, I had to retire early and change my entire career. At 26, I was retraining to become a project manager in IT. I’m thankful that from the years of discipline and dedication that dancing teaches you, completely changing my career wasn’t as scary. I knew I could start at the bottom as work up again. Five years on, I’m an accredited project manager working in an industry I love, doing something I’m good at. My advice to anyone thinking of making a career change? Yes, it’s scary but embrace it because it’s possible – you just have to want it.

 

Rebecca Thompson, Assistant Buyer

 

Which women have inspired you most in your life and why?

As cliché as it may sound, someone who has always inspired me, even from a young age, is my mum. Her unconditional selflessness, patience and kindness to everyone around her is amazing and inspirational. If everyone could be even half as lovely as her, the world would be a far more positive place.

I also find women in the public eye using their platform to spread positive messages extremely empowering. Jameela Jamil is a great example of this. Her ongoing @i_weigh campaign promotes body confidence and challenges us to see beyond how we look, how much we weigh and to stop judging ourselves and each other on these trivial attributes. She also speaks out about the harmful effects of Photoshopping and airbrushing, and urges the media to stop promoting unrealistic body standards. She talks openly and honestly about her own painful experiences and is brave enough to challenge what we, as a society, have come to accept as the “norm”.

 

Why do you think it’s important that businesses strive for gender equality?

Gender inequality is dated and backwards. Why wouldn’t your business want the most qualified and personable employee they can find? Whether that is a woman or a man, it should make no difference and they should be paid based on their skill set, not what gender they identify with. Everyone on this planet is equal and everyone deserves the same opportunities.

 

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Comparing yourself to others is not only unproductive but also completely inaccurate. You can never be sure what someone else’s situation is, what they are going through and what they’re intentions are. Also friendships are everything – nurture them and never take them for granted.

 

Omotola Olaoke, E-Commerce Developer

 

Which women have inspired you most in your life and why?

Nearly every woman I know. As corny as it sounds, a lot of the women around me have inspired me in many ways and for different reasons. My close friends who are like my sisters have been a wonderful inspiration and still are. My biological sisters too, even though they are younger than me. But I have to say that my mum has inspired me the most. Her hardworking and ‘there’s-always-a-way’ attitude gives me every reason to try my best to achieve whatever I want in life.

 

Why do you think it’s important that businesses strive for gender equality?

It’s important, not just for the success of the business, but for working women to know that they belong. Where there’s a lack of equality in the workplace, women aren’t attracted to apply for certain roles meaning that companies are missing out on what the female voice brings, and problems can’t be approached from a wider set of perspectives without them. When women are represented fairly and equally, they perform better, which overall improves their role and quality of work.

 

Kitty Lawrence, Stylist

 

What do you like about working in a female-dominated company?

It’s empowering and inspiring to be surrounded by so many talented women of all ages striving to do their best! It’s also very relatable, working with creatives that share the same interests as you. And it’s a lot of fun!

 

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Never get a fringe!

What motivated you to pursue this career path?

Project Runway – is that lame?! But also my mum. I’ve loved fashion since I can remember and my mother has incredible style that always seizes to amaze me (she’s forever telling me not to wear so much black!). I was given a small sewing machine (it could literally fold up into itself and be carried by one hand) when I was younger and I taught myself to sew and then went to design school in New Zealand and loved it! There is so much incredible talent and passion in the fashion industry and I wanted to be a part of it.

 

Read More

Behind the Scenes: &FINALLY Style Our SS19 Press Shoot

Vinyl and Resin: The Key Trend Pieces to Watch in SS19

Design Stories: The Bluebell Print

Empowering Women: Lydia French from The Brighter Times

For the final chapter of our Empowering Women series, we’re meeting Lydia French, founder of The Brighter Times, a platform that spreads peace, love and positivity.  Here, she talks to us about all things female friendship, self-care strategies and her top feel-good picks from the new-season collection at Accessorize. It’s time to make room for happy…

 

 

Tell us more about The Brighter Times…

The Brighter Times is a platform for all things positive, kind and inspiring. Life always presents its challenges and hardships, so I wanted to create a space where people (including myself!) can go for a motivational quote, a titbit of wisdom, a laugh, some escapism even just for a few minutes. From the very beginning, I had a clear vision about it being full of inspiring stories and tales of human kindness.

It’s been a long and, at times, frustrating journey but through sheer persistence, the website is finally live, greetings cards have been created and people are sharing their good stories. Moral of the story: keep going!

The message that I want to spread with The Brighter Times is simple: we are all in this crazy world together and we need to be kind to ourselves and others.

 

 

What does Galentine’s Day mean to you?

I LOVE IT! I’ve been sending my besties Galentine’s Day cards for years – it’s a moment to pause and say thank you. I will always cherish my girlfriends because of their constant support, loyalty, generosity, and how much they still surprise me with their unconditional love. Galentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate and let them know how much they’re appreciated.

 

Tell us the best piece of advice that a friend has ever given you.

‘To be completely and unapologetically you’. It’s totally okay to not vibe with everyone – you just need a few good’uns to appreciate everything together. You may not be everyone’s cup of tea but you’re definitely someone’s tequila!

 

What are your top tips for staying positive?

Make sure you have enough giggle time with your friends – the side-splitting, jaw-ache kind! If anyone is going to pull you out of a funk it’s them. Music is a big one too – for an instant pick-me-up, whack on your favourite track and let it take you to your happy place. Having a scroll through positive, uplifting, motivational Instagram accounts can also be very helpful but honestly, do whatever works for you. My advice would be to keep checking in with yourself and ask ‘what can I do to make me happy today?’. The smallest thing can make the biggest difference.

 

 

What is your best self-care strategy?

I’m a big one for feeding’ the soul… literally. Happy tummy, happy mind. I love feeling healthy… with the odd jam-filled donut thrown in for good measure of course! Taking time for myself is really important, whether it’s having a bath, watching my favourite Netflix series or sitting on my bed staring at the ceiling, the occasional bit of quiet time makes all the difference. A big thing I’m working on this year is only saying ‘yes’ to things I really want to do, prioritising myself and being okay with that. It’s made SUCH a difference already. It means the decisions I do make, I throw myself into whole-heartedly. It makes me, and others around me a lot happier. Try it!

 

Tell us about the pieces you’ve chosen…

I was immediately drawn to the pieces because of their colour and fun. They’re brilliantly feel good, not only uplifting an outfit but your mood too. Statement pieces can also boost your confidence and set you up for the day – there’s absolutely nothing wrong with being full of fierce.

 

Read More

How to Master the Layered Jewellery Trend

Empowering Women: Dior Bediako from Pepper Your Talk

Empowering Women: Alex Pawlowska from Looking for Heroes

 

Shop Statement Jewellery >

5 Things to Do on August Bank Holiday Weekend

Long weekends are what we live for – and we plan to make the last one of the year the best one yet. From colourful carnivals to comedy and music festivals, here are five things to do on August bank holiday weekend 2018. It’s time to see summer out with a bang.

 

1. Notting Hill Carnival

@nhcarnivalldn  |  @limopic  |  @hypemari

Hailed as the biggest street party in Europe, the Notting Hill Carnival is back for its 52nd year on August bank holiday weekend. A celebration and showcase of London’s Caribbean communities, their culture and traditions, the two-day event features a parade with costume-clad dancers, steel bands, live music, including reggae, calypso and rumba, and delicious street food.

 

What to Wear

 

 

2. Reading and Leeds Festivals

@annabelconstance  |  @alice_dolman

Another year of music and mayhem awaits at the Reading and Leed Festivals, with this year’s line-up including headliners Fall Out Boy, Kendrick Lamar, Kings of Leon, N.E.R.D, Travis Scott and Panic! At The Disco. Whether camping out for the whole weekend or heading over for the day, there’s no better way to spend the bank holiday than with live music, mates and – with any luck – a bit of August sun.

 

What to Wear

 

Shop Festival >

 

3. Manchester Pride

@mattyberliner  |  @annakg  |  @francescabarry

One of the city’s most highly-anticipated events, Manchester Pride makes its colourful comeback with four days of celebrations and events to empower and support the LGBT+ community. The weekend includes the parade through the city centre, and live musical performances in the Gay Village, with the likes of Jake Shears, Sigala, Rita Ora, Todrick Hall and Alexandra Burke taking to the stage.

 

What to Wear

 

Shop Rainbow Brights >

 

4. Edinburgh Fringe Festival

@annie.lav  |  @edfringe  |  @lisaalex_

Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world, bringing together thousands of performers on hundreds of stages every August. Featuring comedy, theatre, dance, circus, cabaret, musicals, spoken word, exhibitions and lots more, the three week-long event comes to a close this weekend, making it a must-see for culture vultures.

What to Wear

 

5. Beach Break

@katebennet0  |  @travelrocx

Whether you’re jetting off abroad or planning a trip to the UK’s shores (Brighton, Newquay, Bounemouth – we’re looking at you), a beach break is one of the best ways to spend the last long weekend of the summer. Better get booking that last-minute trip…

What to Wear

 

Shop Beach >

 

Read More

3 Ways to Wear Rainbow Brights

5 New-In Beach Looks We Love

New Ways to Wear the Printed Scarf

Accessorize AW18 Press Day: 5 Trends to Watch

Press days = basically our way of giving you guys a glimpse into the future. So whether you’re into forward-planning your ‘fits or just fancy a nosy at next season’s new-in arrivals (spoiler: they’re pretty amazing), here are the five trends to watch for AW18.

1. Paint it Purple

Want to take this season’s lust for lilac and make it more AW18-appropriate? Put your trust in purple. Powerful and punchy, the latest iteration of the catwalk colour is seen across the key bags of the new season, from moody mauves to pretty periwinkles. For a more fashion-forward feel, mix in a few teal touches. So good.

2. Wear the Rainbow

Showing us that they’re so much more than a festival season fad, the rainbow trend is back the agenda for AW18. From work-to-weekend bags in paintbox brights to saturated sparkles on party-ready clutches and jewels, these made-you-stare styles are here to bring the feel-good vibes as we make our way into winter.

 

3. Animal Magic

Everyone knows that leopard print is pretty much a given for autumn/winter but this season, animal-inspired styling has seriously upped the ante. Clashing skins (faux, of course) lend cross-body bags a little extra luxe – look out for saddle styles and boxy shapes. And as for the jewellery? Tortoiseshell styles and statement necklaces in luxe leopard fabrics add an 80s-inspired vibe to fashion’s favourite trend.

 

4. Sweeping Statements

Time to breathe a collective sigh of relief – statement earrings are as relevant as ever for AW18. Oversized blooms and tassels in mustard yellow hues sit alongside structural resin styles, thread-wrapped hoops and hammered metal textures, making themselves known as next season’s need-now pairs.

5. Autumn Calling

Autumn’s colour palettes are getting shaken up for the new season, with cool corals being added into the style mix. Hand-painted floral prints in summer’s usual go-to hue are out in force on the between-season bags that we have to have, making the transition into autumn easier than ever before. But rest assured that your favourite shades of rust, honey-hued caramels and deep chestnuts aren’t going anywhere fast – and the proof is in the jewels.

Read More

10 Straw Accessories to Add to Basket Now

5 Reasons to Obsess Over Gen Z Yellow

5 Mini Bags To Up-Style Your Outfits

Shop New In >

5 Royal Wedding Party Ideas

The Royal wedding is nearly here and we cannot wait. We’ve booked the 19th off (still crying that we don’t get an extra bank holiday) and there’s a 100% chance we’ll be throwing a party to celebrate. Meghan and Harry are basically the most relatable royals out there so we’re totally rooting for them. Got a case of Royal wedding fever too? Send out the invites and let’s get party planning…

1. Throw a Street Party


There’s something about a Royal wedding that gets us feeling super-nostalgic so throw it right back to the 50s and host a street party. Grab your pals and  neighbours, a few tables and a whole lot of bunting to get things rolling. It’s an amazing way to bring everyone together, plus it takes loads of stress out of the party planning process because everyone’s there to chip in with food and drink.

  

2. Host Afternoon Tea


We literally never need an excuse for cake, but a Royal wedding is a pretty good reason anyway. Afternoon tea is about as British as it gets – and super sophisticated – so it’s the perfect way to celebrate a brand new royal power couple. Bag a vintage tea set, stock up on scones and Victoria sponge and make it elegant with some floral cushions.

 

3. Have a Viewing Party


Anyone else already been watching back-to-back episodes of Suits just to keep them going until the big day? We’re definitely not alone and there’s no way we’re missing the real-life Meghan Markle story, so gather around the biggest screen available and host a viewing party. Make it official with invites and a wedding-themed dress code.

 

4. Channel a Red, White and Blue Theme

 

If you want to channel your appreciation in a totally fashion-appropriate way, give your party  a red, white and blue theme. All three colours are key for SS18, so mix and match or work a directional look and go monotone from head to toe.

5. Host Your Own Reception

 

Didn’t get an invite to the after party? (Us neither). Throw your own instead! We’re thinking throwing on your best dress and accessories, sipping on champagne and sending your guests off with Royal wedding-themed party favours.

 

8 Biggest Music Festivals in Summer 2018

Glastonbury might be MIA in 2018 but that doesn’t mean we’re going to be packing away our wellies. A summer without a festival? No thanks. Sure, Glasto is a big one, but no worries because there are tonnes of other festivals happening with all-star lineups. Grab your tent (and maybe a rain jacket… and your wellies) and live it up at the eight biggest music festivals in summer 2018.

 

Parklife

9 – 10 June, Heaton Park, Manchester

A post shared by Parklife (@parklife_festival) on

 

Not a tent kind of gal? Parklife might be your jam. The no-camping site and killer line up is perfect if you’re after a one-day wonder. Grab your tickets to see The XX, Liam Gallagher, Lorde, A$AP Rocky, Skepta, Bonobo and so many other amazing acts that we’d need a whole book to list them.

Isle of Wight

 21 – 24 June, Seaclose Park, Isle of Wight

 


Officially one of the sunniest places in the UK (so pack your sunnies!), Isle of Wight Festival is the closest you’ll get to holiday vibes without needing your passport. You know it’s a good one when it’s celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, so jump on the ferry to catch Kasabian, Rita Ora, Blossoms and The Killers.

Latitude

12 – 15 July, Henham Park, Suffolk

 


Wanna go lake swimming, catch a live podcast and then go and watch the IRL queen that is Solange? Better book your tickets to Latitude. The Killers, Alt-J, Rag’n’Bone Man and Jessie Ware are all on the line up too. Plus there are some seriously amazing glamping options. No wonder it won a ‘best festival’ award last year!

Love Box

13 – 14 July, Gunnersbury Park, London

The master at work @djezofficial 🔥🔥🔥 #Lovebox17 📸 @giloscope

A post shared by Lovebox Festival (@loveboxfestival) on


Lovebox might just have the coolest line up out there. We’re talking Childish Gambino (aka Donald Glover aka our current Hollywood bae), Skepta, SZA, N.E.R.D and Wu-Tang Clan. And if that’s not enough, you can head to the Chapel of Love(box) or Disco Golf for endless insta opportunities.

Bestival

2 – 5 Aug, Lulworth Estate, Dorset

A post shared by Bestival (@bestival) on


Bestival is also known as the most colourful show on earth and we’re here for it. If our festival Pinterest board came to life, it would basically be Bestival. The fancy dress themes always pave the way for out-of-this-world style and there’s the world’s biggest disco ball, the world’s biggest confetti canon and rainbow astronauts. Anything else? Oh, just M.I.A., Grace Jones, London Grammar, Chaka Khan and Django Django…

RiZE Festival

17 – 18 Aug, Hylands Park, Chelmsford

A post shared by Rize Festival (@rizefestival) on


If you’re looking for a fresh festival to hit this summer, check our RiZE. 2018 is the festival’s debut but it’s already bagged Liam Gallagher, James Bay, Bastille and Years and Years. We’re tapping this as one to watch.

Leeds & Reading

24-26 Aug, Bramham Park, Leeds/ Richfield Avenue, Reading

One giant festival, two locations. Leeds and Reading festival is one of the biggest ones out there, so you’re guaranteed to see music’s biggest and brightest. Head to one of the seven (yep, seven) stages to see Kendrick Lamar, Kings of Leon, Dua Lipa, and Panic! At The Disco.

Festival No 6

6 – 9 September, Portmeirion, Wales


Summer’s not over ‘til you say it is, so keep the festival vibes flowing right through to September at Festival No 6. Held in Portmeirion – which is a pastel toned, Instagrammer’s dream – this festival can be whatever you want it to be. Chill out at the luxury spa, drink in the magic at the Saturday Night Spectacle or get hyped for all of the amazing musicians and bands, from Friendly Fires and Everything Everything to Hurts and Erol Alkan.

Shop Festival >

3 Ways to Send Yourself Flowers on Valentine’s Day

V Day = me day. So whether you’re single, taken or somewhere in between, don’t hold out for Cupid to make your heart melt when the 14th rolls around. Instead, make yourself feel fly with a spot of self-love and treat yourself to a ‘lil somethin’-somethin’ for being the total babe that you know you are. But remember, while a dozen red roses *might* be the most obvious choice, you deserve a bunch that’ll last forever – here are three (other) ways to send yourself flowers on Valentine’s Day.

1. Floral Bags

 

Hot date or hanging with your mates? No matter what you’ve got planned for V Day, these freshly-picked floral bags will bring all the feels to your after-dark ‘fit. Get ready to crush on 3D blooms, sequins and sparkles, or play it a little more low-key with prints and embroideries. So much love.

More to Make Your Heart Go Boom…

 

2. Floral Lingerie

 

Matching undies = the easiest way to make you feel like you’ve got your life together. Boost your babe status on Valentine’s Day with lust-worthy lace sets, delicately detailed with sultry blooms to make yourself swoon. Look out for semi-sheer styles in burgundy and black, or pick up some pretty in dreamy white intimates.

More to Make Your Heart Go Boom…

 

 

3. Floral Jewels

 

Want some flowers that’ll last forever? Enter the jewels. From bloom-covered necklaces and pretty pendants, to sparkling rings and power-petalled earrings, these outfit add-ons are here to prove that true love can last an actual lifetime.

More to Make Your Heart Go Boom…

 

 

Buy Valentine’s Day Gifts >

Accessorize SS18 Press Day: 5 Trends to Watch for Next Season

Want a sneak peek at the Accessorize SS18 collection? Pssh, like we even had to ask. Scroll this way for an exclusive look at the wish list-worthy picks of next season, plus get the scoop on the biggest trends that you need to keep on your style radar from now till then.

 

1. Pastel Power

Pastels get powered up for SS18, with a whole host of candy-coloured designs making their way onto our next-season wish lists. Soft pinks, blues and lemon yellows give day bags the sweet kick that they need, while clutch bags add a little more sparkle into the (pick ‘n’) mix. When it comes to statement earrings, pastel shades are here to give us an extra hit of sugar.

 

2. Full-On Florals

Showing us that florals for spring *can* be ground-breaking, next season’s blooms have seriously upped their game. Supersized roses and pastel petals with all the sequins give crush-worthy clutches a little more wow – so right for summer parties and prom nights. SS18’s must-have mules also get the floral memo with flower-shaped embroideries in the prettiest palettes.

 

3. Spirited Symbols

Warning: your obsession with Z for Accessorize is about to go next level. Gold-plated jewels get all boho-babe on us with spiritual symbols that drip with sparkle, while friendship bracelets on coloured cords come with cut-out chakra charms for all the zen vibes.

 

4. Coral Crush

Nothing says summer like a pop of coral – and SS18 is no exception. Swishy sun dresses and cool kaftans get tan-friendly with coral-coloured embroideries, making them a must-have for your next vacay. Straw totes, cross-body styles and bum bags (buckle up, beach babes) follow right behind with XXL florals, tassels and pom-poms, all in summer’s fave shade.

 

5. Beachy Neutrals

You heard it here first: next season’s neutrals are anything but basic. From poppin’ pom-poms and tassels to embroideries, out-there embellishments give beach bags in earthy tones a little something extra. Tasselled jewels, sandals and sun-ready accessories also get in on the action, turning holiday essentials into serious SS18 players.

Shop New In >

 

Top 5 Things To Do in October 2017

What is there to do in October, we hear you ask? Don’t be put off by the short days and falling temps ’cause your social calendar is about to fill up with ALL the fun thanks to our highlights reel of the month’s major happenings.

1. Have a pumpkin carving party at London’s Drink Shop Do

Credit: Beth Teutschmann via Unsplash

It’s nearly Halloween! Gear up for the major spook-fest this month with a pumpkin carving party at Drink Shop Do in London. Running from 16th-31st of October, these wickedly good sessions will get you in the mood for fright night and put your creative skills to the test. Book your tickets here – this stuff is Insta Story gold.

 

2. Binge-watch the new series of Stranger Things

Credit: The Independent 

It’s no trick – on Halloween, Netflix is set to drop series two of Stranger Things on 2nd October and we can’t cope. In case you missed it (er, clear your schedule and catch up NOW), the show follows a group of kids who discover a whole lot of supernatural activity within a 1980s America setting that gives us all the retro fashion feels. Have your Eggos at the ready and settle down for a binge sesh like no other.

 

3. Throw shapes at Liverpool Music Week

Credit: The VPME

Lap up the live tunes at Liverpool Music Week from 26th October -4th November. Fresh off the festival circuit, Chic and Nile Rodgers bring ‘70s disco vibes to the line-up (the perfect excuse to whack out your glitter-tastic outfits), and indie faves Everything Everything close the back-to-back gigs with a blowout finale show.

 

4. Party like a Bavarian at Oktoberfest Brighton

Credit: Time Out

Live music, lederhosen and Bratwurst by the bucket-load: it can only mean Oktoberfest is in town.  Brighton is among the best this year with its weekender at The Level on the 13th & 14th October. Get your folk-chic outfits in check and buy a ticket here from £10.

 

5. Get the crowds going at Birmingham’s first marathon

Credit: Birmingham Mail

NGL, we won’t be running the 26.2 mile stretch this year *face palm* but Birmingham’s first International Marathon on Sunday 15th October is perfect for spreading the positive vibes this month. Go cheer on the athletes, enjoy the live music and take in the city’s iconic landmarks that are peppered along the course.

Top 5 Tips for Freshers

Heading off to uni and need some advice? We asked our expert pals at StudentJob to tell us their top five tips for freshers, from making friends to surviving the freshers’ week socials.

1. Live in halls

via GIPHY

Living in halls is the perfect way to secure yourself a set of friends at uni. Bonding over a game of ‘Never Have I Ever’ is a sure-fire way to become best friends with your new housemates, as well as working out how to cook *actual* meals, hitting up the freshers’ fair, going on nights out and – of course – suffering through the inevitable hangovers together…

 

2. Buy a freshers’ wristband

via GIPHY

Confused about which freshers’ tickets to buy? There’s often loads of options to choose from and they can seem pretty similar but don’t be put off – get yourself a freshers’ wristband (aka your golden ticket) in plenty of time to avoid missing out. And don’t forget to check out your student union’s website to find the best deals around, plus the biggest parties and events to attend!

 

3. Join a society

via GIPHY

Whether you’re into fashion, feminism or field hockey, joining a society is a must-do for any fresher. It’s a fantastic way to meet new people (and make new mates = win), try something new and enhance your university experience. It seems daunting at first but we promise you won’t regret it!

 

4. Get a job

via GIPHY

The excitement you feel when that first student loan drops won’t last forever, trust us. Eventually your funds will dwindle and it *will* be time to get a job. We recommend you to start looking for one early – try StudentJob for part time and weekend jobs in your area.

 

5. Actually go to your lectures

via GIPHY

It’s easy to slip into a pattern of missing the odd lecture in your first year of uni. Everyone does it so it *almost* seems acceptable. Unfortunately, while you can get away with it in first year, second year is an entirely different story. That’s why we’d recommend you to get into a good habit early on. It doesn’t really seem worth it to spend £9,000 a year to lie in bed, does it?

Shop Back to School >

Written by Saffron Shergill at StudentJob.co.uk. StudentJob is a job portal specifically designed for the needs of students and young professionals. To find part time, weekend and temporary jobs, visit their website and apply for free.

Top 5 Things To Do in September 2017

Summer might be over (sob!) but there’s still plenty to get excited about this autumn. From fashion to prosecco festivals (OMG), here are the top five things to do in September.

1. See out the summer in style at Bestival 2017

Credit: Victor Frankowski

One of the most magical music events of the year, Bestival gets underway at Lulworth Estate, Dorset between 7th-10th September, with headliners including The xx, Pet Shop Boys and Dizzee Rascal. This year’s fancy dress theme is all about colour – think rainbow get-ups and all the feel-good vibes. Need a last-minute ticket? Get yours here.

 

2. Say hey to SS18’s hottest trends at London Fashion Week


Credit: London Fashion Week Festival

London Fashion Week is back between 15-19th September 2017, showcasing the SS18 collections of the biggest designers, as well as playing host to VIP parties and events with the fash pack in full attendance. Keep your eye on all the style action with LFW coverage on our social channels (featuring two v special guests), and shop the latest trends – plus a limited edition jewellery collection – at the Accessorize stand at London Fashion Week Festival on 21st-24th September 2017 at The Store Studios. Book your tickets now.

 

3. Live your best life at the Pizza and Prosecco Festival in Manchester


Credit: Pizza and Prosecco Festival 

Taking place at the Bowlers Exhibition Centre in Trafford Park, Manchester, the Pizza and Prosecco Festival will be serving up – yep, you guessed it – pizza and prosecco to a soundtrack of sing-along tunes and live music on 16th September 2016 from 2-11pm. Tickets are priced at £15.99 and are selling out fast – get on it now, girl.

 

4. Chase the rainbow at the Color Run in Brighton

Credit: The Color Run

The Color Run – dubbed the “Happiest 5k on the Planet” – is making its way to Brighton on 23rd September 2017, giving everyone the chance to unleash their inner unicorn. Runners will be covered from head-to-toe in rainbow shades as run, walk, skip or dance around the course – and this year, there’s a brand new Foam Zone to get stuck into too.  Sign up now – tickets start from £26.

 

5. Get the giggles at the Liverpool Comedy Festival

Credit: Liverpool Comedy Festival

Bringing all the major LOLs to the city, The Liverpool Comedy Festival returns for its 16th year, with 150 shows held across 20 venues. The side-splitting line-up features some of the biggest names in comedy, including Rob Brydon, Micky Flanagan and Greg Davies, plus the very best of home-grown Scouse talent. Get your tickets for the two-week fun fest now, on from 15th September- 1st October 2017.

Top 5 Things To Do in August

Stuck for things to do in August? From fun-packed festivals to colourful carnivals, here’s our round-up of slammin’ summer dates to add into your iCal, stat. Sunny days, here we come!

1. Go back to nature at the Green Man Festival

Credit: www.greenman.net

Green Man Festival is the ultimate summer event for festi-fans, with over 100 indie and alt-music acts, theatre, comedy, lifestyle and yoga experiences, all set against the Intsa-worthy backdrop of the Brecon Beacons. Featuring performances by PJ Harvey, Ryan Adams, Future Islands, The Shins and Kate Tempest (to name but a few!), the four-day event also lets music-lovers go back to nature with dreamy campsite set-ups – hot showers included! Tickets are available from £157.50 for 17-20th August.

 

2. Party at the Brighton and Hove Pride Festival

Credit: @netti_noodle | @djmorganfabulous

The biggest Pride festival in the UK, Brighton Pride makes its annual return to celebrate the LGBT+ community and its supporters with colourful parades and costumes, parties, cabarets and live music from the likes of the Pet Shop Boys, Years & Years and loads more. Promoting equality and diversity, the three-day event will see thousands of party-goers heading to Brighton’s streets for a weekend of love and mega LOLs. Tickets are available now for 4-6th August.

 

(Psst! If you’re heading to Brighton Pride then remember – you can get a FREE glitter makeover with every purchase at Accessorize Brighton on 5th August, all thanks to our friends at Go Get Glitter.)

 

3. Shake what your mama gave ya at Notting Hill Carnival

Credit:  www.elsewhereman.com

Notting Hill Carnival, the biggest street festival in Europe, is back for another year, filling the streets of west London with vibrant Caribbean culture, music and street food flavours. Taking place on August bank holiday weekend (26-28th August), the three-day extravaganza features colourful costumed performers, street parades, steel bands, DJs, dancing, after-parties and loads more. The carnival is completely free, with celebrations spread out over Notting Hill, Ladbroke Grove and Westbourne Park.

 

4. Get bouncing on The Beast

Credit: @holdmyshoes | @extremefestuk

Hold the phone – there’s an actual real-life bouncy castle for grown-ups, and it’s coming Alexandra Palace this August. Yep, the 893ft-long inflatable – aka The Beast – is made up of 32 parts and is longer than two football pitches, making it the world’s biggest blow-up obstacle course. Once you’re done bouncing around, sit back and refuel with street food, cocktails and Prosecco on tap – we’re so there. Tickets are available now for £22 per person, with the event taking place between 26-28th August.

 

5. Sing it out at the Prince vs Bowie: Legends Night

Credit: @shoreditchplatform

Calling all Prince and Ziggy Stardust fans! Held at the NYC-style loft space at Shoreditch Platform on Friday 4th August, Prince vs Bowie: Legends Night pays tribute to the two kings of pop for a glittering night of back-to-back classics, dancefloor hits and singalongs from yesteryear. Tickets start from £3 – say what?!